Youth and media literacy: EU – US lessons and practices
Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy, Media BlogsThe text discusses the importance of media literacy in Internet governance, particularly focusing on youth. Regulations and initiatives in the EU and US emphasize the need for media literacy to empower and protect young users online. The integration of media literacy into education aims to cultivate critical thinking skills and facilitate responsible digital citizenship among youth. Various regulatory measures and collaborative efforts strive to enhance youth involvement in Internet governance, highlighting the significance of preparing younger generations to navigate the digital world safely and consciously.
E-commerce: will compromise be possible at the WTO Ministerial in Buenos Aires?
E-commerce and trade, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsThe upcoming World Trade Organization Ministerial Conference in Buenos Aires will focus on e-commerce. Member states have presented various proposals on how to advance discussions, including creating a working group. Differences in opinions persist, with some advocating for new rules while others express concerns about existing agreements limiting development. Civil society organizations call for digital policy issues to be discussed in other forums. Despite polarized views, the conference provides an opportunity for members to understand each other's positions and the importance of collaboration in the digital and trade policy realms.
The VUCA world and diplomacy
Diplomatic theory and practice BlogsThe VUCA world brings about disruption and challenges diplomacy. Embracing unpredictability and complexity is crucial to navigate the shifting landscape. Technology, involving both positive and negative aspects, impacts diplomacy profoundly. New actors, the need for policy coherence, and the evolving diplomatic engagement landscape are central themes that need attention. The upcoming DiploFoundations 15th Anniversary Conference in Malta aims to explore how diplomacy is influenced by disruptions in the contemporary world. To delve deeper into these topics, consider joining the conference on 17-18 November in Malta.
BRICS: a new decision-maker in global governance?
Development diplomacy, Diplomatic theory and practice BlogsThe BRICS group, consisting of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, is emerging as a significant player in global governance. They have established financial institutions to foster sustainable development and have a substantial impact on the world economy. Despite internal political differences, BRICS has potential for growth and enlargement by engaging with other emerging economies. However, challenges like lack of coherence on major issues and economic struggles faced by some member countries hinder their full potential as an alternative to the dominant G7 in global governance.
[Webdebate #16 summary] Exploring digital diplomacy as a ‘new diplomacy’
Digital diplomacy, Diplomatic theory and practice, Social media BlogsDigital diplomacy is explored as a new aspect of diplomacy in a WebDebate. It discusses whether digital diplomacy is a distinct field or an extension of traditional methods, its impact on empowering civil society, and how social media can resolve conflicts. The debate highlights examples like virtual embassies and Twitter use by countries. The future of digital diplomacy is seen in strategic narratives and the challenge of different realities portrayed on social media. The discussion also touches on how social media can empower social movements, predict events, and influence diplomatic discussions, emphasizing the need for foreign ministries to adapt to the changing digital communication landscape.
The Importance of Data in the CARICOM Region
Alumni Data governance, Diplomacy of small states, Diplomatic theory and practice BlogsThe message highlights the growing importance of data and statistics in the CARICOM region, emphasizing their role in supporting national and regional policy objectives and decision-making. Efforts have been made to improve data quality and availability, with a focus on statistical development. However, challenges like data gaps and resource mobilization still exist. Advocacy for statistics, regional collaboration, and technological innovation are key elements to address these challenges and optimize the use of public resources effectively. The region's commitment to data reflects its significance in achieving sustainable development goals and enhancing governance and accountability.
Internet governance in September 2017
Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsThe month of September 2017 saw digital policy developments including proposed taxation changes for Internet companies, advancements in artificial intelligence, and increased pressure on tech companies to remove extremist content. International discussions on responsible state behavior in cyberspace and the race for AI dominance were also highlighted. Issues such as ICOs in China, Uber bans, and Internet governance events were discussed extensively. Additionally, updates on regional perspectives from the Caribbean, Africa, and the Middle East and North Africa were provided. The next Internet governance briefing was scheduled for October 31.
Digital policy at the WTO Public Forum: Summarising Day 3
E-commerce and trade, Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsThe third day at the WTO Public Forum highlighted e-commerce as a tool for both development and challenges, focusing on issues such as cross-border trade, consumer rights, digital divide, and intellectual property rights. Sessions emphasized the importance of policy approaches for digital economy growth, addressing barriers for enterprises, ensuring consumer protection, facilitating data flow, and adapting to technological advancements for progress and inclusive trade. Discussions also touched on the impact of automation on jobs and proposed solutions like universal basic income. Harmonizing legal regimes and international frameworks for e-commerce were highlighted as crucial for integration into the global digital economy.
Bay Area and Geneva Lake: So far and yet so close
Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsWe contrast the tech-driven culture of Silicon Valley with Geneva's international diplomacy hub, exploring how these distinct worlds intersect and influence global digital policy.
Digital policy at the WTO Public Forum: Summarising Day 2
E-commerce and trade, Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsDay 2 at the WTO Public Forum focused on various digital policy issues, including e-commerce, the digital divide, e-payments, data flows, and the impact of new technologies. Discussions highlighted the challenges and opportunities of e-commerce for international trade, development, and inclusive growth, emphasizing the need for global regulations to bridge technology gaps. Proposals included enabling environments for e-commerce, the importance of data flows, and the potential of technologies like blockchain and AI in reshaping international trade. Policymakers emphasized the necessity of regulating new technologies to ensure digital inclusion, security, trust, and ethical values in the evolving digital landscape.
