Webinar digest: TV broadcasting and the impact of the CNN effect on diplomacy
Public Diplomacy BlogsSummary: The webinar discusses the evolution and impact of television broadcasting, focusing on how the CNN effect influenced diplomacy, with examples such as the first Gulf war. It highlights television's role as a powerful tool for public diplomacy and shaping public opinion, emphasizing its enduring importance despite the rise of internet broadcasting.
Webinar digest: Global Internet politics after IGF 2013
Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsGlobal Internet politics post-IGF 2013 are marked by trust challenges due to surveillance, pushing for a focus on transparency among Internet companies. Stakeholders are questioning the effectiveness of the multistakeholder model in Internet governance. The upcoming Brazil/ meeting aims to address surveillance and institutional framework issues. Dr. Kurbalija anticipates a series of key events in 2014 to shape global governance dynamics. There's hope for common ground between opposing governance approaches, but the level of government engagement remains uncertain. The Brazil/ meeting may hold the key to breaking the current stalemate.
Diplo faculty in the news
Diplomatic theory and practice BlogsDr. Alex Sceberras Trigona, a prominent member of DiploFoundation faculty, recently presented his credentials as Malta's Permanent Representative to the World Trade Organization in Geneva. Throughout his career, he has held various diplomatic roles and played a significant part in promoting security and cooperation in the Mediterranean region. Amb. Sceberras Trigona supports revitalizing the multilateral trading system and emphasizes the importance of addressing barriers to internet commerce.
Policing with social media?
E-tools, Internet governance and digital policy, Privacy and data protection, Social media BlogsLaw enforcement agencies are exploring control over social media content to possibly hinder protests, sparking concerns of censorship. Collaboration between police and social media platforms like Facebook has raised questions about privacy and freedom of assembly. While using social media for crime investigation is common, the use of geofencing software raises worries about privacy invasion. The evolving role of social media in policing prompts reflections on balancing security needs with individual rights and freedoms.
The launch of the Arab IGF
Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsThe Arab Internet Governance Forum was launched as an independent platform for all stakeholder groups in the Arab world to discuss Internet governance issues on an equal footing. It was initiated after an expert meeting in 2010, with support from the League of Arab States. Open consultations led to the establishment of the forum's structure and objectives. The first meeting took place in Kuwait in 2012, followed by subsequent successful meetings in Algeria and Morocco. The forum's momentum has continued to grow, aiming for further success in the future.
IGF Bali: Day 4
Internet governance and digital policy, Surveillance BlogsEmerging Issues session at IGF Bali focused on surveillance, with high-level representatives participating. Discussions referenced international legal documents and emphasized the importance of openness to discuss emerging issues. The Open Microphone session was seen as valuable for recommendations. Statistics showed significant social media engagement during the event. Turkey announced hosting the 9th IGF in 2014, Mexico expressed interest in 2016, and Brazil is expected to host in 2015. Overall, the event was praised for its organization, with anticipation for future editions.
IGF Bali: Day 3
Capacity development, Internet governance and digital policy, Remote participation BlogsDay 3 of IGF Bali faced low attendance, with discussions on e-participation emphasizing the need for improved engagement tools and addressing challenges such as infrastructure and skills. A call was made for more serious investment in e-participation. The Capacity Building Roundtable highlighted the importance of holistic capacity building beyond mere training, urging governments and the private sector to move beyond rhetoric and invest in meaningful ways. The day concluded with plans to enhance coordination of capacity building programs within the IGF and demonstrate their impact.
IGF Bali: Day 2
Cybercrime, Intellectual property rights, Internet governance and digital policy, Multistakeholder diplomacy BlogsDay 2 at IGF Bali featured discussions on multistakeholder processes and challenges in selecting non-governmental stakeholders fairly. Sessions covered topics like online trade, the lack of innovation in online money transfers, diverse approaches to intellectual property rights, and cybersecurity strategies. The need for standardized online money transfer systems, varying intellectual property rights models globally, and country-specific cybercrime legal approaches were highlighted. Spam and cybersecurity were discussed, emphasizing the importance of legal structures and capacity building. Notable was a Dutch case illustrating how companies were deterred from facilitating fraud.
It IS diplomacy, stupid!
Internet governance and digital policy BlogsThe focus is on how digital technology and the internet are integral to modern diplomacy, underscoring the need for diplomats to adapt to these tools to effectively navigate global affairs.
IGF Bali: Day 1
Capacity development, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsDay 1 of IGF Bali in 2013 commenced with an early orientation session, followed by a plenary opening session providing insights into Internet governance challenges. The main session focused on the role of governments in the multistakeholder model, sparking discussions on trust, surveillance, and capacity building. An engaging session on the Arab region highlighted the need for practical approaches. Discussions also revolved around future steps for the Brazil/IGF initiatives and the appointment of a Special Advisor to the UN Secretary-General. Workshops emphasizing multistakeholder participation were held, contributing to the broad discussions at the event.
