The hole in the fence
Diplo Wisdom Circle BlogsDuring the Covid-19 lockdown, the writer took over caring for a neighbor's garden, tackling tasks like removing trees and battling invasive plants. The project brought satisfaction and exercise. An imaginary dialogue with a grandchild humorously recounts the garden's transformation. The writer humorously mentions exploiting a hole in the fence to access the garden, reflecting on adapting rules like certain politicians. The narrative concludes with the garden's successful revitalization and the joy found in restoring neglected spaces.
Q. Which London embassy needs 13 cultural attachés?
Diplo Wisdom Circle BlogsThe Saudi Embassy in London stands out with 13 cultural attachés, a significant number compared to other embassies in the city. These attachés focus on educational relationships for Saudi students in the UK but are also involved in monitoring students and their clubs, raising concerns about control and surveillance. This information sheds light on the embassy's extensive cultural attaché presence, a topic highlighted in a recent report.
An honorary consul in the pandemic
Diplo Wisdom Circle Consular and diaspora diplomacy, COVID-19 diplomacy, Diplomatic theory and practice, Honorary consuls BlogsThe text describes the experiences of Razvan Constantinescu, a Romanian honorary consul in England, during the pandemic. Initially overwhelmed by assisting stranded citizens and negotiating repatriations, he eventually handled tasks like burials and setting up a cemetery. Despite challenges, he notes a decrease in workload due to improved situations, except for managing requests now that the London Consulate closed. Constantinescu reflects on the demanding period, highlighting the growth and resilience acquired during these unprecedented times.
EU-UK videoconferencing. All for show?
Diplo Wisdom Circle BlogsThe negotiations between the EU and UK began in March 2020, with videoconferencing becoming the norm due to the pandemic. Progress has been slow, leading to speculation on the effectiveness of virtual negotiations. Boris Johnson's government is questioned on their sincerity in negotiations, with suspicions arising on their motives and strategies. Despite uncertainties, face-to-face talks are scheduled, hinting at potential progress. Johnson's stance on the transition period and trade negotiations with the US adds complexity to the situation. Ultimately, doubts linger on the true intentions behind the negotiations, with uncertainty surrounding their outcomes.
An assessment of autonomous drones’ potential during the COVID-19 pandemic
Diplo Wisdom Circle COVID-19 diplomacy, Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy, Telecommunications infrastructure BlogsThe potential of autonomous drones during the COVID-19 pandemic is highlighted, with various applications noted in different industries. Despite regulatory challenges, drones have proven to be valuable in response efforts, from deliveries to surveillance for enforcing social distancing. Companies like Wing and Zipline are actively involved in using drones for pandemic-related tasks. There is a call for regulators to facilitate the utilization of autonomous drones more effectively during the current crisis.
Has the coronavirus deprived us of choice?
Diplo Wisdom Circle COVID-19 diplomacy, Digital diplomacy, Diplomatic theory and practice, Language (and) diplomacy, Online education, Rhetoric BlogsThe coronavirus has led to a shift from individualism to collectivism, highlighting the importance of a considered life and reevaluation of choices. It emphasizes the need for self-determination, not selfishness, and the promotion of individuality without dichotomizing behavior as good or bad. Rhetorical devices like antithesis are analyzed as persuasive tools, cautioning against black-and-white thinking. The crisis urges collaboration for a constructive resolution, but individual differences and personal inclinations should be respected in decision-making processes to maintain a balance between self and others. It stresses the significance of examining life choices and thinking independently amidst changing circumstances.
No true Scotsman
Diplo Wisdom Circle Communication, Cultural diversity, Diplomatic theory and practice BlogsThe text discusses the "No-true-Scotsman" fallacy, which involves defending a generalization by dismissing counter-examples as irrelevant. It illustrates how this fallacy is used in various contexts, such as religion, political ideology, and patriotism, to define and exclude individuals who do not fit a desired ideal. The message urges readers to question the notion of authenticity and authority behind such labeling practices. Ultimately, the fallacy is shown as a powerful yet flawed tool used by gatekeepers to shape and control group membership.
