Accelerating action: SDGs need ‘digital steroids’
Artificial Intelligence, Data and diplomacy, Data governance, Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy, Sustainable development BlogsWe discuss leveraging digital technology to fast-track Sustainable Development Goals, highlighting the crucial role of innovation in meeting global challenges.
[WebDebate #29 summary] Science Diplomacy: Preparing the next generation
Diplomatic theory and practice, Science diplomacy BlogsThe text discusses the importance of science diplomacy and the need to prepare the next generation of diplomats for this field. It highlights the growing implications of science diplomacy, the evolving definition, and the role of education in capacity building. The content underlines the significance of collaboration between scientists and diplomats to address global challenges, emphasizes the need for national strategies in science diplomacy, and suggests elements for a curriculum in this domain. It also emphasizes the benefits of science diplomacy training for both scientists and diplomats in building effective partnerships.
Digital governance: Who is picking up the phone?
Digital diplomacy, Diplomatic theory and practice, Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsWe explore the challenges of coordinating digital governance across different stakeholders and the need for clear communication channels in an increasingly connected world.
Hosting UNCTAD in 2020: Small countries and big stakes
Alumni Development diplomacy, Diplomacy of small states, E-commerce and trade, Internet governance and digital policy, Sustainable development BlogsBarbados will host the UNCTAD quadrennial meeting in 2020, showcasing the significance for small states like Barbados in leading global trade and development discussions. This event provides a platform for sharing experiences and advocating for the inclusion of small developing countries in trade reform discussions. Additionally, it is an opportunity to address climate change impacts on trade and emphasize the unique challenges faced by small island states. Hosted by Barbados, this conference allows small states to demonstrate their capability and importance on the global stage.
Boston science diplomacy report maps another tech and innovation hub
Digital diplomacy, Diplomatic theory and practice, Remote participation, Science diplomacy BlogsA report on Boston as a tech and innovation hub in science diplomacy was released, highlighting its academic roots and scientific environment. Boston is increasingly attracting new consulates and expanding diplomatic presence due to its position as a main science and innovation center in the U.S. The report maps out the landscape of consular representations and how diplomacy interacts with Boston's ecosystem, offering recommendations for countries looking to establish a presence in the city. The report was published by DiploFoundation and the Center for Science Diplomacy, aiming to explore the interactions between countries and Boston's innovation ecosystem.
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.
Digital identities: Issues and cases
Alumni Digital divide, E-commerce and trade, Gender rights online, Human rights principles, Privacy and data protection, Sustainable development BlogsLow and middle income countries are implementing digital identification systems, raising concerns about privacy and control over personal information. These systems aim to enhance social and economic inclusion but also pose risks such as political manipulation and exclusion of marginalized groups. The shift towards "self-sovereign identity" models, emphasizing individual control and protection of privacy, is proposed as a solution to mitigate these risks. Ensuring that digital identity promotes the common good and protects individuals from harm requires a balance between state surveillance capabilities and safeguarding human rights.
Ten years of bitcoin and a look back at 2018
Blockchain, Cryptocurrencies, E-commerce and trade, Telecommunications infrastructure BlogsThe text reflects on the 10-year anniversary of bitcoin and examines 2018 in retrospect. It discusses the rise and fall of cryptocurrencies, regulatory developments, infrastructure improvements, challenges faced by the mining industry, the emergence of national cryptocurrencies, and the ongoing importance of digital currencies for e-commerce and financial inclusion. As the industry moves forward, the text hints at a potential crackdown on unregulated security offerings in 2019.
At the table with the Paris Call for Trust and Security in Cyberspace
Cybernorms, Cybersecurity, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsFrench President Emmanuel Macron launched the Paris Call for Trust and Security in Cyberspace at the 2018 Internet Governance Forum in Paris. The declaration outlines principles for securing cyberspace and has seen support from various entities, but some major countries are notably absent. The Paris Call emphasizes preventative measures, support for victims of cybercrime, and the responsibilities of the private sector. It complements existing initiatives and will be evaluated at upcoming forums. Macron's aim is to address cybersecurity risks while bringing diverse stakeholders together. The success and reception of the Paris Call remains to be seen.
Developing data capacities for policy makers and diplomats
Data and diplomacy, Diplomatic theory and practice, Sustainable development BlogsThe text discusses the importance of developing data capacities for policy makers and diplomats to work towards global goals effectively. Issues highlighted include creating awareness, challenging policies, and the need for partnerships in utilizing data efficiently. Capacity development is emphasized to ensure meaningful communication between diplomats, policy makers, statisticians, and data scientists. The message also questions whether more data necessarily leads to better policies and underlines the significance of considering the implications of the data push. Collaboration and joint capacity development between different communities are suggested for a more efficient approach.