Archive
SCIENTIFIC WORK - 2025
Seljan Alakbarli
Nakhchivan State University
https://orcid.org/0009-0002-9254-7056
seljanalakbarli@ndu.edu.az
State Communication Policy and the Formation of Public Trust in the Era of Digital Globalization: The Experience of Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan
Abstract
In this article, the role of state communication policy in shaping public trust during the era of digital globalization is analyzed comprehensively within a scientific and multidimensional framework. Under globalization, the development of the information society, the integration of digital technologies into public administration, and the growing influence of social media on public opinion have created an entirely new stage in state–society relations. In this process, state communication policy functions not merely as a tool for information dissemination but as a strategic instrument for strengthening public trust, ensuring transparent governance, and enhancing citizen participation. The study comparatively examines the experiences of Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan—two leading post-Soviet countries—in implementing digital governance reforms. The application of digital government models such as “ASAN Service”, “my.gov.az”, “Digital Azerbaijan 2030” in Azerbaijan, and “my.gov.uz”, “Digital Uzbekistan 2030” in Uzbekistan, has made a significant contribution to the enhancement of public trust. These initiatives have increased the transparency of public services, reduced corruption risks, and strengthened citizens’ confidence in state institutions.
The article also emphasizes that the successful implementation of state communication policy depends not only on technological innovation but also on ethically grounded information management. The adoption of open data policies, ensuring the accountability of public institutions, considering public opinion, and establishing two-way communication between the government and citizens are identified as key factors in reinforcing state legitimacy. Furthermore, the study explores new challenges emerging within the digital communication environment—such as disinformation, cybersecurity threats, and the “crisis of trust”—from a theoretical perspective. In this context, it is argued that state communication policy should not be limited to information dissemination but must also aim at creating a reliable, secure, and transparent information ecosystem.
In conclusion, the article demonstrates that in the era of digital globalization, state communication policy serves as one of the main pillars of public trust. The experiences of Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan show that governance models based on transparency, accountability, open government, and digital diplomacy principles not only increase the efficiency of the state but also strengthen citizens’ long-term confidence in government institutions.
Keywords: digital globalization, state communication policy, public trust, digital governance, transparency, accountability, civic participation, Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, e-government, open data policy, digital diplomacy, information security
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