Weather and climate early warning systems to protect everyone
Updates Climate diplomacy, Sustainable development UpdatesWorld Meteorological Day highlighted the aim to provide global early warning systems to safeguard against severe weather and climate shifts within five years, as declared by Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. The initiative requires a $1.5 billion investment to enhance services and infrastructure, with a projected tenfold return on investment. Effective early warning systems play a crucial role in achieving sustainable development goals.
Five bot farms were discovered and shut down in Ukraine
Updates Cybercrime UpdatesFive bot farms in Ukraine spreading fake news, shut down by Ukrainian Security Service, potentially reaching 100,000 social media accounts. Russia accused of instigating panic and attempting to destabilize Ukraine.
Post-COVID-19 economic diplomacy for small states
Alumni COVID-19 diplomacy, Diplomacy of small states BlogsSmall states must adapt their economic diplomacy strategies post-COVID-19 to counter the pandemic's economic impact, including rising debt, inequality, and disrupted supply chains. Options include protectionism or growth through fiscal policies, with internal coordination to enhance competitiveness crucial for success. Building alliances with like-minded states and utilizing economic statecraft are recommended. Small states, due to their agility, can establish informal networks to pursue shared economic goals. Diplomats play a vital role in driving economic success through effective economic diplomacy strategies, contributing to increased exports, foreign investment, and global reputation.
Cybercrime: Recognising and preventing malicious activities online
Alumni Cybercrime, Cybersecurity BlogsThe post discusses cybercrime, its impact, and prevention measures against online malicious activities. It highlights the evolution of traditional crimes to adapt to the digital world, the various types of cybercrimes, and the impacts they have on individuals and industries. Prevention strategies are emphasized, ranging from raising awareness to investing in cybersecurity. The message stresses the importance of collaborative efforts between individuals, organizations, government, and the private sector to enhance computer system security and combat cybercrime effectively.
Towards a more diverse international standardisation landscape – Motivations and actions for stakeholders in the ARIN region
Events, Timeline Webinars Digital standards EventsThe event aims to involve stakeholders in the ARIN region in international standardization processes. It will explore motivations for participation, suggest actions to increase engagement, and discuss cooperation on digital standards. Key outcomes of the World Telecommunication Standardization Assembly will also be reviewed. Speakers include Bevil Wooding and Sorina Teleanu, with Marilia Maciel moderating and Ginger Paque as the chat moderator. The event is part of a project funded by ARIN to raise awareness on digital standards in the region, emphasizing the importance for developing countries.
Science diplomacy lessons from the movie Don’t Look Up
Alumni Science diplomacy BlogsA discussion on science diplomacy lessons from the movie Don't Look Up highlights the importance of science communication, the influence of non-state actors, and the need for early involvement of science diplomats in global crises. The film serves as a wake-up call, emphasizing the challenges faced by scientists to convey intangible threats like climate change. The group agrees on the relevance of the movie's message and the real-world obstacles science diplomats encounter. The portrayal of elite access to solutions and global inequalities also underscores the complexities of addressing major challenges facing society.
Starlink won’t block Russian news sources
Updates Science diplomacy, Space diplomacy UpdatesDespite requests from some governments, SpaceX's Starlink system, led by Elon Musk, will not block access to Russian news sources, unless forced. Musk emphasized a commitment to free speech, in contrast to actions taken by other tech companies like Google and Microsoft to restrict Russian media outlets.
Orbit debris struck the Moon
Updates Science diplomacy, Space diplomacy UpdatesA rocket part that was orbiting for eight years hit the Moon at the Hertzsprung crater, believed to be from China's Chang'e 5-T1 mission. Chinese officials deny ownership, previously suspected to be SpaceX's. Scientists say it's the first known space junk collision with the Moon. Confirmation of the impact may take months due to the far side location.
Elon Musk responds to Russia’s International Space Station potential threat
Updates Science diplomacy, Space diplomacy UpdatesElon Musk assures SpaceX will intervene to prevent the International Space Station from deorbiting due to Russia's threats post-Ukraine invasion, negating the necessity of Russian support. Despite Russia's insinuations, any craft with extra fuel, like SpaceX's Dragon, can uphold the space station's orbit. This underscores that the station does not depend solely on Russian Soyuz support.
A new era of Chinese foreign policy
Alumni Foreign policy BlogsChina's foreign policy under Xi Jinping has shifted to a more assertive stance, displaying proactive behavior with a focus on economic reforms and strategic international relations. The country's approach is nuanced, balancing assertiveness in some situations with a more cautious and tactful approach in others. China's military spending is focused on modern warfare tactics and strategic partnerships rather than excessive investment in traditional military buildup. As a rising great power, China navigates a complex global environment, aiming to defend its interests while avoiding open conflict with potential competitors.