Internet Inclusion: Global Connect Stakeholders Advancing Solutions
Alumni Panels and conferences Access, Sustainable development EventsThe Internet Inclusion: Global Connect Stakeholders Advancing Solutions event, hosted by IEEE, the World Bank, and the Internet Society, will address network, regulatory, and expansion strategies for connecting the next billion people. The event on 5-6 October 2016 in Washington, D.C. will feature workshops, panels, lightning talks, and roundtables focusing on technical solutions to provide Internet access to underserved areas. Moderated by Diplos and Tereza Horejsova, discussions will emphasize accelerating internet infrastructure development. Plenary sessions will be live-streamed for broader access. For further details, visit the event webpage.
Diplo at IGMENA Summit
Alumni Panels and conferences Internet governance and digital policy, Access, Capacity development, Sustainable development, Telecommunications infrastructure EventsDiplo's Dr. Tereza Horejsova will present at IGMENA Summit in Tunis, focusing on global-to-local projects aiding capacity development in the Middle East and North Africa. The Summit will assess achievements and discuss future strategies concerning Internet governance in the region, addressing themes like decision-making transparency, digital human rights, Internet infrastructure quality, and sustainable development. More details can be found on the event website.
E-commerce in Europe: consultations, court rulings, and other updates in September
Alumni E-commerce and trade, Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsSeptember brought various updates in European e-commerce. The European Commission examined consumer sales laws, e-commerce inquiries, and proposals for cross-border parcel delivery services. The European Parliament addressed parcel delivery within the Postal Services Directive. Legal rulings on intermediary liability and copyright infringement were notable, affecting websites linking to copyrighted material. A case also clarified that businesses offering free Wi-Fi are not responsible for user copyright infringements. Additionally, the European Holiday Home Association raised concerns about restrictive local regulations impacting collaborative economy platforms. These topics are being discussed at the Public Forum in Geneva.
The rise of e-commerce initiatives: From expanding access to taxation
Alumni E-commerce and trade, Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsE-commerce initiatives are expanding globally, impacting sectors such as taxation. Countries like India and Indonesia are addressing tax issues with digital multinationals like Google. To bridge the digital divide, measures include providing connectivity and training in rural areas. Collaboration efforts in e-commerce between countries like China and South Africa, the EU and India, and within the Asia-Pacific region are evident. However, varied approaches raise questions about regulation's role in promoting digital growth while safeguarding developing countries' interests. A focus on win-win solutions for inclusive trade and digital innovation will be emphasized at the upcoming 15th annual Public Forum in Geneva.
Education Diplomacy 2016 Online Course
Alumni Courses Education diplomacy EventsThe Education Diplomacy 2016 Online Course aims to educate participants on using education as a tool for peace, prosperity, and sustainability. The interactive course covers Education Diplomacy, involving lectures, online interactions, activities, and a final essay. Participants commit five to seven hours weekly for ten weeks. Successful completion earns a post-graduate level certificate. The course starts on September 26, 2016, with applications due by August 15. Partial scholarships are available for candidates from developing countries active in Education Diplomacy. Details and applications can be found on the course webpage or by contacting admissions@diplomacy.edu.
EU-US Privacy Shield’s seven principles
Alumni Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy, Privacy and data protection BlogsThe EU-US Privacy Shield has been established following the invalidation of the Safe Harbour Agreement, aiming to enhance privacy protection for citizens. Self-certified companies must adhere to seven principles, including notice, choice, accountability, security, data integrity, access, and enforcement. Individuals can raise complaints through various channels, with reassurances regarding US government access to personal data. Annual reviews and an Ombudsperson mechanism are part of the agreement. The EU will evaluate the Privacy Shield's effectiveness after the General Data Protection Regulation in 2018. Compliance measures are in place for companies, with a guide available for citizens to report non-compliance.
Diplo at Global ICT Capacity Building Symposium
Alumni Panels and conferences Capacity development EventsDiplo Foundation participates in the Global ICT Capacity Building Symposium in Nairobi, Kenya. Dr. Katharina Hoene presents on Internet governance capacity building topics. The symposium focuses on ICT capacity development globally, with discussions on various related issues and featuring presentations from high-level officials and experts. The event aims to provide strategic guidance on capacity building in ICT and enhance collaboration within the global community. An exhibition of capacity building projects will be showcased. Visit the event webpage for more details.
Diplo at Middle East and Adjoining Countries School on Internet Governance
Alumni Panels and conferences Interdisciplinary approaches, Internet governance and digital policy EventsDiplo is involved in the Middle East and Adjoining Countries School on Internet Governance in Beirut. Ms. Marilia Maciel will be part of the program, focusing on cybersecurity. The training aims to offer insight into global, regional, and national internet governance issues and processes, covering various dimensions of governance within the region. Participants will gain knowledge on governance scenarios and implications. The event provides a comprehensive understanding of internet governance and its impact on political, legal, economic, socio-cultural, and technological aspects. More information and updates are available on the event website.
Studying public diplomacy – experiences of a Portuguese diplomat
Alumni Diplomatic theory and practice, Public Diplomacy BlogsA Portuguese diplomat discusses the importance of public diplomacy, emphasizing the need for effective communication in today's diplomatic landscape. The diplomat participated in a course to enhance skills and promote a positive image of Portugal. Public diplomacy is seen as vital for engaging with various stakeholders and addressing global challenges, building on Portugal's historical expertise in diplomacy. Emphasizing the evolving nature of diplomacy, the diplomat highlights the significance of initiatives like the Asia-Europe Public Diplomacy Initiative in fostering dialogue and collaboration.
The role of trust in digital diplomacy
Alumni Internet governance and digital policy BlogsTrust in different aspects of the Internet has declined, prompting a focus on restoring users' trust in digital diplomacy. A recent webinar discussed the role of trust in digital policy, distinguishing it from trustworthiness. The concept of trust and trustworthiness in internet governance was explored, highlighting the importance of factors like competency, reliability, and honesty. Trust is integral to addressing internet security issues and involves balancing ethical ideals with practical realities. An ongoing debate on trust in internet governance includes frameworks like the trust indicators proposed in the webinar.
