Five bot farms were discovered and shut down in Ukraine
Updates Cybercrime UpdatesFive bot farms in Ukraine spreading fake news, shut down by Ukrainian Security Service, potentially reaching 100,000 social media accounts. Russia accused of instigating panic and attempting to destabilize Ukraine.
Starlink won’t block Russian news sources
Updates Science diplomacy, Space diplomacy UpdatesDespite requests from some governments, SpaceX's Starlink system, led by Elon Musk, will not block access to Russian news sources, unless forced. Musk emphasized a commitment to free speech, in contrast to actions taken by other tech companies like Google and Microsoft to restrict Russian media outlets.
Orbit debris struck the Moon
Updates Science diplomacy, Space diplomacy UpdatesA rocket part that was orbiting for eight years hit the Moon at the Hertzsprung crater, believed to be from China's Chang'e 5-T1 mission. Chinese officials deny ownership, previously suspected to be SpaceX's. Scientists say it's the first known space junk collision with the Moon. Confirmation of the impact may take months due to the far side location.
Elon Musk responds to Russia’s International Space Station potential threat
Updates Science diplomacy, Space diplomacy UpdatesElon Musk assures SpaceX will intervene to prevent the International Space Station from deorbiting due to Russia's threats post-Ukraine invasion, negating the necessity of Russian support. Despite Russia's insinuations, any craft with extra fuel, like SpaceX's Dragon, can uphold the space station's orbit. This underscores that the station does not depend solely on Russian Soyuz support.
A stronger voice: How Namibian diplomatic practice is updating to the era of digitalisation
Updates Capacity development, Diplomacy courses and workshops, Diplomatic functions and tools, E-tools, Foreign ministries, Internet governance and digital policy, Pedagogy BlogsNamibian diplomats undergo digital diplomacy training from Malta and DiploFoundation. Over 80 officials participate in a 10-day online course covering topics like cybersecurity and geopolitics. Emphasis is placed on balancing traditional diplomacy values with modern demands. Training aims to equip diplomats with skills to navigate complex digital issues in areas like health and trade. Namibian diplomats emerge with enhanced digital policy knowledge and a stronger voice in international affairs. Diplomatic efforts are commended, recognizing the benefits of digitalization for advancing the country's interests.
The four pillars of European Green Deal diplomacy
Updates Climate diplomacy PostsThe European Green Deal diplomacy is grounded on four pillars: trade, bilateral financial agreements, multilateralism via the United Nations, and domestic implementation of the Green Deal.
China’s Lunar Resarch
Updates Space diplomacy PostsChina's scientists achieved a breakthrough in simulating the moon's low-gravity environment, taking inspiration from Andre Geim's frog levitation experiment. This research aligns with China's goal of landing astronauts on the moon by 2030 and establishing a joint lunar research base with Russia, potentially necessitating new rules for lunar activities.
Pegasus spyware ‘found on phone of jailed critic of Narendra Modi ’
Updates Surveillance UpdatesRona Wilson, an Indian activist critical of Narendra Modi, had his phone hacked with Pegasus spyware before his arrest, raising concerns about the case against him.
“Unmasking digital diplomacy in the new normal” – International Conference in Indonesia
Updates Digital diplomacy, COVID-19 diplomacy, Health diplomacy UpdatesIndonesia will host a virtual International Conference on Digital Diplomacy on November 16, 2021, centered around unmasking the potential of digital diplomacy in the current new normal.
New Cyberspace and Digital Policy Bureau at the US State Department
Updates Digital diplomacy, Cybersecurity, Digital foreign policy, Foreign ministries UpdatesThe US State Department has established a new Bureau of Cyberspace and Digital Policy, merging units on cybersecurity and digital policies. The bureau will be led by an ambassador-at-large and aims to modernize diplomacy. Additionally, a policy ideas channel has been created to facilitate sharing ideas between diplomats and leadership. More details can be found in The Wall Street Journal and The Hill.
