Digital Diplomacy and Nation-Building: Analyzing the Role of External Actors in Shaping Language Policies and Language Use in Kazakhstan

Abstract

This research delves into the intricate interplay between language policy and nation-building in the context of Kazakhstan. It offers a comprehensive analysis of how diplomatic missions strategically employ different languages, such as Russian, Kazakh, and English, to achieve various diplomatic objectives. The study employs a multi-faceted approach, combining quantitative analysis of digital communications with qualitative examination of public and media discourse. One of the central findings of this research is the shifting emphasis on the Kazakh language within diplomatic communications. This shift is attributed to a confluence of geopolitical changes and societal trends, including a growing sense of national identity and pride associated with the Kazakh language. The study explores how this transformation is reflected in diplomatic messaging and its reception both domestically and internationally. The theoretical and background chapters of this paper provide a robust foundation for the research, offering a comprehensive review of existing literature on language policy, nation-building, and diplomacy. They delve into the historical context of language use in Kazakhstan, tracing its evolution from the Soviet era to the present day. Theoretical frameworks are explored, drawing from sociolinguistics and political science, to elucidate the complex relationship between language, identity, and diplomacy. Additionally, the chapters examine the methodologies and data sources used in the study, ensuring transparency and rigor in the research process. This contextual backdrop primes the reader to appreciate the significance of the subsequent analysis, framing it within the broader academic discourse on language, diplomacy, and nationhood. In conclusion, this study underscores the pivotal role of language in digital diplomacy and the nation-building process in Kazakhstan. It highlights the need for a nuanced understanding of the strategic use of language in diplomacy and its broader implications for a country's identity and global interactions. The findings contribute to the growing body of knowledge on the role of language in shaping nations and provide valuable insights for policymakers and diplomats operating in multicultural and multilingual contexts.