15 years of the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS)
Internet governance and digital policy BlogsWe celebrate milestones achieved in bridging the digital divide, while also recognizing ongoing challenges in ensuring global digital equity.
September: The start of the diplomatic year
Digital diplomacy, Diplomatic functions and tools, Diplomatic theory and practice, Online education BlogsWe announce the launch of diverse initiatives aimed at enhancing digital diplomacy and governance, showcasing our commitment to advancing these fields through innovative projects.
Humanity and modernity: A balancing act
AI & philosophy Artificial Intelligence, Diplomatic theory and practice BlogsWe discuss the intricate dance between preserving human values and embracing modern technological advances, advocating for a thoughtful blend that enriches society without compromising our core principles.
An overview of ‘People’s Money: Harnessing Digitalization to Finance a Sustainable Future’
Digital divide, Economic BlogsThe Digital Finance Task Force launched the report 'People's Money: Harnessing Digitalization to Finance a Sustainable Future,' exploring the link between digitalization, finance, and sustainable development. The report addresses barriers and risks associated with digital finance, advocating for a people-centric approach, regulatory measures, and international cooperation. It emphasizes the role of digitalization in overcoming financing setbacks for sustainable development goals, suggesting strategies like financial literacy programs, public-private cooperation, and data management. The report also includes pathfinder initiatives and sets out an Action Agenda with recommendations for stakeholders on catalytic opportunities, building a sustainable digital financing ecosystem, and promoting inclusive international governance.
A journey in time: 20 years of Internet and diplomacy
Artificial Intelligence, Digital diplomacy, Diplomatic theory and practice BlogsThe message reflects on the impact of the Internet on diplomacy over the past 20 years, highlighting the evolution of technology and the need for diplomatic training to keep pace. Despite changes, core diplomatic functions persist. The interplay between the Internet and diplomacy continues to evolve, with diplomats seeking enhanced digital skills. Diplomatic training institutions must adapt to current needs. The message invites feedback on the future of diplomacy in light of technological advancements. Jovan and Stefano encourage engagement, offering resources for further exploration and suggesting avenues for improvement in diplomatic practices.
Africa and Internet governance: At the table or on the menu?
Alumni Internet governance and digital policy BlogsThe text discusses challenges faced by African countries in participating effectively in global Internet governance. It emphasizes the importance of moving beyond mere participation in discussions to actively shaping policies to meet African priorities. The post highlights the need for increased engagement from African stakeholders in shaping the future of Internet governance to ensure their interests are represented in international discussions.
Schrems II – The judgement and initial reflections
Privacy and data protection, Data governance BlogsThe Schrems II judgement by the Court of Justice of the European Union invalidated the EU-US Privacy Shield but confirmed the validity of Standard Contractual Clauses for international data transfers. This ruling impacts data protection globally, urging companies to reassess data transfer mechanisms. The decision particularly affects data transfers to the US and calls for enhanced safeguards to align with EU data protection standards. The judgement also emphasizes the role of national data protection authorities in overseeing data transfers and signals potential changes in global data transfer regulations beyond just EU-US relations.
Hostile takeover: Foreign Office swallows Development ministry
Diplo Wisdom Circle Foreign policy BlogsThe Foreign Office has merged with the Department for International Development, creating the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office, seen as a hostile takeover by Df staff. The move is controversial, with concerns that aid effectiveness might suffer, skilled staff may be deterred, and the UK may lose its reputation for generosity. Retention of a separate development department, coupled with interdepartmental collaboration, is favored by the author to maintain aid decisions aligned with foreign policy considerations. Boris Johnson's consolidation move is critiqued as potentially jeopardizing both efficiency and global influence.
A tale of influencers
Diplo Wisdom Circle, Revisit Politics and governance BlogsInfluencers throughout history, from priests to modern-day marketers, have shaped societal beliefs through verbal, visual, and written communication. The messages conveyed by influencers, such as the 'American Dream' and 'America First', have evolved over time, reflecting changes in societal values and political climates. The 'American Dream' shifted from collective welfare to individual prosperity, while 'America First' has represented ethno-nationalism and systemic racism. Understanding the complex interplay between messages, meanings, and socioeconomic contexts is crucial to unraveling the impact of influencers on society and politics.
HLPF 2020: Leaving the digital behind?
Diplomatic theory and practice BlogsThe 2020 High-level Political Forum on Sustainable Development was held virtually due to the global health crisis. Despite the event's focus on sustainable development, digital technology was surprisingly not a main discussion point. Only a minority of government statements referenced digital technology, with developed countries emphasizing its importance during the pandemic while developing nations pointed out the digital divide. Some countries showcased concrete examples of digital transformation in their voluntary national reviews, highlighting various efforts to enhance digital literacy and infrastructure. Challenges such as low technology investments and internet access disparities were also addressed.
