| I wrote an essay to explores the transformative impact of the internet on China’s diplomatic posture, tracing the shift from the strategy of “”hide one’s ability to pretend to be weak”” to the assertive “”wolf warrior diplomacy.”” Examining responses to key events, such as U.S. arms sales to Taiwan and Pelosi’s visit to Taiwan, and the Diaoyu Islands dispute, the study reveals a nuanced evolution in China’s international approach. The 2010- 2022 period witnessed increased user engagement and online expression avenues, empowering Chinese citizens in national governance. The internet’s role has evolved from a platform for information dissemination to a catalyst for citizen-government interaction, enabling active participation in shaping diplomatic narratives. The study calls for deeper research into how online public opinion translates into tangible diplomatic strategy shifts, emphasizing the critical importance of understanding this interplay for comprehending China’s evolving global role. As the essay concludes, unraveling the complexities of the internet’s influence on diplomatic dynamics is essential for both academic and policy realms, providing insights into the intricate interplay shaping China’s position on the international stage. |
