UNCTAD eCommerce Week 2019: An overview
E-commerce and trade BlogsUNCTAD eCommerce Week 2019 in Geneva focused on digitalization's role in development, emphasizing the need for collaboration to achieve sustainable development goals. Discussions covered inequality in technology access, inclusion in digital economy, regulatory frameworks for consumer trust, and areas of potential regulation like data localization and taxation. The event highlighted emerging technologies like machine learning and concerns around algorithmic decision-making. Trade negotiations and regional agreements were also addressed, emphasizing the importance of addressing various interconnected issues without fragmentation in the global trade system.
Internet governance in March 2019
Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsIn March 2019, cybersecurity concerns, Internet platform issues, and a focus on the Internet economy were key topics in Internet governance discussions. Developments included Facebook's cryptocurrency plans, AI weapon concerns, and regulatory moves in blockchain and net neutrality. Additionally, global cybersecurity threats, online platform responsibility, and economic fines were highlighted. Events in April were previewed, alongside regional updates from the Middle East, Asia, the Caribbean, and Africa. Digital policy advancements such as new laws and initiatives in cybersecurity and digital literacy were also highlighted during the briefing.
Discussing state behaviour in cyberspace: What should we expect?
BlogsThe United Nations General Assembly approved the creation of groups to address responsible state behavior in cyberspace. Russia proposed an Open-Ended Working Group while the U.S. proposed a Group of Governmental Experts. The groups will focus on developing cyber norms and discussing threats to information security. Differences exist in their mandates and composition. Pros and cons are associated with each group. Concerns over effectiveness and maintaining polarized positions in international information security persist. The progress will depend on the groups' reports, but these will only serve as recommendations. States remain at an early stage in developing binding norms for behavior in cyberspace.
[WebDebate #28 summary] Humanising immigration
Alumni Contemporary diplomacy, Diplomatic theory and practice, Migration BlogsThe WebDebate highlighted the challenges and opportunities of intercultural relations in diplomatic practice regarding immigration. Speakers discussed the need to humanize immigration, emphasizing the importance of intercultural education, changing negative attitudes, and fostering integration. The discussion also touched on logical fallacies in the discourse, the difference between migrants and refugees, and the role of diplomats in addressing immigration issues. Diplomats were encouraged to develop new policies balancing welcoming immigrants with national security, cooperate with immigrants' home countries, and engage in migration diplomacy to humanize immigration.
Internet governance in February 2019
Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsInternet governance in February 2019 saw hardware's resurgence, new artificial intelligence initiatives, and increased efforts to combat harmful content. Key updates included Germany's Facebook data order, opposition to EU tax reforms, and Russia's proposed internet independence legislation. The session also highlighted trends such as the Huawei controversy, global AI leadership race, and content moderation challenges. The upcoming briefing in March will cover events like the Human Rights Council and developments in regions like the Middle East, Asia, the Caribbean, and Africa.
[WebDebate #27 summary] Arctic diplomacy: Approaches and lessons
Climate diplomacy, Diplomatic theory and practice BlogsArctic diplomacy involves unique qualities like climate impact and indigenous autonomy. The Arctic Council plays a key role, allowing open dialogue and involving indigenous peoples. Nations balance their interests carefully, with science diplomacy being significant. Challenges include infrastructure development and geopolitical struggles. Future discussions may center on access to the Central Arctic Ocean. Diplomats should grasp processes and rivals' perspectives, seeking common ground for progress. Engagement in the Arctic should involve understanding broader concerns and ideologies. Emphasis is placed on utilizing scientific reports and the work of the Arctic Council for informed decision-making and advancing diplomatic efforts in the region.
[Briefing #51] Internet governance forecast for 2019
Artificial Intelligence, Gender rights online BlogsThe digital landscape in 2019 is characterized by rising populism, a fragile economy, and a trade war between the U.S. and China. Cyber risks are increasing, with a cyber-arms race looming. Artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and blockchain offer new opportunities. Europe seeks a digital third way, while Africa navigates between China and the U.S. India advances digital identity with Aadhar. Russia pursues digital sovereignty. Global e-commerce rules face uncertainty. Hardware gains attention, the race for tech dominance intensifies, and security remains a top concern. Digital identities, blockchain, and cryptocurrencies face scrutiny. International cooperation is key amid divisions and growing tech regulation.
[Event summary] The impact of AI on diplomacy and international relations
Artificial Intelligence, Diplomatic theory and practice, Sustainable development BlogsThe text discusses the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on diplomacy and international relations. The report highlights how AI influences diplomatic practice, negotiations, and international relations, raising concerns and opportunities. The event includes panels exploring geostrategic impacts, AI as a diplomatic tool, and ethical considerations. The discussion focuses on the need for research, capacity development, and collaboration among various stakeholders to understand and navigate the evolving role of AI in shaping international relations.
Digital literacy for digital natives
Capacity development, Child safety online, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsThe text discusses the importance of digital literacy for digital natives, highlighting the need for educators to understand and address the challenges presented by the digital age. It emphasizes that digital literacy goes beyond technical skills to include responsible internet use, critical thinking, and understanding societal implications of digital technology. Encouraging collaboration among institutions, the document suggests a broader definition of digital literacy. DiploFoundation urges society to prioritize educating educators to effectively guide the younger generation towards becoming competent and responsible digital citizens. The full report is titled "Digital literacy for digital natives: The role of educators in shaping competent and responsible digital citizens.
On the gaydar: A 100-year challenge for facial recognition
Artificial Intelligence, Internet governance and digital policy, Privacy and data protection, Social media BlogsA study on facial recognition to determine sexuality through deep neural networks raises ethical concerns about privacy, discrimination, and accuracy. Utilizing such technology requires caution and regulation to prevent misuse in targeting vulnerable groups or reinforcing biases. Companies like Microsoft advocate for regulation and transparency in facial recognition technology, emphasizing fairness, accountability, and non-discrimination. The need for human oversight and international guidelines on data consent and algorithm accountability is essential to mitigate potential risks associated with relying solely on automated systems for sensitive determinations.
