Social Media as a France Digital Diplomacy Tool towards the Countries of the European Union (2018-2022)

The process of globalization has contributed to the development of online communication. Given the rapid spread of the Internet and digitalization, traditional public diplomacy has used new tools to promote its foreign policy interests through social networks. This affects the image of countries. France began using digital diplomacy actively in the 21st century to achieve its goals, and it remains an important part of its foreign policy (Bjola, 2017). This research paper focuses on the use of social media by France to promote digital diplomacy in European countries from 2018-2022. It examines one aspect of digital diplomacy: the use of social networking sites as a means for communication and information sharing. Special attention is given to the presence of France's foreign ministry on platforms like Twitter (banned in Russia), Facebook*, and YouTube. The features of the publications of the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs on these platforms are revealed, as well as the interaction with various cultural and linguistic groups in countries. The role of France in decision-making on digital diplomacy within the European Union has been considered. The results of the research allow us to conclude that social networks play an important role in promoting France's digital diplomacy to the countries of the EU during this period. This data can be useful for future research and development of digital diplomacy in international relations and communication. *Social networks belonging to Meta — recognized as an extremist organization and banned in Russia.