25 years of digital (and) diplomacy: Evolution or revolution?
Digital diplomacy, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsReflecting on 25 years at the intersection of digital technology and diplomacy, we assess whether the journey signifies an evolution or a revolution. This milestone prompts us to examine the transformative impact of digital advancements on diplomatic practices and international relations.
How can flags help us understand (and govern) AI?
Artificial Intelligence BlogsFlags and artificial intelligence share a commonality in their use of patterns. Flags, as symbols of identity and belonging, are rich in patterns that reflect history and culture. By understanding the patterns in flags, we can gain insights into the logic behind AI's pattern recognition abilities. This understanding is crucial for informed discussions on AI governance and its impact on society. Just as flags symbolize social groups, AI's pattern recognition abilities shape its applications in various aspects of modern life. The challenge lies in ensuring that patterns remain a public good, fostering human creativity and scientific progress for generations to come.
Digital (and) diplomacy: Pandemic videoconferencing levels off at low altitude
COVID-19 diplomacy BlogsVideoconferencing surged in diplomacy during the pandemic but is now leveling off due to technical issues and the lack of diplomatic advantages compared to in-person meetings. The return to face-to-face negotiations is highlighted, emphasizing the importance of trust-building and the limitations of video conferencing in fostering genuine interactions. Despite its role in facilitating routine matters and second-order functions in diplomacy, videoconferencing's significant drawbacks are acknowledged, ultimately resulting in its use plateauing at a lower level of effectiveness.
[New podcast] The telegraph and diplomacy: An interview with Tom Standage
Foreign policy, History of diplomacy, History of diplomacy and technology BlogsTom Standage discusses the significance of the telegraph in geopolitics during an interview with Dr. Jovan Kurbalija as part of the online series "History of Diplomacy and Technology" by Diplo in January 2021. Standage, deputy editor of The Economist, is known for his historical books, including "Writing on the Wall" and "A History of the World in 6 Glasses.
How Afghanistan changed 30 flags in 102 years
Flags BlogsIn 102 years, Afghanistan changed flags 30 times, including during the recent Taliban takeover. The flags reflect the country's tumultuous history and diverse society. Flag colors like red and white hold symbolism for various regimes. Flags are powerful symbols of identity and cause emotional attachments, illustrated by global debates around flags like New Zealand's. The rainbow flag also stirs controversy. Despite debates on symbolism, flags remain significant in rallying people and representing deep-rooted identities. Understanding flags is crucial for grasping political and societal dynamics.
E-voting as e-participation: a process
BlogsThe text discusses the importance of e-voting as a form of e-participation, emphasizing the benefits of Internet voting tools in making the voting process more efficient, cost-effective, and transparent. It argues that a well-designed e-voting system can mitigate errors present in traditional paper systems and suggests that citizen participation through voting is crucial.
Diplomatic immunity: The reality of the sources of the law
Diplomatic law, Diplomatic theory and practice, Privileges and immunities BlogsThe sources of the law on diplomatic immunity predominantly stem from the Vienna Conventions. However, implementation of these conventions varies among common law and civil law states, leading to differing degrees of diplomatic rights and immunities based on domestic laws. Diplomats must seek recourse for breaches of their rights in the receiving state's domestic courts or through diplomatic channels. The core rationale for diplomatic immunity is to shield diplomats from arbitrary arrests due to political motives, ensuring they can fulfill their representative roles effectively. The evolving landscape of international laws may prompt a reassessment of diplomatic immunity in the future.
Are international immunities of heads of state and government officials undergoing a major change?
Diplomatic law, Diplomatic theory and practice, International relations and diplomacy, Privileges and immunities BlogsHeads of state and government officials' international immunities are facing potential significant changes. Recent actions by Western states, including the US and Canada, show a shift towards holding officials accountable for corruption and human rights violations. This contrasts with the traditional immunity principle upheld by the International Court of Justice. Sanctions and legislation targeting officials like Nicolas Maduro and Iran's President Raisi indicate a changing landscape. Draft articles by the International Law Commission suggest removing immunities for severe crimes, aligning with these recent trends. Alan Franklin's analysis indicates a diminishing of government officials' immunities under customary law.
[Podcast] The Diplomat’s Sofa #3: Why diplomats should care about cybersecurity
Digital diplomacy, Critical infrastructure, Cybersecurity, Network security BlogsThe podcast discusses the importance of cybersecurity in diplomacy, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic's digital reliance. Ambassador Asoke Mukerji emphasizes the need for collaboration between diplomats and other stakeholders to address cybersecurity challenges effectively, particularly in developing countries. The episode explores ways to enhance multistakeholder processes and the tech community's role in national and international cybersecurity efforts, emphasizing the importance of capacity-building and empowering stakeholders from non-industrialized developing nations. Mukerji draws on his extensive diplomatic experience to provide insights into negotiating cybersecurity and working with technical experts.
[Podcast] Diving into Digital #2: From first cyber diplomat to capacity-building champion
Podcast Diplomatic career, Capacity development BlogsThe episode features Mr. Chris Painter, the first cyber diplomat and current board president of the Global Forum on Cyber Expertise Foundation. Discussed topics include cyber norms, the role of cyber diplomats, and effective collaboration between diplomats and non-diplomats. Painter highlights the importance of a whole-of-government approach and emphasizes the need for a global conversation on cyber capacity-building and norms. Join the conversation by providing feedback and suggesting future interviewees for the Diving into Digital podcast series.
