How to use social media effectively in a time-efficient way
Capacity development, Digital diplomacy, Social media BlogsThe message provides advice on using social media efficiently. It emphasizes the time commitment needed to be effective, the importance of content, and the dilemma of sharing valuable resources from a private group. The tips include using tools like social media dashboards and forming habits like setting time limits and managing networks. The message also lists sources for the information shared.
General Elections in Pakistan: An Indian Perspective
Diplomatic theory and practice BlogsThe general elections in Pakistan in May 2013 marked a significant moment as civilian power transition occurred, with Nawaz Sharif's decisive victory. Regional dominance by political parties was noted, signaling a push for change and governance. The Indian perspective on the elections highlighted hope for improved India-Pakistan relations under Sharif's leadership. The need for Sharif to prove his promises, especially regarding terrorism, was emphasized, with expectations for positive outcomes fostering peace and friendship between the two nations.
The curious diplomat and social media – Stefano Baldi interviewed
Contemporary diplomacy, Digital diplomacy BlogsStefano Baldi, a diplomat emphasizing curiosity, discusses his extensive experience incorporating digital tools and social media into his work. He advocates for deeper, conversational content over short sound bites. Stefano's optimism lies in the belief that traditional diplomatic skills can adapt to and enhance social media use. This interview delves into how technology has transformed diplomacy and suggests a longer, thoughtful approach to content consumption. Baldi's unique perspective and communication skills make this interview a rare insight into the evolving world of digital diplomacy.
eDiplomacy in a Balkanised Internet
Digital diplomacy, Internet governance and digital policy, Social media BlogsThe internet is undergoing a Balkanisation, with experts like John Naughton and Evgeny Morozow warning about the split along power boundaries. This shift challenges concepts like net neutrality and information consumerism, urging a reevaluation of ethics and decision-making. Diplomacy is impacted, as cloud services lose trust due to surveillance concerns and social media becomes less reliable for diplomatic purposes. Traditional diplomats may regain importance in navigating a fragmented cyber landscape. Amidst these changes, specialists in national relations are advised to adapt to a changing online environment with diverse social media platforms.
The medium and how it can colour the message
Diplomatic reporting, Diplomatic theory and practice BlogsThe rise of mobile social video has accelerated the trend of visual communication, but it can be misleading without proper context. Diplomatic correspondents and diplomats must ensure information is presented accurately, considering their country's interests and audience. The role of diplomats in providing timely and insightful analysis amid the fast-paced news cycle is crucial, emphasizing the need for innovation in foreign policy reporting. Diplomats need to balance staying up-to-date with providing accurate and readable reports that align with their country's policies.
We still need to learn how to learn online: the backlash of the MOOC-hype
Online education BlogsThe MOOC-hype has faced backlash due to failed attempts like a Coursera course with organization issues and a Udacity course where students didn't pass exams. Despite setbacks, there's acknowledgment that these are opportunities to improve online learning. The key takeaway is the need for a comprehensive discussion on how to learn effectively online to reshape higher education. Learning from these experiences is crucial for progress in online education as the MOOC-hype diminishes.
Real learning in the virtual classroom
Capacity development, Humanitarian diplomacy, Online education BlogsA consultant on humanitarian diplomacy shares his positive experience with an online course on Humanitarian Diplomacy by DiploFoundation. Daniel Beaudoin appreciates the practical assignments, engaging with global practitioners, and the valuable insights gained. Despite being new to online learning, he found the virtual classroom interactive and equivalent to traditional face-to-face teaching, highlighting the commitment of staff and the interactive nature of the course.
Webinar digest: Cybersecurity for e-diplomats: Hype and reality
Cybercrime, Digital diplomacy BlogsThe text discusses the prevalence of cyber threats and the potential consequences in the digital realm, emphasizing the need for cybersecurity measures to combat various forms of cyber attacks. It highlights the motives behind such attacks, the vulnerabilities exploited, and the importance of international cooperation in addressing these challenges. The text promotes an upcoming online course on Cybersecurity as a means to educate and prepare individuals on these vital issues.
Strengthening the status of Red Cross Societies in the Pacific
Capacity development, Diplomacy of small states, Humanitarian diplomacy, Online education BlogsFine Tuitupou-Arnold shares her positive experience with the Humanitarian Diplomacy online course offered by Diplo and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. She found the interactive nature of the course, particularly the negotiation module, valuable for her advocacy work with the Cook Islands Red Cross Society. Tuitupou-Arnold highlights the benefits of online learning for individuals with busy schedules and recommends the course, especially for Secretaries-General in the Pacific, emphasizing the practical and applicable nature of the content covered.
Killer Robots, aka Lethal Autonomous Robotics, vs International Humanitarian Law. And the winner is … (part 2)
Diplomatic theory and practice BlogsThe debate between Killer Robots and International Humanitarian Law is ongoing. The Special Rapporteur suggests that using Lethal Autonomous Robotics alongside human soldiers may not violate laws but raises moral concerns. Calls for national moratoria and adherence to international law are made. The future of these debates remains uncertain, with hopes for caution in developing new weapons. A reference to the complexity of war and the potential challenges to humanitarian principles is made, emphasizing the need for diplomatic optimism and protection of international humanitarian law in the face of evolving military technologies.
