Call for applications: Policy Research Methodology course
Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsApplications are sought for an 8-week Policy Research Methodology course focusing on ICT and Internet governance topics. Participants will learn research proposal writing with expert guidance, ending with a polished proposal. The course covers various policy research aspects and utilizes a project-based learning approach. Participants can earn a DiploFoundation Certificate upon completion. The course includes interactive group discussions and assignments on an online platform. Though the application deadline has passed, more information is available on the course page for those interested. For inquiries, contact the team via email or @igcbp.
International law and the Assange asylum case
Diplomatic law, Diplomatic theory and practice, Privileges and immunities BlogsExamining the UK's legal stance in the Assange asylum dilemma, this post looks into international laws like the 1987 UK Diplomatic and Consular Premises Act and its alignment with the Vienna Convention, shedding light on diplomatic relations' intricacies and the sanctity of embassy premises
Frequently asked questions about diplomatic asylum
Diplomatic law, Diplomatic theory and practice, Privileges and immunities BlogsThis blog clarifies the complex nature of diplomatic asylum, distinguishing it from territorial and political asylum, and explaining its legal standing and practical implications, particularly in Latin America.
War, diplomacy, and ‘dediscoursation’
BlogsIn this message, the author discusses the concept of 'dediscoursation' as a key factor leading to war. They explain how the loss of faith in discourse can precede the decision to engage in violent conflict. The theory emphasizes the importance of ethical discourse in diplomacy and negotiations, highlighting the role of broken promises, disregard for truth, and unethical negotiation practices in escalating tensions towards war. The author believes that many conflicts could be prevented through reasonable discussion and ethical communication. They provide examples from history to support their argument and suggest that understanding 'dediscoursation' is essential for diplomats.
Metaphors for diplomats – the philosophy of science
BlogsMetaphors play a crucial role for diplomats, serving as tools for persuasion, accessing the world, and making sense of reality through language. They can influence perceptions, provide structure to abstract concepts, and challenge the notion of reality. Diplomats must understand and utilize metaphors effectively to navigate the complexities of international relations and diplomacy, reflecting on both the philosophical and practical implications of these linguistic devices.
The Assange asylum case: possible solutions and probable consequences
Diplomatic law, Diplomatic theory and practice, Privileges and immunities BlogsThis article discusses the legal and diplomatic intricacies surrounding Assange's asylum, highlighting negotiation as a preferred solution, and the potential impact on embassy inviolability.
Guest blog: Working with the media – Part 2
Digital diplomacy, Media, Social media BlogsIn Part 2 of the guest blog, freelance journalist Alex Oxborough stresses the importance of providing journalists with substantial material to work with for effective communication with the public. Training for all levels in departments dealing with the press is essential for building better relationships and improving communication. This approach aims to enhance understanding between organizations and the media, ultimately benefiting public engagement.
Guest blog: Working with the media – Part 1
Digital diplomacy, Media, Remote participation BlogsThe blog post by freelance journalist Alex Oxborough explores the concept of news and how to effectively work with the media to get your embassy or department's story across to the public. It discusses the importance of grabbing attention in a crowded media marketplace and provides insights on crafting stories with impactful angles to stand out. The post emphasizes the significance of understanding what constitutes news and adapting to the changing landscape of journalism, particularly in the digital age.
A conversation in review
Digital diplomacy, Online education BlogsBlogging sparks a conversation about large-scale online education, comparing platforms like Coursera to smaller courses like those offered by Diplo. The discussion delves into the effectiveness of massive courses, the importance of group interaction, and the potential for technology to enhance learning experiences. Participants consider the challenges and benefits of different educational approaches, questioning the balance between scale and personal attention. The debate between massive online courses and smaller, more interactive options remains ongoing, highlighting the evolving landscape of education.
Author interview: eDiplomacy: foreign policy and social media
BlogsAntonio Deruda, a former Press Liaison officer at the embassy in Rome, shares insights on eDiplomacy and its impact on diplomats in his book. The book, initially in Italian, covers topics like social media's influence on foreign policy and digital diplomacy proposals for Italy. Interviewed alongside a training program in Rome, Antonio discusses the shift towards engaging with the public through social media, emphasizing the importance of ROI. The interview highlights the increasing interest and support for integrated social media strategies among diplomats, with examples of various platforms being used effectively for communication and engagement.
