A brief history of Diplo
Diplo’s roots date back to October 1992 when Jovan Kurbalija established the Unit for Computer Applications at the Mediterranean Academy of Diplomatic Studies in Malta. After a few iterations, this unit became DiploFoundation on 20 November 2002.
This year, we celebrate 20 years of Diplo, as well as 30 years of research and education on the impact of digitalisation on diplomacy. Join us on the journey through the evolution of digital diplomacy, and Diplo!
- All
- Milestones
- Courses
- Events
- Conferences
- Publications
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04Monday March, 2019
- Diplomacy and Secret Service published
On March 4, 2019, Diplo released G.R. Berridge's e-book, "Diplomacy and Secret Service," exploring the intersection of these fields. The book is part of the Invitations to Diplomacy series, aiming to offer introductory works on diplomatic topics in an accessible manner.
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28Thursday March, 2019
- Introduction to digital policy and diplomacy, New York
Diplo offered a digital policy and diplomacy course for diplomats in New York, blending online learning with in-person sessions for a comprehensive learning experience.
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30Tuesday April, 2019
- Launch of redesigned GIP Digital Watch newsletter
The GIP Digital Watch newsletter has been revamped with more in-depth articles, a new data analysis section, and enhanced timelines. The first redesigned edition covers topics like the 5G controversy, digital trends, and policy updates.
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06Monday May, 2019
- New online course: Artificial Intelligence: Technology, Governance, and Policy Frameworks 2019
A new online course, "Artificial Intelligence: Technology, Governance, and Policy Frameworks 2019," explores the impact of AI on society and provides interdisciplinary knowledge on its implications for policy and diplomacy. It is suitable for government officials, diplomats, international organizations, academics, corporate professionals, and journalists. The course deadline for application is April 1, 2019, and more details can be found on Diplo's courses website.
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06Monday May, 2019
- New course on AI
Diplo launched a new course on AI, covering various interdisciplinary aspects of the topic amid the global trend towards artificial intelligence.
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19Wednesday June, 2019
- EuroDIG 2019
A team of Digital Watch rapporteurs provided session messages and reports for EuroDIG 2019, the 12th annual meeting of the European Dialogue on Internet Governance held in The Hague, Netherlands on June 19-20, 2019.
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24Monday June, 2019
- Unpacking the High-Level Panel’s report
A digital policy community in Geneva met to discuss implementing recommendations from the High-Level Panel on Digital Cooperation's report, with over 80 participants contributing concrete action points.
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25Tuesday June, 2019
- New report on Science and Diplomacy: How countries interact with the Boston innovation system
The report examines how countries engage with the Boston innovation system through science and technology diplomacy, aiming to inspire other nations to participate in this arena.
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08Thursday August, 2019
- Chinese translation of ‘An Introduction to Internet Governance’ published
Chinese translation of 'An Introduction to Internet Governance' by Jovan Kurbalija released on Diplo's website, a renowned guide in digital governance offering insights on key issues and players in the field.
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25Monday November, 2019
- Internet Governance Forum 2019
DiploFoundation and the Geneva Internet Platform will be actively participating in the 2019 Internet Governance Forum in Berlin, Germany from November 25-29. The Digital Watch observatory will provide real-time reporting, with updates on Twitter and in Daily newsletters. Attendees can visit their booths for information on workshops, open forums, and other events focused on Internet governance and digital policy issues. The agenda will include discussions on outputs from 2019 intersessional activities and involvement from national and regional initiatives. Details can be found on their dedicated page and the official 2019 website.
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20Friday December, 2019
- humAInism and Artificial Intelligence
Experts in various fields will discuss the intersection of artificial intelligence and humanism at the Centre for the Promotion of Science in Belgrade on December 20th. The panel will delve into ethics, linguistics, legislation, and accountability surrounding AI, introducing the interdisciplinary project humAInism aiming to connect conversations about the future of humanity. Top experts will share insights, inviting public participation.
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01Wednesday January, 2020
- ConfTech Labs starts
ConfTech Labs have opened in Geneva and Belgrade to enhance hybrid event hosting, utilizing advanced technology to connect onsite and online components for higher-quality meetings and conferences. The labs' studio setup proved vital for Diplo's online and hybrid events, improving event quality and fostering efficient in-person and hybrid meetings through seamless participant integration both onsite and online.
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17Tuesday March, 2020
- How to organise and run online meetings during COVID-19 times
Summary: The text discusses the increasing popularity of virtual meetings due to environmental concerns and the current COVID-19 outbreak. It highlights the benefits of online conferences, such as increased accessibility and inclusion. The text also mentions a live online discussion addressing challenges and opportunities for interactive events during these times, organized by DiploFoundation's Conference Tech. The event features speakers from the Geneva Internet Platform and DiploFoundation's online participation team, aiming to provide insights on effectively utilizing online participation tools for global meetings.
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09Thursday April, 2020
- (Cyber)Security and the shift to online
The text discusses cybersecurity risks and vulnerabilities heightened by the shift to online work during the COVID-19 crisis. The text details threats like cyber-attacks on critical infrastructure, phishing emails exploiting the pandemic, and the need for a collective response to decrease cyberattacks. The live discussion is aimed at addressing how cybersecurity challenges have evolved during the crisis, examining vulnerability changes, government response strategies, and the importance of strengthening industry and civil society involvement in enhancing digital security. Key experts participating in the webinar are introduced, each with unique roles and experiences in the cybersecurity field.
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11Monday May, 2020
- #SciDipTalks | Technology at the service of global health crises: Threats and opportunities
#SciDipTalks event will explore global health crises with a focus on technology's role, including the impact of digital strategies on data privacy and human rights. Speakers will discuss successful national responses and the responsibility of social media platforms. The event, featuring experts like Kathleen Carley and Katharina Höne, will take place online on May 11, 2020.
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12Tuesday May, 2020
- Online conference ‘The Future of Meetings’
The Future of Meetings conference explores the changing landscape of gatherings due to the Coronavirus crisis. It will delve into hybrid meetings, combining virtual and face-to-face interactions, and address topics like integrating online and onsite events, moderating online sessions effectively, and incorporating informal chats into virtual meetings. The conference, organized by Diplo, offers 20 sessions across 5 tracks and draws on their two-decade expertise in online events. This event will shape the future of diplomacy, governance, and society. Join the innovative discussion to delve deeper into the evolving meeting dynamics. Visit ConfTech for details.
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23Tuesday June, 2020
- Online discussion: Navigating Geneva’s digital policy landscape
Geneva's digital policy landscape is expanding, encompassing cybersecurity, e-commerce, health data, climate issues, and sustainable development goals. Understanding this rich environment is crucial. Join a discussion led by the Geneva Internet Platform on June 23, 2020, to explore navigating and collaborating within this diverse digital policy space.
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01Tuesday September, 2020
- AI & data development
In September 2020, a Speech Generator tool was released by Diplo to assist in crafting cybersecurity speeches using AI and data development.
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14Monday September, 2020
- Launch of the new Digital Watch observatory
The message announces the launch of the new Digital Watch observatory, featuring interdisciplinary analysis on digital policy issues and cross-cutting aspects. It will explore topics like data policy and human rights, security, and trade, providing deeper insights into complex issues shaping geopolitics and the digital world. Additionally, 14 new projects by DiploFoundation and the Geneva Internet Platform are set to be launched in September and October 2020.
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24Thursday September, 2020
- Launch of the Help Desk for inclusive governance
A Help Desk for inclusive governance is being launched to provide real-time assistance for transitioning to virtual meetings and conferences. The initiative aims to support organizations and countries in adapting to the 'new normal' of digital work effectively. Several new projects by DiploFoundation and the Geneva Internet Platform are set to be introduced in September and October, focusing on various aspects of technology and diplomacy.
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12Monday October, 2020
- Launch of the Diplo’s new Data Engine
Diplo is launching a new Data Engine on October 12th. The engine aims to provide practical data use for diplomats and global governance actors, addressing diplomatic, technical, statistical, and AI-related aspects. Additionally, DiploFoundation and the Geneva Internet Platform will launch 14 new projects in September and October 2020, including the introduction of courses, tools, and initiatives related to digital governance and diplomacy.
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15Thursday October, 2020
- Start of the Online Meetings and Conferences online course
Summary: The Online Meetings and Conferences course addresses the shift to virtual events due to travel restrictions, offering guidance on organizing online and hybrid meetings effectively. Participants will learn about selecting technical platforms, planning, and moderating events. The course adapts to the evolving landscape of online and blended meetings. Apply now for updated insights.
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22Thursday October, 2020
- Hybrid conference: The future of (multilateral) diplomacy
A hybrid conference on the future of (multilateral) diplomacy will discuss research findings, including topics on multilateralism, digital diplomacy, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Participants can join online or host in-person hubs. The event is supported by partners like the Finnish Ministry for Foreign Affairs and DiploFoundation's ConfTech initiative. The study aims to understand current diplomatic shifts, challenges, and propose adaptations for the future. ConfTech's Help Desk aids in transitioning meetings from onsite to online, supported by various partners including the Finnish Ministry for Foreign Affairs and the Ford Foundation.
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30Monday November, 2020
- Launch of the Geneva Digital Atlas
The Geneva Digital Atlas has been launched, offering a detailed mapping of digital policy and internet governance activities in International Geneva. It covers the work of nearly 40 actors, including policy analysis, cataloguing of core instruments, and featured events. Virtual and physical tours regarding standardization, data, and cybersecurity are featured. Event registration is closed, but the launch recording is available for viewing.
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28Thursday January, 2021
- Masterclass on History of Diplomacy and Technology
Dr. Jovan Kurbalija leads a masterclass on the history of diplomacy and technology, exploring past civilizations' adaptation to new technologies. The series delves into continuity and change in diplomatic evolution, the role of information and communication, and technology's influence on political landscapes. This exploration aims to uncover patterns in technology-society interactions, offering insights into handling current and future challenges. The first episode aired on January 28th, inviting viewers to follow the discussion on YouTube and Facebook.
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18Thursday February, 2021
- 6th Geneva Engage Awards
The 6th Geneva Engage Awards ceremony will take place on February 18, 2021. These awards honor International Geneva actors for their online engagement, particularly in connecting with communities affected by policies discussed in Geneva. The awards have categories for International Organizations, NGOs, and Permanent Missions in Geneva, with a new award introduced in 2020 for innovative remote meeting practices.
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09Tuesday March, 2021
- Sustainable Capacity Building: Internet Governance in Africa
A report titled Sustainable Capacity Building: Internet Governance in Africa focuses on how the continent is enhancing digital policy capabilities. It outlines initiatives, strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. The report, part of the Policy and Regulation Initiative for Digital Africa, commissioned by the African Union, emphasizes the urgent need for capacity building to drive economic growth and global policy engagement. Key findings and recommendations will be presented, with experts discussing actions for sustainable internet governance initiatives in Africa. Notable speakers include representatives from various organizations such as the African Union Commission and the International Telecommunication Union.
