Diplo US

Data Governance in the Context of Emerging Technologies: Promoting Human-Centred and Development-Oriented Societies
2022-09-02 09:00 - 10:00 (America/New_York) | Online
Event description
Date: Friday, 2nd September, 9 am – 10 am EDT
The importance of data is paramount, not only for promoting innovation, but also for better policy making and long-term development. Data has become a cornerstone for the digital economy and a strategic asset for promoting the vision of a people-centred and development-oriented ecosystem, set forth by the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS).
In particular, data availability and data flows underpin emerging technologies, such as the internet of things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), 3D printing, and the connected infrastructure that increasingly allows modern cities to function.
In the context of this data-driven economy, the governance of this key asset should be tackled in a multilayered way. On the one hand, there is a growing need to harmonise measures put in place at the national level (or ‘behind the border’) that have an impact on data flows and on the development of new technologies. On the other hand, it is important to tackle the geopolitical consequences of the concentration of key assets (data sets, cloud services, analytics capacity) and of wealth in the context of the data economy, and the potential impact that this concentration could have on development, stability, and on attaining the SDGs.
Some of the topics to be covered by speakers include:

The geopolitics of data: How are data and data-related assets distributed worldwide? What is the importance of holistic data governance, especially in the context of emerging technologies?
Emerging technologies and trade: Can trade agreements facilitate access to the inputs required for the development of emerging technologies, in particular data? How can they specifically benefit developing countries?
Non-personal data: Could mechanisms for promoting access to non-personal data and data sharing benefit the ability of developing countries to pursue their digital industrialisation strategies?
Privacy in the context of emerging technologies: What are the limitations of data protection frameworks in dealing with emerging technologies (e.g. AI), and which mechanisms could be implemented to safeguard the rights of individuals and the social benefits of data?
Institutional arrangements: Next year, the UN Digital Future Summit will take place, continuing the important efforts condensed in the Roadmap for Digital Cooperation. How to better coordinate data governance within the UN system and with other international organisations close to the UN family? Could the UN provide a space to address data governance in a more holistic and inclusive manner?

Join us for this opening lecture of Diplo’s Data Governance in the Digital Economy online course.
Registrations are open
Register×Participants
Opening remarks: Dr Jovan Kurbalija (Director, Diplo; Head, Geneva Internet Platform (GIP))
Moderation: Ms Marília Maciel (Head, Digital Commerce and Internet Policy, Diplo)
Speakers:
Ms Pilar Fajarnes Garces (Economic Affairs Officer, Technology and Logistics Division, UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD))
Mr Luca Belli (Professor, FGV Law School; Head, Center for Technology and Society, FGV; Director, CyberBRICS)
Mr Hao Liu (Acting Chair, School of Global Governance, Beijing Institute of Technology)
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Summit on Digital Diplomacy and Governance
2022-10-07 04:00 - 13:00 | Online
Technology is having a profound impact on the core functions of diplomacy. The role of diplomacy in the digital era is changing: from geopolitical and societal changes in the environment where diplomacy operates, to new issues on diplomatic agendas, to new digital tools aiding the work of diplomats.
The Summit on Digital Diplomacy and Governance, organised by DiploFoundation in cooperation with Malta’s Ministry for Foreign and European Affairs and Trade and the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs, will look ahead at the future of diplomacy by reflecting on the past decades, marked by the use of technology in and for diplomacy.
Registrations are open
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Diplomats, academics, technologists, and NGO representatives will also discuss digital diplomacy and governance, AI, e-commerce, cybersecurity, and other issues that shape our digital future, as well as policy processes including ongoing negotiations on the proposed Global Digital Compact.
The Summit, which will also mark 20 years of DiploFoundation and 30 years of internet and diplomacy research and training in Malta, will take place in Malta on Friday 18th November and Saturday 19th November 2022, and will be preceded by a pre-event on Thursday, 17th November 2022.
Visit the Summit website to learn more and to participate. Visit also the Diploversary page to find out more about Diplo’s history. For queries and press contacts, write to us at malta@diplomacy.edu

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AI Policy Summit 2022
2022-10-09 - 2022-10-13 | Online
RegHorizon and ETH Zurich’s Center for Law and Economics have partnered since 2019 to create an unbiased platform for a timely multi-stakeholder discussion among policy makers, academia, business and society focussing on challenges that AI technologies pose and exploring relevant policy solutions to address them.
The 3rd AI Policy Conference continues the multistakeholder dialogue started last year with leading experts to explore the use of public policy and societal engagement to capture the benefits of artificial intelligence, minimize its risks and enhance its adoption.
The Conference offers a unique opportunity for a truly multi-stakeholder exchange among high level policymakers, business leaders, civil society, and academia to discuss and co-create the future of AI policies and build AI Policy together for a better world!
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Diplo Week in Geneva
2022-11-07 03:00 - 2022-11-11 06:30
Event description
Were celebrating our 20th anniversary with Diplo Week in Geneva!
Throughout Diplo Week, therell be a series of open-door events where you can learn all about the latest AI applications and data analysis, how to use them in online meetings, and brand new online teaching methods!
Lets go on a journey through Diplos ideas, tools, and services where you can discover how Diplo blends technology, arts, and diplomacy.
More info about Event and Registration
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Summit on Digital Diplomacy and Governance
2022-11-17 04:00 - 2022-11-19 15:30 | Online
Technology is having a profound impact on the core functions of diplomacy. The role of diplomacy in the digital era is changing: from geopolitical and societal changes in the environment where diplomacy operates, to new issues on diplomatic agendas, to new digital tools aiding the work of diplomats.
The Summit on Digital Diplomacy and Governance, organised by DiploFoundation in cooperation with Malta’s Ministry for Foreign and European Affairs and Trade and the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs, will look ahead at the future of diplomacy by reflecting on the past decades, marked by the use of technology in and for diplomacy.

Diplomats, academics, technologists, and NGO representatives will also discuss digital diplomacy and governance, AI, e-commerce, cybersecurity, and other issues that shape our digital future, as well as policy processes including ongoing negotiations on the proposed Global Digital Compact.
The Summit, which will also mark 20 years of DiploFoundation and 30 years of internet and diplomacy research and training in Malta, will take place in Malta on Friday 18th November and Saturday 19th November 2022, and will be preceded by a pre-event on Thursday, 17th November 2022.
Visit the Summit website to learn more and to participate. Visit also the Diploversary page to find out more about Diplo’s history. For queries and press contacts, write to us at malta@diplomacy.edu

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Book launch: ‘Churchill and India: Manipulation or Betrayal?’ (Kishan S. Rana)
2022-12-07 05:00 - 06:00 | Online
Wednesday, 7th December, 5am EST (11:00 CET), via Zoom
Amb. Kishan S. Rana (Honorary Member, Institute of Chinese Studies, New Deli; Emeritus Professor, Diplo) will discuss his new book Churchill and India: Manipulation or Betrayal?, published by Routledge, which focuses on the complex relationship between Winston Churchill and India in the context of the later phase of the British Empire.
Find out more about the book on Routledge’s website.
The event will take place via Zoom, in English. Join the Zoom meeting via:
https://diplomacy.zoom.us/j/99911738297?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 999 1173 8297
Password: [REDACTED]
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Trends and Predictions for 2023
2023-01-12 08:00 - 09:00 | Online
What will 2023 bring for digital geopolitics, AI, data, and cryptocurrencies?
Will the ‘1998 deal’ on digital government still hold?
What issues will dominate the UN and multilateral agenda in Geneva and beyond?
All these, and numerous other questions that will shape the digital landscape in 2023 will be discussed online on 12th January 2023 (8 am EST/14.00 CET)
Join Jovan Kurbalija and his guests during the annual prediction session.
Register below and contribute to the discussion.
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8th Geneva Engage Awards
2023-02-01 07:00 - 08:30 | Online
Join us on Wednesday, 1 February 2023, 7 am – 8:30 am EST (12:00–13:30 UTC), for another edition of the Geneva Engage Awards ceremony.
The annual Geneva Engage Awards recognise International Geneva actors in their social media outreach and online engagement. Geneva Engage examines International Geneva’s global footprint by looking at the social media engagement of Geneva-based organisations and Geneva’s web relevance. This year, we are also examining the links between different actors in International Geneva through connections, mentions and interactions on social media.
The 8th Geneva Engage Awards will introduce a new Accessibility Award to recognise efforts to enhance website accessibility performance.
Registrations are open
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The three categories of the Geneva Engage Awards are:

International Organisations
Non-Governmental Organisations and Associations
Permanent Representations to the UN in Geneva

The Geneva Engage initiative was launched by the Geneva Internet Platform (GIP) in 2016 with the support of the Republic and Canton of Geneva and DiploFoundation. Visit the Geneva Engage Awards page for more information on methodology and to see the list of winners of the 7th Geneva Engage Awards.

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Will AI take over diplomatic reporting? (WebDebate #56)
2023-02-07 09:00 - 10:00 | Online
Event description
Reports are the lifeblood of diplomacy. Every day, thousands of reports, also known as diplomatic cables, are produced by diplomats around the world.
With the advent of AI, and in particular the release of ChatGPT, we have to ask ourselves: Will AI take over diplomatic reporting?
Tuesday, 7th February, 09:00 EST (14:00 UTC | 15:00 CEST | 19:30 IST)
Registrations are open
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Diplomatic reports summarise meetings and negotiations, analyse situations and identify trends, and propose further actions. In the history of diplomacy, the first embassy (Milan to Florence in 1450) and the first Ministry of Foreign Affairs (France in 1626) were established to serve as archives of diplomatic reports. In addition to internal diplomatic reports, reports are prepared for international organisations as records of the implementation of treaties, Agenda 2030, and other global initiatives.
ChatGPT gave us a glimpse of the power of AI for drafting texts. The whole process of reporting – from a transcription of voice recordings to the summarising of text, to answering specific questions – can be performed by the AI. Off-the-shelf AI such as ChatGPT is not reliable yet. But, AI, which will be trained in the language and way of thinking of diplomats, can mimic a considerable part of diplomatic reporting. As we saw from ChatGPT, diplomats may have to develop new skills of ‘prompting’ in order to provide AI with a cognitive framework for drafting and summarising.

How will AI affect diplomatic reporting? What will be the impact on the diplomatic profession? What would be a human role in ‘automated diplomatic reporting ’?

Join diplomats, academics, and AI experts for an informed discussion on the current level of technology and future trends. You will also have a chance to hear about Diplo’s cutting-edge research on apps and tools for AI and diplomacy.
Registrations are open:

RegisterContributors:
Diplo’s AI and Data Team
Jovan Kurbalija, Director of DiploFoundation and Head of Geneva
Moderator:
Dr Katharina E. Höne (Director of Research, Diplo)
About our WebDebates
Our WebDebates on the future of diplomacy are live-streamed on the first Tuesday of every month. They are organised by Diplo within the framework of the International Forum on Diplomatic Training (IFDT). Learn more about our WebDebates series.

Digital Geopolitics in the Asia-Europe Space: Issues, Actors, and Divides
2023-02-08 04:00 - 05:00 | Online
Event description
The webinar ‘Digital Geopolitics in the Asia-Europe Space: Issues, Actors, and Divides’ will focus on digital and data flows around and across Eurasia. It will tackle questions about the possible shift of data flows to the East, the geographical distribution of data centres in Europe or Asia, trends in geoeconomics, as well as other questions that influence digital geopolitics within the Asia-Europe space.
Dr. Jovan Kurbalija, Founding Director of DiploFoundation and the Head of the Geneva Internet Platform, will deliver the lecture. The lecture is organised by the Department of International Political Economy of East Asia, Faculty of East Asian Studies, Ruhr-Universität Bochum and hosted by the Jean Monnet Chair ‘Connecting Europe and Asia: People, Power and Policies’ (CEAPPP).
For more information, please visit the official event web page.

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Information as a public good: Which platform regulation for a troubled digital era?
2023-02-21 03:00 - 12:30 | Online
Event description
Diplo’s Dr Stephanie Borg Psaila (Director for Digital Policy) will be speaking during a side event to UNESCO’s Internet for Trust conference, titled Information as a public good: Which platform regulation for a troubled digital era?
The side event, organised by #Leplusimportant, Académie des sciences morales et politiques, and RadicalxChange, will discuss the implementation of UNESCO’s guidance for regulating digital platforms, which UNESCO has just published in draft format.
The event will take place on Tuesday, 21 February. The side event will run from 3 am to 12:30 pm EST, with Dr Borg Psaila’s roundtable scheduled for 10:20 am – 12:00 pm EST.
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Digital Middle Powers: What Strategies in the Global Tech Competition?
2023-02-24 05:00 - 06:30 | Online
Event description
In an international context characterised by the ever-growing US-China economic rivalry and technological competition, states caught in the middle of this competition are increasingly having to determine which side they are on.
Digital middle powers are caught in the middle of the power play between competing models, in an emerging multipolar international system where digital technology is a determining factor of power.
This webinar will explore the strategies of several of these “swing states” – such as Brazil, India, Israel, Japan, Kenya, Russia and the UK – and discuss the main findings of IFRI’s upcoming study on this topic: The Technology Policies of Digital Middle Powers.
Diplo’s Marilia Maciel (Head – Digital Commerce and Internet Policy) will participate in this debate by the French Institute of International Relations (IFRI).
The webinar will be held on Zoom, in English, on Friday, 24 February, 5 am–6:30 am EST.

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What role can AI play in diplomatic negotiation? (WebDebate #57)
2023-03-07 09:00 - 10:00 | Online
Event description

Negotiations are one of the central tenants of diplomacy. Some describe diplomacy as the management of international relations by selected officials via negotiation.
Given the recent hype around AI tools related to language processing and language generation, we need to ask: What role can AI play in diplomatic negotiations?
Tuesday, 7th March,
14:00 UTC (09:00 EDT | 15:00 CET | 19:30 IST)
Registrations are open
Register×Negotiations are, without a doubt, at the core of diplomacy. Diplomatic negotiations prevent wars, signal the end of a war, and build peace. They are the foundation of every international organisation and every international treaty. In a globalised world, diplomatic negotiations make the world go round.
Given the stakes of this task, any tool that might support the process deserves our attention. We have seen various explorations of this question in the context of peaceful conflict resolution. We have also seen concrete pilot projects by organisations like the Innovation Cell at the UNDPPA. With the recent hype and innovation around AI tools, not least ChatGPT, it is time to come back to these questions with renewed vigour.
What is the (potential) role of AI in diplomatic negotiations? What AI tools have already been explored, and what additional tools and needs can we anticipate? What are elements of negotiations that could be augmented what are elements that could be automated?
Join diplomats, academics, and AI experts for an informed discussion on the current level of technology and future trends.
About our WebDebates
Our WebDebates on the future of diplomacy are live-streamed on the first Tuesday of every month. They are organised by Diplo within the framework of the International Forum on Diplomatic Training (IFDT). Learn more about our WebDebates series.
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Strengthening Africa’s voices in global digital processes
2023-03-17
Event description
This session is co-organised by DiploFoundation and the Geneva Internet Platform with the Permanent Missions of Djibouti, Kenya and Namibia. The event is taking place during the World Summit on Information Society (WSIS) Forum.
As Africa’s digital dynamism grows, its participation in global digital governance must increase. The continent’s involvement in global policy-making needs to more accurately reflect the dynamism of its digital transformation processes, with growing internet penetration rates, expanding digital economies, and fast-evolving start-up ecosystems.
The digital realm cannot be developed into an enabling, secure engine for human prosperity without Africa’s active involvement in digital diplomacy. African countries and continental and regional organisations need to mobilise human and institutional resources to enable their meaningful and long-lasting engagement in digital foreign policy and diplomacy. While most African countries are in the early stages of their digital diplomacy journey, there are many policies, initiatives and practices across the continent that could drive a faster take-off of digital diplomacy in Africa.
The session will look into how to strengthen African digital voices globally, by leveraging what already exists, while developing digital foreign policies for countries, regions, and the overall continent.
It will start by exploring the digital policy priorities of African countries and institutions and their involvement in global digital governance processes. After looking at the current situation, the discussion will provide practical insights and suggestions on why and how to broaden African digital diplomacy footprint in international processes, with a focus on those dealing with access and infrastructure, cybersecurity, AI and data governance.
In brief, the session will outline the picture of Africa’s involvement in international policy processes in the digital realm by identifying existing building blocks and missing pieces for African digital diplomacy. It will then propose practical steps for the development of African digital diplomacy by strengthening the voices of national and regional actors in global digital diplomacy.
Relevant WSIS Action Lines: 1.The role of governments and all stakeholders in the promotion of ICTs for development | 4. Capacity building | 6. Enabling environment | 11. International and regional cooperation
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Vulnerabilities in Digital Products: How Does This Impact the World Around Us?
2023-03-29 09:00 - 10:00 | Online
Event description
Wednesday, 29 March 2023
9:00–10:00 EDT (13:00–14:00 UTC), online
What do the SolarWinds hack, the use of Pegasus spyware, and the Colonial Pipeline ransomware attack have in common? Even though they have different targets, threat actors, and impacts, they all exploit software vulnerabilities.
Vulnerabilities in digital products remain an almost indispensable component of cyber attacks, especially high-impact ones.
In this Geneva Dialogue webinar, together with expert panellists, we will discuss:

How do vulnerabilities emerge, how are they exploited, and to what end?
What can we learn from these exploitations?
What role do software vulnerabilities play in today’s digitalised society?

Registrations are open
Register×About the Geneva Dialogue
The Geneva Dialogue on Responsible Behaviour in Cyberspace is led by the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) and implemented by Diplo. It aims to map the roles and responsibilities of actors (states, the business sector, civil society, and the academic and tech communities ) in contributing to greater security and stability in cyberspace in the context of international peace and security, identify good practices and possible gaps in existing efforts, and, ideally, put forward recommendations for overcoming such gaps.
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Towards effective AI capacity development for diplomats and policymakers (WebDebate #58)
2023-04-04 09:00 - 10:00 | Online
Event description
Tuesday, 4 April 2023
The use of AI tools in everyday life and diplomatic practice is becoming more and more prominent. We need in-depth explorations on the possible applications of these tools and the associated challenges and opportunities. We also need focused discussions on how best to prepare diplomats and policymakers for the far-reaching changes that lie ahead. While our previous two WebDebates focused on AI tools, this debate focuses on capacity development for diplomats and policymakers.
We will disucuss: What does effective training and capacity development in AI for diplomats and policymakers look like?
Tuesday, 4th April, 09:00 EDT (13:00 UTC | 15:00 CET | 18:30 IST)
Registrations are open
Register×Register and join the discussion
The need for training and capacity development in AI for diplomats and policymakers has been recognised. There are a number of programmes that support policymakers and diplomats to be better able to address AI’s challenges and opportunities. There are also a number of broader reflections on capacity needs and capacity development. For example, the Broadband Commission, ITU, and UNESCO have published the report Artificial Intelligence and Digital Transformation Competencies for Civil Servants and UNESCO published the Artificial intelligence needs assessment survey in Africa.
Together with diplomats, scholars, and capacity development practitioners, we explore the following questions:

What are the capacity development needs of diplomats and policymakers?
What are examples of effective capacity development in the area of AI?
What lessons learned can be identified and how can these lessons be implemented in new and existing programmes?

About our WebDebates
Our WebDebates on the future of diplomacy are live-streamed on the first Tuesday of every month. They are organised by Diplo within the framework of the International Forum on Diplomatic Training (IFDT). Learn more about our WebDebates series.
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Technology and Diplomacy: The Rise of Multilateralism in the Bay Area
2023-04-13 20:30 - 23:30 | Swissnex in San Francisco, Pier 17 Suite 800, San Francisco, CA, 94111, United States
Event description
Thursday, 13 April 2023
17:30-20:30 PDT, Swissnex – San Francisco
Join us on 13 April, in San Francisco, as we officially launch the report ‘Tech Diplomacy Practice in the San Francisco Bay Area’ and explore some of the thematics around it.
We will explore the practice of tech diplomacy and the impacts of geopolitics, the opportunities and challenges it represents both for diplomatic representations and tech companies, and their mutual interactions.
The event is hosted by Swissnex in San Francisco and Diplo, and is supported by the Republic and Canton of Geneva.
For more information, and to register, click the link below.
Registrations are open
Register×About the report
In 2018, Diplo, in cooperation with Swissnex in San Francisco, the Consulate General of Switzerland in San Francisco, and the Geneva Internet Platform (GIP) conducted a techplomacy mapping exercise to explore how different diplomatic representations interact with the San Francisco Bay Area ecosystem.
Since the publication of that report, a lot has changed. Research over the past few months led to the publication of this updated report.
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Workshop: The Power of the Unsaid – Diplomatic Communication in the AI Era
2023-04-25 04:00 - 10:00 | Diplo Centar Belgrade, Braničevska 12a, Belgrade, 11000, Serbia
Event description
So far in our history we have only been able to communicate with other humans using language but with the technological advancements and the rise of ChatGPT we can now converse with an AI chatbot. More surprisingly still, that bot may even speak and write more fluently than we do, outperforming us in speed, scope, and variety. This new era raises all sorts of questions regarding the changing dynamics between humans and AI, from authorship to manipulation, and from job redundancy to ethics.
How will ChatGPT impact diplomatic communication? This workshop provides an overview of how AI outperforms humans, and then focuses on the shortfalls of AI next to human linguistic abilities: lack of subtlety, lack of figurative thinking, lack of humour and compassion, and an inability to decipher implicit meaning. Given the speed and scope of AI, it also fails to use pauses and other time-factors strategically. Since all these skills are essential to diplomatic communication, we might ask whether AI can serve any purpose beyond report writing and data gathering.
In this workshop, we will explore the ways in which we can combine AI performance with the unique human skills by looking at the finer details of language and communication. If AI tends to be literal-minded whereas humans excel at implicit communication, we can then identify the different types of loaded language and show which parts AI could master with a bit of training. If AI cannot pick up on moral overtones, we investigate how these judgments are coded into communication and show how some areas might be taught to AI. In other words, we avoid sweeping generalisations about AI and delve into the details of language instead, exploring which grassroot components AI has already mastered and which ones it will with training. Finally, we ask whether there are any aspects of language which AI will not be able to master.
The workshop is exercise-driven and requires active participation. Although the workshop is run in English, the lessons learned are applicable to all languages.
All participants who complete the workshop will receive a certificate issued by DiploFoundation.
Registrations are open
Register×Workshop facilitator
Dr Biljana Scott was trained as a linguist (BA in Chinese, M.Phil and D.Phil in Linguistics, University of Oxford). Dr Scott is a senior fellow at DiploFoundation and an associate of the China Centre, University of Oxford, where she taught for 25 years. She lectures and workshops internationally.
Details

Date: Tuesday, 25 April, 10:00–16:00 CEST
Venue: Diplo Centar, Braničevska 12a, Belgrade, Serbia
Fee: 950 EUR
A limited number of full scholarships are available for applicants from developing countries.
Discounts are available for more than one participant from the same institution.
Due to the limited number of places (maximum 20 participants), applications will be assessed on a ‘first come, first served’ basis.

For further information, please contact Mr Andrej Škrinjarić at andrejs@diplomacy.edu.
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What Can We Learn About AI Ethics and Governance From Non-Western Thought? (WebDebate #59)
2023-05-02 09:00 - 17:00 | Online
Event description
Thursday, May 2, 09:00 EDT (13:00 UTC | 15:00 CEST | 18:30 IST)
Today, AI ethics and governance are dominated by Western thought. As AI is largely developed by the Global North, discussions on AI governance and ethics are still missing the important voices from the Global South. This also means that valuable approaches toward AI ethics and governance are not represented and are potentially overlooked.
For example, a number of activists and scholars have highlighted the value of the ubuntu system of thought for AI ethics and governance. Ubuntu originated among the Bantu peoples of Central, Southeast, and Southern Africa, and one of the key differences from Western philosophy is visible when compared to René Descartes. While Descartes proclaimed ‘I think, therefore I am’, ubuntu builds on a collective understanding of life, and states ‘I am because we are.’
This is just one example of how non-Western systems of thought provide a very valuable approach to AI ethics and governance. Many other non-Western philosophies emphasise the collective and a relational way of being in the world. Another example is the Indigenous Protocol and Artificial Intelligence Position Paper which highlights the importance of building on various perspectives when thinking about AI ethics and governance.
It is clear that the more explicit inclusion of non-Western approaches in discussions on AI ethics and governance is an important sign of inclusivity. Beyond that, ubuntu and other relational systems of thought also offer alternative ways of thinking about AI ethics and governance. With the advent of generative AI and the increased utilisation of various AI tools within many professions, discussing AI ethics has only become more important. It is, therefore, unhelpful to limit these important discussions to only a small set of philosophies and ways of being in the world.
Join us for an informed discussion on AI ethics and governance beyond Western thought.
Thursday, May 2, 09:00 EDT (13:00 UTC | 15:00 CEST | 18:30 IST)
Registrations are open
Register×About our WebDebates
Our WebDebates on the future of diplomacy are live-streamed on the first Tuesday of every month. They are organised by Diplo within the framework of the International Forum on Diplomatic Training (IFDT). Learn more about our WebDebates series.
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Science Diplomacy Week
2023-05-08 - 2023-05-12
Event description
From 8-12 May 2023, the Geneva Coalition on Anticipatory Science and Diplomacy organises the second edition of the Science Diplomacy Week in International Geneva to promote anticipatory Science and Diplomacy as an effective tool for renewed multilateralism.
Science Diplomacy Week features an Immersion Program and an Open Forum for exchange, capacity development and mutual learning between the diplomatic and scientific communities. The call for expressions of interest to participate in the Immersion Program is now open until 28 February 2023.
You can find more information about the programme and registration here.
Diplo is proud to be part of the Geneva Coalition on Anticipatory Science and Diplomacy and a program partner for Science Diplomacy Week 2023.

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Tech Diplomacy: New Impulses for the Geneva Ecosystem? (Science Diplomacy Week)
2023-05-12 08:00 - 09:30 | Fondation Campus Biotech, Chemin des Mines 9, Geneva, 1202, Switzerland
Event description
On May 12, as part of the Open Forum of the Science Diplomacy Week in Geneva, Diplo is organising the session Tech Diplomacy: New Impulses for the Geneva Ecosystem?
Friday, May 12, 8am – 9.30am EDT (14:00–15:30 CEST), Campus Biotech, Geneva
During the session, participants will share key findings and lessons from the recently conducted research on the practice of tech diplomacy in the San Francisco Bay Area, including:

Tech diplomacy has matured, moving from informal engagement to more structured, formal engagements, which brings both benefits and issues to the parties involved.
Both governmental representations and the structures within tech companies that act as partners to the conversation have become more diverse and complex, adding challenges in reaching one another.
There is an important cultural and language divide between the tech and diplomatic world, which requires specific support.
Over the past years, there has been increasing collaboration between diplomatic representations and tech companies in achieving common goals, thus bringing multilateralism to the Bay Area.

With the Geneva launch of Diplo’s report Technology and Diplomacy: The Rise of Multilateralism in the Bay Area, we aim to bring this important conversation to Geneva.
We will dive deeper into the various forms of interactions between tech and diplomacy, and highlight lessons for the Geneva ecosystem and the future of diplomatic practice.
This session brings diplomats and representatives from tech companies together. It also emphasises the perspective of diplomats from the Global South, as well as the opportunities and challenges for countries from the Global South in practising tech diplomacy.
This event is organised in partnership with Swissnex in San Francisco and République et Canton de Genève.
Note: Please note that this is an in-situ event. You need to be registered in order to gain access. Registration closes on May 3.
Registrations are open
Register×Speakers

Amb. Umej Bhatia, Permanent Representative of Singapore to the UN in Geneva
Ms Beatrice Ferrari, Director of International Affairs, Canton of Geneva
Ms Claudia Taboada, Director, Science, Technology and Environment, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dominican Republic
Ms Thato Morokong, Assistant Director, Africa Multilateral Cooperation, Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), South Africa
Mr Yannick Heiniger, Swissnex, San Francisco
Ms Pavlina Ittelson, Executive Director, Diplo US
Ms Katharina Höne, Director of Research, DiploFoundation

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Conference on Building Trust in Digital Identities
2023-05-31 08:00 - 12:30 | InterContinental Hotel Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
Event description
More and more governments around the world are implementing or exploring the implementation of digital identity (e-ID) solutions, while regional organizations such as the European Union and African Union actively work toward fostering interoperability and facilitating the mutual recognition of e-ID solutions. Digital identities hold the promise to enable economic inclusion and development, to facilitate access to public services, and the reliable validation of credentials in e-commerce. In developing countries in particular, e-IDs are further seen as an important tool for promoting the UN concept of ‘identity for all’ and attaining sustainable development goals.
Yet, how might we ensure that digital identification systems are safe and trusted? How can interoperability, and with that portability, of national e-IDs across sectors and borders be accomplished? How can the highest levels of data security, privacy protection, and user-centered control over data be ensured? Who should develop, operate, and govern such a vital digital resource: the private or the public sector? And how can multilateral and multi-stakeholder dialogue and cooperation contribute to ensuring that digital IDs are indeed a force for good? These questions hold far-reaching implications for the economic viability, public acceptance, and societal impact of e-IDs.
This conference is co-hosted with the Geneva Internet Platform (GIP) and the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA).
Registrations are open
Register×Objectives
Seeking to respond to the above questions, this conference aims to facilitate an exchange between technologists, diplomats, policy-makers, industry, and the general public. Specifically, it seeks to explore the promises and challenges of e-IDs, provide an overview of the latest technological developments, discuss how to foster public trust in e-ID and beyond, and explore how digital cooperation and learning from each other can lead towards viable and trustworthy e-ID solutions. Lastly, through interactive, moderated panel discussions and networking opportunities, the event enables exchanges on current e-ID efforts in different geographies, including in Switzerland, Europe, and Africa, among others.
Programme and registration
The event will take place insitu (in Geneva) and online. For more information and to register visit the dedicated website.
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Why and How Should Countries Engage in Tech Diplomacy? (WebDebate #60)
2023-06-06 09:00 - 10:00 | Online
Event description
The practice of tech diplomacy has been on the rise since the appointment of the first tech ambassador in 2017. Tech diplomacy includes new forms of diplomatic representation and new topics on the diplomatic agenda. It also reflects a changing geopolitical environment.
Tech diplomacy has brought about new venues for engagement and the involvement of new actors, and makes clear that countries and tech companies need to adopt new approaches to current digital policy issues.
DiploFoundation has published its report on Tech Diplomacy Practice in the San Francisco Bay Area, which is the most up-to-date mapping of tech diplomacy in the Bay Area. The report looks at specific exchanges between diplomatic representations and tech companies, and maps the existing benefits and challenges of tech diplomacy.
In WebDebate #60, we will:

Have a close look at the main findings of the report
Hear from various tech diplomacy practitioners from the Bay Area and Global South
Ask what benefits and challenges countries from the Global South face when aiming to engage in tech diplomacy
Investigate the role of tech diplomacy hubs beyond the Bay Area

Join us for an informed discussion on the emerging practice of tech diplomacy.
Tuesday, 6 June, 09:00 EDT (13:00 UTC | 15:00 CEST | 18:30 IST)
Registrations are open
Register now!×Participants

Ms Thato Morokong, Assistant Director, Africa Multilateral Cooperation, Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), South Africa
Ms Beatrice Ferrari, Director, International Affairs, Canton of Geneva
Mr Martin Rauchbauer, Former Austrian Tech Ambassador in Silicon Valley; Founder & Co-Director, Tech Diplomacy Network
Ms Pavlina Ittelson, Executive Director, Diplo US
Mr Yannick Heiniger, Consulate General of Switzerland in San Francisco
Dr Katharina Höne, Director of Research, DiploFoundation (moderator)

This event is organised in partnership with Swissnex in San Francisco and République et Canton de Genève.

About our WebDebates
Our WebDebates on the future of diplomacy are live-streamed on the first Tuesday of every month. They are organised by Diplo within the framework of the International Forum on Diplomatic Training (IFDT). Learn more about our WebDebates series.
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Tech Diplomacy Event – How Governments Engage with the Tech Sector
2023-06-22 18:00 - 19:00 | Washington DC, Washington, DC, United States
Event description
The practice of digital and tech diplomacy is on the rise. Tech diplomacy requires countries and tech companies to adopt new approaches to current digital policy issues. As a new form of diplomatic representation and an emerging issue on the diplomatic agenda, new venues and actors need to be engaged. To this end, Diplo has published the report Tech Diplomacy Practice in the San Francisco Bay Area which examines specific exchanges between diplomatic representations and tech companies, and maps the existing benefits and challenges.
This event aims to broaden the discussion on the practice of tech diplomacy and its place in global digital policy processes, such as the UN Global Digital Compact. We will compare national approaches, and discuss the practice from a development and human rights perspective.
The presentation of the report starts at 18:00 (local time in Washington, D.C.) and will be followed by a panel discussion with a Q&A session. We will welcome a variety of stakeholders to represent a wide range of perspectives and allow for a lively exchange throughout the event.
This event is organised by the Embassy of Switzerland in the USA in partnership with Diplo. The event will be held in situ only, and attendance is by invitation.

More About the Event
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Women in Diplomacy – Equal representation: Are we there yet?
2023-06-26 08:00 - 09:30 | Online
Event description
Monday, 26 June, 8am EDT (14:00 CEST) Online
The second-ever Women in Diplomacy Day is coming up on 24 June and we’re having an online event the following Monday, 26 June to use this opportunity to ask some important questions and exchange experiences and ideas. Women (and men) active in various areas of diplomacy and foreign policy will speak about their experiences, try to answer some difficult questions, and discuss participants’ questions and comments.

What are the key challenges faced by women in diplomatic careers, and how can we overcome these challenges?
How can diplomacy benefit from greater gender diversity and inclusion?
What strategies have successful women in diplomacy and foreign policy employed to navigate the male-dominated landscape?
What initiatives or policies can be implemented to promote equal opportunities for women in diplomatic appointments and leadership positions?
What mentorship and networking opportunities exist for women in diplomacy, and how can they be expanded or improved?

Women remain underrepresented in ambassadorship positions across the world. Out of 4,060 ambassadors currently appointed in 2021 only 842 were women, according to the AGDA Women in Diplomacy Index. This indicates that the total share of women ambassadors stands at 20.7% for 2021. The data shows that Sweden takes the lead in having appointed the highest share of women ambassadors and permanent representatives in 2021, with 48.1% of the country’s ambassadorial posts being held by women in 2021, or 50 women ambassadors out of 104. Canada’s share of women ambassadors stands at a close 46.3% having appointed 44 women ambassadors out of 95 posts.
Register×Last year, the UN adopted the ‘Women in Diplomacy Day’ to be observed on 24 June every year. H.E. Mr. Abdulla Shahid, President of the 76th session of the UN General Assembly remarked:

Women working in diplomacy have made critical contributions to shaping the multilateral system we have inherited today. For example, women diplomats played an essential role in drafting the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the first treaty to articulate the fundamental human rights that should be universally protected.
Yet, despite the evident contributions of women to diplomacy and multilateral decision-making, they continue to be underrepresented in senior diplomatic positions. And they still suffer the deep-rooted legacies of sexism, which hinder their professional advancement and obscure their contributions and achievements.
These facts underscore the importance of this resolution being adopted. Now we have a day specifically devoted to celebrating women in diplomacy: who have blazed trails; negotiated peace; strengthened international relations; survived hardships and danger; and have facilitated intercultural linkages. With this resolution, we open the door to discuss the challenges women in diplomacy face. With this celebration of women in diplomacy, we inspire the next generation.

Join us on 26 June for an open-ended discussion about women in diplomacy and foreign policy.

We’re offering a 15% discount for the female participants of our event who apply for the upcoming Bilateral Diplomacy, Diplomatic Law, and Internet Technology and Policy courses that start in July!
Learn more about Diplo Academy here.

Registrations are open:
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Empowering African Digital Diplomacy
2023-07-05 09:00 - 10:00 | Online
Event description
Today’s diplomacy is greatly impacted by digital technology, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Digital technologies multiply and amplify the number of voices and accelerate the pace of dissemination of information in international policymaking and diplomacy. In addition, these technologies enable faster and more cost-effective delivery of traditional diplomatic services. It is, therefore, imperative that stakeholders discuss the issues arising from the interaction of technologies and diplomacy.
The webinar will explore digital technologies and their impact on the African diplomatic space and will discuss the following:

Digital priorities in foreign policies and international relations,
Specific international digital governance processes,
Ways to strengthen the participation of African stakeholders in International Geneva,
Economic and development considerations in bilateral and multilateral relations,
Strengthening of the whole-of-government approach,
Facilitation of the whole-of-society approach,
Ways to foster coordinated positions in international digital governance, and
Long-term approaches for building the next generation of diplomats and policymakers’ academic, research and digital policy capacities.

This event will bring together Diplo alumni and stakeholders from government, civil society, the private sector, donor agencies, and academia.

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Update for the least and other developing countries about international cybersecurity processes
2023-07-18 04:00 - 05:30 | Online
Event description
The webinar, co-organised by ITU, Diplo, and UNIDIR, aims to enhance the participant’s knowledge on international cyber diplomatic processes, with focus on the Open Ended Working Group (OEWG) on securing ICTs. The webinar is especially tailored for technical professionals in cybersecurity, policy makers, and diplomats from Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and other developing countries to better understand current cyber diplomacy discussions happening at the international level. Experts from UNIDIR (UN Institute for Disarmament Research) and DiploFoundation, as well as voices from developing countries, will participate in the discussion.
The event will take place online on Tuesday 18 July, 4am –5.30am EDT.
To register for the event
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Data Transfers and eCommerce: Towards International Cooperation
2023-07-20 10:40 - 12:10
Event description
Thursday, 20 July 202311:40-13:10 (GMT-3)10:40am – 12:10pm EDTRio de Janeiro, Brazil
The session Data Transfers and eCommerce: Towards International Cooperation, organised by Diplo and Women Inside Trade, is part of the CPDP LatAm 2023 which will be organised in Rio de Janeiro on 19 and 20 July 2023. The event is hosted by the Center for Technology and Society of the Getulio Vargas Foundation (CTS/FGV).
The theme of the CPDP LatAm 2023 conference is Data Protection, Cooperation and Innovation in Latin America.
For more information, visit
Visit the official website×

78th Session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA 78)
2023-09-19 - 2023-09-29
Event description
The 78th session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA 78) will open on Tuesday, 5 September 2023. The high-level General Debate will be held from 19 September 2023 to 29 September.
The theme of the General Assembly, including the general debate, will be ‘Rebuilding trust and reigniting global solidarity: Accelerating action on the 2030 Agenda and its sustainable development goals towards peace, prosperity, progress and sustainability for all’.
Dennis Francis of Trinidad and Tobago will preside over the 78th session. Francis will assume his functions at the beginning of the session, scheduled to open on 5 September 2023.
Find out more at the
GIP Digital Watch observatory×GIP Digital Watch observatory
This September, AI will ‘join’ our team for just-in-time reporting from UNGA 78. Together with our experts, DiploGPT will identify inputs and trends as discussions in New York unfold. At the GIP Digital Watch observatory, you will be able to follow topics of your interest and positions of member states.
Here, you can consult reporting from UNGA 77. Ahead of UNGA 78, you can consult coverage of Global Digital Compact, and AI governance processes.
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Brussels meets Geneva in the AI era
2023-09-26 06:15 - 08:00
Event description
How can human-centred AI and digital policy be fostered in the international ecosystems of Brussels and Geneva?

The discussion will center on how Brussels and Geneva interact to shape our digital and AI futures. Many critical digital negotiations and policy processes occur in the two cities. Data, AI, e-commerce, and cybersecurity norms and regulations established in Brussels have a global impact.
With its diverse ecosystem of international organisations, permanent missions, and non-governmental organisations, Geneva is a major hub for debating, evaluating, and implementing digital policies. The Swiss city, with experts in global health, labor, trade, and human rights, is a natural complement to Brussels’ dynamic regulatory and norm-setting space.
In particular, a panel will dive deeper into the heart of technology’s impact on humanity and explore the intricate tapestry of weaving human rights into AI and digital policymaking.
Join us for this timely discussion on the Brussels-Geneva interplay in AI and digital governance with leading experts from two cities and beyond. A standing lunch will allow enough space for informal contacts.

You can register by sending an email to the Swiss Permanent Mission to EU:
bruxelles.events@eda.admin.ch×
Tentative Programme (version 7 September 2023)

Introductory remarks
Ms Nathalie Fontanet, State Councillor in charge of the Department of Finance, Human Resources and External Affairs, Republic and Canton of Geneva
Ambassador Rita Adam, Head of the Swiss Mission to the EU

Speakers for the roundtable
Ms Marina Kaljurand, Member of European Parliament and Former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Estonia
Mr Paul Nemitz, Principal Adviser on the Digital Transition in DG Justice and Consumers, EU Commission
Mr Scott Campbell, Chief of Digital Technology and Human Rights Initiative, OHCHR
Mr Philippe Stoll, Senior Techplomacy Delegate, ICRC
Ms Fanny Hidvégi, Access Now’s Europe Policy and Advocacy Director, Brussels
Mr Sébastien Brack, Senior Advisor, EIP and Kofi Annan Foundation

Moderation
Dr Jovan Kurbalija, Director, DiploFoundation
