What's Happening?
Eliav Batito, head of the Civil Advocacy Center, has emphasized the need for Israel to fundamentally rethink its approach to international public diplomacy. In an interview, Batito highlighted the inadequacies
in Israel's current strategy, which he describes as fragmented and reactive. He argues that Israel has not fully recognized the importance of global perception in shaping diplomatic relations and political alliances. Batito points out that while Israel has invested in military and intelligence capabilities, its international messaging remains under-prioritized. He advocates for a coordinated, long-term strategy that treats global perception as a strategic arena. Batito also notes the absence of a single coordinating authority for Israel's international public diplomacy, with responsibilities spread across multiple government bodies, leading to a lack of accountability.
Why It's Important?
The call for a strategic overhaul in Israel's public diplomacy is significant as it addresses the growing influence of global narratives on international relations. Batito's insights suggest that without a coherent and sustained narrative, Israel risks losing influence and legitimacy on the global stage. The current dispersion of responsibilities among various government bodies has hindered the development of a unified strategy, which is crucial for maintaining and enhancing Israel's diplomatic standing. The proposed changes could lead to more effective engagement with international audiences, potentially strengthening Israel's position in global politics and improving its diplomatic relations.
What's Next?
Batito outlines several steps to strengthen Israel's public diplomacy, including appointing a senior figure to coordinate efforts, integrating civil society organizations into planning, and developing a long-term strategy resilient to political changes. The Israeli government has already approved additional funding for public diplomacy, but its impact will depend on strategic implementation. The involvement of civil society could provide the flexibility and cultural fluency needed in digital spaces, complementing state efforts. The success of these initiatives will likely depend on the government's ability to consolidate responsibilities and foster collaboration between state and civil entities.
