Eight principles for middle and late adopters of social media
E-tools BlogsThe text covers eight principles for middle and late adopters of social media, emphasizing starting with clear aims, engaging with others, contributing content, utilizing a variety of tools, monitoring progress, being authentic, and having fun. The author also lists various social media tools they use, and provides insights into how to navigate the social web effectively.
Guest Blog: Sports diplomacy in the spotlight – the London 2012 Olympics grandstand
Diplomatic theory and practice, Olympic diplomacy, Sports diplomacy BlogsThe 2012 Olympics in London are a showcase for sports diplomacy, with athletes influencing international relations. While sports diplomacy has potential to heal conflicts and inspire change, it can also reinforce negative stereotypes. Despite drawbacks, notable successes like China’s ‘ping-pong diplomacy’ show its transformative power. While the Olympics are not a direct diplomatic tool, they offer nations a platform to display their values to a global audience. Every athlete becomes a country's ambassador, with the potential to make a positive or negative impact on the world stage. The London 2012 Olympics highlight the complexities of sports diplomacy.
Metaphors: creating maps, creating reality … draw your country and colour it in …
Analogies and metaphors, Diplomatic theory and practice, Politics and governance BlogsMetaphors serve as mental maps, representing reality. They must remain connected to reality to avoid leading astray. The notion of an objective reality to measure against is questioned. The text references Baudrillard's idea of the map taking precedence over reality. In diplomacy, maps are ideological tools reflecting political aims. There is emphasis on engaging with simulation over verifying concepts. The message highlights the importance of understanding the power and limitations of metaphors in shaping our perception of reality.
A virtual ‘line-up’?
E-tools, Social media BlogsThe text reflects on the dual nature of social media, acknowledging its positive impact on movements like the Arab Spring but also highlighting its potential for misuse. It recounts an instance in Budapest where a peaceful protest led to participants being identified through social media and subsequently harassed. The author questions if social media being used as a virtual lineup could deter people from participating in protests.
Online negotiating: an evolutionary step forward?
Digital diplomacy, Internet governance and digital policy, Negotiations BlogsThe text discusses the potential shift towards conducting diplomatic negotiations online and the implications of such a transition. It explores the advantages and challenges of negotiating in a virtual space, highlighting factors like cost savings, reduced contextual distractions, and the focus on written communication in online negotiations. The author presents arguments for and against online negotiating, considering aspects like misunderstandings in written communication, the importance of face-to-face interactions, and the value of investments in negotiation processes. Ultimately, the text suggests that only through actual practice can a thorough understanding of the benefits and drawbacks of online negotiations be gained.
Google and Twitter transparency reports make interesting reading
Content policy, Internet governance and digital policy, Transparency BlogsGoogle and Twitter release transparency reports detailing government requests for content removal and user data. Hungary unsuccessfully petitioned Google 154 times for content removal, while Thailand successfully censored 149 YouTube videos. The reports reflect differing global legal standards regarding censorship, with Eastern European countries increasingly monitoring online activity. Twitter also released a transparency report, with Japan making the most requests for user information. Compliance with requests is based on local laws, which vary in what constitutes acceptable censorship. These reports showcase the complex landscape of online regulation and governmental oversight.
The solar system, the atom, the Higgs Boson … the truth … “Nahhh, I’ll stay under my warm cuddly blanket for a bit longer!”
BlogsThe text discusses the use of analogies and metaphors in understanding complex concepts like the atom and scientific discovery. It emphasizes that these tools are vital for comprehension even though they may not reflect the absolute truth. The writer acknowledges the comfort of metaphorical understanding despite its limitations, arguing that science progresses through evolving explanations. The piece suggests that while metaphors may be cozy, they are essential for exploring the unknown realms of knowledge.
Nation Branding in Romania
Diplomatic theory and practice BlogsThe text discusses Romania's struggle with its international image amid political challenges. Despite negative perceptions, initiatives like the Branding Romania summer school aim to empower young people to shape a positive future for their country. Calls are made for a shift in nation branding responsibility from authorities to a new generation. Political instability and crisis are highlighted as detrimental to Romania's reputation, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to restore its positive image on the world stage.
E-tools used to broaden reach and promote all-inclusiveness
E-tools BlogsThe Regional Cooperation Council aims to promote cooperation in South East Europe and facilitate European integration. A recent seminar conducted by DiploFoundation focused on enhancing e-tools to increase inclusiveness and outreach. The seminar highlighted the importance of utilizing technology for communication and collaboration among regional initiatives and governments. The goal is to develop an e-toolkit for the organization, piloting new tools and guidelines to be shared with similar organizations in the future for mutual benefit and development.
When do negotiations start?
Diplomatic theory and practice, Gender rights online, Negotiations, Translation and interpretation BlogsThe text discusses ongoing political discussions in Hungary, particularly concerning topics like Internet governance and media censorship. It highlights challenges faced by expats in staying informed, particularly due to reliance on translated texts. It raises concerns over the accuracy of information, exemplified by a misleading announcement regarding financial negotiations with the EU and IMF. The confusion is further exacerbated by conflicting statements from Hungarian officials regarding the start of negotiations.
