I’m not a ‘technical person’, but I don’t have to be
Alumni Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsThe author expresses a deep passion for the internet and its role in advancing human progress. They emphasize the importance of diverse individuals, beyond technical backgrounds, contributing to internet governance. The message stresses the need for a collaborative, inclusive approach involving various skills and perspectives to ensure a secure and open internet for all.
Digital policy practitioners join the Geneva Internet Platform as senior fellows
Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsMarkus Kummer and Prof. Rolf H. Weber have joined the Geneva Internet Platform as Senior Digital Policy Fellows. The fellows will engage with digital actors in Geneva, contributing to Internet governance and digital policy initiatives. Kummer brings extensive experience from the Internet Society and the United Nations, while Weber is a renowned expert in Internet and Information Technology Law. The fellowship program is open to academics, government professionals, digital entrepreneurs, and civil society representatives, providing opportunities to contribute to global digital policymaking and research at the forefront of digital policy debates. Contact Dr. Tereza Horejsova for more information.
Internet governance in October 2016
Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsIn October 2016, main internet governance highlights included cyber-attacks via smart devices, bilateral cybersecurity agreements, and discussions on challenges with AI and the IoT. Dr. Roxana Radu outlined the trends, such as IoT used in cyber-attacks, bilateral cybersecurity deals, and issues with AI. Regional updates were shared from hubs in Rio, Tunis, and South Eastern Europe. Brazil faced internet-related controversies, such as blocking Facebook and proposing a national internet registry. Challenges for civil society in the Middle East were addressed. South Eastern Europe discussed internet policies and child online safety. The Free Basics debate and upcoming internet governance events were also covered.
Social business: a change of paradigm for economic and development diplomacy?
Diplomatic theory and practice, Economic diplomacy, Sustainable development BlogsThe blog post discusses the concept of social business as a new paradigm in economic and development diplomacy, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing social causes over profit maximization. It suggests that through social business, companies can address global issues while still maintaining financial viability. The argument is made that embracing this approach can lead to a more ethical and sustainable economy, benefiting all stakeholders. Bernardo Javalquinto-Lagos, a Latin American economist, supports this viewpoint, advocating for a shift towards social business to address societal challenges more effectively alongside economic and development diplomacy.
Growing E-commerce Market in China
E-commerce and trade, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsChina's e-commerce market is thriving, reaching $630 billion in 2015 and expected to surpass the U.S. to become the world's largest retail market. Factors driving this growth include the rise of smartphone usage, innovative technologies, and online platforms like Alibaba. Key players in the Chinese Internet industry include Baidu, Alibaba, and Tencent, with WeChat serving as a multifunctional super app facilitating various services from messaging to mobile payments. The convenience and popularity of online shopping in China are evident, with mobile devices playing a crucial role in shaping consumer behavior and driving economic growth.
Misunderstanding in language and ambiguity in Law
Diplomatic theory and practice, International relations and diplomacy, Language (and) diplomacy BlogsThe text discusses the importance of language in diplomacy and international law, emphasizing how language can create misunderstandings and ambiguities in legal interpretation. It highlights the interconnection between language and the law, as well as the need to understand the implications of word usage in different contexts. Misunderstandings in language and ambiguity in law present significant challenges for the philosophy of law, requiring a nuanced approach to interpretation and application.
25 Points for Digital Diplomacy
Digital diplomacy BlogsWe distill essential insights into how digital tools are reshaping diplomatic practices, emphasizing the blend of traditional diplomacy with new technologies. This fusion underscores the evolving landscape of global relations in the digital era.
Gender and diplomatic training – towards better curricula and holistic approaches
Diplomatic theory and practice, Geneva diplomacy BlogsThe text discusses the importance of incorporating gender perspectives into diplomatic training curricula to promote gender equality in diplomacy. It highlights the need for a strategic and comprehensive approach in training, with examples of progress in various regions. Dr. Harris-Rimmer emphasizes the significance of data, the slow adoption of gender equality in some diplomatic areas, the importance of gender diversity, and the necessity of a systematic, long-term approach to gender in diplomatic education. The message concludes with information on a survey conducted to gather insights for improving gender-focused diplomatic curricula.
Will digital diplomacy ‘select’ the next US president?
Digital diplomacy, Diplomatic theory and practice BlogsWe explore the pivotal role of digital platforms in political campaigns, suggesting that online engagement could significantly influence electoral outcomes. It highlights the increasing importance of digital strategy in reaching and persuading voters.
Artificial intelligence: policy implications
Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsAdvancements in artificial intelligence (AI) across various sectors are prompting governments to consider policy implications. Reports call for ensuring economic benefits are shared, monitoring job trends, adapting education, addressing safety and security challenges, protecting privacy, and promoting ethical AI development. Recommendations emphasize the need for research funding, legal and regulatory adaptation, and international cooperation to address AI-related challenges globally. The documents highlight concerns about job displacement, cybersecurity, privacy, ethics, and legal frameworks in the evolving AI landscape. Ethical training for practitioners, verifiable consistency with laws, and support for research and innovation are key themes in the policy discussions surrounding AI.
