The hole in the fence
Diplo Wisdom Circle BlogsDuring the Covid-19 lockdown, the writer took over caring for a neighbor's garden, tackling tasks like removing trees and battling invasive plants. The project brought satisfaction and exercise. An imaginary dialogue with a grandchild humorously recounts the garden's transformation. The writer humorously mentions exploiting a hole in the fence to access the garden, reflecting on adapting rules like certain politicians. The narrative concludes with the garden's successful revitalization and the joy found in restoring neglected spaces.
Q. Which London embassy needs 13 cultural attachés?
Diplo Wisdom Circle BlogsThe Saudi Embassy in London stands out with 13 cultural attachés, a significant number compared to other embassies in the city. These attachés focus on educational relationships for Saudi students in the UK but are also involved in monitoring students and their clubs, raising concerns about control and surveillance. This information sheds light on the embassy's extensive cultural attaché presence, a topic highlighted in a recent report.
UN Digital Roadmap: The realistic acceleration of digital cooperation
Digital diplomacy, Diplomatic theory and practice BlogsThe blog suggests practical steps to boost global digital cooperation, highlighting the importance of actionable solutions for the challenges of digital governance. It aims to guide through the digital landscape, ensuring global efforts lead to meaningful progress.
An honorary consul in the pandemic
Diplo Wisdom Circle Consular and diaspora diplomacy, COVID-19 diplomacy, Diplomatic theory and practice, Honorary consuls BlogsThe text describes the experiences of Razvan Constantinescu, a Romanian honorary consul in England, during the pandemic. Initially overwhelmed by assisting stranded citizens and negotiating repatriations, he eventually handled tasks like burials and setting up a cemetery. Despite challenges, he notes a decrease in workload due to improved situations, except for managing requests now that the London Consulate closed. Constantinescu reflects on the demanding period, highlighting the growth and resilience acquired during these unprecedented times.
[Summary] RightOn #10: Business, the economy, and livelihoods in a COVID-19 world
COVID-19 diplomacy Blogs[Summary] RightOn #10: Business, the economy, and livelihoods in a COVID-19 world discusses the strains on businesses and economies due to the pandemic. The importance of upholding human rights during the crisis is emphasized. Panellists explore the roles of governments and businesses in ensuring a safe working environment and a rights-based economic recovery. Global solidarity is crucial for sustainable rebuilding. Digital technology and corporate social responsibility are highlighted as avenues for progress. The need for new business models incorporating human rights is stressed. Addressing challenges like human rights trade-offs and regulatory measures are seen as crucial steps towards a more ethical business environment.
The reality of science fiction: Behind the scenes of race and technology
AI & art Access, Artificial Intelligence, Digital divide, Internet governance and digital policy, Privacy and data protection, Telecommunications infrastructure BlogsThe text discusses the intertwining of race, technology, and Afrofuturism, highlighting the parallels between the experiences of black people in real life and those portrayed in science fiction. It emphasizes the importance of storytelling, communication technologies, and the genre of Afrofuturism in addressing social inequalities and advocating for empowerment and change. Additionally, it touches on issues such as bias in technology, erasure of history, and the need for a more inclusive and caring society. Ultimately, the text promotes the significance of reimagining narratives to bring about a better world through listening and understanding.
Can autonomous vehicles be the heroes of the COVID-19 pandemic?
Artificial Intelligence, COVID-19 diplomacy, Telecommunications infrastructure BlogsThe COVID-19 pandemic has severely impacted the transportation industry, stressing global supply chains. Autonomous vehicles have emerged as a solution, aiding in contactless deliveries of essential items. Examples include Mayo Clinic using shuttles for test samples, and companies like Starship Technologies and Nuro providing food and medical supply delivery services. While human transportation using autonomous vehicles faces regulatory challenges, their value in deliveries during this crisis is evident. Autonomous vehicles have shown potential to play a significant role in our daily lives post-pandemic, offering a glimpse into a more technology-driven future.
ASEAN’s multilateral diplomacy answer to COVID-19
COVID-19 diplomacy, Diplomatic theory and practice BlogsASEAN is taking a multilateral diplomatic approach to address COVID-19 in South East Asia, emphasizing cooperation among member states and with external partners like the US and EU. Efforts include joint statements, information sharing, and post-pandemic recovery planning. The region's focus on multilateralism sets an example against growing isolationist trends globally. Challenges include translating commitments into effective policies and aligning diplomatic strategies for non-traditional security crises like COVID-19 with traditional security threats in the region. Dr. André Saramago, an expert in International Relations, highlights the importance of multilateral diplomacy in addressing global challenges like the pandemic.
[Summary] RightOn #9: Access to Information and the safety journalists in times of crisis
COVID-19 diplomacy Blogs[Summary] The discussion highlighted the importance of access to reliable information, freedom of expression, and the safety of journalists during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. Panelists emphasized the role of media in informing the public, critiqued government actions affecting journalism, called for international action to protect journalists, and stressed the need for digital platform regulation. The conversation also addressed the challenges faced by journalists, the crucial role of investigations into attacks on journalists, and the necessity of ensuring timely information access for all, especially in marginalized communities.
EU-UK videoconferencing. All for show?
Diplo Wisdom Circle BlogsThe negotiations between the EU and UK began in March 2020, with videoconferencing becoming the norm due to the pandemic. Progress has been slow, leading to speculation on the effectiveness of virtual negotiations. Boris Johnson's government is questioned on their sincerity in negotiations, with suspicions arising on their motives and strategies. Despite uncertainties, face-to-face talks are scheduled, hinting at potential progress. Johnson's stance on the transition period and trade negotiations with the US adds complexity to the situation. Ultimately, doubts linger on the true intentions behind the negotiations, with uncertainty surrounding their outcomes.
