Printing meat: history, climate change, and governance
Food diplomacy, Internet of things UpdatesAdvancements in meat printing technologies are becoming more prevalent. Historically, efforts to substitute meat and milk with plant-based alternatives date back centuries. Society is witnessing a shift towards reduced meat consumption in developed nations, while wealthier developing countries are increasing their meat consumption. This transition will not only affect societal norms but also impact climate change, as meat production is a significant contributor to human-generated emissions, accounting for almost one-third.
Criticism of shifts in the UK development diplomacy
Capacity development, Development, Development diplomacy UpdatesCriticism of the UK government's development diplomacy is centered on recent actions reducing the aid budget and focusing on private-public partnerships over traditional assistance, inciting backlash from the development community.
Developing Economic and Commercial Diplomacy in Africa
Capacity development, Economic diplomacy UpdatesThe focus is on enhancing Economic and Commercial Diplomacy in Africa to support small- and medium-sized enterprises and boost their integration into the global economy. Key strategies include training diplomats, building institutions, and enhancing regional cooperation through the African Union.
China’s regulation on data and AI
AI diplomacy, Privacy and data protection UpdatesChina is enacting new regulations, including the Data Security Law and Personal Information Protection Law, to enhance digital oversight. The Cybersecurity Administration has introduced rules for predictive algorithms. The impact on big Chinese tech firms is uncertain, as previous anti-monopoly regulations have affected them. The focus is on how these regulations will influence China's development goals.
Need for new governance for busy outer space
Science diplomacy, Space diplomacy UpdatesPrivate companies like SpaceX, Blue Origin, and Virgin Galactic are increasingly active in space, launching satellites. This surge in activity necessitates updated governance due to crowding and potential collisions. International rules may be inadequate for regulating private companies replacing states in space activities.
Fifty years of ping-pong diplomacy
Ping Pong Diplomacy, Sports diplomacy UpdatesFifty years ago, ping-pong diplomacy led to the restart of diplomatic relations between China and the United States. This initiative, sparked by a visit and game between players from both countries, eventually led to normalized relations and comprehensive economic cooperation. Ping-pong diplomacy stands out as a significant example of using sports to foster peace and conflict resolution.
2022 trends for digital diplomacy and governance
Cryptocurrencies, Digital diplomacy, Future of meetings, Internet governance and digital policy UpdatesIn 2022, digital diplomacy and governance trends include a shift towards hybrid workplaces, increased regulation of tech companies due to techlash, and efforts by central banks to regulate cryptocurrency. Source: The Economist.
God’s Diplomacy – Book on Vatican Diplomacy
Religious diplomacy UpdatesThe text discusses the success of Vatican diplomacy, attributing it to its small size but significant influence due to its large following. The Vatican's diplomats are highlighted as effective communicators due to their pastoral training, listening skills, and discretion. The book "God's Diplomacy" reviews these diplomatic strategies, emphasizing the Vatican's involvement in various global issues such as climate change, human trafficking, and arms control, utilizing its network of churches and institutions.
Pegasus spyware ‘found on phone of jailed critic of Narendra Modi ’
Updates Surveillance UpdatesRona Wilson, an Indian activist critical of Narendra Modi, had his phone hacked with Pegasus spyware before his arrest, raising concerns about the case against him.
“Unmasking digital diplomacy in the new normal” – International Conference in Indonesia
Updates Digital diplomacy, COVID-19 diplomacy, Health diplomacy UpdatesIndonesia will host a virtual International Conference on Digital Diplomacy on November 16, 2021, centered around unmasking the potential of digital diplomacy in the current new normal.