Cyber diplomacy and new push of International criminal court to prosecute hacking
Conflict resolution & Mediation, Cyber diplomacy, Cyberconflict and warfare, Cybercrime, Cybernorms, Digital diplomacy, International organisations, Security UpdatesThe International Criminal Court's lead prosecutor, Karim Khan, has announced that the Hague will investigate and prosecute hacking crimes that violate existing international law. Cyberwar actions can have a significant impact on people's lives, particularly vulnerable groups. ICC prosecution of hacking and cybercrime is the main breakthrough in international cyber governance.
China achieve breakthrough in quantum computing
Digital diplomacy, Quantum diplomacy, Science diplomacy UpdatesScientists in China have made a breakthrough in quantum computing by achieving the entanglement of multiple ultracold atoms. It could provide China with a strategic advantage in quantum research and science geopolitics. This development opens up possibilities for practical processors for quantum computers.
African leaders propose global carbon tax regime at Africa climate summit
Climate diplomacy, Taxation UpdatesAfrican leaders have proposed a global carbon tax regime in the Nairobi Declaration, which was released at the Africa Climate Summit. The declaration calls for major polluters to provide more resources to help poorer nations combat climate change. The Nairobi Declaration suggests implementing a carbon tax on fossil fuels, maritime transport, and aviation, potentially augmented by a global financial transaction tax.
Global south’s call for reformed multilateralism: challenges and prospects
Capacity development COVID-19 diplomacy, Development diplomacy, International relations and diplomacy, Multilateral diplomacy UpdatesThe article by Ambassador Asoke Mukerji discusses the concept of 'reformed multilateralism' as a way to increase the participation of the Global South in the multilateral system. It highlights the need to address biases in decision-making structures, particularly in the UN Security Council and the International Monetary Fund. The text also mentions the efforts of the Global South in shaping the development agenda and the setbacks faced in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. Additionally, it raises concerns about the impact of COVID-19, the dysfunctionality of the UNSC, and the rise of confrontational regionalism. Ambassador Mukerji suggests that dialogue and diplomacy are crucial for reforming multilateralism.
Africa calls for increased influence and funding at Kenya’s climate summit
Multilateral diplomacy, Regional cooperation, Regionalism UpdatesThe inaugural African Climate Summit in Kenya sees leaders from over twelve African nations aiming for increased influence and funding in climate initiatives. Despite being the least contributor to climate issues, Africa seeks global support to leverage opportunities for economic growth and shared prosperity while urging developed nations to meet promised financial assistance targets. There is growing frustration over inadequate funding, highlighting the urgency for more significant commitments from wealthier nations.
Why web accessibility for people with disabilities is a critical test for digital diplomacy?
Digital diplomacy, Rights of persons with disabilities, Sustainable development UpdatesAs digital diplomacy aims for cutting-edge metaverse and AI technologies, it should always keep in mind the central promise of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development: 'Leave no one behind'. Unfortunately, people with disabilities are often among the first to be left behind by fast tech developments.
Baidu’s Ernie: China’s latest push in AI
AI & linguistics, AI & philosophy, AI Technology, humAInism AI diplomacy, Artificial Intelligence, Digital diplomacy UpdatesChinese AI chatbot Ernie Bot, developed by tech giant Baidu, has generated excitement and marked a comeback for the company, with high downloads and increased shares. Baidu has invested heavily in AI technologies, positioning itself as one of China's most sophisticated AI companies. However, the company faces challenges due to US restrictions on the sale of advanced chips to China and China's strict AI regulations.
Stalemate in Sudan conflict hampers diplomatic efforts
Multistakeholder diplomacy UpdatesDespite global attempts to address the situation, conflict is intensifying, primarily in Darfur and Khartoum, which is hindering the distribution of humanitarian assistance and prompting numerous individuals to flee to neighboring nations. The core challenge lies in the involvement of multiple parties in the conflict.
BRICS 2023 summit in South Africa: balancing growth and disparity
Economic diplomacy, Multilateral diplomacy UpdatesWhile BRICS contemplates expansion, the absence of a unified agenda raises concerns. Additionally, the resonance of international law respect has been tainted by Russia's incursion into Ukraine.
Gabon enforces Internet blockade and curfew due to election voting delays
Infrastructure UpdatesAs voting came to an end on August 26,2023 , Gabon decided to interrupt internet access and declare a nightly curfew. Opposition leader Albert Ondo Ossa criticized the electoral process, accusing it of "fraud," as he contested against the incumbent President Ali Bongo Ondimba in the race for the presidency.