When Stalin’s dream came true
Diplomatic theory and practice, International relations and diplomacy BlogsStalin's vision of including all fifteen Soviet republics as members of the United Nations came true posthumously. The historical backdrop of the UN's creation, inspired by the League of Nations, demonstrates the evolution from past failures. Despite his intentions, Stalin's dream wasn't fully realized as former Soviet republics gained membership in the UN, altering his original plan. Today, all fifteen republics have full rights in the General Assembly, a stark contrast to the League's expulsion of the USSR.
E-Participation Webinar – Remote Participation in International Organisations
Digital diplomacy, Remote participation BlogsRemote participation in international organizations enhances transparency, inclusivity, and collaboration. While it fosters accessibility and awareness, challenges like limited access, hybrid meeting management issues, and lack of interpretation for remote participants persist. Effective moderation, addressing time zone challenges, and integrating online tools for engagement are key areas for improvement. Participants generally support remote participation's positive impact but acknowledge the need for ongoing development and adaptation to ensure equitable engagement for all involved.
E-Participation Webinar – Open Data
Digital diplomacy, Politics and governance, Remote participation BlogsThe debate during the E-Participation Webinar focused on whether national or international contexts are more suitable for Open Data initiatives. Arguments emphasized global issues like climate change benefiting from international data collaboration, while others warned of premature global implementation impacting data quality. A vote resulted in a tie, indicating the need for further information. The webinar's upcoming session on June 19 will continue the discussion on open data initiatives and citizen engagement projects.
Supporting humanitarian diplomacy at the Finnish Red Cross
Alumni BlogsThe Finnish Red Cross supports humanitarian diplomacy by offering an online course in collaboration with DiploFoundation and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies. Leena-Kaisa Ã…berg, a participant in the course, found it highly practical and interactive, enhancing her skills in advocating for vulnerable groups. The online format allowed for flexibility and integration with work responsibilities. The next session starts on September 2, 2013, and potential applicants are encouraged to ensure they have enough time to commit to the course, which can benefit their professional roles.
E-participation webinar – Social Media and International Organisations
Digital diplomacy, Remote participation, Social media BlogsThe blog discusses a webinar on e-participation, specifically focusing on social media and international organizations. The debate questioned whether social media truly engages or simply broadcasts, with participants leaning towards the view that international organizations are not effectively engaging. Presenters highlighted the need for genuine engagement, organizational evolution, and strategic communication. The blog also invites readers to a future event and provides insights from participants on the importance of empowering staff for effective social media use.
Nul Points!
Language (and) diplomacy BlogsA diplomatic dispute arises over missing points in Eurovision voting, triggering reactions from Russian and Azerbaijani officials. Belarus also raises concerns about voting fairness. Surprisingly, Eurovision leads to political tension rather than unity, as seen with a contentious exchange between countries over voting results.
Webinar digest – Online learning day
BlogsThe Online Learning Day discussed the benefits of online learning for diplomatic training and highlighted the growth of Massive Open Online Courses worldwide. The event featured online and in-person sessions in Geneva, focusing on trends, practical teaching methods, trust-building, and the importance of lifelong learning. Providers of online learning programs in Geneva presented their offerings, with participants engaging in discussions and sharing their experiences. The event aimed to reach a broad audience interested in online learning for diplomacy, international relations, and global policy processes. Contact Ms. Tereza Horejsova for more information.
Mapping States’ activities, Tracking the Trackers, the end of Digital Diplomacy and Blogging in the UN (not): links we liked
Digital diplomacy BlogsThe text discusses the importance of open data in e-diplomacy, highlighting examples like Tracking Chinese Development Finance to Africa and Mapping the U.S. military in Africa. It also touches on the issue of online tracking and transparency. Secretary of State Kerry deems Digital Diplomacy almost redundant, contrasting with active Twitter discussions. The message emphasizes the use of social media in diplomacy, noting a lack of adoption in some ministries. Lastly, it mentions a blog about non-blogging in institutions and an infographic on using social media for crisis management.
Navigating the global Internet policy labyrinth
Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsThe European Union is planning to develop a Global Internet Policy Observatory to enhance global participation in Internet policy debates. It aims to monitor and analyze policy changes worldwide, providing accessible briefings and reports. By utilizing advanced tools, the Observatory seeks to bridge existing policy gaps and ensure inclusivity in Internet policy decision-making. It will not replace current global governance forums but serve as a supplementary resource. Countries and organizations like Brazil, Switzerland, the African Union, and various internet governance entities have expressed interest in collaborating. Feasibility studies are underway, with potential development scheduled for the following year.
Your presence is required
E-tools, Online education BlogsA post discusses experiments using video and open tools for online learning. It addresses questions on social media integration and learning from Massive Open Online Courses. Video's impact on online learning is explored, highlighting student preferences for visual aids. Embracing video technology and platforms like Google Hangout and CoveritLive is encouraged. The increasing reliability and integration of video tech with everyday tools, along with organizational trends towards video meetings, are noted. The push for a complete 'experience of presence' in online learning is emphasized. Your presence is required in exploring these advancements in online learning.
