Diplo Blog
Trump 2.0 and the Indo-Pacific
27 January 2025
The Indo-Pacific has become a critical arena where global powers converge, exposing divergent views on its strategic scope and significance. As the U.S. navigates its role under the Trump and Biden administrations, questions around militarisation, multilateralism, and China's growing influence shape the future of this pivotal region.
How David outwits Goliath in the age of AI?
25 January 2025
The unveiling of DeepSeek-R, an affordable AI reasoning platform from a Hangzhou startup, signals a pivotal shift in the AI landscape: smaller, innovative solutions can outperform larger, expensive models. This democratization of AI means success will rely on harnessing local knowledge and creativity rather than brute force investment. As the AI economy faces potential instability, nimble operators, including overlooked nations and startups, can leverage tailored, efficient strategies. The future of AI lies in community-driven, sustainable growth, with a focus on creativity over capital, exemplifying the victory of David over Goliath in this new age.
Geoeconomics Takes Center Stage at Davos: Five takeaways
23 January 2025
E-commerce and trade, Economic diplomacy, Geopolitics, Investment diplomacy, Trade diplomacy
The 2025 World Economic Forum in Davos emphasized geoeconomics as a key driver of the global economy, with leaders highlighting the risks posed by geopolitical tensions. Political figures advocated for the importance of an open, cooperative economic order, stressing the need for genuine diplomacy and improved competitiveness. As businesses face risks amid these geopolitical shifts, there are also opportunities for growth. The discourse at Davos called for proactive engagement and partnerships, highlighting the importance of fostering economic resilience and development.
Tech at Trump’s inauguration: Visible presence, loud absence
21 January 2025
At Trump's second inauguration, prominent tech leaders, including Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg, signaled alignment with the administration, raising questions about the future of American tech. However, the absence of major players like Nvidia and Microsoft highlighted a divide, indicating a potential sidelining of responsible AI advocates. The repeal of key AI and digital taxation policies reflects a shift towards deregulation and an "America First" approach, while leaving the crypto space in uncertainty. This landscape suggests a fragmented tech ecosystem, balancing unchecked innovation against the backdrop of global regulatory challenges, raising concerns about the future trajectory of tech governance.
Astropolitics and the militarisation of space: The new arms race?
20 January 2025
As technological advancements lower the barriers to space access, the militarisation of space has become an undeniable reality, with nations integrating space assets into their defence strategies. However, the weaponisation of space—deploying actual combat systems beyond Earth—remains a contentious issue, raising concerns about an impending space arms race and the fragility of existing international legal frameworks.
 Is AI taking over communications roles?
17 January 2025
Inspired by the AI Apprenticeship programme, Diplo Academy alumna Diana Moraa explores how AI is shaping communications – from quick content creation to the irreplaceable human touch. Are we opening Pandora’s box?
Los Angeles wildfires and disaster diplomacy: Can global aid strengthen international relations?
14 January 2025
From the wildfires ravaging Los Angeles, which have already burned thousands of acres, displaced residents, and prompted emergency responses from both local and international teams, including aid from Canada and Mexico, to hurricanes that hit the Caribbean and the earthquakes that devastated Turkey, disaster diplomacy has emerged as a crucial tool for international cooperation
The rights of future generations: A practical approach
10 January 2025
The rights of future generations are crucial, but how do we balance theory with practical action? Aldo Matteucci explores sustainable development, intergenerational justice, and real-world solutions.
Diplo Academy 2024: Innovation and milestones
10 January 2025
Artificial Intelligence, Capacity development, Diplomacy courses and workshops, Pedagogy
In 2024, Diplo Academy advanced its online courses with AI integration, introducing innovative teaching methodologies and practical tools to equip diplomats with skills for navigating the evolving challenges of the AI era.
Trump and tech: More of the same, but with a twist
08 January 2025
Artificial Intelligence, Content policy, Cybersecurity, Taxation
As Trump takes office, the tech world anticipates a blend of continuity and change in policy. While historically, the U.S. has favored a private-sector-driven tech landscape, Trump is expected to maintain this approach, resisting international regulations that could hinder U.S. companies. However, challenges arise from global content regulation efforts, particularly concerning misinformation and platforms like TikTok. Trump’s anticipated focus on AI aligns with global trends, promoting innovation while addressing competition with China.
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