Diplo Blog
The Crimson vs White House: Harvard’s fight for academic sovereignty
12 June 2025
The public clashes between Harvard University and the Trump administration often appeared to centre on immigration, science policy, and perceived elitism. However, beneath the surface lay a more fundamental tension: a collision between an administration guided by an “America First” doctrine and the nation’s oldest and most prominent university functioning as a powerful non-state actor […]
The vulnerabilities of international law
11 June 2025
Citicorp Center nearly collapsed because no one questioned the building code. What does that say about international law? When rules replace reality, disaster isn’t far behind. Aldo Matteucci writes.
EU Digital Diplomacy: Geopolitical shift from focus on values to economic securityÂ
10 June 2025
The EU's International Digital Strategy 2025 shifts focus from a values-centric approach to prioritizing geopolitical and economic security. While it retains a commitment to human rights, the new strategy emphasizes resilience, competitive tech development, and secure infrastructure, particularly in defense-related technologies. Notably, the 'Brussels Effect' of spreading EU regulations globally is downplayed, signaling a focus on strategic partnerships and investments over unilateral rule-making. This realpolitik stance integrates digital and cyber policies and emphasizes multilateral engagement while raising questions about implementation and the balance between values and security in EU digital diplomacy.
What is it like to be a goshawk ?
29 May 2025
What is it like to be a goshawk? Helen Macdonald sought to find out – not through theory, but through experience. Her book, H is for Hawk, is not just about falconry – it’s about patience, attention, and connection. Aldo Matteucci writes.
Negotiating the climate: The politics of a changing planet
26 May 2025
As the planet warms, power dynamics shift, unlocking new frontiers, deepening old conflicts, and forcing global diplomacy to reckon with the existential stakes of climate change. From Arctic rivalries to water wars and climate-driven migration, the struggle for survival is rewriting the rules of international relations.
Empowering communities through bottom-up AI: The example of ThutoHealth
26 May 2025
In Botswana, a silent epidemic claims nearly half of all lives. Hypertension, diabetes, cancer, and other non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are responsible for 46% of deaths nationwide—a staggering statistic that reflects a global crisis magnified in low-resource settings. While these conditions are preventable or manageable with early intervention, access to healthcare education and tools remains uneven, […]
Can the Vatican mediate peace in Ukraine?
22 May 2025
The Vatican's potential role in mediating peace between Russia and Ukraine highlights its historical significance in diplomacy. Amid today’s geopolitical complexities, Pope Leo XIV's initiative, alongside the Community of Sant’Egidio’s proven mediation successes, embodies the Vatican’s unique moral authority. This diplomacy prioritizes dialogue over condemnation, aiming to foster trust and mitigate conflict. As the Vatican seeks to create diplomatic space, it underscores the essential human dimension in an era dominated by digital discourse and disinformation, potentially setting a precedent for the involvement of traditional institutions in contemporary diplomacy.
Compromise is not a dirty word – It’s the glue holding humanity together
22 May 2025
While observing Lucid cars in Geneva, the slogan "Compromise Nothing" prompted a reflection on the meaning of compromise, often misunderstood as weakness. Compromise, derived from Latin, represents a "joint promise" essential for coexistence, fostering relationships and governance. Although it may seem like surrender, true compromise requires courage to acknowledge differing interests. Instead of viewing it negatively, we should embrace "Compromise Wisely," recognizing that balancing values is crucial for progress. Geneva exemplifies this spirit, reminding us that without compromise, we risk losing vital connections and opportunities for growth.
Between theory and practice: Rethinking diplomatic theory
19 May 2025
Diplomatic theory says: follow orders. Practice shows: shape reality. Between theory and practice lies the diplomat’s quiet craft. Aldo Matteucci asks if theory can catch up.
What can we learn from 160 years of tech diplomacy at ITU?
17 May 2025
Telecommunications infrastructure, AI diplomacy, Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain diplomacy
On May 17, 1865, the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) was founded by 20 European states to streamline telegraph messaging across borders, highlighting the need for multilateral cooperation in communication. Over 160 years, ITU has maintained its mission to balance national sovereignty with shared connectivity amidst evolving technologies. Historical lessons illustrate that crises can prompt necessary changes, while advancements in tech continue to shape global power dynamics. As we celebrate ITU's legacy, we are reminded that collaboration, standards, and diplomacy remain vital in navigating the challenges of today's interconnected digital landscape.
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