A stronger voice: How Namibian diplomatic practice is updating to the era of digitalisation
Updates Capacity development, Diplomacy courses and workshops, Diplomatic functions and tools, E-tools, Foreign ministries, Internet governance and digital policy, Pedagogy BlogsNamibian diplomats undergo digital diplomacy training from Malta and DiploFoundation. Over 80 officials participate in a 10-day online course covering topics like cybersecurity and geopolitics. Emphasis is placed on balancing traditional diplomacy values with modern demands. Training aims to equip diplomats with skills to navigate complex digital issues in areas like health and trade. Namibian diplomats emerge with enhanced digital policy knowledge and a stronger voice in international affairs. Diplomatic efforts are commended, recognizing the benefits of digitalization for advancing the country's interests.
The four pillars of European Green Deal diplomacy
Updates Climate diplomacy PostsThe European Green Deal diplomacy is grounded on four pillars: trade, bilateral financial agreements, multilateralism via the United Nations, and domestic implementation of the Green Deal.
China’s Lunar Resarch
Updates Space diplomacy PostsChina's scientists achieved a breakthrough in simulating the moon's low-gravity environment, taking inspiration from Andre Geim's frog levitation experiment. This research aligns with China's goal of landing astronauts on the moon by 2030 and establishing a joint lunar research base with Russia, potentially necessitating new rules for lunar activities.
Pegasus spyware ‘found on phone of jailed critic of Narendra Modi ’
Updates Surveillance UpdatesRona Wilson, an Indian activist critical of Narendra Modi, had his phone hacked with Pegasus spyware before his arrest, raising concerns about the case against him.
“Unmasking digital diplomacy in the new normal” – International Conference in Indonesia
Updates Digital diplomacy, COVID-19 diplomacy, Health diplomacy UpdatesIndonesia will host a virtual International Conference on Digital Diplomacy on November 16, 2021, centered around unmasking the potential of digital diplomacy in the current new normal.
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.
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.
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.
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.