30 Years of Internet in China: Between past growth and future challenges
2024-04-19 08:00 - 09:00 (America/New_York) | Online
Event description
Online Anniversary Symposium
(14:00 – 15.00 CEST / 12:00 – 13.00 UTC)
This message was given by Madam Hu Qiheng, a computer scientist who connected China to the internet on 20 April 1994.

Compared with 30 years ago, the progress is so fast now, and for those who are hurrying to catch the pace with AI, there is perhaps not much time to review the past.
To my understanding, all happened because of the two great events. The internet, epoch-making creativity, sprang up from the West while in China, we had been in the Reform and Open-Door age. Because of those two great events, with the impact of the internet, China started to embrace the world market, and China’s booming economy became world-shacking.
At the same time, because of the joining of China, the world had also changed profoundly.
I wish the Symposium complete success.
Hu Qiheng
6 April 2024
Beijing, China

On 20 April 1994, China connected to the internet. It was one of the most important developments in the digital history of the 20th century. Digitalisation has been the engine behind the rise of the Chinese economy, lifting millions out of poverty. Today, China has 1.050 billion Internet users, or 20% of the global Internet population. China displays a vibrant digital economy and is home to many leading digital companies.
In the 1990s, U.S. technology was largely employed to build the ‘Eight Vertical and Eight Horizontal’ fibre-optic backbone, a nationwide grid-shaped fibre-optic network representing the Chinese internet’s core. As globalisation boomed, China and the West became increasingly intertwined by growing flows of trade, finance, and by the decentralisation of production, which engendered today’s complex global value chains. The use of Chinese platforms has boomed. China has also enacted a wide range of digital legislation on data security, personal information protection, and digital governance.
In less than two decades, however, telecommunications and mobile technology became the first well-established fields of geopolitical rivalry between the US and China. This dispute for leadership is spreading through a vast array of so-called ‘critical and emerging technologies’, including artificial intelligence. Tension is rising between the two digital powers, and measures have been put in place to restrict access to each other’s digital markets.
On the occasion of this 30th anniversary, Diplo will host a discussion focusing on past growth and future challenges of Chinese digitalisation.
The discussion will address, among others, the following questions:

What is the significance of the last 30 years of Internet deployment in China to developing the global internet?
What are the expectations for the future of China’s internet?
What are the main trends in AI and digital regulation in China?
What is China’s current and possible future role internationally in AI and digital governance?

of the major global IG and digital policy developments.
Provisional list of panelists

Jovan Kurbalija, Director of Diplo & Head of Geneva Internet Platform
Lee Xiaodong, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Fuxi Institution & Professor, Tsinghua University
Liu Hao, Executive Chair, School of Global Governance, Beijing Institute of Technology
Rogier Creemers, Assistant Professor and Lecturer in Modern Chinese Studies, University of Leiden
Sorina Teleanu, Director of Knowledge, Diplo

Moderator:

Marilia Maciel, Head of Digital Commerce and Internet Policy, Diplo

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Executive training in Diplomatic Negotiations and AI and Diplomacy
2024-04-22 - 2024-04-26
Event description
New digital technologies have had, and will continue to have, a profound impact on both the practice and content of diplomacy. The digital ecosystem in which diplomats operate nowadays offers new opportunities but also challenges traditional organisational structures.
The in situ Executive Training in Diplomatic Negotiations and AI and Diplomacy for the participants from the Saud N. Al-Sabah Kuwait Diplomatic Institute will take place between the 22 and 26 April 2024.
The goal of the training is to equip diplomats to deal with the changes and challenges imposed by digital technologies and to turn them into opportunities that will help them pursue their countries’ foreign policy goals. By the end of this training, participants will gain a deeper understanding of the most recent developments in AI tools and learn how to use them in their daily work.
The training will be based around the following topics:

AI and diplomacy
How to use big data in analysis and policymaking, and how to effectively use AI tools in daily work. At the end of this session, participants will understand geopolitical and practical aspects of using AI in diplomacy.
Diplomatic negotiations
Skills and strategies that enable diplomats to engage effectively with their counterparts and other stakeholders. At the end of this session, participants will understand the basic concepts, tools and techniques to become successful negotiators and influencers in diplomatic settings.

Book Launch: International Trade Law and Global Data Governance
2024-04-23 | Geneva and online, Geneva, Switzerland
Event description
Neha Mishra’s (Assistant Professor, Geneva Graduate Institute) book International Trade Law and Global Data Governance examines how international trade agreements apply to domestic regulations on cross-border data flows and then proposes a multilayered framework to align international trade law with evolving norms and practices in global data governance.
This event will be co-hosted by the Geneva Graduate Institute’s Global Governance Centre, the Centre for Trade and Economic Integration and the International Law Department.
Diplo’s Marilia Maciel (Head, Digital Commerce and Internet Policy) will participate in the event’s panel discussion.
For more information, visit the official website.

Tech Diplomacy: Regulation and Digital Issues on the International Agenda
2024-04-24 11:00 - 12:00 | Online
Internet Masr (Internet Society, Egypt Chapter) and The Diplomat Magazine – Egypt (AlDiplomassy Magazine) are organising the webinar titled Tech Diplomacy: Regulation and Digital Issues on the International Agenda.
Dr Jovan Kurbalija (Founding and Executive Director, Diplo; Head, Geneva Internet Platform) will be this event’s keynote speaker. He is the author of many books, the latest of which is History of Diplomacy and Technology: From Smoke Signals to Artificial Intelligence.
Amb. Amr Aljowaily (Editor, Book Review Section of AlDiplomassy Magazine) will be the webinar’s moderator, leading an interactive discussion on the issues, actors, and frameworks of digital international relations.
The event will take place online on Wednesday, 24 April, at 11:00 EDT (17:00 CEST).
To participate in the webinar, fill in the dedicated registration form.
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May 2024 online courses | Diplo Academy
2024-05-06 | Online
Event description
Diplo Academy is excited to announce the start of four online courses on 6 May 2024:

21st Century Diplomacy
Diplomatic Theory and Practice
E-Diplomacy
Tech Diplomacy

For further information or to apply, please click on the course titles above or visit our
Course Catalogue×Subscribe to Diplo Academy Newsletter for updates on our courses, programmes, and workshops.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kuwait and Diplo forge strategic partnership
2024-05-21 | Kuwait City, Kuwait, Kuwait
Event description
Kuwait City, Kuwait — 21 May 2024
His Excellency Ambassador Nasser S. Al-Sabeeh, Assistant Foreign Minister for the Saud N. Al-Sabah Kuwait Diplomatic Institute, and Dr Jovan Kurbalija, Director of DiploFoundation, will sign a Memorandum of Understanding. This agreement signifies a key partnership between the two institutions aimed at advancing capacity development frameworks and activities.
This formalised strategic partnership between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the State of Kuwait and Diplo follows the first executive training on diplomatic negotiations and AI in diplomacy conducted for Kuwaiti diplomats in April this year.
The MoU sets forth specific objectives to enhance the competencies of diplomats within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, focusing on capacity development and knowledge sharing. It highlights a joint commitment to education and the enhancement of diplomatic skills, with a focus on the responsible use of AI technology in policy development and diplomatic practices. The partnership leverages existing resources and facilities for mutual benefit, emphasising global digital policy discussions and the smart application of AI in diplomacy.

World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS+20) Forum High-Level Event
2024-05-27 - 2024-05-31 | Geneva and online, Geneva, Switzerland
Event description
The WSIS+20 Forum High-Level Event is scheduled to be held from 27 to 31 May 2024, co-organised by ITU, UNESCO, UNDP and UNCTAD and co-hosted by ITU and the Swiss Confederation, with the support of remote participation. The event will serve as a platform for the WSIS+20 review to provide an opportunity for information exchange, knowledge creation, and sharing of best practices while identifying emerging trends and fostering partnerships, taking into account the evolving information and knowledge societies.
All stakeholders are invited to participate and contribute actively to the WSIS+20 Forum High-Level Event and its upcoming open consultation process. The Open Consultation Process is an open and inclusive consultation with WSIS stakeholders to prepare for the event, including developing the event programme, identifying gaps in the implementation of the Geneva Plan of Action and the WSIS Action Lines, and contributing to the WSIS+20 review process.
For more information about the event, please visit the dedicated web page.

AI for Good Global Summit
2024-05-30 - 2024-05-31 | Online
Event description
The AI for Good Global Summit will take place on May 30-31, 2024, in Geneva, Switzerland. The AI for Good Global Summit is the main event of the AI for Good platform organised by ITU in partnership with 40 UN Sister Agencies and co-convened with Switzerland. The summit aims to Identify practical applications of AI to advance the SDGs and scale those solutions for global impact.
The AI for Good Global Summit is designed to feature several interactive stages where the visitor can learn, build and connect. Stages will feature keynote speakers, cutting-edge AI solutions, pitching sessions, and performances by AI-inspired artists.
AI for Good is a year-round digital platform with weekly sessions where relevant stakeholders learn, build and connect to help identify practical AI solutions to advance the UN SDGs and other global development priorities. The platform aims to encourage cooperative efforts to assure reliable, secure, and inclusive AI technology development and equal access to its advantages.
Please visit the dedicated page for more information about the AI for Good platform and the upcoming sessions.

G7 Summit 2024
2024-06-13 - 2024-06-15 | Fasano, Italy, Fasano, Italy
Event description
The upcoming 50th G7 summit is scheduled to take place from 13 to 15 June 2024 in Fasano, Italy.
Italy’s G7 agenda for 2024 aims to blend existing priorities with new emphases. These include continued support for Ukraine, addressing crises in the Middle East, ensuring energy security, and, as highlighted by the Italian Prime Minister, an increased focus on supporting African development and managing the challenges presented by AI.
The G7 Summit serves as a yearly gathering for leaders from the G7 member states: Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the UK, and the US. Additionally, the EU, represented by the President of the European Council and the President of the European Commission, partakes in all deliberations as guests.
More information will be available soon.

European Dialogue on Internet Governance: EuroDIG 2024
2024-06-17 - 2024-06-19 | Vilnius, Lithuania and online, Vilnius, Lithuania
Event description
The European Dialogue on Internet Governance (EuroDIG) 2024 is scheduled to take place from June 17–19 in Vilnius, Lithuania. The event will be hosted by the Communications Regulatory Authority of Lithuania (RRT) in cooperation with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Lithuania, the Ministry of Transport and Communications of Lithuania and Public Institution GoVilnius.EuroDIG is an open multistakeholder platform to exchange views about the internet and its governance.
First organised in 2008 by several organisations, government representatives and experts, it fosters dialogue and collaboration with the internet community on public policy for the internet – culminating in an annual conference in a different European city every year. The results are conveyed in the form of ‘Messages’, which are forwarded to policymakers and fed into the annual global UN Internet Governance Forum (IGF).
For more information about the event, please refer to the dedicated web page.

July 2024 online courses | Diplo Academy
2024-07-22 | Online
Event description
Diplo Academy is excited to announce the start of three online courses on 22 July 2024:

Bilateral Diplomacy
Diplomatic Law: Privileges and Immunities
Internet Technology and Policy

For further information or to apply, please click on the course titles above or visit our
Course Catalogue×Subscribe to Diplo Academy Newsletter for updates on our courses, programmes, and workshops.

Using current and emerging cyber tools for disaster management in Africa
2024-07-24 09:30 - 11:00 | Online
Event description
Time: 9.30am – 11am (EDT) 4:30pm – 6:00pm (EAT)
This webinar will focus on leveraging technology to enhance preparedness, response,
and recovery efforts in the face of natural or man-made disasters on the African
continent. This webinar aims to explore the utilization of cutting-edge cyber tools and
technologies to improve disaster management practices in the context of Africa. The
webinar will delve into innovative solutions that enable quicker, more coordinated
responses to crises, ultimately enhancing overall resilience in the region.
The objectives of the webinar include:

To share insights on the role of cyber tools in monitoring, early warning, and communication during disasters.
To showcase case studies highlighting successful integration of technology in disaster management across various African countries.
To discuss challenges and opportunities in the adoption of current and emerging cyber tools for disaster preparedness and response.
To foster collaboration and knowledge exchange among experts, policymakers, and practitioners in the field of disaster management and technology.

Key areas that the webinar will cover:

Overview of cyber tools and technologies relevant to disaster management.
Real-life examples of successful implementation of cyber tools in disaster
response.
Data security and privacy considerations in utilizing technology for disaster
management.
Integration of traditional knowledge with modern cyber tools for enhanced
disaster preparedness.
Future trends and emerging innovations in the field of cyber tools for disaster
management.

It is expected that by the end of the webinar, participants will gain a deeper
understanding of the potential of current and emerging cyber tools in enhancing
disaster management practices, with actionable insights on leveraging technology for
more effective preparedness, response, and recovery efforts in the African context.
Overall, this webinar promises to be a valuable platform for knowledge sharing,
collaboration, and innovation at the intersection of technology and disaster
management in Africa.
Register

Kautilya in Modern Governance and Diplomacy
2024-09-04 08:00 - 09:00 | Online
Event description
Kautilya’s Arthashastra, one of the world’s oldest and most comprehensive treatises on the science of statecraft, offers profound insights into the administration of justice, management of security, and strategies for state protection and expansion, including the nuanced concept of governance by stealth.
On Thursday, September 5th, Prof. Dr. Subrata K. Mitra, Emeritus Professor of Political Science at Heidelberg University, will give an online lecture highlighting how the Arthashastra remains crucial for understanding the modern Indian state, its democratic political system, and its foreign policy in a multipolar world.
Although written over two millennia ago, Kautilya’s teachings continue to influence contemporary India and beyond. This lecture will explore how India’s post-independence state and its leaders’ strategic thinking draw on the Arthashastra‘s intellectual legacy and deep political culture.
It will also examine the resilience of the Indian state, its ability to adapt and modernize institutions, and the broader relevance of these lessons for state-formation, governance, and diplomacy in the Global South and North.
To deepen your understanding of Kautilya’s enduring legacy and its impact on modern governance and diplomacy, join us for an interactive online discussion on September 5th at 8am EDT (12:00 UTC).
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AI Accountability and Digital Trade: Policy Options for the UK
2024-09-09 - 2024-09-10 | Blavatnik School of Government, Oxford, Blavatnik School of Government, Oxford, United Kingdom
Event description
Everyday interactions are mediated by algorithms, with significant impacts for the individual, economies, and wider society. The AI-as-a-service global market is growing rapidly, and governments are struggling to regulate this phenomenon effectively. Discussions are siloed, fragmented nationally, and isolated from international trade policy discussions. The workshops will bring together researchers with legal, trade and technical expertise to build a shared understanding of the opportunities for and barriers to the examination of algorithms in the context of a rapidly growing global market for AI-as-a-service.

Humanitarian Diplomacy | Diplo Academy
2024-09-16 | Online
Event description
Diplo Academy is excited to announce the start of the Humanitarian Diplomacy online diploma course on 16 September 2024.
The course is offered by the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) in partnership with DiploFoundation.
Subscribe to Diplo Academy Newsletter for updates on our courses, programmes, and workshops.

EBU Leadership Summit
2024-09-26
Jovan Kurbalija will deliver a Keynote address on ‘AI: Explore the transformative impact of AI on the media industry’ at the EBU Leadership Council in Sofia.
It will be hosted by the Bulgarian National Radio (BNR) and European Broadcasting Union (EBU).
More information

Demistifying AI for diplomats | Master briefing
2024-09-27
Jovan Kurbalija will deliver a Master Briefing on ‘Demistifying AI for diplomats’ for the Bulgarian Diplomatic Institute.

Celebrating 500 Issues of DiploNews: 25 Years of Pioneering Digital Diplomacy!
2024-09-30 05:00 - 06:00
Building on past insights for future momentum
Join us for a special retrospective event celebrating the 500th issue of DiploNews and 25 years of Diplo’s pioneering digital diplomacy research. This event will take you on a journey of through digital diplomacy and governance evolution, as chronicled in 500 issues since September 1999.
Explore how diplomacy has transformed, from the launch of the first websites to the advent of AI, and from the early diplomatic negotiations on internet access to the intricate digital agendas of today.
This is also an opportunity to discover how Diplo has sustained innovation over the past quarter-century, running a tech marathon while sprinting with the latest digital tools and platforms.
Don’t miss this chance to reflect on the past, and look forward to the future of diplomacy in the digital age!
Join us online on 30 September at 5 am EDT [9:00 UTC]
Consult 500 issues of DiploNews.

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Human Rights in the age of disinformation: a case study analysis
2024-09-30 08:00 - 09:00 | Online
Event description
The evolution of the internet over the years has played a crucial role in the access to and dissemination of information. The digitalisation of news portals, the creation of social media, and the presence of AI have not only contributed to informing people about everyday news but also allowed the fast spread of mis- and disinformation.
With the support from Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH Moldova, Diplo has conducted comprehensive research on online content governance, shedding light on the interplay between disinformation and other digital policy areas, such as online business models, cybersecurity, and human rights. The research investigates digital policy approaches that could help combat mis- and disinformation while protecting human rights and fundamental freedoms.
This challenge requires multilevel, multidisciplinary, and multistakeholder efforts, as well as an examination of the full range of possible responses, which simultaneously leverage the power of laws, social norms, market forces, and technological architecture. The research included case studies in four countries: Finland, Sweden, Lithuania, and Singapore.
This report was developed with support of the project “Info Trust Alliance”, funded by the German Federal Foreign Office and implemented by GIZ Moldova.
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Tech Diplomacy: Actors, Trends, and Controversies | Book launch
2024-10-01 08:00 - 09:00 | Online
Event description
The recent conflict between Elon Musk and the Brazilian government has sparked heated debate on freedom of expression. Many commentators failed to reflect on a strategic reconfiguration of global power between governments and powerful tech companies. As these companies increasingly wield economic and social influence, rivalling that of nation-states, the implications for global diplomacy are profound.
In his new book, Kurbalija offers a critical, informed, and impartial analysis of tech diplomacy, exploring how these dynamics challenge the traditional Westphalian system based on nation-states. He delves into the interactions between tech companies and national governments, from the Bay Area to capitals worldwide, providing a comprehensive understanding of this evolving landscape.
Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights, and participate in a thought-provoking discussion with Jovan Kurbalija.
The event will take place online on 1 October 2024, at 12:00 UTC | 8 am EDT
In the preparation for the event you can consult…
RegisterTable of Contents | Tech Diplomacy publication

Introduction
1. What is tech diplomacy?
2. Why is tech diplomacy relevant?
2. Who are the tech diplomacy actors?
3. How is tech diplomacy performed?
4. Where are the main tech diplomacy hubs?
Conclusion

Introduction
1. What is tech diplomacy?
Definitions of tech diplomacy
Addressing terminological confusion

The etymological and contextual meaning of tech diplomacy
Conceptual framing of tech diplomacy

What are the main topics covered by tech diplomacy?

Privacy and data protection
Antitrust and competition
Cybersecurity
Cybercrime
Content moderation and governance
Digital taxation
AI and digital governance
Labour and employment
Environment and climate
Intellectual property
Free flow of data and data localisation
Encryption
Telecommunication and spectrum allocation
Standardisation
Digital finance and cryptocurrencies
Development assistance

2. Why is tech diplomacy relevant?
Geopolitics
Interdependence
Power distribution
Soft power
Power of governments

Sovereignty
Monopoly of physical power
Legitimacy

Power of the tech sector

Economic power
Societal power
Political power

Compare companies and countries
In the example below, Amazon’s annual revenue is comparable to the GDP of Austria, Argentina, Israel, Ireland, Norway, and Thailand.

2. Who are the tech diplomacy actors?
Governments

Diplomatic services
Economic ministries
Law-enforcement agencies
Education and culture ministries
Defense and security ministries

Tech companies

Public policy and government affairs
Legal and regulatory affairs
Corporate social responsibility (CSR) and sustainability
Communications and public relations
Security and privacy
Executives and policy teams

Other actors

International organisations
Academia and think tanks
Civil society

3. How is tech diplomacy performed?
Mapping interplays between governmental ministries and corporate departments
What are the main instruments and interaction methods between governments and tech companies?

Lobbying and diplomacy
Public policy and advocacy
Corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives
Public-private partnerships
Research and development projects
International negotiations and forums
Consultations and advisory activities

4. Where are the main tech diplomacy hubs?
Map of tech companies’ presence worldwide

Zoom level changed to 1

United States

San Francisco Bay Area
Seattle
Washington, DC
Boston
New York

China

Beijing
Shanghai
Shenzhen

India

New Delhi
Bangalore

European Union

Brussels
Paris
Berlin

United Kingdom

London
Oxford

Switzerland

Geneva
Zurich

Singapore
Other centres and hubs
Conclusion

50th Meeting of the International Forum on Diplomatic Training
2024-10-08 - 2024-10-11
Diplo will participate at the 50th meeting of the IFDT (Bečići, Montenegro | 8-11 October 2024 )
Diplo will focus on impact on AI on diplomatic training. In the preparation of the IFDT, Diplo prepared AI Assistant based on the previous IFDT meetings

October 2024 online courses | Diplo Academy
2024-10-14 - 2024-10-15 | Online
Event description
Diplo Academy is excited to announce the start of four online courses on 14 October 2024:

Cybersecurity
Economic Diplomacy
Science Diplomacy
Sustainable Development Diplomacy

For further information or to apply, please click on the course titles above or visit our
Course Catalogue×Subscribe to Diplo Academy Newsletter for updates on our courses, programmes, and workshops.

UN Cybercrime Convention: What does it mean and how will it impact all of us?
2024-10-22 06:00 - 07:00 | Online
After three years of negotiations, initiated by Russia in 2017, the UN Member States at the Ad Hoc Committee (AHC) adopted the draft of the first globally binding legal instrument on cybercrime. This convention will now be presented to the UN General Assembly for formal adoption later this year. The Chair emphasised that the convention represents a criminal justice legal instrument and that the aim is, therefore, to combat cybercrime by prohibiting certain behaviours by physical persons, rather than to regulate the behaviour of Member States.
The adoption of the convention has proceeded despite significant opposition from human rights groups, civil society, and technology companies, who have raised concerns about potential risks of increased surveillance. In July, DiploFoundation invited experts from various stakeholder groups to discuss their expectations before the final round of UN negotiations, and to review the draft treaty. Experts noted an unprecedented alignment between industry and civil society on concerns with the draft, emphasising the urgent need for a treaty focused on core cybercrime offences, strengthened by robust safeguards and clear intent requirements.
Once formally adopted, how will the UN cybercrime convention impact the security of users in the cyber environment? What does this legal instrument actually say about the cross-border cooperation in combating cybercrime? What human rights protections and safeguards does it provide?
Join us on Oct 22, 2024, at 6 am EDT for a virtual expert discussion to get the views of several delegates involved in the negotiation process. The session will help understand the contents of the agreed draft convention and its practical implications for all of us.
Register

Unpacking Global Digital Compact | Book launch
2024-11-08 09:00 - 10:00 | Online
Join us online on 8th November for the launch of Unpacking Global Digital Compact, a new publication written by Sorina Teleanu, an expert on digital governance. Over the past 18 months, Sorina has meticulously followed the Global Digital Compact (GDC) process, anchoring it within the broader digital and internet governance landscape.
Teleanu’s book is a must-read for policymakers, digital diplomats, and all stakeholders involved in implementing the GDC and digital governance in general.

📅 Date: 8th November 2024🕒 Time: 9 am EST | 14.00 UTC📍 Location: Online – Zoom
Don’t miss this opportunity to explore the future of digital governance with Sorina Teleanu. We look forward to e-seeing you there!
Register×

Digital Trade for Africa’s Prosperity
2024-11-13 09:00 - 10:00 | Online
Digital trade is becoming a key driver of economic growth across the globe, reshaping how
goods and services are produced, traded, and consumed. With increasing internet penetration
and the adoption of digital technologies, Africa stands at a unique crossroads. While the
continent has made notable strides in digital innovation, e-commerce, and ICT infrastructure, it
still faces challenges such as regulatory barriers, inadequate digital infrastructure, and limited
financial inclusion. Harnessing the full potential of digital trade can enable Africa to leapfrog
traditional stages of development and create a more inclusive, sustainable, and prosperous
future.
The webinar ‘Digital Trade for Africa’s Prosperity’, aims to explore how digital trade can be a
powerful tool to drive economic development and transformation across Africa. The webinar will
bring together key stakeholders from governments, international organisations, businesses, and
civil society to discuss opportunities, challenges, and strategies for fostering a digital trade
ecosystem that contributes to Africa’s long-term prosperity.
The online event will cover a broad range of topics essential to understanding and promoting digital trade in Africa, including but not limited to:

The role of digital infrastructure: The importance of broadband access, mobile connectivity,
and other digital infrastructure to support e-commerce and cross-border trade.
Regulatory harmonisation: The need for coherent regulatory frameworks at both national and
regional levels, including issues related to data privacy, cybersecurity, and digital taxation.
Digital financial inclusion: Examining the role of fintech, mobile banking, and digital payment
systems in expanding financial services to underserved populations.
The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and digital trade: Exploring how digital
trade can enhance the benefits of the AfCFTA by facilitating cross-border e-commerce, digital
services trade, and data movement.
Skills development for the digital economy: Focusing on the skills gap and capacity building
needed to enable Africa’s workforce to participate effectively in the digital economy.
Case studies: Presenting case studies of successful digital trade initiatives in African countries
and sectors, with a focus on SMEs and innovation hubs.

Please register to join us on 13 November, at 9 am EST (15:00 CET)
Register×

Visit from participants of the Digital Policy Leadership Program, University of St. Gallen
2024-11-14
Under the framework of the Digital Policy Leadership Program (DPLP), a joint initiative between Insper Brazil and the University of St. Gallen, a group of students will visit Diplo and meet with some of their experts. The group will discuss opportunities and challenges related to artificial intelligence policy, digital trade, and internet governance. They will also know more about digital policy discussions carried out in international Geneva, contributing to strengthen students’ hands-on experience and interdisciplinary knowledge.

Tech attache briefing: The road to WSIS+20 high-level review
2024-12-05 | Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
The event is part of a series of regular briefings the Geneva Internet Platform (GIP) is delivering for diplomats at permanent missions and delegations in Geneva following digital policy issues. It is an invitation-only event.
***
About a year from now, a high-level meeting will be convened at the UN General Assembly to review the implementation of the outcomes of the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS). The recently adopted Global Digital Compact (GDC) called on this WSIS+20 review to identify how processes and forums emanating from WSIS can support the contribution of stakeholders to the implementation of the Compact. So what next?
At our briefing on 5 December 2024, we will:

Map the next steps in the lead-up to the WSIS+20 high-level review in 2025 and see who is expected to do what (e.g. at the CSTD level, by the UN Secretary-General, at the General Assembly level). In doing so, we will also look back at the WSIS outcomes and the WSIS+10 review.
Look at ongoing and upcoming activities related to the implementation of the GDC and their relevance for the WSIS+20 review.
Explore the interplay between GDC and WSIS outcomes implementation, follow-up and review, and discuss concrete options (and their feasibility and desirability) in this regard.

***
For inquiries, contact us at geneva@diplomacy.edu

How to prepare diplomats for the AI era?
2024-12-11 | WMO Building, 7bis Avenue de la Paix, Geneva (Attic Conference Room), 7bis Avenue de la Paix, Geneva, Switzerland
The Permanent Missions of Malta, Mexico, and Switzerland to the United Nations in Geneva, together with DiploFoundation, invite you to an anniversary event and master briefing:
How to prepare diplomats for the AI Era?
The future of diplomatic training and education
11 December 2024
WMO Building, 7bis Avenue de la Paix, Geneva (Attic Conference Room)
only in-situ event

In celebration of 15 years of cooperation between Malta, Mexico, and Switzerland, we are pleased to invite you to a special event exploring how diplomacy and international organisations can adapt to AI-driven transformations.
Artificial intelligence is already reshaping core diplomatic functions such as reporting, policy analysis, and public communication.
DiploFoundation will present the current state of AI in diplomacy, alongside updates on diplomatic training curricula. The focus will be on equipping current diplomats and preparing the next generation with the critical knowledge, skills, and talents required to excel in the AI era—whether representing their countries, negotiating international agreements, or navigating complex global challenges.
Programme
12:45 – 13:15
Networking and lunch refreshments
13:15 – 13:25
Introduction by representatives of Malta, Mexico, and Switzerland

Ambassador Fernando Israel Espinosa Olivera, Deputy Permanent Representative of Mexico
Ambassador Julien Thöni, Deputy Permanent, Representative of Switzerland to the UN in Geneva
Ms. Emily Tufigno, Deputy Permanent, Representative of Malta to the UN in Geneva (tbc)

13:25 – 13:40
Reflections on 15 years of training Mexican diplomats at DiploFoundation

Ambassador Fernando Israel Espinosa Olivera, Deputy Permanent Representative of Mexico

13:40 – 14:30
Master briefing: “How to prepare diplomats for the AI era?” followed by a panel discussion

Jovan Kurbalija, Director of DiploFoundation
Andrej Škrinjaric, Director of Education, DiploFoundation
Sorina Teleanu, Director of Knowledge, DiploFoundation

Register

Implementing AI in daily work: Training for the EU staff in Geneva
2025-01-20 | Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
Diplo will deliver specialised, exercise-based training, ‘Implementing AI in Daily Work’, for the EU Permanent Delegation to the United Nations Office and other international organisations in Geneva and the EU Permanent Mission to the World Trade Organization (WTO).
AI technology holds immense potential to streamline workflows and enhance efficiency across various sectors, including diplomacy. However, effectively integrating these tools into daily operations remains challenging for many organisations. This tailored training will equip the EU diplomats with the knowledge and skills to harness AI’s capabilities for managing repetitive tasks, enabling them to dedicate more time to core diplomatic functions such as engagement and negotiation.
The participants will learn about AI’s role in modern diplomacy, explore practical insights and foundational knowledge of the technology’s principles, and gain a comprehensive understanding of AI’s relevance to their work to better prepare to engage in discussions and decisions related to its use in diplomacy.

10th Geneva Engage Awards
2025-02-04 | Geneva and online, Geneva, Switzerland
Event description
Join us on 4 February for the Geneva Engage Awards, where we celebrate the remarkable efforts of International Geneva actors in digital outreach and online engagement. This year’s event is especially significant as we mark the 10th anniversary of the awards under the theme Engage2Connect.
Together, we’ll reflect on the journey of the past decade—celebrating milestones, revisiting memorable moments, and exploring how we’ve fostered a vibrant community of digital diplomacy and collaboration.
Don’t miss this chance to celebrate the amazing online work of international organisations, NGOs, and permanent missions.
Event details

Date: 4 February 2025
Location: WMO Attic

Registration
Fill in the form below to register for on-site participation. Please note that the ceremony will also be live-streamed.
Registrations are open
Register×Event programme (coming soon)
About Geneva Engage Awards
The Geneva Engage initiative, launched by the Geneva Internet Platform with the support of the Republic and Canton of Geneva in 2016, assesses the interplay between International Geneva and stakeholders all over the world. The initiative includes research on how International Geneva actors communicate and create linkages with communities worldwide that are affected by the policy discussions in Geneva that span across various domains, such as development, human rights, health, environment, digital topics, etc.
In this context, the annual Geneva Engage Awards acknowledge the efforts of International Geneva actors in digital outreach. The awards evaluate Geneva-based organisations’ social media engagement, web relevance and accessibility, and innovative events. We then give out awards in three main categories according to stakeholder groups: international organisations, non-governmental organisations, and permanent representations.
