Time to (re)take responsibility
Digital diplomacy, Social media BlogsThe message emphasizes the importance of individual responsibility in the digital age, highlighting a case where false information ruined a man's life. It questions the consequences of mindlessly sharing without verifying facts, urging individuals to discern right from wrong in the era of instant communication. The text serves as a call to action, urging readers to take accountability for the impact of their actions online.
The History of Wireless Communications in Canada’s Arctic – Part Two
E-tools, Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsThe blog discusses the development of wireless communications in Canada's Arctic. Networks like NetKaster and Qiniq have connected Nunavut communities via satellite, improving access to broadband. The Qiniq system, with full mesh connectivity, aims to provide reliable and stable service, especially in remote locations. The network's operation involves public-private partnerships and offers licensed wireless technology. Despite initial user forecast challenges, the system's success led to upgrades supported by the Government of Canada and Micro in 2009. The next blog will delve into the technology's impact on people's lives in the Arctic.
The threat of exposure
Digital diplomacy, Social media, Surveillance BlogsA reader becomes paranoid after consuming numerous crime novels, feeling watched and monitored. Recent leaked recordings of diplomatic conversations add to this unease, highlighting concerns about the impact of social media exposure on behavior.
Snowden extradition case: A lesson in consular diplomacy
Consular and diaspora diplomacy, Diplomatic functions and tools, Diplomatic law, Diplomatic theory and practice, International relations and diplomacy BlogsThe Snowden extradition case highlighted the significance of consular diplomacy in international relations. The case underscored the complexity of extradition processes, emphasizing the crucial role of political and judicial considerations. It revealed how procedural missteps and political maneuvering can impact extradition outcomes. The handling of this case stresses the importance of adhering to correct procedures and understanding consular diplomacy to navigate such high-stakes situations effectively.
GUEST BLOG: Social media, over-information, and curating
Consular and diaspora diplomacy, Digital diplomacy, Social media BlogsThe text discusses the increasing preference for social media as a primary means of communication and information-gathering over traditional methods like phone calls. It highlights the importance of curating and vetting information in the digital age and the need for diplomats to adapt to the overwhelming amount of available content. Training in curating skills and utilizing online tools are suggested as ways to navigate this information overload effectively. Overall, the message emphasizes the necessity of adapting to the fast-paced nature of social media and utilizing curated content for efficient communication and networking.
Cyber espionage and the case for the genetically modified state
Digital diplomacy BlogsThe text discusses cyber espionage, the idea of internet balkanization, and the implications of Edward Snowden's revelations. It highlights how states seek information advantages through covert means, leading to the inevitable splintering of the internet for protection. Snowden's actions exposed the reality of state surveillance, prompting a reevaluation of global internet dynamics. The text argues that the concept of a genetically modified state, adapting to the omnipresent nature of cyber espionage, is a necessity emerging from this new reality.
Diaspora issues in international affairs
Consular and diaspora diplomacy, Diplomatic theory and practice BlogsMigration is a prominent aspect of international affairs, impacting destination, origin, and transit countries. This influx of people necessitates enhanced consular services to deal with protection of citizens and provide assistance. The importance of consular work has grown due to increased travel and migration, leading governments to allocate more resources to this area. Diplo offers an online course on Consular and Diaspora Diplomacy to address these evolving challenges in international relations.
The History of Wireless Communications in Canada’s Arctic – Part One
Internet governance and digital policy BlogsThe text discusses the challenges of connectivity in Canada’s Arctic, particularly in Nunavut, where the majority of communities are not accessible by road. It highlights the reliance on satellite technology for telecommunications, with a humorous anecdote about a satellite outage causing widespread disruptions. The history of wireless communications in the region is traced from the use of radio to the introduction of geostationary satellites by Telesat Canada in the 1970s.
Placing the citizens’ needs at the centre
Digital diplomacy, Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy, Politics and governance BlogsThe message emphasizes the importance of open government, which focuses on transparency, citizen participation, accountability, and technology. It urges citizens to understand and engage with this concept, emphasizing that open government places citizen needs at its core. This approach aims to improve services, increase government accountability, and enhance communication between citizens and authorities. The message invites individuals to explore if their country is part of the Open Government Partnership and to learn more about this initiative.
Facebook: a refuge for the lonely
Digital diplomacy, Social media BlogsThe text discusses Facebook as a tool for social connection but highlights a study suggesting it may reduce well-being. The more individuals use Facebook, the less satisfied they are with life, especially when feeling lonely. Envy from seeing others' updates can exacerbate negative feelings. There's concern that users may portray an overly positive image of their lives online. This analysis suggests that Facebook can have a darker side beyond just being a social platform.
