Diplo Blog
From citizen-soldiers to imperialism: The evolution of democratic warfare
13 December 2024
What drives democracies to replace citizen-soldiers with professional armies? Aldo Matteucci examines how wars of choice contribute to imperial ambitions.
Part 8: ‘Maths doesn’t hallucinate: Harnessing AI for governance and diplomacy’
12 December 2024
What are AI ‘hallucinations,’ and why do they matter? Dr Anita Lamprecht breaks down the maths behind this phenomenon and its governance implications.
Early origins of AI in Islamic and Arab thinking traditions
09 December 2024
The upcoming Internet Governance Forum (IGF) in Riyadh will explore AI's historical connections to Islamic and Arab philosophical traditions. This legacy, rooted in the Islamic Golden Age, emphasized knowledge synthesis and significant advancements in mathematics, statistics, and ethics. Key figures like Al-Khwārizmī laid the groundwork for algorithms and probability, while thinkers such as Avicenna and Al-Fārābī contributed to epistemology and ethics, shaping the responsible use of technology. Their insights into justice, compassion, and privacy remain vital as we navigate the implications of AI in modern society.
The dance of certainty, probability, and mystery: Insights from AI and faith
08 December 2024
In exploring the interplay between certainty, probability, and mystery in AI, the insights from Robert Harris's film Conclave provoke deep reflection. Certainty, while desirable, can mislead, especially in addressing life's complex questions. AI, rooted in probability, embodies this uncertainty, serving as a mirror of human imperfection. Embracing doubt allows for adaptability, while fostering a sense of mystery can inspire creativity and growth. We must navigate AI’s transformative potential with caution, critically engaging with its risks and possibilities, ensuring it enhances rather than dominates our lives. This balance between the known and the unknown is key to understanding AI's role in society.
West vs East: Approaches to fighting corruption
05 December 2024
Can the West's focus on transparency and the East's emphasis on moral accountability provide complementary tools to combat it? Aldo Matteucci investigates.
Geneva AI Attaché: Technology for inclusive, informed, and impactful diplomacy
04 December 2024
The Geneva AI Attaché leverages cutting-edge AI technology to enhance the diplomatic capabilities of small and developing countries in multilateral negotiations. By automating tasks such as agenda preparation, information retrieval, and reporting, AI enables diplomats to focus on core activities like engagement and conflict resolution. It supports three critical phases: preparation, participation, and follow-up, while also offering powerful tools for visualizing national positions. Ultimately, the Geneva AI Attaché aims to empower underrepresented nations and improve their engagement in global diplomacy, fostering a more inclusive and effective diplomatic environment.
Part 7: ‘Interpretability: From human language to DroidSpeak’
28 November 2024
Should we allow AI to develop its own language – one that humans can’t understand? While it may enhance efficiency, it raises serious concerns. Dr Anita Lamprecht explores.
Embracing AI in diplomacy: How can Europe prepare for pivotal transformation in global affairs?
26 November 2024
Artificial Intelligence, Capacity development, Diplomacy courses and workshops, Diplomatic functions and tools, Diplomatic protocol and etiquette, Diplomatic reporting, Foreign ministries, Pedagogy
On 21-22 November, we addressed the 25th European Diplomatic Programme held in Budapest in the context of the Hungarian EU presidency. It is an annual gathering of around 100 junior diplomats from EU member states and EEAS and directors of EU’s diplomatic training institutes and academies. The event highlighted the urgency of embracing AI in […]
Could we rebuild morality from scratch?
22 November 2024
If morality were destroyed, could we rebuild it from its fragments? Aldo Matteucci examines Alasdair MacIntyre’s theory.
Nine reflections on AI@UAE: Pioneering innovations in AI development and application
22 November 2024
During a recent visit to Abu Dhabi, I explored the UAE’s innovative AI strategies emphasizing societal benefit and human-centric development. My engagements included a leadership course at the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy and discussions with diplomats and tech experts. Key insights highlighted the UAE's clarity in AI policy, proactive governmental engagement, and a user-centered governance approach. I was particularly impressed by their careful timing in AI regulation and commitment to open-source initiatives. Overall, the UAE's comprehensive and bottom-up approach to AI left me inspired and eager to learn more about regional advancements in Riyadh.
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