Science diplomacy in practice: Interview with Amb. Bhaskar Balakrishnan
Diplo Wisdom Circle Science diplomacyAmb. Bhaskar Balakrishnan, an expert in science diplomacy, shares insights on how India and the Global South engage in this practice. India focuses on capacity building, technology acquisition, and sustainable development through science and technology policies. Balakrishnan emphasizes the need for diplomats to understand major scientific developments and engage with science stakeholders. He highlights the importance of South-South cooperation and advises practitioners, whether diplomats or scientists, to enhance their knowledge of international cooperation mechanisms for successful science diplomacy endeavors.
Intercultural communication and logical fallacies
Diplo Wisdom Circle Contemporary diplomacy, Cultural diversity, Diplomatic theory and practice, Intercultural communication, Language (and) diplomacy BlogsThe text discusses intercultural communication through the lens of logical fallacies, particularly focusing on hasty generalizations and stereotypes. It questions the impact of generalizations in intercultural communication and debates whether hasty generalizations can be useful. The text also explores the ethics associated with logical fallacies, such as whether the ends justify the means, and highlights the complexities of multiculturalism and diversity management in society. The conclusion emphasizes the importance of recognizing and understanding logical fallacies in shaping beliefs about divisive topics in today's society.
A brief history of Yoga diplomacy
Diplo Wisdom Circle Contemporary diplomacy, Cultural diplomacy, Cultural diversity, Health diplomacy, Intercultural communication, Nation branding, Public diplomacy, Sports diplomacy BlogsIn 2014, Narendra Modi proposed an International Yoga Day at the United Nations, focusing on the holistic benefits of yoga beyond exercise, including addressing climate change. The diplomatic campaign involved strategic efforts to gain co-sponsorship from various countries, emphasizing the link between yoga, health, and global issues. The resolution eventually gained impressive support from 177 countries and was adopted within a record 75 days. The initiative aimed to promote health, sustainability, and cultural heritage internationally, illustrating India's commitment to meaningful diplomacy beyond traditional resolutions.
Why should diplomatic academies shift to online learning?
Diplo Wisdom Circle, Faculty Capacity development, Online education BlogsThe COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the shift towards online learning, urging diplomatic academies to embrace innovation. While traditional methods have their merits, online teaching offers benefits such as flexibility, diverse student backgrounds, and reduced costs. Investing in a good learning management system and leveraging tools like video conferencing can enhance the online learning experience. Drawing on insights from entities like DiploFoundation can aid in the successful transition. The pandemic has highlighted the practicality and advantages of online learning, making it a preferred method for diplomatic training institutions moving forward.
The US approach to offline and online threats and attacks on critical infrastructure by non-state actors
Alumni, Diplo Wisdom Circle Critical infrastructure, Cyberconflict and warfare, Cybercrime, Cybersecurity BlogsThe US addresses both online and offline threats to critical infrastructure by defining and protecting vital systems and assets from criminal activities, with laws covering computer crimes and physical breaches. Measures are outlined in the Presidential Policy Directive on Critical Infrastructure Security and Resilience. The US has also adopted the CLOUD Act to address cross-border challenges. Prevention, awareness-raising, and enforcement efforts aim to safeguard critical infrastructure and prosecute offenders. Coordination with other countries is essential for investigations involving foreign actors.
Strategies of modern-day small states
Alumni, Diplo Wisdom Circle Diplomacy of small states BlogsSmaller states can leverage soft power, like Qatar did with Al Jazeera, and regional alliances to increase international relevance and influence. Crafty strategies can turn smallness into strength, enabling smaller states to establish credibility and trust on the global stage despite the dominance of larger nations. Efforts in state-branding and participation in alliances like CARICOM and ASEAN prove effective in countering perceptions of irrelevance or weakness typically associated with small states. Diplomatic innovation is key for small states to secure a place in international affairs.
Violent left and right: Which is more dangerous?
Diplo Wisdom Circle Politics and governance BlogsThe text discusses the condemning of violent behavior on both the left and right sides of the political spectrum. It compares the ideologies and motivations behind the violence, highlighting that far-right violence tends to be more likely and enduring due to a perceived existential threat, while far-left violence is more tactical and occasional. The message also delves into the different means and tactical aspects of violence associated with both extremes.
Where have all the health attachés gone?
Diplo Wisdom Circle COVID-19 diplomacy, Diplomatic theory and practice, Health diplomacy, Public diplomacy BlogsThe text discusses the declining presence of health attachés in embassies worldwide, expressing concerns about the lack of a clear career path for the position and the potential implications for global health diplomacy. It highlights the importance of health attachés in providing valuable advice, promoting cooperation among medical professionals, and overseeing health projects. The post underscores the need for further research on the dwindling numbers of health attachés and emphasizes their significance in navigating health crises like the COVID-19 pandemic.