Disruption and Dissent in Public Diplomacy

This book explores the significant yet understudied role of non-state actors (NSAs) as agents of disruption and dissent in public diplomacy. While existing research mainly focuses on collaborative aspects of state-NSA relations, this book delves into instances where NSAs challenge their states’ foreign and domestic policies, directly impacting public diplomacy efforts. From protests challenging the “good” image that the state governments try to project, to activities of governments-in-exile and dissenting diaspora groups, to cities taking actions that defy official state policies – examples of non-state actors engaging in political dissent and disrupting the public diplomacy efforts of their states can be found in virtually any region and political system. Yet the phenomenon of political dissent and its role in public diplomacy remains understudied by public diplomacy scholars. This book seeks to fill this gap. Anna Popkova is an Associate Professor of public relations and strategic communication at Western Michigan University School of Communication and an allied faculty member at the Global and International Studies program.