People
Stephanie Borg Psaila
Director of Digital Policy, Diplo
Dr Stephanie Borg Psaila is the Director for Digital Policy at DiploFoundation, and the Editor of the GIP Digital Watch observatory. In 2018-2019, she served as Diplo’s Interim Director and Head of Geneva Internet Platform (replacing Founding Director Dr Jovan Kurbalija during his one-year position as co-Executive Director of the Secretariat of the United Nations High-level Panel on Digital Cooperation).
Stephanie holds a Doctorate in Law (LL.D.), a Master’s in Contemporary Diplomacy, and two law-related diplomas from the University of Malta, and her special areas of interest include legal issues in digital policy, human rights, and e-diplomacy. She holds a warrant to practice as a Notary Public in Malta, and is a former journalist with The Sunday Times of Malta.
Related events
E-diplomacy workshop held in Addis Ababa
A recent E-diplomacy Workshop in Addis Ababa educated African diplomats on the Internet's influence on diplomacy and international relations, aiming to enhance the effectiveness of small and developing country diploma...
Upcoming workshop in Ethiopia
A workshop in Ethiopia will focus on the impact of the Internet on modern diplomacy. Topics to be covered include Internet governance, cyber-politics, and the use of social media in diplomacy. The event is part of the...
Impact of ICT on diplomats' careers
Jovan Kurbalija and Vladimir Radunovic discussed the impact of e-diplomacy on junior diplomats' careers at a seminar in Belgrade. They emphasized that in the future, diplomats will dedicate half their time to Internet...
E-Diplomacy day at Malta workshop
Participants at the Malta Master/Workshop on Contemporary Diplomacy are exploring e-diplomacy tools' applications and implications, with Diplo staff guiding them through information sharing, online negotiation, and re...
Diplo & GIP at WSIS Forum 2017
Diplo & GIP are actively engaged at WSIS Forum 2017 hosting events, providing just-in-time session reports, and offering a booth with project updates. Attend workshops and sessions with their experts discussing topics...
#Cybermediation: What role for blockchain technology and natural language processing AI?
The #Cybermediation initiative explores the role of blockchain and natural language processing AI in conflict resolution. Blockchain technology offers neutral record-keeping, while AI can analyze and suggest mediation...
[Webinar] Water and armed conflicts
A webinar on Water and armed conflicts will discuss establishing a List of water-related infrastructures, creating an independent international body for data gathering, and developing principles for protecting water i...
Commonwealth Peoples Forum, Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting
Diplo hosted a panel during the Commonwealth Peoples Forum on Internet Governance for decision-makers from resource-limited countries. The discussion aimed to equip participants with the necessary skills to engage in ...
Workshop: Intercultural communication essentials
The workshop on intercultural communication essentials aims to prevent misunderstandings by promoting awareness of diversity in communication styles and cultural differences. Dr. Biljana Scott, an experienced linguist...
Unpacking the High-Level Panel’s Report: Contributions from Geneva
The High-Level Panel's report on digital cooperation was launched in New York and Geneva, recommending improvements to current digital policy architecture. The report outlines three models for implementation. An exper...
Online discussion: Navigating Geneva’s digital policy landscape
Geneva's digital policy landscape is expanding, encompassing cybersecurity, e-commerce, health data, climate issues, and sustainable development goals. Understanding this rich environment is crucial. Join a discussion...
[WebDebate #44] Diplomacy in times of COVID-19: The experience of developing countries
Small and developing countries face challenges in diplomacy during COVID-19. Diplomats at multilateral hubs are stretched thin, facing connectivity issues and lack of cybersecurity expertise. Budget constraints and po...
Discussion: Cyber detente after the Biden–Putin summit in Geneva
A cyber detente between Russia and the began in Geneva after the Biden-Putin summit, focusing on prosecuting cybercriminals, expert dialogue, and global policy impact. Join the discussion on cyberpeace's future with d...
Data economy: human-centric approach at the forefront
The message emphasizes a human-centric approach to the data economy. It discusses an upcoming dialogue in Geneva focusing on topics like data supply chain transparency, balancing data potential with individual rights,...
[WebDebate #50] Training cyber diplomats: Tools, gaps, and opportunities
Diplomats must adapt to digital topics, including cybersecurity, commerce, and human rights. Training is crucial to bridge capacity gaps. A study by Diplo found a lack of awareness among cyber diplomats about availabl...
[Briefing for diplomats] An inclusive internet: Lowering the barriers for access
The online briefing for diplomats highlights the importance of closing the digital divide and promoting an inclusive internet. Topics include accelerating access, addressing inequalities, and considering factors beyon...
Diplo and the Geneva Internet Platform at IGF 2021
Diplo and the Geneva Internet Platform will participate in various sessions at IGF 2021, discussing topics like cyber stability, digital capacity development, access to the open internet, security of digital products,...
Information as a public good: Which platform regulation for a troubled digital era?
Dr. Stephanie Borg Psaila will discuss platform regulation at the Internet for Trust conference's side event on "Information as a public good" organized by #Leplusimportant, Académie des sciences morales et politique...
Digital Governance and the Multistakeholder Approach in 2023: A New Reality? – Swiss IGF 2023
Digital governance faces challenges due to increased geopolitical tensions and state influence, impacting the multistakeholder approach. Discussions at the Swiss IGF 2023 will focus on key issues and negotiation strat...
New Metaverse Frontiers for National Governments
Dr. Stephanie Borg Psaila will participate in the New Metaverse Frontiers for National Governments event, part of The Metaverse Spectrum Business Conference Expo. Some nations like Norway and Barbados are exploring th...
Global digital governance: Geneva’s perspectives and role. An expert-guided dialogue among diplomats
Geneva is a hub for global digital governance discussions. A dialogue for diplomats will focus on effective solutions to digital challenges and Geneva's role. The event, facilitated by experts, aims to gather diplomat...
Related blogs
WikiLeaks three months on: discussions and reflections
Discussions and reflections on the impact of WikiLeaks on diplomacy have taken place over three months, with meetings in Geneva, Bern, and Malta. Research was conducted on various aspects of the impact. A paper by Jov...
You are what you tweet
Hungarian politician Tamás Deutsch and other politicians have faced backlash for inappropriate tweets, including foul language and insults towards fellow politicians. Twitter warns that users are responsible for thei...
Obama on Twitter
President Obama participated in a live Twitter Town Hall event where over 26,000 people asked 40,000 unique questions in just 70 minutes. The majority of questions focused on the space program, drugs, budget, jobs, ta...
Diplomats on Twitter
The message discusses the increasing presence of diplomats on Twitter and encourages following them to gain insight into their discussions. It highlights the DiplomacyEdu Twitter list, which aims to showcase diplomats...
The 'send' button: hit with caution
Mistakes in sending messages can happen easily due to hastiness, distraction, or oversight, as exemplified by various public figures and officials. The consequences of hitting the 'send' button can be significant, as ...
How did the world learn about Bin Laden's death? Twitter, of course
The news of Bin Laden's death spread rapidly via Twitter after a single tweet from Keith Urbahn confirmed the information. President Obama was still preparing his speech while the news had already gone viral globally,...
More e-tools: info aggregators, blogging, and microblogging
The text discusses the importance of e-tools in diplomacy, highlighting information aggregators, blogging, and microblogging. These tools aid in communication, organizing information, and conducting public diplomacy o...
Live coverage of E-diplomacy workshop
Live coverage of E-diplomacy workshop in Malta organized by DiploFoundation featuring discussions on the influence of the Internet on modern diplomacy, 'Twitter revolutions', and the use of e-tools in diplomatic activ...
Our WikiLeaks poll: here's how you voted
The WikiLeaks poll showed strong support for Julian Assange, with 73% believing the CableGate release was in the public interest. There are questions about the balance between freedom of speech and potential harm to i...
Policy Briefing: WikiLeaks and the Future of Diplomacy
The policy briefing discusses the impact of WikiLeaks on international security and the future of diplomacy, prompting debates on transparency. Dr. Koser, Dr. Kurbalija, and Mr. Mottaz provide insights from various an...
How will WikiLeaks impact public diplomacy?
Milos Radakovic reflects on the impact of WikiLeaks on public diplomacy, initially fearing its obliteration. However, he acknowledges diverse perspectives on how WikiLeaks functions beyond just alternative political i...
WikiLeaks and Diplomacy
Ambassador Kishan S. Rana discusses the impact of the release of 250,000 diplomatic cables on the diplomatic system. While some are embarrassed by indiscretions revealed, the essence of diplomacy, based on confidentia...
Social media: How less (money) can lead to more (impact)
Jovan Kurbalija explores the success of the State Department’s e-diplomacy project, DiploPedia. The project's achievement stemmed from its lack of budget, forcing the team to utilize open-source tools and foster a c...
Waking up to Facebook, six years later
Politicians are just now realizing the importance of social media, like Facebook, for engaging with constituents, despite it being around for six years. Taxpayers are upset over the cost of training politicians to use...
The far-reaching Google-Verizon proposal
Critics express concern over the Google-Verizon proposal, fearing its impact on Net neutrality. The proposal raises fears of virtual tollbooths for faster internet access or subscription content. While some users may ...
Blackberry bans continue
Blackberry is facing bans in multiple countries due to concerns over user data being routed overseas. States are requesting local servers to ensure data stays within their borders, citing security and privacy issues. ...
A multistakeholder IGF
Participants at the Internet Governance Forum in Vilnius, Lithuania, expressed support for maintaining a multistakeholder model. Rod Beckstrom's plea emphasized the importance of involving various stakeholders, such a...
Europe’s Internet treaty?
Europe's Internet treaty is discussed after a concept paper circulated at the Internet Governance Forum in Lithuania. A small group of experts introduced principles, receiving feedback from the community. Speculation ...
The next big thing
National and regional Internet governance forums are emerging trends, gaining significance and fostering collaboration. A rise in workshops and meetings at these levels is evident worldwide, addressing diverse needs a...
The Social Network: copyright breach or betrayal?
The article discusses the legal implications of the movie "The Social Network", focusing on the copyright breach claims made by the Winklevoss twins against Mark Zuckerberg. It delves into the complexities of copyrigh...
The 8 most over-used words in Internet governance
The message lists the 8 most over-used words in Internet governance, critiquing their vague or empty usage. Terms like "the way forward," "raising awareness," "strategy," "collaboration," "engage," and a string of ter...
IGF renewal: negotiations under way
Negotiations are ongoing for the renewal of the Internet Governance Forum's mandate for another five years, following its expiration. Formal consultations have taken place with recommendations in favor of an extension...
IGF renewal a step closer: Second Committee to approve final text on Nov. 30
The Second Committee of the General Assembly has finalized a draft text for the Internet Governance Forum renewal, expected to be approved on November 30. The resolution extends the IGF mandate for five years and emph...
Second Committee approves draft resolution on ICT for development
The Second Committee approved a draft resolution on 'Information and communications technologies for development' by consensus. The United States representative voiced concerns about better reflecting the Internet Gov...
WikiLeaks: we’re forgetting Bradley Manning
The message discusses the role of Bradley Manning in leaking classified information to WikiLeaks, emphasizing the need to consider individuals like Manning and technology flaws rather than solely focusing on WikiLeaks...
Google eyes online newsstand
Google plans to launch an online newsstand, potentially affecting print newspapers and journals. This move could pose a threat to Apple's iTunes. Despite the rise of digital news consumption, many still rely on print ...
IGF preparations: discussions aplenty while key positions still vacant
Preparations for the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) in Nairobi are underway with lively discussions. While key positions like Special Advisor and Chairperson remain vacant, stakeholders are optimistic about upcoming ...
E-winds of change
Restriction of Internet access in various countries like Egypt, Algeria, and Libya to silence dissent failed, as news still spread via alternative methods. Freedom of speech, dating back to ancient times, is being cha...
Internet blackouts and their impact on IG and ICT policy
Internet blackouts have sparked debates on freedoms and governance, leading to initiatives for standard-setting principles in cyberspace. Efforts are being made to communicate outcomes to policymakers effectively and ...
Right to access the Internet: the countries and the laws that proclaim it
Several countries, including Estonia, Greece, the European Union, France, Finland, Costa Rica, and Spain, have recognized Internet access as a legal right through legislative measures. Countries like Estonia and Finla...
‘UN declares Internet access a human right’ – did it really?
The United Nations report emphasizes the Internet's role in enabling the right to freedom of expression, not explicitly declaring Internet access a human right. It highlights the importance of states ensuring universa...
Cloud computing: what goes on up there?
The text discusses two articles on cloud computing: one detailing Apple's iCloud launch and another revealing a study showing cloud service providers often place data security responsibility on users. It highlights th...
Teacher-student online private communication banned in US state
Missouri has introduced a law prohibiting private online communication between teachers and students, aiming to protect children. While some debate the impact on social media's role in education, the law advocates for...
Internet governance book in Serbian
A book on Internet governance by Jovan Kurbalija has been published in Serbian with support from various organizations. The translated version can be accessed online, and a presentation is scheduled for the Serbian Te...
Private networks for children and new ‘life skills’
Schools are recognizing social networks as vital life skills for kids and are creating private networks for children to learn about responsible online behavior. However, while these initiatives are beneficial, parents...
To cease or not to cease?
The African Union's persuasion for a ceasefire in Libya would limit NATO's ability to defend the rebels, while Gaddafi stands to gain. Nato airstrikes continue to target Gaddafi's forces, aiding the rebels in halting ...
Young people’s digital responsibility
European children begin using the internet at age seven and a significant percentage have social networking profiles at ages 9-12. The Safer Internet Programme is focused on empowering youth with responsible online be...
Establishing a strong online presence through the use of social media: E-diplomacy in practice
The Danish Embassy in London has embraced social media, with First Secretary Karen Melchior leading the charge. Social media integration has become essential, bridging traditional diplomacy with new communication meth...
Digest of the debate: Diplomatic Reporting in the Internet Era after WikiLeaks
A discussion on 'Diplomatic Reporting in the Internet Era after WikiLeaks' was held in February 2011. The panel reflected on the impact of WikiLeaks on diplomatic reporting, the professionalism of diplomatic services ...
Online Freedom of Expression: issues and frameworks
Online Freedom of Expression is a contentious topic discussed in a Diplo webinar by Salanieta Tamanikaiwaimaro. Various incidents illustrate challenges with online freedom, raising questions on balancing interests and...
Outcomes of ICANN 43: debates and developments
The outcomes of ICANN 43 were discussed in a webinar, highlighting controversies such as protection for certain names, concerns about the bottom-up policy-making process, and the need for more community involvement. T...
Bypassing censorship: An activist's experience
Walid Al-Saqaf, a Yemeni activist and programmer, faced censorship and oppression but developed Alkasir, a tool helping citizens bypass government control by consolidating censored content. His efforts in promoting fr...
Illegal online content and liability of Internet intermediaries: Why the messengers should not be shot
The message discusses the issue of illegal online content and the liability of Internet intermediaries. It explores the challenges faced by governments in controlling such content and the growing need for new models. ...
Diplo fellows at the Internet Governance Forum
Diplo fellows attended the Internet Governance Forum, engaging in workshops and discussions on crucial online issues. Supported by VeriSign and the Central European Initiative, these fellows shared insights on freedom...
ICANN’s new engagement strategy in the developing world
ICANN is implementing a new engagement strategy to enhance involvement with stakeholders, with a focus on developing countries. Dr. Tarek Kamel discussed the strategy, including setting up hubs in Istanbul and Singapo...
The threat of cyber-attacks
A Dutchman was arrested for a massive cyber-attack on Spamhaus, an anti-spam organization. The attack utilized Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) techniques and raised concerns about the escalating threat of cyber-a...
Placing the citizens’ needs at the centre
The message emphasizes the importance of open government, which focuses on transparency, citizen participation, accountability, and technology. It urges citizens to understand and engage with this concept, emphasizing...
IG entering the ‘premier league’ of global governance
The message discusses the Internet Governance Forum's evolution into the "premier league" of global governance, with increasing discussion at high political levels. The forum aims for a more inclusive and evidence-bas...
Information overload?
The text discusses the overwhelming amount of information bombarding us through technology, leading to a struggle to transform it into meaningful knowledge. It highlights the need to break free from the constant scrol...
Access to the Internet is a Human Right
Many people lack internet access, a pressing issue highlighted as a human rights concern. A workshop will address challenges for small island states. Gender inequity in global internet governance was emphasized, with ...
The right to be forgotten: from Spain to Luxembourg and beyond
Article 19 expresses concerns about the right to be forgotten following the Google Advisory Council meeting in London. The judgment from the Court of Justice of the European Union in Google Spain v Agencia Española d...
Outcomes of the ITU’s Plenipotentiary Conference
The outcomes of the ITU's Plenipotentiary Conference, held in Busan, Korea, were characterized by arduous negotiations and watered-down amendments. Key points included the election of new leadership and decisions on t...
Taking Internet governance webinars to the next level
Diplo is enhancing its Internet governance webinars, merging with Geneva Briefings on Internet Governance in 2015. Expect monthly briefings decoding key developments, zoomed-out updates, discussions, special events, r...
GDPR to take effect one year from now
The GDPR will be enforced in one year, affecting data of 510 million EU citizens. It imposes obligations on data controllers and processors, extending globally. The regulation protects personal data, including identif...
Offline markets are tech giants' next quest
Tech giants like Google, Amazon, and Apple, with massive revenues, are venturing into offline markets to diversify. They are expanding into logistics, acquiring physical stores like Whole Foods, and investing in renew...
From digital independence to digital interdependence
The High-level Panel on Digital Cooperation's Final Report transitions from digital independence to digital interdependence, addressing the need for inclusive digital practices, enhancing human and institutional capac...
[WebDebate #46 summary] Unpacking the EU's digital diplomacy and foreign policy
The message discusses the importance of incorporating digital aspects into foreign policies. It touches on the EU's digital foreign policy, the need for coherence in digital policies, and the role of diplomats in navi...
Apple's new measures to protect children online on hold
Apple has paused the rollout of new measures aimed at protecting children online due to privacy concerns. The tools were designed to scan images for child sexual abuse material, but faced backlash for potentially weak...
Year in review: The digital policy developments that defined 2021
The digital policy developments in 2021 were mainly shaped by pandemic challenges, a race for tech supremacy, antitrust investigations, semiconductor shortage effects, social media controversies, and cybersecurity inc...
'37 people are waiting for you to confirm their friend requests'
The author received an email stating that 37 friends are waiting for them to accept friend requests on Facebook. They express concerns about online privacy, especially for young people, and emphasize the importance of...
Governments vs ChatGPT: Investigations around the world
ChatGPT has taken the world by storm. Now, governments around the world are starting to take notice of these tools, and have launched investigations into OpenAI’s ChatGPT. Here are the countries that are probing Ope...
Governments vs ChatGPT: Regulation around the world
ChatGPT has taken the world by storm. Now, governments around the world are starting to take notice of these tools, and have launched investigations into OpenAI’s ChatGPT. Here are the countries that are probing Ope...
Related resources
Small States at the United Nations
The proliferation of small states in the past few decades has brought small and larger states on the same playing field. Their increase in number triggered a wave of studies, raised concern by 'realists' and some powe...
20 Aug, 2010
The EU’s New Commission: Digital Policy in the Limelight (Briefing Paper #13)
In this briefing paper, Dr Stephanie Borg Psaila analyses Ursula von der Leyen's new EU Commission's emphasis on digital policy for 2019–2024....
08 Aug, 2019
Improving the practice of cyber diplomacy: Training, tools, and other resources - Phase I
Cyber diplomacy, the conduct of diplomacy with respect to a state’s interests in cyberspace, is too important to ignore. Yet, the participation of countries is far from ideal....
01 Oct, 2021
Improving the practice of cyber diplomacy: Training, tools, and other resources - Final study
This study analyses the capacity development of cyber diplomacy, including training opportunities, tools, and other resources, and looks at their reach, take-up, and what should come next. Why? Because although cyber ...
01 Dec, 2021
Diplo: Effective and inclusive diplomacy
Diplo is a non-profit foundation established by the governments of Malta and Switzerland. Diplo works to increase the role of small and developing states, and to improve global governance and international policy development.
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