Metaphors and Images: Illustrating Climate Change
Climate diplomacy BlogsThe text discusses the importance of using metaphors and images to convey the complexities of climate change, highlighting that they help make abstract concepts more understandable. It delves into the metaphor of a building under construction to represent the global climate change regime, emphasizing the interconnectedness of various elements. The message underscores the significance of being mindful of the implications of metaphors used, as they can both illuminate and obscure different aspects of the issue.
Negotiating the independence of Algeria
Diplomatic theory and practice BlogsNegotiations for the independence of Algeria took place between French and Algerian representatives, facilitated by Swiss mediators. Secret meetings eventually led to the Evian Agreement in 1962, marking a ceasefire and a future plebiscite. The process highlighted the importance of mediator intervention, challenges with unstable power structures, and the need for confidentiality in negotiations. The author questions the feasibility of such discreet negotiations in today's media-dominated and technologically advanced world.
A very public tiff on Twitter
Digital diplomacy BlogsNobel Prize winning economist Paul Krugman and Estonian President Toomas Hendrik Ilves engage in a heated Twitter debate, with Ilves defending Estonia's economic success against Krugman's criticisms. Krugman is accused by Ilves of being patronizing towards East Europeans. The public spat raises questions about the appropriateness of such exchanges on social media by heads of state.
Internet governance developments – mid-year review
Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsThis piece recaps a significant half-year in Internet governance, highlighting key developments like SOPA and ACTA's global repercussions, and debates over the ITU's role in Internet governance, emphasizing the evolving landscape of digital policy and governance.
Fourth edition of ‘An Introduction to Internet Governance’ in Armenian
Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsThe fourth edition of 'An Introduction to Internet Governance' by Dr. Jovan Kurbalija is now available in Armenian, titled Համացանցի կառավաՀմ. The book covers various aspects of Internet governance and is a collaborative effort by the Media Education Center and the Internet Society of Armenia. Access the Armenian version online or download it, with other translations also available.
Prof. Dietrich Kappeler on Great lesson in mediation by Swiss diplomat (Algeria negotiations 1961-1962)
Conflict resolution & Mediation, Diplomatic theory and practice, Negotiations BlogsThe Swiss mediation during the Algeria negotiations in 1961-1962 involved Raymond Probst, Gianrico Bucher, and Olivier Long. Secret diplomacy and discretion were crucial, as negotiations were carried out with the release of incarcerated Algerian leaders who met their French counterparts under the guise of skiing tourists. Such discreet and secretive approaches are deemed essential in successful diplomatic negotiations, a stark contrast to today's more transparent landscape. Prof. Dietrich Kappeler, a former Swiss diplomat involved in these negotiations, highlights the importance of this approach.
Mid-year review of Internet governance developments
Gender rights online BlogsA mid-year review of Internet governance developments was conducted by Dr Jovan Kurbalija, covering key events from the past six months and predictions for the next half of the year. The podcast and a summary of the discussions are accessible for further insights.
Some thoughts on the Rio+20 Environmental Summit
Climate diplomacy BlogsThe author reflects on the Rio+20 Environmental Summit, expressing disappointment in the lack of progress since the 1992 Earth Summit. They suggest increasing public awareness and framing environmental issues in terms of self-interest as potential strategies moving forward. The author urges readers to share their thoughts on how to address critical environmental problems effectively.
What the numbers say: The success of Diplo’s EU/ACP project
Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsDiplo's EU/ACP project successfully concluded, engaging 506 beneficiaries from 60 countries in various activities over 24 months. 309 beneficiaries completed online courses in Internet Governance and Policy, resulting in 22,972 hypertext entries and numerous contributions to forums. The project also led to the publication of 23 papers in March 2011, offering fresh insights into Internet governance challenges and catering to local needs, with some papers in French. The project effectively fostered collaboration and knowledge-sharing among participants from different regions and backgrounds.
EuroDIG 2012 Remote Hub Belgrade
Gender rights online, Intellectual property rights, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsAt the EuroDIG 2012 Remote Hub Belgrade, a session on intellectual property rights in the digital environment was held in Serbia, emphasizing the need for new business models and community activism. Panellists discussed Internet governance, Euro's significance, and the impact of public participation. The importance of local dialogue and multistakeholder approach was highlighted, with hopes for continued development in Internet governance solutions. Remote participants engaged in lively discussions on copyright, patents, and public influence on governance processes. The session concluded with a focus on the ongoing national dialogue on Internet governance and the value of remote participation for interaction at all levels.
