Wreckers are as important as builders
Diplo Wisdom Circle, Revisit BlogsThe importance of those who dismantle the old system alongside builders is highlighted, citing examples like Gorbachev and De Gaulle. The message emphasizes that disruptors are crucial in history's transitions, often overlooked for heroes who bring in new eras. Recognizing both roles is essential for understanding the complexity of historical change.
Diplomacy as poetry
Diplo Wisdom Circle Ambiguity, Diplomatic theory and practice, Language (and) diplomacy BlogsThe message explores the similarities and differences between poetry and diplomacy, highlighting how the two fields intersect in terms of values, redress, ambiguity, and ambivalence. It suggests that poetry can assist diplomacy by embracing ambiguity, viewing ambivalence as a strength, and recognizing the importance of diplomatic acumen. The text concludes with a reflection on how poetry can potentially benefit diplomacy.
A brief history of Yoga diplomacy
Diplo Wisdom Circle Contemporary diplomacy, Cultural diplomacy, Cultural diversity, Health diplomacy, Intercultural communication, Nation branding, Public diplomacy, Sports diplomacy, Yoga diplomacy BlogsIn 2014, Narendra Modi proposed an International Yoga Day at the United Nations, focusing on the holistic benefits of yoga beyond exercise, including addressing climate change. The diplomatic campaign involved strategic efforts to gain co-sponsorship from various countries, emphasizing the link between yoga, health, and global issues. The resolution eventually gained impressive support from 177 countries and was adopted within a record 75 days. The initiative aimed to promote health, sustainability, and cultural heritage internationally, illustrating India's commitment to meaningful diplomacy beyond traditional resolutions.
After Merkel
Diplo Wisdom Circle, Faculty Contemporary diplomacy BlogsThe message provides a detailed overview of Angela Merkel's time in office and her impact. It covers her tenure, notable events she faced, her leadership style, and the challenges her successor must tackle. Merkel's legacy is portrayed as one of stability, trustworthiness, and ethical leadership. The text highlights the uniqueness of Merkel's political career coming from East Germany and emphasizes her significant role in global politics. The message closes by asserting that reflecting on life post-Merkel is essentially reflecting on Merkel herself, recognizing her as incomparable and great.
Why should diplomatic academies shift to online learning?
Diplo Wisdom Circle, Faculty Capacity development, Online education BlogsThe COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the shift towards online learning, urging diplomatic academies to embrace innovation. While traditional methods have their merits, online teaching offers benefits such as flexibility, diverse student backgrounds, and reduced costs. Investing in a good learning management system and leveraging tools like video conferencing can enhance the online learning experience. Drawing on insights from entities like DiploFoundation can aid in the successful transition. The pandemic has highlighted the practicality and advantages of online learning, making it a preferred method for diplomatic training institutions moving forward.
The US approach to offline and online threats and attacks on critical infrastructure by non-state actors
Alumni, Diplo Wisdom Circle Critical infrastructure, Cyberconflict and warfare, Cybercrime, Cybersecurity BlogsThe US addresses both online and offline threats to critical infrastructure by defining and protecting vital systems and assets from criminal activities, with laws covering computer crimes and physical breaches. Measures are outlined in the Presidential Policy Directive on Critical Infrastructure Security and Resilience. The US has also adopted the CLOUD Act to address cross-border challenges. Prevention, awareness-raising, and enforcement efforts aim to safeguard critical infrastructure and prosecute offenders. Coordination with other countries is essential for investigations involving foreign actors.
Strategies of modern-day small states
Alumni, Diplo Wisdom Circle Diplomacy of small states, Public diplomacy, Soft power diplomacy, Types of diplomacy BlogsSmaller states can leverage soft power, like Qatar did with Al Jazeera, and regional alliances to increase international relevance and influence. Crafty strategies can turn smallness into strength, enabling smaller states to establish credibility and trust on the global stage despite the dominance of larger nations. Efforts in state-branding and participation in alliances like CARICOM and ASEAN prove effective in countering perceptions of irrelevance or weakness typically associated with small states. Diplomatic innovation is key for small states to secure a place in international affairs.
Digital accessibility in Kenya after COVID-19
Diplo Wisdom Circle Access, Digital divide, Rights of persons with disabilities BlogsDigital accessibility in Kenya faced challenges during COVID-19. The pandemic highlighted the struggle for accessibility, particularly for persons with disabilities in accessing online information and services. Efforts by companies like Safaricom show progress, but more action is needed. A national debate on digital accessibility is necessary, addressing issues such as literacy, education, expert availability, policy enforcement, and monitoring. Kenya must prioritize and institutionalize digital accessibility to ensure the inclusion of persons with disabilities. Embracing digital accessibility will not only benefit Kenya but also set a precedent for other nations to follow.
Of topoi and memes
Diplo Wisdom Circle, Revisit Social media BlogsThe text discusses the controversial figure Richard Dawkins, criticizing his once-popular theories like the "selfish gene" concept and the idea of memes. It delves into the historical origins of memes, known as topoi in Greek antiquity, and their role in shaping discourse. The text also touches on the maxim "know thyself," tracing its influence through various philosophical traditions. It concludes by highlighting the purpose of topoi in combining authority with change, emphasizing the importance of meditation in philosophical thought.
Violent left and right: Which is more dangerous?
Diplo Wisdom Circle Politics and governance BlogsThe text discusses the condemning of violent behavior on both the left and right sides of the political spectrum. It compares the ideologies and motivations behind the violence, highlighting that far-right violence tends to be more likely and enduring due to a perceived existential threat, while far-left violence is more tactical and occasional. The message also delves into the different means and tactical aspects of violence associated with both extremes.
