AI in Digital Communication Practices: The Reconstruction of Symbolic Capital within Digital Diplomacy

Abstract

The primary objective of this study is to investigate the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in generating symbolic capital in the era of digital diplomacy. Focusing on the role of communication technologies in this transformation, this research examines the impact of AI- supported public diplomacy activities on the struggle for prestige, legitimacy, and recognition in the international arena within the context of Pierre Bourdieu's theory of capital. Conducted using a qualitative research strategy, the study concludes that AI accelerates the process of transforming economic, cultural, and social capital into symbolic capital, thereby expanding the diplomatic spheres of influence of states. Examples such as the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, the United Arab Emirates' (UAE) virtual ambassador application, and South Korea's metaverse diplomacy reveal how critical communication and technological competence are in the process of creating symbolic power. However, this process also deepens existing inequalities between technologically advanced and developing countries. © 2026, IGI Global Scientific Publishing.