ConfTech digest #33, February-March
Archive, Digest, Diplo Africa Newsletter, DiploNewsMicrosoft Teams has introduced new updates in March, including improvements to the Gallery feature and enhanced functionality for meeting organizers. Users can now adjust audio and video settings directly during meetings and control the number of visible participants. Additionally, premium license holders can enhance data security by restricting chat forwarding. Google Meet introduces a room check-in feature for participants. Zoom now supports whiteboard projects on tablets and mobile devices. These updates aim to improve user experience and productivity in virtual meetings. Premium users on Teams can access cutting-edge generative technology for professional background customization.
Mozambican foreign minister participates in Antalya diplomacy forum in Turkey
Events Peace diplomacy UpdatesVerónica Macamo, Mozambique's Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, represented President Filipe Nyusi at the 2024 Antalya Diplomacy Forum in Turkey from February 29 to March 2. This third edition of the forum is focused on "Advancing Diplomacy in Times of Turmoil," aiming to foster discussions on global peace-building efforts. Macamo accepted an invitation from Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to participate. She served as a guest speaker in the panel discussion titled "Realizing the Potential of Africa," alongside Foreign Ministers from Cameroon, Gabon, and Zimbabwe, as well as the Secretary General of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Global digital governance: Geneva’s perspectives and role. An expert-guided dialogue among diplomats
Events Training and workshops Diplomacy courses and workshops, Politics and governance EventsGeneva is a hub for global digital governance discussions. A dialogue for diplomats will focus on effective solutions to digital challenges and Geneva's role. The event, facilitated by experts, aims to gather diplomats of varying experience levels. Half the seats are reserved for representatives from smaller or developing countries. The dialogue is organized by Diplo, with the support of the United Arab Emirates Mission to the UN and other international bodies in Geneva.
ICANN79
Events Panels and conferencesICANN79 will occur from March 2 to 7, 2024, in San Juan, Puerto Rico, serving as the first Public Meeting of the year. It brings together diverse stakeholders to advance policy work, share best practices, and provide networking opportunities. Participants can join either in person or virtually. More details can be found on the event's dedicated web page.
Policy Meets Tech: Cryptography
Critical infrastructure, Events Training and workshops Encryption EventsThe 'Policy meets tech' series, organized by Diplo with support from the Permanent Mission to the in Geneva, will focus on cryptography. It aims to aid diplomats in understanding digital technologies, their policy implications, and real-world applications. Sessions cover internet protocols, quantum computing, cryptography, and algorithms. Interested parties can contact Ms Sorina Teleanu for more information at geneva@diplomacy.edu.
Policy meets tech: Augmented and Virtual reality
Events Panels and conferences Emerging technologies EventsA series called 'Policy meets tech' focuses on augmented and virtual reality, discussing its technology and policy implications. Organized by Diplo and supported by the Permanent Mission in Geneva, it aims to assist small and developing country missions in understanding digital technologies. Sessions cover various tech topics to provide insights into their applications and policy implications for diplomats. For more information, contact Ms. Sorina Teleanu, Director of Knowledge at geneva@diplomacy.edu.
Open Source (generative) AI for Public Services Innovation
Events WebinarsDr. Jovan Kurbalija will be part of the Open Source AI event for Public Services Innovation, discussing the benefits of AI in public services to aid in achieving Sustainable Development Goals. The event highlights the need for trustworthy, auditable, and fair AI-based public services. Participants will delve into topics like technological advancements and innovative initiatives, with a focus on upgrading industrial capabilities and fostering domestic technology development. Attendees can engage with panelists and build connections in this informative event hosted by the AI for Good initiative.
Geneva AI Community launch
Events Panels and conferences AI diplomacy, Artificial Intelligence EventsThe Geneva AI Community has been launched to unite individuals actively utilizing AI technology, from daily tasks to developing applications, within International Geneva. This initiative aims to guide organizations through AI-induced transitions and explore practical aspects of integrating AI technologies. Practitioners and innovators in International Geneva are invited to join this community to share challenges and best practices for organizational adaptations. Contact Mr Yung-Hsuan Wu for more details on participation.
Meeting with a representative of APNIC
Events Geneva Digital Talks Diplomatic functions and tools, International relations and diplomacy, Internet governance and digital policy EventsProfessor Jovan Kurbalija met with a representative from APNIC to discuss current technological advancements in Internet governance.
Briefing on technical standards for the Netherlands business community
Events Briefings Capacity development EventsSorina Teleanu, from Diplos, discussed technical standards at a roundtable for the Dutch business community in Geneva, focusing on standardization processes.
