
[WebDebate #51] International organisations: Independence under threat?
IFDT WebDebates EventsInternational 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 and how to protect this independence from undue influence, as exemplified by recent accusations of data manipulation at the World Bank. In an upcoming web debate on November 2, 2021, speakers will discuss if the independence of international organisations is at risk. The event will feature Amb. Petru Dumitriu and Amb. Asoke Mukerji, focusing on the topic within the context of diplomatic training.

The Glasgow environment summit: A new paradigm?
Faculty Climate diplomacy BlogsThe text discusses the global environment summit in Glasgow, highlighting powerful messages from a friendly dinosaur and Greta Thunberg. It emphasizes the urgent need for action to combat climate change, particularly focusing on India's challenges in reducing carbon emissions. The text stresses the importance of collaboration among developing countries and a shift towards renewable energy sources. It also addresses the impact of climate change on vulnerable countries and the need for innovative solutions to address this pressing global issue. Mention is made of the interconnected nature of global challenges such as migration and economic development.

New Cyberspace and Digital Policy Bureau at the US State Department
Updates Digital diplomacy, Cybersecurity, Digital foreign policy, Foreign ministries UpdatesThe US State Department has established a new Bureau of Cyberspace and Digital Policy, merging units on cybersecurity and digital policies. The bureau will be led by an ambassador-at-large and aims to modernize diplomacy. Additionally, a policy ideas channel has been created to facilitate sharing ideas between diplomats and leadership. More details can be found in The Wall Street Journal and The Hill.

Can an empty chair save COP26?
UN SG Summit of the Future documents Rights of future generations, Climate diplomacy, Future of meetings BlogsThe symbolic gesture of an empty chair at climate negotiations could represent future generations. This powerful emblem underscores the urgency of addressing climate change with long-term perspectives.

Update on Facebook Papers
Updates Content policy UpdatesAn update on the Facebook Papers has revealed new insights into the company's operations. Whistleblower Frances Haugen's legal counsel provided redacted documents to Congress and 17 news organizations, including the Wall Street Journal, exposing Facebook's awareness of platform issues.

AU-GFCE Cybersecurity Knowledge Modules
Timeline Courses Capacity development, CybersecurityDiplo collaborates with the Global Forum on Cyber Expertise in creating Cybersecurity Knowledge Modules for policymakers. These modules cover various key areas linked to the Global Agenda for Cyber Capacity Building and can be utilized for online courses, repositories, and events.

Zooming out of digital diplomacy
Updates Digital diplomacy UpdatesThe message expresses the limitations of videoconference diplomacy which lacks personal interactions essential for trust-building in diplomacy. It advocates for a shift beyond videoconferencing to enhance diplomatic relations.

[HOW-TO] How to use the Mentimeter app in Zoom
Mentimeter has recently become available in the Zoom Marketplace, making it easier to use during online meetings. Mentimeter is an online voting tool that enables more effective and interactive meetings. You can use this powerful combination of Zoom and Mentimeter together whilst remote working or distance teaching. Mentimeter integrated into Zoom enables live polls, live brainstorming, engaging whiteboards, or simple voting. This encourages participants to engage and interact with the session.

The rights of future generations: What are our responsibilities?
UN SG Summit of the Future documents, Updates Economic, Future of work, Internet governance and digital policy, Rights of future generations BlogsThe UN Secretary-General opened a discussion the rights of future generations with his report 'Our Common Agenda' launched on the 10th September 2021. This text aims to map the main questions and dilemmas on the rights of future generations.

Legal Implications of Sea Level Rise for Small Island States
Updates Diplomacy of small states UpdatesThe World Bank study explores legal implications of sea-level rise on maritime rights of Pacific Island nations, suggesting potential need for reevaluation of international legal conventions.