Digital policy at WTO Public Forum: Summarising Day 1
E-commerce and trade, Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsThe World Trade Organization Public Forum discusses trade opportunities and challenges, with a focus on digital policy. Day 1 highlighted the importance of inclusive trade policies, bridging the digital divide, and protecting consumer rights in e-commerce. Discussions emphasized the need for policies to support small and medium enterprises in taking advantage of digital opportunities. Countries also debated the timing of e-commerce negotiations and differing views on e-commerce rules within the WTO framework, underscoring the importance of finding common ground for future agreements.
Negotiating with robots: Future or fiction?
humAInism Artificial Intelligence, Digital diplomacy, Diplomatic theory and practice, Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy, Online education BlogsWe reflect on the prospect of AI and robots becoming negotiators, examining the implications for diplomacy, ethics, and the future of human-machine interaction.
[WebDebate #15 summary] Should we take new diplomacies seriously?
Diplomatic theory and practice, International relations and diplomacy BlogsThe text discusses the importance of taking new diplomacies seriously, as debated during a DiploFoundation WebDebate. Various viewpoints were explored, including the argument that the obsession with creating new types of diplomacy should end. Clarity in terminology and the role of traditional diplomacy versus newer forms, such as Internet governance, were highlighted. Emphasis was placed on defining what constitutes diplomacy and the need for a diplomatic mindset. The message also stressed the importance of new diplomacies being part of broader diplomatic strategies.
New Partnership with Argentina for Diplomatic Training
Diplomatic theory and practice, Online education BlogsDiplo has formed a new partnership with Argentina's National Foreign Service Institute for diplomatic training, signing a memorandum of understanding to collaborate on online courses in diplomacy. Similar partnerships with other countries have been successful, such as with Mexico's Instituto Matias Romero. Over the past decade, participants from Argentina have engaged in Diplo's online programs on various diplomatic topics. The partnership aims to enhance training for Argentine diplomats and foster cooperation in the diplomatic field.
[Briefing #37] Internet governance in July and August 2017
Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsThe message highlights various digital policy developments in July and August 2017, including concerns about extremist content, countries banning Virtual Private Networks, Uber suspensions in multiple countries, advancements in artificial intelligence and robotics, tax issues for Internet companies, and other digital policy issues. Discussions on important topics such as lethal autonomous weapons, Internet service provider agreements, and the right to privacy were also held during the briefing. Regional perspectives from Brazil were provided, including updates on data cap regulations, a new digital strategy, and consultations on Internet governance models. The next Internet governance briefing is scheduled for 26 September.
Celebrating 15 years of DiploFoundation and 25 years of research and training
BlogsReflecting on 15 years, DiploFoundation highlights its journey in merging digital realms with diplomacy, fostering global dialogue and education. This milestone underscores the importance of evolving with technological advancements to better serve international relations.
Offline markets are tech giants’ next quest
E-commerce and trade, Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsTech giants like Google, Amazon, and Apple, with massive revenues, are venturing into offline markets to diversify. They are expanding into logistics, acquiring physical stores like Whole Foods, and investing in renewable energy and new technologies like drones and self-driving cars. However, their rapid growth raises concerns about market dominance, tax avoidance, job creation, and regulatory challenges. Authorities are closely monitoring these companies, imposing fines for illegal practices, and contemplating regulations to manage their unprecedented expansion into traditional markets.
DiploFoundation joins the eTrade for All initiative
E-commerce and trade, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsDiploFoundation has joined the eTrade for All initiative, aiming to enhance e-commerce's positive impact on development through collaboration and support. This partnership aligns with Diplo's commitment to inclusive e-commerce discussions and capacity-building efforts, such as the upcoming Online Course on Digital Commerce. The initiative, now consisting of 25 members, facilitates connections between stakeholders to harness the benefits of e-commerce. Dr. Jovan Kurbalija, Director of DiploFoundation, emphasizes the importance of multistakeholder cooperation in leveraging e-commerce for sustainable development goals and gender equality.
Bitcoin split and the Segregated Witness
Blockchain, Cryptocurrencies, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsBitcoin underwent a split due to the Segregated Witness debate, which led to the creation of Bitcoin Cash. The split resulted in the implementation of both SegWit and SegWit2x solutions. Bitcoin Cash emerged on August 1, 2017. The value of Bitcoin surged following the resolution, reaching $4000. The future looks positive with ongoing developments in SegWit2x and Ethereum solutions. The debate highlighted the decentralized nature of Bitcoin and the importance of user consensus in shaping its future.
Cyberterrorism: What are we (not) talking about?
Alumni Cyberconflict and warfare, Cybercrime, Digital diplomacy, Diplomatic theory and practice, Internet governance and digital policy, Terrorism BlogsThe text discusses the discrepancy between the general definition of cyberterrorism and how it is portrayed in political discourse. It highlights the focus on traditional terrorist organizations rather than groups like Anonymous. The need to redefine cyberterrorism and address actual threats is emphasized, suggesting a shift in security policies. The post mentions efforts by tech companies to combat extremist content. The writer, Irina Rizmal, points out the importance of clarifying the discourse surrounding cyberterrorism.
