[WebDebate #19 summary] What is the potential of big data for diplomacy?
Data and diplomacy, Data governance, Diplomatic theory and practice BlogsThe text discusses the potential of big data for diplomacy, focusing on how data is generated, its use in foreign affairs, and the need for adapting diplomacy to the Big Data Era. It highlights the challenges and opportunities of using big data in diplomacy, the importance of capacity building, and the benefits it can bring to information gathering, communication, service delivery, and accountability. The report suggests establishing data units combining diplomats and data scientists, emphasizing the need for awareness and skills in utilizing big data effectively for diplomatic purposes.
Capacity building for digital commerce has been launched for Geneva-based participants
E-commerce and trade, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsA digital commerce capacity-building course has been initiated for Geneva-based participants to enhance their understanding of e-commerce complexities, trade implications, and digital policy matters. The course aims to equip diplomats with practical skills to participate effectively in e-commerce discussions, covering topics like data flows, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies. Led by DiploFoundation, the initiative targets diplomats from developing countries worldwide, offering a six-week online learning program to bolster their engagement in digital trade negotiations in International Geneva.
Is private public diplomacy a thing?
Alumni Digital diplomacy, Diplomatic theory and practice, Nation branding, Public diplomacy BlogsThe blog discusses the concept of private public diplomacy, exploring the role of private businesses in shaping a country's image abroad and advocating for causes like climate change or human rights. It highlights the impact of companies on a nation's reputation, emphasizing the need for governments to leverage this potential in their public diplomacy strategies. The text also mentions examples of successful brand-country partnerships and the challenges they face, emphasizing the importance of long-term, consistent branding strategies involving all stakeholders, including private businesses, to promote entrepreneurship and enhance a country's global presence.
E-commerce: will compromise be possible at the WTO Ministerial in Buenos Aires?
E-commerce and trade, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsThe upcoming World Trade Organization Ministerial Conference in Buenos Aires will focus on e-commerce. Member states have presented various proposals on how to advance discussions, including creating a working group. Differences in opinions persist, with some advocating for new rules while others express concerns about existing agreements limiting development. Civil society organizations call for digital policy issues to be discussed in other forums. Despite polarized views, the conference provides an opportunity for members to understand each other's positions and the importance of collaboration in the digital and trade policy realms.
The Importance of Data in the CARICOM Region
Alumni Data governance, Diplomacy of small states, Diplomatic theory and practice BlogsThe message highlights the growing importance of data and statistics in the CARICOM region, emphasizing their role in supporting national and regional policy objectives and decision-making. Efforts have been made to improve data quality and availability, with a focus on statistical development. However, challenges like data gaps and resource mobilization still exist. Advocacy for statistics, regional collaboration, and technological innovation are key elements to address these challenges and optimize the use of public resources effectively. The region's commitment to data reflects its significance in achieving sustainable development goals and enhancing governance and accountability.
Digital policy at the WTO Public Forum: Summarising Day 3
E-commerce and trade, Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsThe third day at the WTO Public Forum highlighted e-commerce as a tool for both development and challenges, focusing on issues such as cross-border trade, consumer rights, digital divide, and intellectual property rights. Sessions emphasized the importance of policy approaches for digital economy growth, addressing barriers for enterprises, ensuring consumer protection, facilitating data flow, and adapting to technological advancements for progress and inclusive trade. Discussions also touched on the impact of automation on jobs and proposed solutions like universal basic income. Harmonizing legal regimes and international frameworks for e-commerce were highlighted as crucial for integration into the global digital economy.
Digital policy at the WTO Public Forum: Summarising Day 2
E-commerce and trade, Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsDay 2 at the WTO Public Forum focused on various digital policy issues, including e-commerce, the digital divide, e-payments, data flows, and the impact of new technologies. Discussions highlighted the challenges and opportunities of e-commerce for international trade, development, and inclusive growth, emphasizing the need for global regulations to bridge technology gaps. Proposals included enabling environments for e-commerce, the importance of data flows, and the potential of technologies like blockchain and AI in reshaping international trade. Policymakers emphasized the necessity of regulating new technologies to ensure digital inclusion, security, trust, and ethical values in the evolving digital landscape.
Digital policy at WTO Public Forum: Summarising Day 1
E-commerce and trade, Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsThe World Trade Organization Public Forum discusses trade opportunities and challenges, with a focus on digital policy. Day 1 highlighted the importance of inclusive trade policies, bridging the digital divide, and protecting consumer rights in e-commerce. Discussions emphasized the need for policies to support small and medium enterprises in taking advantage of digital opportunities. Countries also debated the timing of e-commerce negotiations and differing views on e-commerce rules within the WTO framework, underscoring the importance of finding common ground for future agreements.
Offline markets are tech giants’ next quest
E-commerce and trade, Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsTech giants like Google, Amazon, and Apple, with massive revenues, are venturing into offline markets to diversify. They are expanding into logistics, acquiring physical stores like Whole Foods, and investing in renewable energy and new technologies like drones and self-driving cars. However, their rapid growth raises concerns about market dominance, tax avoidance, job creation, and regulatory challenges. Authorities are closely monitoring these companies, imposing fines for illegal practices, and contemplating regulations to manage their unprecedented expansion into traditional markets.
DiploFoundation joins the eTrade for All initiative
E-commerce and trade, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsDiploFoundation has joined the eTrade for All initiative, aiming to enhance e-commerce's positive impact on development through collaboration and support. This partnership aligns with Diplo's commitment to inclusive e-commerce discussions and capacity-building efforts, such as the upcoming Online Course on Digital Commerce. The initiative, now consisting of 25 members, facilitates connections between stakeholders to harness the benefits of e-commerce. Dr. Jovan Kurbalija, Director of DiploFoundation, emphasizes the importance of multistakeholder cooperation in leveraging e-commerce for sustainable development goals and gender equality.