Diplo Blog
AI and Magical Realism: When technology blurs the line between wonder and reality
27 June 2025
The challenges of governing artificial intelligence often feel like something out of a Gabriel GarcÃa Márquez novel, where the extraordinary blends seamlessly with the everyday, and the line between the possible and the impossible grows faint. This week (22-27 June 2025) at the 20th Internet Governance Forum (IGF), I proposed using magical realism as a lens to understand […]
AI in Sophie’s world: How a philosophy book can help us govern AI
21 June 2025
As we convene in Oslo for the Internet Governance Forum, we reflect on the philosophical insights from Jostein Gaarder's "Sophie’s World." The novel's exploration of identity and constructed reality parallels the challenges of AI governance today. Just as Sophie learns her existence is scripted, AI systems are shaped by data and algorithms, raising questions about consciousness and accountability. The complexities of AI, such as the 'black box' problem, highlight the need for transparency and understanding. Ultimately, governance should prioritize values and meaning, urging us to engage with fundamental questions about identity and existence in our digital age.
Advancing Swiss AI Trinity: Zurich’s entrepreneurship, Geneva’s governance, and communal subsidiarity
15 June 2025
Switzerland can inspire global AI transformation by leveraging its unique strengths: Zurich’s entrepreneurial spirit, Geneva’s governance expertise, and a focus on communal subsidiarity. This "AI Trinity" aims to reshape the national social contract for the AI era, balancing technological advancement with Swiss values of inclusivity and responsibility. As global uncertainty grows, Switzerland can establish a distinctive AI development strategy, fostering local innovation through educational initiatives and community engagement. By harmonizing innovation, governance, and local empowerment, Switzerland can demonstrate a model for ethical AI that serves both its people and the world.
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.
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, […]
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.
Part 1: An introduction to digital twins
When Spain & Portugal went dark, it wasn't just lights that failed. It was a reminder: technology isn't just a tool – it's the system we live in.
Part 7: ‘Converging realities: Embedding governance through digital twins’
The metaverse is no longer a question of ‘what if’ – it’s already being built. Digital twins, embedded governance, and the collapse of the digital–physical divide mark the next frontier.
Tech continuity in President Trump’s first 100 days
27 April 2025
During President Trump’s first 100 days, technology policy exhibited continuity rather than disruption, with a focus on AI and digital regulation characterized by incremental adjustments. Only 9 of 139 executive orders targeted technology specifically. Trump's administration prioritized business interests, reinforcing a pro-business legacy while facing increasing pressures for digital sovereignty from the EU and other nations. Key issues included content governance, cybersecurity, and digital economy tariffs. Additionally, deregulation efforts in the cryptocurrency space marked a shift, though navigating global tensions will be essential for maintaining U.S. tech policy amidst rising international challenges.
From geopolitics to classrooms: The hopeful side of the US-China AI race
27 April 2025
Online education, Artificial Intelligence, Education diplomacy
The competition between the US and China in AI education is emerging as a vital battleground amidst geopolitical tensions. Both nations are prioritizing AI education to prepare future generations for a transformative technological landscape. This shift highlights AI's role as a critical force shaping society and emphasizes the potential for enhanced educational methods through personalized learning. While concerns about isolationism exist, the collaborative nature of education may foster partnerships and shared resources, paving the way for global benefits. Ultimately, this rivalry in AI education could lead to promising developments in human capacities and societal growth.
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