Diplo Blog
240 shades of diplomacy: Inflated terminology and deflated respect for diplomacy
21 October 2024
The book "231 Shades of Diplomacy" catalogs an extensive array of diplomatic types, revealing a significant expansion in terminology, particularly in the digital age. While phrases like "cyber diplomacy" and "Facebook diplomacy" illustrate this evolution, the respect for diplomacy itself appears to be diminishing. Despite its growing prevalence in discourse, the concept of diplomacy often fails to receive the acknowledgment it deserves, overshadowed by military power and simplistic national narratives. The author advocates for a reevaluation of diplomacy's role and the courage inherent in its practice, essential for fostering societal solutions and recognizing the importance of compromise.
How to train diplomats for the AI era?
18 October 2024
AI is transforming diplomacy, necessitating the evolution of training methods for diplomats. To address the challenges posed by AI, diplomatic training should integrate both traditional skills and modern pedagogies that appeal to younger generations. Diplo's AI Campus exemplifies this approach, offering programs such as master briefings on AI concepts, hands-on AI apprenticeships, simulation exercises, blended learning, and innovative techniques like walking courses. These initiatives ensure that diplomats acquire both theoretical knowledge and practical skills relevant to AI, ultimately enhancing their effectiveness in the evolving landscape of international politics.
What are diplomatic competencies for the AI era?
18 October 2024
Diplomats must develop core competencies to thrive in the AI era, combining traditional skills like empathy and communication with new technological understanding. Essential talents include curiosity and adaptability, while knowledge of AI's workings, data ethics, and safety is crucial for informed decision-making. Diplomats should also learn new skills, such as data analysis and effective AI prompt creation, enhancing their ability to engage and solve problems. As AI automates repetitive tasks, the focus will shift to fostering human connections, making these competencies increasingly vital for successful diplomacy in a technology-driven landscape.
Part 2.5: AI reinforcement learning vs human governance
17 October 2024
Both AI and human governance evolve through trial and error, but how do they differ? Dr Anita Lamprecht compares the two systems to explore the potential impacts of AI on society.
Understanding AI: Why does it matter?
17 October 2024
Many in diplomacy recognise AI’s importance but are unsure how to approach it. Andrej Škrinjarić, director of Education & Training at Diplo, explores what AI can and can’t do, how Diplo is integrating it into diplomatic training, and why it’s crucial to start using it now.
Why will AI enhance, not replace, human diplomacy?
16 October 2024
Artificial Intelligence, Diplomatic career, Diplomatic protocol and etiquette, Diplomatic reporting, Diplomatic service, Pedagogy
In the age of AI, diplomacy is poised for renewal, enhancing rather than replacing human engagement. While AI can automate tasks and analyze data, the essence of diplomacy—characterized by empathy, emotional awareness, and nuanced judgment—remains distinctly human. Diplomats will leverage AI to reduce bureaucratic burdens, focusing more on personal interactions and negotiations. Crisis management and representation require human intuition and cultural understanding, which AI cannot replicate. By equipping diplomats with digital skills, we can ensure that diplomacy remains a vibrant, human-centered practice that evolves alongside technology.
Part 2: Getting introduced to the invisible apprentice – AI
15 October 2024
Week 2 of the AI Apprenticeship course: While it processes data and evolves with us, AI still lacks the human ability to grasp context and meaning. Will AI always be an apprentice, or can it truly master understanding?
Part 1: AI Apprenticeship 2024 @ DiploFoundation
08 October 2024
The AI Apprenticeship course has kicked off! Learn how participants are building their very own AI bots and why gaining independence from big tech is a game changer. Dr Anita Lamprecht writes.
Foreigners everywhere: Identity and estrangement in diplomacy
07 October 2024
As I wandered through the 2024 Biennale in Venice, captivated by the theme “Foreigners Everywhere,” I couldn’t help but reflect on the unique position of diplomats as quintessential foreigners in three profound ways: as foreigners in countries where they are posted, as strangers in their homelands, and, perhaps most intriguingly, as foreigners to themselves. Foreigners […]
Collateral consequences: The unseen price of consumerism
05 October 2024
Markets excel at facilitating trade, but they fail to address the unintended consequences of consumerism like pollution. Aldo Matteucci provides ideas on how to approach these hidden costs.
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