People
Katharina Höne
Scientific Officer, DLR Projektträger (German Aerospace Center) | Researcher Diplomacy and Technology
Katharina (Kat) E. Höne researches, writes, and teaches at the intersection of international relations and digital technology. Until June 2023, she served as the Director of Research at DiploFoundation.
Her interest and expertise include the impact of digital technology on international relations and diplomatic practices, the ethical and equitable (global) governance of artificial intelligence and its role as a topic and tool of foreign policy, and science diplomacy in the context of emerging digital technologies.
She has given presentations, conducted trainings, and undertaken research for the African Union, the European External Action Service, the foreign ministries of Finland, Namibia, and South Africa, the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs, and the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation. She holds a PhD from the Department of International Politics at Aberystwyth University (UK) and an MA in diplomatic studies from the University of Leicester (UK).
Related events
7th Model ASEM
The 7th Model ASEM is a 3-day youth conference simulating the Asia-Europe Meeting Summit, with over 150 participants from 51 countries engaging in role-play exercises and meetings with leaders. The event is organized ...
WebDebate: Is research on diplomacy relevant and useful?
Research on diplomacy's relevance and usefulness will be discussed in the upcoming WebDebate on June 7th. Professors from renowned institutions will share insights. The session will explore various angles of diplomacy...
WebDebate: Can we learn diplomacy from books?
The next WebDebate will explore whether diplomacy can be learned from books, featuring two experienced diplomats, Stefano Baldi and Milan Jazbec. Diplomatic training has evolved with technology, offering online resour...
WebDebate: Is the diplomatic service still needed?
The relevance and future of diplomacy, in a world of connectivity, will be discussed by Ambassador Kishan S. Rana and Dr Jovan Kurbalija on April 5th. Despite technological advancements, diplomacy remains crucial but ...
Namibian foreign policy review conference - ICT and development
Namibian Foreign Policy Review Conference discusses various foreign policy topics and collaborations, including a focus on Information and Communication Technology's role in development, with Dr. Katharina Höne repre...
Diplo at Global ICT Capacity Building Symposium
Diplo Foundation participates in the Global ICT Capacity Building Symposium in Nairobi, Kenya. Dr. Katharina Hoene presents on Internet governance capacity building topics. The symposium focuses on ICT capacity develo...
WebDebate: Why and how to teach negotiations?
Professors Raymond Saner and Paul Meerts will discuss the importance of teaching negotiations in an upcoming WebDebate moderated by Dr. Jovan Kurbalija. The session aims to provide insights and best practices based on...
Education Diplomacy: Creating sustainable pathways to peace
The event organized by DiploFoundation and the Center for Education Diplomacy during Geneva Peace Week will emphasize education as a key driver for peace. It aims to engage various stakeholders in understanding and pr...
[WebDebate]: What are the key skills for the next generation of diplomats?
The text discusses the key skills required for the next generation of diplomats in an evolving world, with a focus on digital diplomacy and regional developments. Prof. Paul Sharp and Mr. Shaun Riordan will analyze re...
[WebDebate] Gender and Diplomatic Training Academies
The text discusses the importance of gender equality in diplomacy, highlighting gender disparities in diplomatic positions and the launch of initiatives like the International Gender Champions. A webinar on Gender and...
[WebDebate]: Data diplomacy and knowledge management - key skills for the next generation of diplomats
The December WebDebate focuses on data management, data diplomacy, and big data's impact on diplomacy. The session discusses training diplomats in data/information/knowledge management and features speakers Dr. Petru ...
[WebDebate] Science diplomacy: approaches and skills for diplomats and scientists to work together effectively
The February WebDebate will explore science diplomacy's critical role in addressing global challenges. Dr. Kaltofen and Dr. Bona will discuss approaches for effective collaboration between science, technology, and int...
[WebDebate] Diplomats as Writers: Marrying the arts and diplomacy
The WebDebate in March will delve into the intersection of diplomacy and literature, focusing on diplomats as writers. It aims to highlight the contributions diplomats make to cultural heritage through literature, exp...
Diplo at Global Internet Governance – Actors, Regulations, Transactions and Strategies (GIG-ARTS) Conference
Dr. Katharina Höne of DiploFoundation will speak at the GIG-ARTS Conference in Paris, discussing European Internet governance science diplomacy. The conference aims to advance discussions on global Internet governanc...
[WebDebate] Education Diplomacy: A new diplomacy for the SDG era?
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[WebDebate] Standardisation: Practical solutions for strained negotiations or an arena for realpolitik?
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[WebDebate] A New Bilateralism in a Changing World
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Diplo & GIP at WSIS Forum 2017
Diplo & GIP are actively engaged at WSIS Forum 2017 hosting events, providing just-in-time session reports, and offering a booth with project updates. Attend workshops and sessions with their experts discussing topics...
[WebDebate] Sports diplomacy – new diplomacy and peacemaking tools or propaganda by other means?
The text discusses sports diplomacy as a tool for peace and diplomacy, exploring its potential beyond propaganda. The July WebDebate focuses on this topic, featuring experts Dr. J Simon Rofe and Mr. Sean Hamil. The de...
[WebDebate] Should we take ‘new diplomacies’ seriously?
A September WebDebate focuses on the significance of 'new diplomacies', such as digital, health, environmental, and education diplomacy, which involve new tools and actors. Some view these developments as vital shifts...
Data Diplomacy: Big Data for Foreign Policy
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Diplo at MyData 2017
Diplo representatives will present on big data for diplomacy at MyData 2017, focusing on opportunities, limitations, and challenges. The conference, spanning August 30 to September 1, convenes a diverse audience to di...
[WebDebate]: Exploring digital diplomacy as a ‘new diplomacy’ - key lessons and skills
The message introduces the next WebDebate on digital diplomacy, analyzing its impact, benefits, and limits. It emphasizes the importance of engaging with practitioners and scholars to understand new diplomatic practic...
[WebDebate] Humanitarian diplomacy and the influence of new actors and new technology
The text discusses the importance of engaging with new actors and technology in humanitarian diplomacy. It highlights the significance of careful stakeholder analysis and the impact of social media on the involvement ...
[WebDebate] Digital diplomacy: new actors and technology in diplomacy
The text discusses digital diplomacy and the changing diplomatic landscape due to new actors and technology. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the strategies of ministries of foreign affairs in adopting so...
Launch of Data Diplomacy: Updating Diplomacy to the Big Data Era
A new report, "Data Diplomacy: Updating Diplomacy to the Big Data Era," will launch on February 8 in Geneva, exploring the potential of big data in diplomacy. The report will discuss how big data can enhance diplomati...
[WebDebate] What is the potential of big data for diplomacy?
The text discusses the growing importance of big data in modern society and its potential for diplomacy. It mentions the launch of a report on Data Diplomacy and an upcoming WebDebate to share insights from the report...
DiploFoundation at South African conference on African Diplomacy
DiploFoundation participates in a South African conference on African Diplomacy, addressing the 4th Industrial Revolution's impact on the African state and diplomacy. Hosted by the Department of International Relation...
[WebDebate] Strategies for African states in multilateral diplomacy
The upcoming WebDebate will focus on strategies for African states to engage successfully in multilateral diplomacy, navigating challenges like colonial influence, lack of permanent representation on the Security Coun...
Diplo at the 'Cyber security and cybercrime policies for African diplomats' workshop
Diplo presented at a workshop on cyber security and cybercrime policies for African diplomats in Addis Ababa, discussing the impact of new technologies and diplomacy. The event aimed to enhance understanding of cybers...
Diplo at GIG-ARTS 2018 conference: Overcoming Inequalities in Internet Governance: framing digital policy capacity building strategies
Diplo spoke at GIG-ARTS 2018 conference on overcoming internet governance inequalities and framing digital policy capacity building strategies, addressing the need for cybersecurity and the changing dynamics of intern...
[WebDebate] Can we teach and learn negotiation skills online?
The text discusses the challenges and opportunities of teaching and learning negotiation skills online, emphasizing the importance of hands-on experience and personal contact in negotiation success. It explores how on...
[WebDebate] Algorithmic diplomacy: Better geopolitical analysis? Concerns about human rights?
Algorithmic diplomacy is a rising concept in diplomatic circles, focusing on the use of algorithms for geopolitical analysis and decision-making, as well as their implications for human rights. The June WebDebate expl...
[WebDebate] #CyberMediation: New skills and tools for mediation
Cybermediation explores the impact of digital technology on mediation in conflict prevention. An upcoming WebDebate on July 3 will focus on new skills and tools needed for cybermediation. The discussion involves key e...
[WebDebate] Space diplomacy: Old geopolitics or new frontier for collaboration?
The message introduces an upcoming WebDebate focusing on space diplomacy, exploring its connection to geopolitics and potential for collaboration. It discusses recent developments related to space issues, highlights t...
#Cybermediation: What role for blockchain technology and natural language processing AI?
The #Cybermediation initiative explores the role of blockchain and natural language processing AI in conflict resolution. Blockchain technology offers neutral record-keeping, while AI can analyze and suggest mediation...
CyberMediation: the impact of digital technologies on the prevention and resolution of violent conflicts
An initiative by various organizations explores the impact of digital technology on mediation in preventing and resolving violent conflicts. Participants will learn how mediators use digital tools and address challeng...
The UN World Data Forum 2018
The UN World Data Forum 2018 in Dubai aims to enhance collaboration between various professional groups and civil society stakeholders for sustainable development. DiploFoundation will host a session on building data ...
[WebDebate] Blockchain for development: a critical assessment
The text discusses the potential impact of blockchain technology on development and diplomacy, emphasizing its role in achieving sustainable development goals. The webinar addresses blockchain's applications in variou...
[WebDebate] AI on the international agenda - where do we go from here?
The text discusses the importance of artificial intelligence (AI) in geostrategic terms, mentioning the development of AI strategies by various countries. It highlights the economic and security implications of AI, es...
Artificial intelligence and diplomacy: A new tool for diplomats?
DiploFoundation and the Think Tank Hub are hosting an event on Artificial Intelligence and Diplomacy as a new tool for diplomats. Key speakers include Dr. Katharina Höne and Mr. Philippe Lorenz....
The impact of AI on diplomacy and international relations 2018
An event organized by DiploFoundation and the Center for Data Innovation addressed the impact of artificial intelligence on diplomacy and international relations. The event featured discussions, panels of experts, and...
Science fiction meets policy | Policy meets science fiction
The text discusses an event that explores the intersection of science fiction with digital politics, aiming to bring together sci-fi authors, enthusiasts, policymakers, and diplomats to discuss the impact of technolog...
[WebDebate] Arctic diplomacy: Approaches and lessons
The text discusses Arctic diplomacy, covering topics such as geopolitical interests, the Arctic Council, and the Arctic Science Agreement. Three experts provide different perspectives on the region, focusing on tradit...
Artificial intelligence made in Europe: What will Alexa say?
The text discusses the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence in society, emphasizing the European Union's efforts to lead in ethical AI development. It mentions global discussions on AI ethics and policy, a...
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, l...
The London Diplomatic Summit - 3rd edition
The London Diplomatic Summit, 3rd edition, will focus on shaping the artificial intelligence New World Order, addressing themes like power balance, inequality, global governance, regulations, and international policy-...
[WebDebate] Exploring innovative teaching methodologies: Digital tools for teaching diplomacy
The text discusses the importance of digital tools in teaching diplomacy, aiming to enhance the learning experience and inclusivity. It highlights upcoming discussions with practitioners to explore current tools, chal...
CyberMediation conference
The CyberMediation conference explores the impact of digital technology on conflict resolution through mediation. It includes discussions on social media's role in peace processes, trust-building tools for mediators, ...
[WebDebate] The diplomacy of natural resources in the Middle East
The text discusses the importance of diplomacy in managing natural resources like water and energy in the Middle East. It emphasizes the need for collaboration to protect resources and reduce conflicts, especially in ...
[WebDebate] Visual digital diplomacy: Opportunities for diplomatic practice
The text discusses the rise of visual communication in diplomacy due to the influence of the Internet and social media. It emphasizes the importance for diplomats to understand and effectively use visual language. An ...
Science and technology diplomacy summer school
The text discusses a unique summer school on science and technology diplomacy in Barcelona, Spain, from 1-5 July. It targets mid-career professionals, scientists, diplomats, and graduate students. The program will cov...
[WebDebate] Technology and diplomacy: Unpacking the relationship
Technology's impact on diplomacy, including the implications of new technologies like AI and 5G, is explored in a WebDebate. Issues like the Huawei controversy and geopolitical tensions due to technological supremacy ...
Digital (and) Diplomacy: How to deal with digital aspects of foreign policy
The text discusses the importance of addressing digital aspects of foreign policy at the international level, highlighting challenges nations face in adapting to digital geopolitics and integrating tech policy. It als...
Diplo at AI for Good Gobal Summit
DiploFoundation will host a workshop at the AI for Good Global Summit focusing on national AI strategies for sustainable development. The event, scheduled for May 28-31, 2019 in Geneva, aims to advance AI use for the ...
Diplo at Cyber-Diplomacy: International affairs in the digital age
A seminar at the University of London will explore Cyber-Diplomacy, focusing on the impact of digital technology on international affairs. Key questions include defining cyberdiplomacy and its future. Dr. Katharina H...
[WebDebate] Science Diplomacy: Preparing the next generation
Science diplomacy is the use of scientific collaboration between nations to address global challenges, like climate change and pandemics. It can improve foreign policy and international relations. The web debate will ...
[WebDebate] Diplomacy at the UN: Is multilateralism dead?
The WebDebate recording is now available, discussing the importance of multilateralism at the UN, recent shifts in diplomacy, and the future of the organization. Experts like Amb. Amr Aljowaily, Prof. Manuel Fröhlich...
[WebDebate] The UN beyond the West: How do countries from the Global South make their mark?
Countries from the Global South have significantly influenced the United Nations through their membership growth. They impact the organization by actively participating in committees and utilizing their positions in t...
[WebDebate] AI for peacemaking: New tools and opportunities for mediators
The text discusses the potential of artificial intelligence for peacemaking and its impact on mediation. It explores new AI tools and opportunities for mediators, including machine learning for conflict analysis. Expe...
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 accessibil...
[WebDebate] Multilateral diplomacy in times of COVID-19
The text discusses the impact of COVID-19 on multilateral diplomacy, highlighting the role of international organizations like the World Health Organization. It explores the need for global cooperation in managing the...
#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 ...
[WebDebate] The UN response to COVID-19: Contributions, challenges, and lessons
The UN Secretary-General launched a $2 billion global humanitarian response plan for the most vulnerable in response to COVID-19. Various UN agencies are contributing, particularly WHO. A discussion will be held on th...
[WebDebate] The gendered impact of COVID-19: Towards better diplomatic responses
The text discusses the gendered impact of COVID-19 on women and the importance of incorporating a gender perspective in diplomacy. It highlights the disproportionate effects on women, the need for gender equality in d...
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...
Corona Diplomacy: Will changes affect future practice?
A webinar discusses how the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted diplomacy and the potential changes it may bring to diplomatic practices in the future. The event explores the shift towards digital diplomacy due to travel r...
[WebDebate] How COVID-19 is changing diplomatic practice
The text discusses the impact of COVID-19 on diplomatic practice, particularly the shift to virtual meetings and the potential long-term changes in diplomatic conduct. Speakers include diplomats and scholars exploring...
An X-ray of the 2020 UN General Assembly debates
Researchers discussed the adaptation of diplomacy in the 2020 UN General Assembly debates, focusing on policy priorities, rhetoric, and digital developments due to the COVID-19 pandemic. World leaders' prerecorded sta...
Data 2025 V.2.0 - Conference
The conference, Data 2025 V.2.0, will explore the concept of data in the context of technical and economic realities, focusing on future opportunities and challenges posed by new technologies. Scheduled for November 2...
[WebDebate #44] Diplomacy in times of COVID-19: The experience of developing countries
Small and developing countries face challenges in diplomacy during COVID-19. Diplomats at multilateral hubs are stretched thin, facing connectivity issues and lack of cybersecurity expertise. Budget constraints and po...
[WebDebate #45] Visual storytelling for diplomatic practice
The text discusses the importance of visual storytelling in diplomatic practice, especially in a digital world. It highlights the shift towards image-based communication, as seen in the 2020 General Assembly. Join exp...
2021: The emergence of digital foreign policy
2021 marks the rise of digital foreign policy, evident in the global shift towards incorporating digitization into diplomacy. Countries are creating comprehensive strategies, appointing cyber ambassadors, and embracin...
[WebDebate #46] Unpacking the EU's digital diplomacy and foreign policy
The message provides an update on WebDebate #46 focusing on the European Union's digital diplomacy and foreign policy. It highlights the importance of digital foreign policy, mentioning recent strategies launched by S...
[WebDebate #47] Current diplomatic responses to COVID-19
The text discusses the diplomatic responses to COVID-19, focusing on initiatives like COVAX and human rights efforts at the UN Human Rights Council. Featuring speakers from Singapore and the Universal Rights Group, th...
Future of Mediation and Peacemaking with Emerging Technologies
Exploring the integration of emerging technologies in mediation and peacemaking, discussions will delve into machine learning to enhance analytical processes, utilizing big data for predicting behavior, incorporating ...
Global Media Forum session: Innovation by disruption? How COVID-19 is changing diplomacy
The text discusses the impact of COVID-19 on diplomacy, highlighting the need for innovative approaches to maintain international relations during the pandemic. The session at the Global Media Forum will explore how d...
[WebDebate #50] Training cyber diplomats: Tools, gaps, and opportunities
Diplomats must adapt to digital topics, including cybersecurity, commerce, and human rights. Training is crucial to bridge capacity gaps. A study by Diplo found a lack of awareness among cyber diplomats about availabl...
How Artificial Intelligence is Changing Global Conflict
Advancements in technology, specifically artificial intelligence, are altering global conflicts. The Innovation Technology Initiative aims to delve into this subject in an event titled "How Artificial Intelligence is ...
[WebDebate #51] International organisations: Independence under threat?
International organisations balance between serving as a platform for states to discuss global issues and acting independently through reports and analyses. Questions arise about the level of autonomy they should have...
The Metaverse and International Relations
The event will explore the impact of the metaverse on international relations, discussing its implications for diplomacy, safety in dialogue, risks, and its potential role in addressing climate change. Featuring exper...
Addressing AI-driven Socio-economic Inequality
Elon Musk warns about the dangers of AI, specifically its potential to worsen socioeconomic inequality. The private sector's role in advancing AI raises concerns about ethical practices and job displacement. An event ...
The recent climate negotiations: A perspective from the Global South [WebDebate #52]
The text discusses the urgency of addressing climate change, particularly emphasizing the need for global solutions to reduce carbon emissions and adapt to climate change. The focus is on the recent climate negotiatio...
Science diplomacy: The road ahead in 2022 (WebDebate #53)
Science diplomacy has gained importance, particularly in addressing global challenges like climate change and pandemics. While some caution against overly optimistic views, urging for more realistic evaluations and co...
Global Communications and Audiences: Propaganda, Fake News & AI Censorship
The webinar "Global Communications and Audiences: Propaganda, Fake News & AI Censorship" on March 28, 2022, will discuss the impact of datafication, platformisation, and disinformation tools on museum global communica...
Relaciones Internacionales, Diplomacia e IA (International Relations, Diplomacy, and AI)
AI's growing role in international relations, impacting the global agenda, geopolitics, and security, will be discussed at an event on March 24, 2022, focusing on Mexico. The event is organized by Mexico, the Mexican ...
Science Diplomacy in 2022: More Cooperation or More Division? (WebDebate #54)
Science diplomacy aims to enhance international cooperation through various tools, fostering mutual understanding and peace. Despite challenges, historical examples like the Apollo–Soyuz handshake and projects such ...
AI as a Tool for Diplomacy and Mediation
A hybrid event in Geneva during Science Diplomacy Week will focus on AI as a tool for diplomacy and mediation. Discussions will involve the current and future applications of AI, specifically in language processing an...
Science Diplomacy Capacity Development: Where Do We Go From Here? (WebDebate #55)
The text discusses the importance of science diplomacy in addressing global challenges, highlighting the need for capacity development in this field. Questions on enabling actors to benefit, the form of capacity devel...
Will AI take over diplomatic reporting? (WebDebate #56)
The text discusses the potential for AI to impact diplomatic reporting, questioning if it will take over this function. It highlights the historical significance of reports in diplomacy and the evolving role of techno...
What role can AI play in diplomatic negotiation? (WebDebate #57)
The text discusses the importance of negotiations in diplomacy and highlights the potential role of AI in diplomatic negotiations. It emphasizes the significance of tools related to language processing and generation ...
How to Train Diplomats to Deal With AI and Data? (WebDebate #58)
The text discusses the importance of training diplomats and policymakers to deal with AI and data. It highlights the need for capacity development in this area, mentioning specific programs and reports that address th...
Tech Diplomacy: New Impulses for the Geneva Ecosystem? (Science Diplomacy Week)
The Science Diplomacy Week in Geneva features a session on Tech Diplomacy, exploring the evolution of tech diplomacy in the San Francisco Bay Area. The event aims to discuss the interactions between tech and diplomacy...
What Can We Learn About AI Ethics and Governance From Non-Western Thought? (WebDebate #59)
The message emphasizes the importance of incorporating non-Western perspectives into discussions on ethics and governance, showcasing the value of systems like Ubuntu from Africa. It advocates for inclusivity and high...
Why and How Should Countries Engage in Tech Diplomacy? (WebDebate #60)
Tech diplomacy has seen growth, introducing new diplomatic practices and topics while adapting to a changing geopolitical landscape. DiploFoundation's report on Tech Diplomacy Practice in the San Francisco Bay Area ex...
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01 Aug, 2014
Namibia’s Digital Foreign Policy and Diplomacy (Briefing Paper #3)
This briefing paper emerged from Diplo's participation in Namibia's Foreign Policy Review Conference (July 2016). In this paper, Dr Katharina E. Höne suggests a three-pronged approach to Namibia's digital foreign pol...
04 Aug, 2016
The era of digital foreign policy: Comprehensive approaches to digitalisation
As the theme of this issue, ‘foreign policy for the 4th industrial revolution’, suggests, diplomats and foreign ministries are faced with tremendous changes brought about by digitalisation. The ability to respond ...
11 Feb, 2021
Science diplomacy capacity development: Reflections on Diplo's 2021 course and the road ahead
Diplo has a track record of more than 20 years of capacity development in diplomacy. Given the increasing relevance of science diplomacy, expanding our program to include aspects of its theory and practice felt like a...
14 Jul, 2022
Delivering Diplo’s 2021 Science Diplomacy online course
Diplo has a track record of more than 20 years of capacity development in diplomacy. Given the increasing relevance of science diplomacy, expanding our program to include aspOur Science Diplomacy course builds on a nu...
14 Jul, 2022
NAMIBIA’S DIGITAL FOREIGN POLICY AND DIPLOMACY
The paper discusses Namibia's digital foreign policy and diplomacy, emphasizing its dimensions, global implications, and role in poverty eradication....
18 Aug, 2016
DiploDialogue - Metaphors for Diplomats
On Diplo’s blog, in Diplo’s classrooms, and at Diplo’s events, dialogues stretch over a series of entries, comments, and exchanges and may even linger. DiploDialogue summarises. It’s like in sports events: Dip...
30 Aug, 2013
Diplo: Effective and inclusive diplomacy
Diplo is a non-profit foundation established by the governments of Malta and Switzerland. Diplo works to increase the role of small and developing states, and to improve global governance and international policy development.
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