| Abstract: | Social media has revolutionized international relations by facilitating grassroots activism, shaping diplomatic discourse, and influencing foreign policies through digital movements. In the digital age, social media has emerged as a pivotal force in shaping international relations through what is now termed hashtag diplomacy. Hashtags such as #BlackLivesMatter, #MeToo, and #SaveSheikhJarrah have mobilized global audiences, swayed governmental responses, and pressured international organizations to act. This paper examines the impact of hashtag diplomacy on state and non-state actors, the evolution of digital advocacy, and the geopolitical consequences of social media campaigns. This study explores how online movements influence diplomatic policies, international negotiations, and public diplomacy. The research examines how social media movements like #BlackLivesMatter, #MeToo, #ArabSpring, and #StopAsianHate, drive governmental responses, shift diplomatic narratives, and impact global governance. Findings suggest that social media activism serves as a powerful diplomatic tool, mobilizing global opinion and holding states accountable. However, the rapid dissemination of misinformation and state-sponsored digital campaigns pose challenges to its effectiveness. The study concludes that while social media movements enhance diplomatic engagement, they also necessitate mechanisms for credibility verification and policy integration. |
