Cyber-armament: private sector stepping in (Part III)
Cybernorms, Cybersecurity, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsThe private sector is increasingly involved in addressing cyber-armament, advocating for a global political dialogue. Microsoft's call for a Digital Geneva Convention aims to prevent cyber-attacks on critical infrastructure and intellectual property theft. The proposal includes creating an independent organization to attribute nation-state attacks. Cybersecurity vulnerabilities in commercial products are exploited globally, and companies are urged to take responsibility for enhancing product safety. The private sector's push for political solutions reflects the need for improved cybersecurity practices industry-wide.
[WebDebate #9 summary] Science diplomacy: approaches and skills for diplomats and scientists to work together effectively
Contemporary diplomacy, Diplomatic theory and practice, Science diplomacy BlogsThe WebDebate discussed the importance of science diplomacy in fostering collaboration between diplomats and scientists. Dr. Maurizio Bona emphasized the role of international scientific institutions like CERN in promoting dialogue and collaboration. Dr. Carolin Kaltofen highlighted the three dimensions of science diplomacy and the need for context-specific training. The discussion underscored CERN's neutrality and commitment to transparency, promoting trust and peaceful relations among states. Educating practitioners on science diplomacy was emphasized. Overall, the event highlighted the growing significance of science diplomacy in addressing global challenges and improving international relations.
Conducting Public Diplomacy in Filter Bubbles
Digital diplomacy, Diplomatic theory and practice, Public diplomacy, Social media BlogsFilter bubbles are a phenomenon where online experiences are personalized to show like-minded views and hide dissenting opinions. This affects public diplomacy efforts, as social media platforms may only reach those already supportive, failing to engage with skeptics. Filter bubbles could hinder public diplomacy's goal of fostering empathy and peaceful dialogue, leading to divided societies. To address this, strategies like using hashtags or collaborating with influential individuals can help reach broader audiences. Understanding and advocating for transparency in the algorithms shaping filter bubbles are crucial in navigating this challenge and ensuring public diplomacy's success.
Digital politics in 2017: Unsettled weather, stormy at times, with sunny spells
Artificial Intelligence, Data and diplomacy, Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsA year of volatility in the digital sphere, from groundbreaking tech advancements to significant cybersecurity threats. We reflect on the delicate balance between innovation and the need for secure, stable digital environments.
Data diplomacy and knowledge management – key skills for the next generation of diplomats
Data and diplomacy, Data governance, Diplomatic theory and practice, Sustainable development BlogsThe text discusses the significance of data diplomacy and knowledge management for upcoming diplomats. Expert speakers highlighted the importance of utilizing data effectively, especially in achieving sustainable development goals. Key recommendations include promoting transparency, enhancing inter-ministerial coordination, and facilitating staff training in knowledge management. Engagement with diverse stakeholders and fostering a culture of sharing knowledge were also emphasized. Additionally, the importance of human factor in managing knowledge resources was underlined. The message encourages participation in web debates on the future of diplomacy organized by DiploFoundation.
Webinar digest: Cyber norms: Towards an inclusive dialogue
Cyberconflict and warfare, Cybernorms, Cybersecurity, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsGovernments are prioritizing cybersecurity and cyberconflict, leading to an increase in bilateral and multilateral cyber agreements. Alongside governmental efforts, private sector involvement in shaping cyber norms is growing. Microsoft, represented by Angela McKay, advocates for international norms to reduce cyber conflicts. The industry emphasizes the need for norms covering cyber-offences, cyber-defence, and global cooperation. Stakeholders, including states and the tech industry, play essential roles in establishing and abiding by these norms. Microsoft's proposed norms aim to guide state behavior below the threshold of armed conflict. The webinar discussion also touched on IoT security, cyber-norm processes, cyber-disarmament challenges, and capacity building.
E-Residency: potential for boosting e-commerce
E-commerce and trade, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsThe text discusses the potential of e-residency in boosting e-commerce, particularly through Estonia's e-residency program. By facilitating access to the global digital market, e-residency can benefit small and medium businesses and contribute to economic growth. Despite some challenges, like the digital divide and residency requirements, e-residency remains a valuable tool for global trade. Developed nations are more frequent users of e-residency, but there is growing interest from developing countries as well. While e-residency is not a one-size-fits-all solution, its innovative approach shows promise in fostering a more inclusive online marketplace.
Growing E-commerce Market in China
E-commerce and trade, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsChina's e-commerce market is thriving, reaching $630 billion in 2015 and expected to surpass the U.S. to become the world's largest retail market. Factors driving this growth include the rise of smartphone usage, innovative technologies, and online platforms like Alibaba. Key players in the Chinese Internet industry include Baidu, Alibaba, and Tencent, with WeChat serving as a multifunctional super app facilitating various services from messaging to mobile payments. The convenience and popularity of online shopping in China are evident, with mobile devices playing a crucial role in shaping consumer behavior and driving economic growth.
The Quiet Rapprochement of Internet Governance and Trade Policy
E-commerce and trade, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsThe impressive growth of Internet traffic has highlighted the need for legal frameworks to facilitate trade and enhance economic growth through Internet access. Efforts are being made to harmonize regulatory environments and develop shared rules to promote electronic trade. There is a push towards incorporating Internet governance issues into trade agreements, but challenges remain regarding transparency and inclusivity in decision-making processes. The integration of procedural principles from Internet governance mechanisms into trade negotiations is seen as essential to ensure a credible and effective discussion of digital policy issues.
Prospects of decentralised solution in a finance world. The case of blockchain
Blockchain, Cryptocurrencies, E-commerce and trade, Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsBlockchain technology, originating from Bitcoin, decentralizes financial systems and gains traction in the finance world, particularly in the FinTech sector. Banks explore blockchain applications for efficiency gains, acknowledging the shift toward decentralized solutions for security and cost reduction. Collaborations with third-party FinTech firms drive innovation, with a potential blend of centralization and decentralization on the horizon. Despite blockchain's current hype, its practical implementation and evolution remain key focuses for financial institutions in navigating the transition towards a digital economy era.