Big Tech diplomacy: Should tech ambassadors have equal stakes in public policies?

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  Quantumrun Foresight
• November 9, 2022

Insight summary

Big Tech firms have transcended their original roles, now wielding influence similar to nation-states and actively engaging in global policymaking. This trend, known as techplomacy, involves these firms in discussions on international policies, cybersecurity, and infrastructure projects. As these companies assert their influence, governments and educational institutions may need to adapat, raising questions about the balance of power and ethical technology practices.

Big Tech diplomacy context

Many Big Tech firms have evolved beyond their original roles as mere technology providers. Their growing influence is unmistakable, as they now have the capacity to lobby for specific policies and sway public opinion. This phenomenon, known as Big Tech diplomacy or techplomacy, involves technology executives engaging with governments to influence public policies. Since around 2015, there has been a noticeable increase in such interactions.

This trend is evidenced by the frequent, high-profile meetings between technology executives and global leaders. For instance, executives from companies like Meta and Microsoft have engaged in discussions with presidents, parliaments, and prime ministers, in a manner traditionally reserved for diplomatic relations between countries. The substantial revenues of these Big Tech firms, often exceeding those of many nations, grant them significant negotiating power. This power shift has not gone unnoticed by national governments.

In 2017, Denmark made a pioneering move by appointing a tech ambassador to Silicon Valley, acknowledging the political clout of these technology giants. Another notable instance of Big Tech diplomacy occurred in 2019, when Meta's CEO, Mark Zuckerberg, met with French President Emmanuel Macron. Held in the prestigious Elysee Palace, their discussion revolved around critical issues such as online violent speech and election interference. 

Disruptive impact

Alexis Wichowski, the 2021 Deputy Chief of Technology Officer of New York, introduced the term "net states" to describe the parallel between the influence and power of Big Tech firms and that of a developed nation. Big Tech's increasing involvement in large-scale infrastructure projects is a prime example of this. In 2018, Meta, formerly known as Facebook, actively lobbied various countries to support a subsea cable project. This project, aimed at providing free Internet access to emerging economies, received approval in 2020. It is designed to enhance Internet connectivity and speeds across parts of Africa, the Middle East, and Europe.

The growing clout of these technology giants is also evident in their participation in global policy discussions. For example, Microsoft President Brad Smith has played a significant role in conversations on cybersecurity and peace, contributing at forums like the International Court of Justice and the 2018 Internet Governance Forum. However, it is crucial to note that while these companies can offer valuable insights and resources, their primary objective remains profit-driven.

While techplomacy presents certain advantages, such as the promotion of responsible and ethical technology practices, it also raises concerns. Experts caution governments against treating tech ambassadors on par with traditional diplomats. This dynamic requires a balanced approach from governments, ensuring that the interests of the public and the integrity of regulatory processes are not compromised by the influence of these powerful technology entities.

Implications for Big Tech diplomacy

Wider implications for Big Tech techplomacy may include:

• More countries and global cities establishing a technology emissary, ambassador, or liaison officer to represent public interests and policies within global tech hubs.


• Big Tech continuing to lobby for larger inter-country infrastructure projects, forums, and trade organizations to facilitate tech-friendly policymaking.


• Governments pushing for more regulatory oversight of digital developments while inviting Big Tech to co-regulate.


• Increasing public concerns of antitrust amongst Big Tech firms and shared services. 


• Tech-focused non-governmental organizations (NGOs) emerging to influence policy decisions, bridging the gap between public interests and tech industry advancements.


• National educational systems incorporating techplomacy in their curriculum to prepare future leaders for the evolving landscape of technology and international relations.


• Cities and regions developing specialized tech diplomacy strategies to attract and regulate Big Tech investments, balancing economic growth with community needs.

Questions to consider

• How might techplomacy assist with increasing or decreasing the accessibility of virtual public services?


• How do you think governments will balance regulating Big Tech and requesting their feedback on policies?