Teaching climate change: why the physical is not enough …
Climate diplomacy, Politics and governance, Science diplomacy BlogsTeaching about climate change should go beyond focusing solely on the physical science basis. While important, understanding the sociological and political dimensions is equally crucial. These aspects delve into why climate change is significant in international affairs, development assistance, and decision-making processes. Viewing climate change through a multidisciplinary lens, including social sciences, allows for a more comprehensive understanding of the broader implications and responses required.
Tracing the rise of populism through online behaviour
Digital diplomacy, Politics and governance BlogsDemos report traces the rise of populism through online behavior, focusing on Jobbik's Facebook fans. Contrary to stereotypes, supporters are young, educated, eurosceptic, pessimistic, and prejudiced. The report explores their demographics, beliefs, motivations for activism, and the party's online success compared to similar parties in Western Europe. Jobbik's significant online following surpasses its official membership, reflecting a trend of youth gravitating towards online political engagement. The report is eye-opening, challenging preconceptions about Jobbik supporters, yet it acknowledges that many supporters remain offline politically, hinting at the evolving landscape of digital politics among the younger generation.
What is the difference between training and capacity development?
Capacity development BlogsExploring the nuances between training and capacity development, the blog highlights that while training often focuses on specific skills, capacity development encompasses broader organizational and societal growth. It stresses the importance of understanding these differences to effectively enhance capabilities.
e-Diplomacy: the complexity of influence
Digital diplomacy, Social media BlogsThe article discusses the importance of e-Diplomacy, focusing on the complexity of influence through social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook. It highlights the debate between face-to-face interactions and social media engagement in public diplomacy. Experts caution about the exaggerated claims of social media impact and stress the need for a nuanced understanding of influence and complexity. Careers are being built around social media management, with an emphasis on navigating the intricate dynamics of communication and influence. Overall, the text emphasizes the need for diplomats to carefully explore the subtle interplay between communication and influence in the digital age.
Diplo and E-Diplomacy (Evolution & Timeline)
Digital diplomacy BlogsWe take readers through the journey of DiploFoundation, charting its growth and milestones in diplomacy and digital policy education. We showcases the organization's evolution and its impact on international diplomacy education.
Do ‘digital natives’ learn online differently than ‘digital migrants’?
Digital diplomacy, Gender rights online, Online education BlogsA study challenges the idea of 'digital natives' having distinct learning habits compared to 'digital migrants.' Conducted at the Open University of Catalonia, it found no significant differences in study and communication behaviors between younger and older online learners. The research suggests that generation does not impact online learning habits, an important discovery in the growing field of online education. However, more research is needed to explore factors influencing success in online learning beyond technological comfort, especially in different global contexts and considering various student characteristics.
E-participation: A double-edged sword?
Democracy, Digital diplomacy, Remote participation BlogsThe text discusses Hungary's recent controversial political climate, highlighting the introduction of a website for citizen participation in governance. It raises concerns about the potential limitations and biases of e-participation, questioning whether it truly represents the opinions of the majority. The author suggests that e-participation may have drawbacks, such as confirming existing biases and potentially leading to self-censorship.
ACTA: a timely warning signal for more inclusive global policy
Digital diplomacy, Gender rights online, Remote participation BlogsExploring the Anti-Counterfeiting Trade Agreement's controversies, this piece highlights the critical need for transparent, inclusive global policymaking. It emphasizes stakeholder engagement as essential for devising fair, effective policies.
French second edition of ‘An Introduction to Internet Governance’ now available
Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsThe second edition of the book "Introduction à la Gouvernance de l’Internet," a French translation of "An Introduction to Internet Governance" by Jovan Kurbalija, is now available. It was translated by two African centers and published under Diplo’s program for countries with support from the Secretariat of the Group of States. The book can be downloaded or viewed online.
Why “offensive realism” is unrealistic theory of international relations?
International relations and diplomacy BlogsAldo questions academia's role in society, describing it as an elite game devoid of social function, focusing on self-preservation. Aldo criticizes the impact of academic ideas like offensive realism in international relations when they seep into the public sphere, influencing events.
