This Handbook provides a contemporary perspective on public diplomacy scholarship and practice, showcasing the growing diversity of the field. Expert contributing authors identify the challenges involved in implementing successful public diplomacy, and analyse how to effectively measure and evaluate programs to determine best practices.

Seeking to develop and enhance this field, chapters examine the public diplomacy efforts of superpowers, middle powers, substates and developing countries. The Handbook reflects on the past and present of public diplomacy, and introduces new theoretical models to further expand the field’s scope. Employing detailed case studies from across the world, authors, including long-term career diplomats, demonstrate how public diplomacy can be used to encourage either conflict or cooperation. Ultimately, they highlight the vital role of public diplomacy in today’s society as a powerful tool for opposing misinformation, polarization and hatred.

The Handbook on Public Diplomacy is a vital resource for students and scholars of international relations, public policy, terrorism and security. Combining academic and practitioner views on the subject, it is also an important read for diplomats seeking deeper insight into the field.