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DiploNews – Issue 498 – 2 September 2024

◆ humAInism.ai: Where Humanity Meets Technology

As AI has become integral to our lives, vital questions demand immediate answers. Will machines replace us? Can we harness AI’s benefits while mitigating its drawbacks? Who holds the reins of AI governance and policymaking?

At Diplo, we delve into these pivotal inquiries through our research, training, events, software development, and the arts. Guided by our belief that humans should remain at the core of AI utilisation and progress, we present you humAInism – a name that echoes our commitment to shaping a future where AI empowers, rather than endangers, humanity. Visit humAInism.ai to learn more!

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Diplo Academy upcoming courses and programmes

⭐ Humanitarian Diplomacy online course: Applications open! 

Applications are now open for our Humanitarian Diplomacy online diploma course, offered in cooperation with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC).

Learn how to advance your career and improve the work of your organisation!

Banner for Humanitarian Diplomacy - starting September 2024

⭐ Diplo’s 2024 autumn online courses!
 
Register now to reserve your place in our popular autumn courses!

Application deadlines for certificates issued by Diplo: 9 September 2024
For further information and to apply, click the course titles above or visit Diplo’s course catalogue.


Need financial assistance? Scholarships available!
Thanks to the support from the government of Malta, partial scholarships are available for applicants from developing countries to attend upcoming Diplo online courses. These scholarships cover 30%–60% of course fees and can be applied to most online courses in 2024. Browse our course catalogue and contact us at admissions@diplomacy.edu for further information.


Upcoming events

◆ Kautilya in Modern Governance and Diplomacy

On Thursday, 5 September, at 14:00 CEST, Prof. Dr Subrata K. Mitra will deliver an insightful online lecture exploring the enduring relevance of Kautilya’s Arthashastra in shaping modern India’s governance, political strategy, and diplomacy. This event will delve into how these ancient teachings continue to influence contemporary statecraft and global affairs, offering valuable perspectives for both scholars and practitioners. Read more and register!

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◆ Human Rights in the Age of Disinformation: A Case Study Analysis

The evolution of the internet has played a crucial role in access to and the dissemination of information. With support from Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH Moldova, Diplo has conducted comprehensive research on online content governance, shedding light on the interplay between disinformation and other digital policy areas, such as online business models, cybersecurity, and human rights. The research investigates digital policy approaches that could help combat misinformation and disinformation while protecting human rights and fundamental freedoms.

Join us on Monday, 30 September, at 12:00–13:00 UTC (14:00–15:00 CEST). Read more and register!

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Blogs and publications

◆ Pavel Durov: A Transgressor or a Fighter for Free Speech and Privacy?

Pavel Durov’s recent arrest in Paris ignites a global debate over the delicate balance between digital freedom and platform accountability. As Telegram’s founder faces serious allegations, including enabling illegal activities through insufficient moderation, the case underscores the growing tension between governments and tech platforms. Read the DW Analysis by Marko Marković!


◆ The History of Computer Viruses: Journey Back to Where It All Began!

The concept of a computer virus didn’t emerge from a place of malice, but rather from academic curiosity around self-replicating programs. This exploration delves into the origins of computer viruses, following their journey through years of technological advances and misdeeds, revealing how they evolved into a critical concern for today’s digital world. Read the DW Analysis by Boris Begović!


◆ X: A Lone Warrior for Freedom of Speech?

The ongoing scrutiny of platforms like X under Elon Musk’s ownership highlights the complex role that social media plays in public discourse and the spread of extremist content. Read the DW Analysis by Marko Marković!


◆ UN Approves Its First Comprehensive Convention on Cybercrime: What Happened at the Last Round of the Negotiations?

After three years of negotiations, the UN member states at the Ad Hoc Committee (AHC) adopted the draft of the first globally binding legal instrument on cybercrime. Anastasiya Kazakova and Feodora Hamza offer a comprehensive analysis. Read the DW analysis!


◆ DW Weekly #175 (30 August 2024)

Musk’s X faces Brazil’s Supreme Court and a potential shutdown in the country; Meta and Spotify CEOs call for simplified, harmonised regulations in the EU to harness the potential of open-source AI; Iran has officially banned virtual private networks (VPNs). Read DW Weekly #175!


◆ ConfTech Digest #38 (July/August)

Improved functionality and user experience, updated in-call controls, and new AI features – the latest ConfTech Digest explores some of the most recent updates in the world of online meetings. Read ConfTech Digest #38!


◆ Southeast Asia: The Evolution of a Regional Concept

WWII turned Southeast Asia from a collection of colonial names into a distinct region. Aldo Matteucci analyses the metageography behind this transformation. Read the blog post!


◆ Peace of Westphalia: How Europe’s Peace Shaped Global Power Struggles

How did the Peace of Westphalia (1648) impact world order? It redefined power, sovereignty, and who gets to rule. Aldo Matteucci explores its history and lasting effects on our world today. Read the blog post!


Diplo AI tools: Chat with Rousseau, de Saussure, Voltaire, and Shelley

Dr Jovan Kurbalija’s series of articles on how Geneva’s intellectual giants can shape our AI-driven world continues! The latest additions feature none other than Jean-Jacques Rousseau, Ferdinand de Saussure, Voltaire, and Mary Shelley.


Don’t miss…

◆ Africa – In the AI Era

Africa’s data infrastructure needs significant development. The entire continent has fewer data farms than the Netherlands, a stark indicator of the digital divide. In his article, Dr Jovan Kurbalija examines Africa’s reality: the data dilemma, knowledge gaps, Africa’s wisdom, actionable steps, and future developments. Read Jovan Kurbalija’s article on ModernDiplomacy!


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