Internet and analogies: Riding a bus through the submarine fibre
Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy, Telecommunications infrastructure BlogsAnalogies comparing the Internet to vehicles on highways are common, with recent references to data as passengers on a bus traveling through fiber optic cables. Different analogies like cars, buses, or highways can explain aspects of internet functioning. Engineers debate whether increased bandwidth involves larger vehicles or broader lanes. An analogy of passengers transferring from cars to buses illustrates how fiber optic cables transmit data efficiently. Analogies simplify complex concepts, but caution is advised as they can mislead. The importance lies in selecting appropriate analogies for understanding and discussion in digital policy debates.
Digital policy issues emphasised at the G20 Leaders’ Summit
Access, Capacity development, Digital divide, Economic diplomacy, Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsDigital policy issues were a key focus at the recent G20 Leaders’ Summit in Hangzhou, China. Emphasized topics included growth, development, and the digital economy. Commitments were made to address the digital divide, leverage emerging technologies, ensure trust and security, protect intellectual property rights, promote economic aspects like investment and entrepreneurship, and enhance capacity development in the digital field. G20 plans to establish a Task Force supported by international organizations to advance the agenda on innovation, the new industrial revolution, and the digital economy. The summit's tone differed from the previous year, focusing more on seizing digital opportunities rather than emphasizing security threats.
Negotiation Training
Diplomatic theory and practice, Negotiations BlogsNegotiation training is crucial in various aspects of life, particularly in environments like diplomacy. It involves understanding social contexts and cultural backgrounds. Negotiators must balance established rules with creativity and adaptability, being prepared for unexpected scenarios. Technology aids in training, but human judgment remains key to successful negotiations. Dr. Milan Jazbec, a professor and former ambassador, stresses the importance of negotiation skills in navigating complex diplomatic relations.
Digital Diplomacy in Three Graphs
Digital diplomacy, Telecommunications infrastructure BlogsA visual analysis of digital diplomacy's growth, highlighting the significant trends and patterns that define its impact on global diplomacy. The graphics underscore the evolving nature of diplomatic engagement and communication in the digital age.
What is Sociology of Diplomacy?
Diplomatic theory and practice BlogsThe text discusses the concept of sociology of diplomacy, highlighting its definition and significance in studying diplomatic processes within organizations. It emphasizes the study of social phenomena, relations, and structures related to diplomacy and foreign policy implementation. Sociology of diplomacy is depicted as a specialized field within sociology that analyzes the social aspects of diplomatic activities, focusing on diplomatic organizations, interactions, and international relations. Dr. Milan Jazbec, a renowned professor of diplomacy, provides insights into this topic, offering a comprehensive perspective for further exploration.
Dark Web: the Good, the Bad and the Ugly
Cybersecurity, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsThe dark web is a vast and hidden part of the internet, not indexed by search engines. It contains both good and bad elements, enabling both activists and criminals. Anonymizing tools like Tor and cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin contribute to its resilience. Law enforcement struggles to combat illegal activities on the dark web, but recent successes show progress. Cooperation and legal harmonization are key to addressing cybercrime effectively. To delve deeper into cybersecurity and cybercrime policy, consider joining Diplo's online course on cybersecurity in October.
Studying public diplomacy – experiences of a Portuguese diplomat
Alumni Diplomatic theory and practice, Public Diplomacy BlogsA Portuguese diplomat discusses the importance of public diplomacy, emphasizing the need for effective communication in today's diplomatic landscape. The diplomat participated in a course to enhance skills and promote a positive image of Portugal. Public diplomacy is seen as vital for engaging with various stakeholders and addressing global challenges, building on Portugal's historical expertise in diplomacy. Emphasizing the evolving nature of diplomacy, the diplomat highlights the significance of initiatives like the Asia-Europe Public Diplomacy Initiative in fostering dialogue and collaboration.
Diplo’s IG team welcomes new staff members
BlogsDiploFoundation welcomes Marília Maciel and Sorina Teleanu as new full-time staff members. Marília, from Brazil, has expertise in digital policy and internet governance, while Sorina brings experience from the Romanian Parliament and international organizations like the Internet Governance Forum. Both will support key projects like the Geneva Internet Platform and the Digital Watch observatory.
Teaching diplomacy with Twitter?!
Digital diplomacy, Online education, Public Diplomacy BlogsUsing Twitter as a teaching tool in diplomacy was discussed at a conference. Benefits include engaging students in real-time events, integrating teaching with research, and developing social media skills. Steps to start teaching with Twitter were outlined, along with guides for beginners and tools such as Storify for content curation. Emphasizing learning through inquiry, the approach encourages analysis of tweet content and interactions. Overall, Twitter offers a unique way to enhance public diplomacy education by bridging classroom discussions with real-world events and facilitating active engagement.
The role of trust in digital diplomacy
Alumni Internet governance and digital policy BlogsTrust in different aspects of the Internet has declined, prompting a focus on restoring users' trust in digital diplomacy. A recent webinar discussed the role of trust in digital policy, distinguishing it from trustworthiness. The concept of trust and trustworthiness in internet governance was explored, highlighting the importance of factors like competency, reliability, and honesty. Trust is integral to addressing internet security issues and involves balancing ethical ideals with practical realities. An ongoing debate on trust in internet governance includes frameworks like the trust indicators proposed in the webinar.
