Education Division Scholarship

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

7-2023

Keywords

Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Public Diplomacy, Russo-Ukrainian War, Foreign Policy Analysis, Discourse Analysis, LIWC

Abstract

In this study, we delve into the public diplomacy discourse of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during the ongoing crisis of the Russo-Ukrainian War. We aim to conduct a computational analysis of Zelenskyy's English, Russian, and Ukrainian speeches, exploring the linguistic patterns and code-switching employed in his discourse. The study period encompasses Russia’s build-up to and full-scale invasion of Ukraine from May 2019 to May 30, 2023. This time frame is crucial as it captures the dynamic development of the crisis and the expansion of Zelenskyy's presidency, providing a unique context for analyzing his public diplomacy efforts. By utilizing Linguistic Inquiry and Word Count (LIWC) software, we aim to uncover patterns and variations in Zelenskyy's language use, examining how his communication strategies adapt to the evolving crisis. Specifically, we investigate the implications of Zelenskyy's code-switching between English, Russian, and Ukrainian in shaping domestic and international perceptions. This study fills a significant gap in the existing literature by comprehensively analyzing Zelenskyy's linguistic choices in times of crisis. It sheds light on the role of language and discourse in shaping public opinion, foreign policy, and leadership communication. By examining the specific linguistic patterns and code-switching strategies employed by Zelenskyy, we aim to provide a deeper understanding of his public diplomacy discourse’s impact on Ukraine’s global position. The findings of this research contribute to the broader discourse on global leadership, emphasizing the importance of linguistic considerations in the context of ongoing conflicts. By examining the nuances of Zelenskyy's discourse and its implications, this study offers valuable 2 insights for scholars, policymakers, and diplomats interested in the intricate relationship between language, diplomacy, and crisis management. By addressing these gaps and providing a clearer statement of the research objective, contextual background of the crisis, mention of key findings, and highlighting the significance of the study, the abstract now offers a more comprehensive overview of the research conducted.

Publication Title

International Political Science Association, 27th Annual World Congress of Political Science

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