Description
Digital transformation is often heralded as being potentially transformative for developing countries; promising the closing of developmental gaps, and improved economic prospects. Essentially, digital technology promises to bring Agenda 2063, as well as other Africa- focused developmental plans, to life. However, the sharing of best practices and the building of critical infrastructure requires trust. In the 21st century, the importance of trust in state-to-state interactions is evaporating not only because of societal changes, but because there appears to be more confidence in digital technologies than in multilateral institutions and systems. Nevertheless, technology is not neutral; even those created to facilitate diplomacy. In this paper, I contribute to the growing body of scholarship on trust in international relations by exploring whether lack of trust is hampering diplomacy. I hone-in specifically on digital transformation on the African continent. I ask whether or not any confidence-building measures (CBMs) are built into current digitalisation efforts on the continent. Additionally, I query whether CBMs still hold value for diplomacy and international relations in the digital age.
