Excluding the local 2 --- Eventually the current right-wing government has decided for the majority of the refugee reception and asylum procedures, as well as protection programming and cash assistance to be undertaken by state actors - which has proved highly inefficient and is causing harm to refugee populations which cannot cover their basic needs and have very limited access to protection.

Source author: Marianna Stamoulaki m.stamoulakis@gmail.com

Excluding the local 1 --- What we see in the Aegean Islands is an increasing hostility of local populations to NGO workers and foreigners, due to the majority of support during the refugee crisis from 2016 onwards given to refugees, despite local people having to deal with the consequences of the ongoing economic crisis in Greece. This has escalated to physical attacks and threats not only to NGO workers but also to anyone who looks as a caucasian foreigner, and has generated mistrust to NGOs.

Source author: Marianna Stamoulaki m.stamoulakis@gmail.com

Interest --- Though I can take into consideration the different complexities that may occur, I wonder why would a party reach an agreement and realise afterwards that it contradicts or ignores their interests. And eventually, do such issues occur mostly in verbal or written agreements?

Source author: Marianna Stamoulaki m.stamoulakis@gmail.com

Rights --- Thanks Samban. This case study shows how CARE works as, in this case, a rights-based organisation. My personal view is that the case study doesn't look carefully enough at how needs inform a discussion about rights, and needs are the elements which bring out the way rights are relevant and can be promoted in the particular case.

Source author: Christopher Lamb christopher.lamb17@gmail.com

Defining roles --- Thanks Samban. The normal base for defining roles will be the mandate/constitution of the organisation concerned but it will also include the personal qualities and experience of the people themselves.

Source author: Christopher Lamb christopher.lamb17@gmail.com

Joint monitoring --- Good point, Catherine. This also shows why HD remains relevant long after the agreement itself is signed.

Source author: Christopher Lamb christopher.lamb17@gmail.com

Implementation matrix --- Thanks for your response on this, Abraham. We have emphasised several times, including in our comments on some of the Assignment papers presented during this course, the great importance of costing implementation.

Source author: Christopher Lamb christopher.lamb17@gmail.com

Minutes recording agreement --- Thanks Wossene. The short answer to your question is Yes, but unless they are agreed at the time they should be used with care.

Source author: Christopher Lamb christopher.lamb17@gmail.com

Irregular migrants --- Thanks Gerhardt, and to Ivy I say no need to apologise. The link you provided is very helpful to people needing to examine this situation and the way it is ventilated by politicians and we will add it to the relevant Module's resources for the future.

Source author: Christopher Lamb christopher.lamb17@gmail.com

Ownership at different levels --- Many thanks Ivy. Absolutely right. The issues which lead to a central government decision to come to an agreement are often not explained to the localities affected and that's a principal reason why we insist that HD is required long after the agreement is signed.

Source author: Christopher Lamb christopher.lamb17@gmail.com

Radio --- Thanks for starting this thread, Virginia and to Shane and the other colleagues who contributed to it. I have found it very strange that some governments, including my own, discounted the importance of radio as a communication and dissemination tool with the arrival of the smartphone and video messaging. I agree that the latter are very important indeed but the older radio is still very relevant in the humanitarian world.

Source author: Christopher Lamb christopher.lamb17@gmail.com

Empathy during negotiation --- Maria, I like this. A negotiator who clearly understands the situation on the ground, either from personal contact with it or from good briefing, is always going to have a better "ownership" platform from which to speak. You make an important point.

Source author: Christopher Lamb christopher.lamb17@gmail.com

Listening and note-taking --- Thanks Manny. Your strategies are fine, but don't let your note-taking distract the person to whom you're speaking. Best to keep that to a minimum.

Source author: Christopher Lamb christopher.lamb17@gmail.com

Attention span and multi tasking 2 --- This quote from an article in the UK Independent newspaper says a lot: In 2000 the average attention span was 12 seconds, but this has now (in 2015) fallen to just eight. The goldfish is believed to be able to maintain a solid nine.

Source author: Christopher Lamb christopher.lamb17@gmail.com

Attention span and multi tasking 1 --- Thanks Ivy. According to tech journals we humans are losing attention span as we receive more and more information, especially from social media and other electronic sources. The situation for humans is getting worse every year, while goldfish maintain, apparently, a nine second span. This is something we need to consider with priority as we develop our HD messaging.

Source author: Christopher Lamb christopher.lamb17@gmail.com

Teams: strengths and weaknesses --- Thanks Joe and John and Didi. If done well, your stakeholder analysis will tell you something about the strengths and weaknesses of each prospective team member. To Didi: yes, each team member should recognise its strength, but they should also appreciate that they have weaknesses and handle this appropriately in the cultural context.

Source author: Christopher Lamb christopher.lamb17@gmail.com

Networks of organisations --- Thanks KW. The UNHCR point is good. UNHCR and UNICEF both have national NGOs, nominally separate from the IGO itself, engaged in national advocacy and fundraising in many countries. This is sometimes seen as risky given that the IGO is intergovernmental, but they manage to maintain a strong and credible position nationally as a result of this form of "mixed" action.

Source author: Christopher Lamb christopher.lamb17@gmail.com

Story telling --- Emmanuel, I really like the point about the importance of story telling as part of ongoing negotiations and trust building. Stories bring emotion (pathos) to our engagements and provide depth and nuance that are not found in formal conversations. I feel they also cross between different cultures.

Source author: Joe Cropp joe.cropp@ifrc.org

Listening --- Also Didi, perhaps the most valuable skill a successful negotiator and communicator is listening. Effective communication requires active listening . The 70/30 rule suggests that good communicators tend to spend 70% of the time listening and only 30% of the time speaking. Two easy listening strategies are writing down questions before every meeting and bring a notepad to take notes .And, never interrupt.!

Source author: Emmanuel Henry Pierre manniepierre@hotmail.com

signature and implementation --- Indeed, or they form a committee but fail to provide them with the relevant power to implement the agreement.

Source author: Marwa Shabbar marwashabbar@yahoo.com.au

Building Trust. --- Also Joe, building trust doesn't happen overnight. In order to be a skilled and successful negotiator, it's important to keep in mind that emotions play a large role in the negotiation process. It is important to build rapport through storytelling using an appropriate and rich medium. Also listen intently and facilitate action.

Source author: Emmanuel Henry Pierre manniepierre@hotmail.com

The best part! --- Definitely my favourite part of the negotiation process - trying to think a year or more down the line to who may be decision makers in the future and pave the way for more easier movements/agreements down the line.

Source author: Murdoch Stephens murdoch.stephens@redcross.org.nz

Identifying Emotions --- Fear is one of the strongest emotions and motivators. If you enter a situation afraid of one of the possible outcomes you will not be able to make optimal decisions. The first step in dealing with fear is to be aware of it . The second step is to manage it, including becoming comfortable with the outcome, minimizing its possibility and creating other alternatives. The final step, for negotiators with high emotional intelligence, is to be able to pick up on another party's fear and adjust accordingly.

Source author: Emmanuel Henry Pierre manniepierre@hotmail.com

Opportunities arising with new regimes in HD --- Also from experiences there is new opportunities emerging from new governments because they tend to behave to be obliged to international laws and treaties this opportunity can be utilized

Source author: Abraham Kisang kisangkisumbat@gmail.com

Implementation Matrix --- In addition, the implementations matrix has to be costed to ensure effective implantation and planning

Source author: Abraham Kisang kisangkisumbat@gmail.com

Building local capacity in HD --- I think this is a really powerful approach to give people in the community the skills, confidence and education to voice their own opinions and concerns with decision makers and bring about change.

Source author: Catherine Gearing cathgearing@gmail.com

monitoring --- and monitoring of negotiated agreements

Source author: Abraham Kisang kisangkisumbat@gmail.com

Time --- Yes Riyadh, but it depends on who are your interlocutors, and let us not forget that very often, time is not on the side of the HDiplomat !

Source author: Jean-Michel Monod jmmonod@yahoo.com

Thanks. We all look for improvement... --- ...in trade and investment policies. And what is the result in terms of actual FDI inflow into Tanzania? Facts please?

Source author: Kishan S Rana kishanrana@gmail.com

Frank, what counts is the reputation... --- ...the country builds in its settlement of business disputes. Some do much better than others. And that affects FDI too, in a major way.

Source author: Kishan S Rana kishanrana@gmail.com

I am delighted to learn that in Senegal.... --- ...economic coordination among different ministries works so well.

Source author: Kishan S Rana kishanrana@gmail.com

Small difference of view, Frank. --- India's walkout of RCEP was an act of folly. Don't believe me? Please ask Bipul in one of your class chats -- he knows much more than I do.

Source author: Kishan S Rana kishanrana@gmail.com

Malefetsane, you raise an important issue that needs close examination. --- A foreign investor looks to own interests -- that is how business works....Yes, that power equation is 'unbalanced' at first sight, but the LDC has the absolute right of refusal....And there are other investors available, MNCs, and even countries like China....The LDC's goal should be to get the best deal for the country, looking to long-term interests, including technology transfer and skilling the country's labor force. The key Q: how to do this in the best way? Remember, Singapore was once a sleepy, small port city, with no industry or wealth. That was the town I saw in 1961, on a slow cargo boat from Calcutta to HK (a 20-day journey, stops of 1 or 2 days at Chittagong, Rangoon, Penang and Singapore). Today's its per capita income is $70,000 -- and it pays its top civil servants (and ministers) an annual salary of 1.2 million and more....Or Mauritius, a lazy cane-producing country right up to the early 1970s, per cap income of $500. Today that income level is $10,000 plus -- and with zero natural resources!....But we don't often celebrate our own success stories.

Source author: Kishan S Rana kishanrana@gmail.com

Great set of points. We do need to consider all aspects. --- But why not ask Sri Lanka, or Kenya or Zambia, what they think of the fine 5 lofty principles you cite at the end of that HT post?

Source author: Kishan S Rana kishanrana@gmail.com

Mohamed, that is a fine Q..... --- ...In my eyes, both are good methods. But the key is to ensure that exemptions and incentives are offered to ALL investors.....The moment a country gets into negotiated concessions to particular investors, it has lost the game, and is on the slippery slope to corruption and perdition....A fine Singapore book has a lovely Aesop's Fable story on this. [The book: Chan Chin Bock, Heart Work: Stories of How EDB Steered the Singapore Economy from 1961 to the 21st Century, Singapore Economic Development Board, Singapore, 2002.]

Source author: Kishan S Rana kishanrana@gmail.com

That, Sir... --- ...is the burden on my Song!!!.....And let me add, many, many countries -- including India -- are in the same boat.....We have sometimes invested well in top-end tertiary education. And that is good....But we have neglected BASIC education. Without that foundation, what can be done?

Source author: Kishan S Rana kishanrana@gmail.com

Many thanks, Mohamed. --- And yet so few are willing to speak out about the exploitative nature of some of China's projects in Africa....Is that not a reflection of China's 'political condition of silence', imposed on those that receive its investments?....May I request the Class to consider this and perhaps comment?

Source author: Kishan S Rana kishanrana@gmail.com

I agree completely that economic statecraft today... --- ...must take into account the SMEs and MMEs. That should be a pillar of our economic policy and diplomacy....But it goes beyond taking SME reps to the Dubai Expo, if I may submit....I would much rather you narrate what an embassy has done to advance the business interests of SMEs that have tried to enter a foreign market.

Source author: Kishan S Rana kishanrana@gmail.com

You have hit the nail on the head, Emily. --- International trade is today so very complex, driven by supply chains and interconnections between products, companies and countries. That makes sanctions, tariff wars and targeted economic actions very unpredictable in outcomes....The central element is a huge, complex interdependence between enterprises, commodities and nations....It speaks to a need for negotiations, mutual cooperation, peaceful settlement of disputes....India-Pakistan economic ties is a case in point. We act in ways that hurts the other side, and does sometimes even greater damage to ourselves.

Source author: Kishan S Rana kishanrana@gmail.com

Do please remember that this 'China model' also includes: --- 1. The Great Leap Forward of 1958 that led to the famine of 1959-62, which killed at least 30 million. 2. The Cultural Revolution of 1965-72 that led to upheaval across the country, closing of almost all educational institutions for 3 years, and the death of an estimated 5 million or more. 3. A political system now that arbitrarily has clamped down on private enterprises, with new tight regulations that will greatly hurt their business activities.....These are complex issues, with divided opinions. All I suggest is read widely and consider the full dimension of the issues.

Source author: Kishan S Rana kishanrana@gmail.com

Simataa, you make a good point, one that bears reflection. --- Can you please give examples of say 3 countries in Africa that are happy with Chinese investments (BRI or any other), and are engaged in repaying their debts on schedule? I refer to BRI investments, say made since 2011, not gifts of stadiums and other prestige projects, as gifts....You are entirely right in suggesting that we should go by facts on the ground, not stories that float around. Thanks

Source author: Kishan S Rana kishanrana@gmail.com

Some misunderstanding here. Yes, China does not impose... --- ...direct political conditions when it invests abroad, unlike the US, EU and others, be it in terms of human rights or gender and LBGT laws in that foreign country.....But have you thought of political conditions that apply to those that invest in China -- I have just listed few in another HT comment.....Do please think this over.

Source author: Kishan S Rana kishanrana@gmail.com

Tarniem, the story is complex and goes beyond the pandemic, though it is a factor. --- For a technology company -- or any investor in China -- new challenges have come up. A short list. 1. China wants foreign technology and an open market for its investors, but China itself is a tightly regulated investment destination for foreign countries. 2. Lots of new regulations confront foreign investors. They must ensure that all technological data is shared with China, and harsh penalties apply for any perceived lapses. 3. The foreign unit in China must have a CCP Party committee -- as must all Chinese non-State owned countries. And the regulations are tightened all the time. 4. If political problems arise, company executives can become hostages -- as with Canadians and others.....Don't be surprised if FDI flows into China now slow down.

Source author: Kishan S Rana kishanrana@gmail.com

Let's think of it another way. --- It is clearly essential to have a sufficient number of diplomatic personnel to advance the home country's interests. But just adding more staff actually leads to problems....As an ambassador, I preferred the embassy to be slightly overworked, for people to have lots of real work to do....That kept them out of mischief, or frivolous activity. Not to beat my drum, but I urge the Class to skim (don''t read all the details!!). The long first book chapter is on my experience in Germany (1992-95), mainly focused on economic diplomacy. [Since the link to this book is again out of order, I am sending this chapter as a PDF via a message].

Source author: Kishan S Rana kishanrana@gmail.com

Thanks, Waqas. --- The link you have provided is to US-China negotiations, in which economic, political and national ambition issues are intertwined. But your remarks are cryptic....Not sure where Djibouti enters the picture....'Common development' is a slogan, meaning that both sides, or all sides, should benefit. Nice thought, not always practiced. Every country's works first to advance its own interests. Is that not normal? The q. is, does it also serve the REAL interests of the other side.

Source author: Kishan S Rana kishanrana@gmail.com

It is natural that countries seek advancement, Ndeye. --- But often, the more ambitious the plan, the less likely it is to deliver....I go by the advice of Joe Stiglitz. The only resource that can deliver long term value, and keep on giving, is human talent -- that should be the focus of our investment. But do we really understand and act on that....Thinking of India, I find it beyond understanding that with all our wise leaders, and splendid development plans, our latest literacy rate is 80% -- 75 years after Independence! Can we afford to waste that human talent?...If we can deliver on the basics, economic growth will happen.

Source author: Kishan S Rana kishanrana@gmail.com

A simple Q: of the diamonds produced by Botswana... --- ...what percentage are processed in the country? Are there any figures for value addition.....The big Q for the Global South is: of their natural resources, how much undergoes downstream processing in the country?...Of course, technologies differ and all natural resources cannot be handled the same way.

Source author: Kishan S Rana kishanrana@gmail.com

Did I mention a 'sunset clause'? --- My focus was on a clause that mandates re-negotiation, as a check on implementation of the promises made....Do please think this over.

Source author: Kishan S Rana kishanrana@gmail.com

Natural resources. --- With such a vast of natural resources endowered in Africa but accrual of economic benefits to the most African countries deemed not significant enough. In safeguarding these natural resources and atleast to have a fair share with the multinational companies, legal reforms are highly needed by countries which will gives governments the right to tear up and re-negotiate contracts for win-win situations. It was possible in Tanzania whereby in 2017, the government revised and reformed its legal, regulatory and fiscal frameworks of all its natural resources. Among other things, government increased royalties tax and made mandatory for all mining companies to be listed in Dar es salaam stock exchange (DSE) as part of measures aimed at increasing transparency.

Source author: Frank John Mhina frankmhina01@gmail.com

INVESTMENT PROTECTION AGREEMENT --- It is obviously facilitating the inflows of the foreign investment of the countries due to a sound investment climate due to its nature that protects investor of one country when investing in another country and lower commercial risk for such investor. However, in case of disputes, it is important for a countries and investors to consider exhausting first all domestic remedies including domestic courts before proceeding directly to the arbitration.

Source author: Frank John Mhina frankmhina01@gmail.com

Sunset clause debate --- Thank you Amb. Rana. I agree with you, there must be a level of trust between business partners. However, the USCMA, a modernized version of NAFTA, entered into force on Juanuary 1994, the Treaty has created millions of jobs, it has given stability and confidence to business groups and certainty to supply chains. I think in this particular case, a sunset clause could also damage the flow of investments because it would create a climate of mistrust and unknowns about the future of the agreement. I think the nature and objectives of a Treaty should be studied as well as its scope to accept an early termination clause instead of reviews that the USMCA does include.

Source author: Cecilia Treemonisha Barros Ruiz cbarros@sre.gob.mx

India and RCEP /Tanzania and COMESA --- In 2000, Tanzania walked out of COMESA just like India did in 2019 when walked out of "Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP)". When reflecting their decisions taken by both, were purely based on safeguarding its national interest. For the case of Tanzania, zero tariffs agreement between member states, was harming Tanzania economy in the sense that more that 5 member states (Zambia, DRC, Malawi, Burundi, Rwanda) are landlocked countries and their imports and exports were highly depends on Tanzanian ports. With such an agreement it means these countries would be exempted from the tax when transiting their goods to and from Tanzania, and Tanzania was not ready to loose about USD 80 million annually. This influenced the decision for Tanzania to join SADC as better option to serve its economic development.

Source author: Frank John Mhina frankmhina01@gmail.com

equivalent --- In Senegal that ministry has a triple mission of "Economy, plan and cooperation" ministry and the Ministry of finance is separate and handle as well the "national budget" yet they all work closely with the ministry of Foreign Affairs and other agencies of promotion. In the recent years, migrations issues have been central in the economic promotion agendas and has somehow been used as solid bargaining chip in foreign investment flows whether in forms of aids of else.

Source author: Ndeye Gnagna Kone gnagna.pro@gmail.com

transfering sovereignity to the collective entity --- There is an interesting development in the EU where recently Poland constitutional court ruled that the country's EU membership did not give EU courts supreme legal authority in Poland and that Poland had not shifted its sovereignty to the EU. This ruling has added to the standoff between the two as Supremacy of EU law has and continues to be one of the cornerstone principles of the European Union.

Source author: Lapologang Judah lapoduna@gmail.com

DTAA --- I have come across countries that have a policy or may be tendency of not signing DTAAs with countries where there have low trade volumes. I dont know if this is good practice because it disadvantages those the few companies that are already doing business with that country

Source author: Lapologang Judah lapoduna@gmail.com

100% agreed. --- States, especially small states, need to properly and diligently set up their economic goals with clear and viable strategies in order to attain that goal (economic growth) having not fallen victim to others due to unclear and unfavourable policy choices.

Source author: Malefetsane Dominic Mosala mosalalaw@gmail.com

Not easy task for small states!!! --- Inasmuch as each country's responsibility is to protect its citizens against the monopoly enjoyed by big foreign investors, for small states, especially LDCs, it is not always favourable, even if it may be possible to impose stringent conditions for foreign investors, for example, mandatory transfer of technology and employment of locals. Most big companies usually tend to threaten vulnerable economies with the "take it or leave it" proviso, thereby putting the latter on a tight spot so much so that they ultimately succumb to the former's indirect pressure on account of securing an investor.

Source author: Malefetsane Dominic Mosala mosalalaw@gmail.com

Never ending tensions --- There is a pattern of never-ending tensions between CSOs and governments in infrastructures development big projects across West Africa in the recent years, especially with accusations of favoritism to certain foreign contractors over local/regional ones in Road infrastructures per se.

Source author: Ndeye Gnagna Kone gnagna.pro@gmail.com

PSE --- It's great to get to know more about economical development agendas across sub-Saharan Africa. In Senegal, we have Plan Senegal Emergent (Emerging Senegal Plan) as such, it is so driven by the ambition to drive and attract more foreign investments and leapfrogging the country to a middle to higher income country that it is pretty much shunning out "poverty" causing many problems internally i.e. people are realizing a shift from a socialist country to a super-capitalist one where liberal govs and leaders pretty much make people understand that they are governing for the rich and the poor just have to disappear...

Source author: Ndeye Gnagna Kone gnagna.pro@gmail.com

Comment --- In Somalia case, in line with international best practici the nature of investment promotion which is multi sectoral multi stakeholder, ministry of planning and the office of the prime minister (both have convening and coordination powers) are leading the investment promotion. Investment policy and regulatory development still remains at the ministry of commerce and industry. This Investment policy and promotion desperation is working for Somalia at the moment.

Source author: Dubo Mohamed mohacpr@gmail.com

Questions --- Do tax exemptions or rather fiscal incentives practically increase FDI?

Source author: Dubo Mohamed mohacpr@gmail.com

Comment --- Irrespective of natural resource endowment, a country must make struggles to raise its education budget ration and maintain it in order to produce tomorrow’s critical mass which are not only sufficient for economic Labour but become human capital exporter.

Source author: Dubo Mohamed mohacpr@gmail.com

Comment --- Similar conditions and discussions exist in Kenya (Mombasa post) and Zambia (national electricity company)

Source author: Dubo Mohamed mohacpr@gmail.com

post pandemic --- Global value chains suffered major disruption during the pandemic which stalled international trade flows. As social distancing measures prolonged, the use of technology to address or attend to issues,rose exponentially and it appears this development will continue post pandemic as many have now embraced the its use and cost effectiveness

Source author: Lapologang Judah lapoduna@gmail.com

small and medium enterprises... --- Economic diplomacy can also play a significant role in evoking interest for SMEs and MMEs to participate in the external market. I think where capacities are identified, in a SME/MME, efforts for internationalisation could be employed to improve its capacity and competiveness for this market. In this regard para diplomacy also plays a role as these companies are indentified through the local regions. They can take part in the region´s para diplomacy activities such as being part of a delegation to international trade/investment events like the Dubai Expo..

Source author: Omphile Sethunya Sedimo sedimosethunya44@gmail.com

thats an interesting perspective on data.... --- ..considering the now popular Clive Humby´s 2006 quote that "data is the new oil". An expression influenced perharps owing to the data driven success of tech companies. Although the jury is still out on that one, it might be beneficial for home countries, to insist on local storage not just for economic benefits but to safe guard their security as well.

Source author: Omphile Sethunya Sedimo sedimosethunya44@gmail.com

Trade War --- According to an IMF study, U.S. importers of goods have incurred the majority of the cost of the tariffs imposed on Chinese goods. These costs are eventually passed on to the American consumer in the form of higher prices, which is the total opposite of what the trade war is meant to achieve.

Source author: Matshedisa Emily Mokoena mokoenamati@gmail.com

Careful regulation --- Many foreign firms that want to do business in South Africa must comply with Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) policies. These policies seek to correct economic imbalances in historically disadvantaged communities in order to facilitate socioeconomic transformation.

Source author: Matshedisa Emily Mokoena mokoenamati@gmail.com

“win-win cooperation” model --- China claims to have adopted a “win-win cooperation” model, in its economic investments abroad. However, in most cases, particularly in Africa, it appears to be benefiting more from its investments compared to the host countries. As an example is already made of the BRI project, this project although is helping to build infrastructure, industry, and connectivity across the continent, but is clearly beneficial to Chinese companies in terms of utilizing overcapacity and bringing labour and materials into Africa.

Source author: Matshedisa Emily Mokoena mokoenamati@gmail.com

Mouffe prescribes the “need for an agonistic pluralistic fight that confronts different hegemonic political projects” --- That confrontation includes the ones that must be promoted in A MULTIPOLAR WORLD ORDER. For Chantal, ‘power and antagonism have an ineradicable character, in spite of the rationalist and individualist liberal discourse”. (Mouffe, Chantal, The Return of the Political, Verso, London, 1993).

What do some of you think about Chantal Mouffe’s promotion of agonistic conflict not aimed at destroying the other but keeping in mind the hegemonic power of the oligarchy?

Source author: Eric Suzán Reed esuzan@sre.gob.mx

Mouffe calls for a political DISCOURSE and action that do not refrain of democratic partisan conflict --- It is crucial to recognize and assume the antagonic dimension of the political and social life: Us versus Them”. That kind of “democratic discourse plays a crucial role in the political imaginary of our societies. And through the construction of a collective will, mobilizing common affects in defense of equality and social justice” (Mouffe, Chantal, For a Left Populism, Verso, London, 2018).

Source author: Eric Suzán Reed esuzan@sre.gob.mx

Political discourse need to built both identities says Mouffe --- In order to achieve that -Mouffe says- the “We identity” of The People must be actively built by the skillful use of POLITICAL DISCOURSE in tandem with the construction of the identity of “The Others”: the Oligarchy who control political institutions leaning them decisively toward their interest. This will make CONFLICT more visible in society, what she considers healthy and indispensable for social progress in order to struggle against subordination, oppression and discrimination. (Mouffe, Chantal, On the Political, 2005).

Source author: Eric Suzán Reed esuzan@sre.gob.mx

US versus THEM a needed category in political discourse according to Chantal Mouffe --- Chantal Mouffe has been emphasizing for the last three decades the need to reinforce the POLITICAL IDENTITY of Us versus Them, in order to turn democracy toward an adversarial process were those less advantaged segments of society and the progressive wing are able to push it to take into full consideration the interests of the have nots. (Mouffe, Chantal, The Democratic Paradox, 2000).

Source author: Eric Suzán Reed esuzan@sre.gob.mx

Part of the phenomena has its origins on the polarization of the political system --- Trump uses to exploit venues detected by pollsters at his service: he emphasizes attitudes and opinions held by a segment of society to build and keep a base of support. It is one of the reasons why Trump’s atacks resonate in that segment of the public he is precisely aiming at with laser precision. Trump gives voice in the high stakes political arena to the concerns of groups of people that feel left behind by traditional political figures and parties. When seeing him acting Trump’s followers feel he is fighting for them on issues they care a lot. The frustration accumulated by decades by those segments of the public provides the context under which his heavy-handed tactics and expressions provoque a catarsis for troubled citizens that feel left out by the political process while their standards of leaving were diminishing. Trump’s discourse aims to tap on political passions (sometimes low-ones: resentment; hate; fury, and the like...).

Source author: Eric Suzán Reed esuzan@sre.gob.mx

Not offended... --- since I have heard it before, but it was interesting to see that at least to me, it doesn't seem to be as funny as before, given what we know now about consent and women's agency.

Source author: Alejandra Mayela Martinez Silva ammartinez@sre.gob.mx

True --- probably that's one of the reasons why diplomats are required to go back home every certain years?

Source author: Alejandra Mayela Martinez Silva ammartinez@sre.gob.mx

Cocktails --- I'm not here to defend cocktail parties, but getting to know how to "work the floor" can open many doors. It's a careful balance on knowing what cocktails are useful to attend (even if it's only for representation duties), what are you doing there, who can you possibly meet, and last but not least, limit your eating and drinking.

Source author: Alejandra Mayela Martinez Silva ammartinez@sre.gob.mx

funny, but meaningless --- What he was trying to say there? nobody will ever know, but I guess it was funny and resonated with his audiencie

Source author: Alejandra Mayela Martinez Silva ammartinez@sre.gob.mx

Generalisations --- I actually found this definition of millenials as "snowflakes" a perfect example of a gross generalisation, used to easily disquilify arguments that make the rest of us uncomfortable. If this is the snowflake generation, there's no need for me to question my believes and behaviors. (full disclosure: I'm a genX)

Source author: Alejandra Mayela Martinez Silva ammartinez@sre.gob.mx

Two out of Three for Bergson's Humor --- In a preceding HT I quoted Bergson. Biljana asked whether I agreed with the quote and my opinion on the three other roles that humor may play – solidarity, bridging ,and defusing tension.

I would be guilty of the informal fallacy of “quote-mining” if I did not provide a context for my use of the quote and its importance to Bergson’s representation of humor.

To understand Bergson, and the acerbity, and even inflexibility inflexibility of this quote, it is helpful to clarify the topic of the essay, Bergson’s Jewish tradition, and the tenor of his times. In writing the essay his intention was always to understand the psychology and methodology of “The Comic”. His essay does not define humor but seeks to understand its methodology.

In defiance of the Nazis after their conquest of France, Bergson insisted on wearing a yellow star to show his solidarity with other French Jews.

He demonstrated, by his life, humor’s capacity for bridging the divide. He deployed this in his diplomatic mission to overcome US neutrality to support the resistance of the French to Nazism.

Bergson understood that humor may also be used not to defuse, but to infuse resistance to the oppressive occupation faced by European nations.

Bergson checks the humor boxes of solidarity and bridging but I must concede my argument as a fail by Bergson to use humor as a diffusion of tension.

To his credit , Bergson checks two out of the three humor boxes and may be forgiven for omitting the third.

Source author: John D. Hipsley jhipsley@igc.org

Very happy to oblige! --- Petru, we are very happy to give you the middle initials PL for Professional Listener! We would love to hear some examples of the kind of detail that a skilled and experienced PL might pick out of a flow of verbiage if you can recollect any that are shareable here.

Source author: Biljana Scott biscott@diplomacy.edu

Social media and short termism --- Agreed about the negative effect of social media on political communication and policy development. As Andrej mentioned in an HT last week, short election cycles already have an adverse effect on policies designed to address long-term issues, and the short attention span encouraged by social media aggravates this bittiness and lack of joined up, substantive action even more, alas.

Source author: Biljana Scott biscott@diplomacy.edu

The professional listeners --- I am aware of the risk of building a case for an ingroup which claims a special attribute, but I need to make a note on the good listeners.

The United Nations diplomats used to flatter themselves as being "professional listeners".

Indeed, diplomats accredited to the Permanent Missions to the United Nations in New York and Geneva spend most of their active time listening to the statements of delegates in various conference rooms. It is not mere listening: it is very careful listening because normally the diplomatic reports to their Capitals were based on what they heard in those meetings.

In a couple of years of exercise, a versed diplomat could develop a special ability to detect what is relevant, meaning or new in the torrent of words they hear everyday. Of course, they also make their own interventions, but that is just a fraction of time they spend in meetings.

When I first attended the meetings of Commission of Human Rights in 2001, in Geneva, we used to have 12 hours of debates per day, in four meetings (10 am - 1 pm, 3 - 6 pm, 6 - 9 pm, and 9 pm - midnight). Some delegations were big enough to afford changes of shifts. Mine, no!

So, please, can I have your permission to call myself, occasionally, professional listener?

PS 1: Fortunately, this practice was discontinued because of its costs! Now, the meetings of the Human Rights Council must end at 6 pm. But, hey, do not enjoy yourselves too early: there are meetings during the "lunch break"!

PS 2: Unfortunately, the species of professional listeners is endangered, almost disappeared. The laptops and the smart phones do intercept the attention of the diplomats, and the profession of listeners is on the wane .....

Source author: Petru Dumitriu PetruD@diplomacy.edu

body language --- implement body language.

Source author: Maryam Almheiri jody_06@hotmail.com

Interaction --- The more questions you ask in response to the other's statement, the more active listening you are, because effective listening also requires an active response in order to be emphasized.

Source author: Maryam Almheiri jody_06@hotmail.com

Shut up man! --- Trump loves a fight and feels satisfied when he gets under people's skin. A good sound bite, but didn't really achieve anything other than give Trump more air time. The context in which Biden said it was completely lost. All the 5 statements, gave Trump more attention and more fodder for his base, more of a show that they enjoy watching.

Source author: Mamta Reid liveandsmile@hotmail.com

Where do I stand? --- Yes, I strongly believe in avoiding offence whereever possible. In my opinion they key to achieving this is to observe and study at all times; be it an individual or a group. The sooner one can understand the other person or group's goals, aim, and most importantly their definitions and perceptions versus your own, it is possible to avoid offence. I also believe it is possible to be attentive whilst simultaneously being firm and assertive. Having said the above, at times there may be need to speak up and do what it takes, for example in a (hostage) negotiation.

Source author: Mamta Reid liveandsmile@hotmail.com

Indeed! --- Proneness to offense make everyone far more cautious with sharing jokes and humour!

I recently watched some Looney Tunes and Donald Duck cartoons I really enjoyed as a child, and it was obvious to me that many of the things that made me laughed then are now politically incorrect/utterly cancelled!

Source author: Liliana Oliva Bernal loliva@sre.gob.mx

Thank you, John! --- For sharing your interesting graphics!

I fully agree in that mastering metaphors, and other literary figures, is useful and good for thinking -and sometimes also beautiful!

I haven't heard/read "She sells seashells on the seashore" for a longtime... I will never forget what alliteration is, thank you! :D

Source author: Liliana Oliva Bernal loliva@sre.gob.mx

Chauvinism --- While chauvinism is more evident -or at least more palpable in certain cultural features- in certain societies, I agree in that every social group tends to include in the dichotomy us/them a sense or better/lesser.

Source author: Liliana Oliva Bernal loliva@sre.gob.mx

Mexico - Spain example --- Mexico and Spain broke diplomatic relations for almost 40 years, and all along this time writers, painters, thinkers and bullfighters from both countries nurtured the bilateral relationship.

Source author: Liliana Oliva Bernal loliva@sre.gob.mx

Ad hominem --- All of these phrases (perhaps except from 4?) are ad hominem assertions against Trump - But I guess that Biden decided to tune in to his adversary!

Bullying was the only language known to Trump, that a well-known fact.

Source author: Liliana Oliva Bernal loliva@sre.gob.mx

More food for thought --- This text relates to the Korzybski “dog-biscuit” anecdote provided by Biljana. Korzybski “demonstrated that people don't just eat food, but also words.” My interest is exploring the connection between language and human psychology and biology. Korzybski illustrated that there is this deeper connection between language and human physiology.

"To eat one's own words" is a standard figure of speech today; but this idiom is a product of linguistic evolution. Today the idiom has acquired a distasteful connotation. It conveys the sentiment that one must admit that something said before was wrong. It was not always so. Originally, the expression conveyed the notion of accepting responsibility to fulfill one's word.

This original meaning dates back to Shakespeare's time. Shakespeare provides the context. In Much Ado About Nothing we find the exchange between Beatrice and Benedick (Act IV, Scene 1): "Will you not eat your word?" - "With no sauce that can be devised to it.")

BEATRICE. Will you not eat your word? BEATRICE. But you won't eat your words? BENEDICK. With no sauce that can be devised to it.

The language of Shakespeare, often difficult to interpret, provides a nuanced understanding. As a woman, Beatrice's position in society means she can’t challenge Claudio over what he’s done. Claudio has murdered Beatrice’s cousin. Benedick has just declared his love for Beatrice. So implicit is Beatrice’s expectation that Benedick can demonstrate the proof of his declaration of love. Her question is an indirect request asking Benedick to kill Claudio for her.

Beatrice may have had a meta-metaphor in mind in relation to Benedick: “You cannot have your cake and eat it too”. Which is paradoxical. If we have our cake, we certainly intend to eat it! This is more food for thought.

Source author: John D. Hipsley jhipsley@igc.org

Half agree --- I agree in general, in that it is not easy to bring up a funny and witty reply to a given awkward or unfriendly situation, but there are few people with a genuine talent for it!

I requires fast-thinking, sense of humour but also elegance and language skills - Churchill was a master for such replies to any given situation!

Source author: Liliana Oliva Bernal loliva@sre.gob.mx

Fine art --- This is a fine art that any diplomat should aim to develop! And beyond the diplomatic realm, I'm sure that it proves useful in human relations in general, notwithstanding the context.

Source author: Liliana Oliva Bernal loliva@sre.gob.mx

Form instead of substance --- I think that politics (perhaps like other fields) have become more and more superficial. Politicians, and some or their followers, seem to be more interested in appereances (and face) rather than in ideas, projects or goals.

One would think that a few "sparks" -bullying rather than challenging- via Twitter might seem more rewarding to politicians and their followers than real achievements.

I think that social media has also fueled the "relevance" of bullying in trumpian style.

Source author: Liliana Oliva Bernal loliva@sre.gob.mx

Thanks a lot, Biljana! --- very interesting!

Source author: Liliana Oliva Bernal loliva@sre.gob.mx

Does it work on Zoom? --- Thanks for this interesting link, MacOswald. The main components of matching and mirroring are, according to this article, involve paying attention to 1. body posture, 2. breath, 3. energy level and 4. voice (tone and volume) of your interlocutors.

Flirtation often involves matching and mirroring according to other sources. I wonder whether online interaction deprives us of this technique?

Source author: Biljana Scott biscott@diplomacy.edu

Exaggeration can be slanderous --- The gross generalisations of 'everyone knows', and your suggestion that the 'vast majority' of Trump's statements are either lies or half-truths, are both gross exaggerations!

Source author: Biljana Scott biscott@diplomacy.edu

Metaphors --- Good to hear, Oswald. We'll be taking a closer look at metaphors in the next two weeks! Please share some of the metaphors that you discussed and tell us how they were put to use!

Source author: Biljana Scott biscott@diplomacy.edu

Oscar Wilde --- Was it Wilde who said 'There are things that are right to say but that may be said at the wrong time and to the wrong people."

Source author: Biljana Scott biscott@diplomacy.edu

Financial losses --- I agree, one of the most impacting for executives will be financial losses. Many companies pay ransom to restore their critical services, statistics on cyberattacks and the cost to companies should be represented properly to management for businesses and organization can institute measures to protect and mitigate.

Source author: Shabanah Mustapha shabanah.mustapha@igovtt.tt

Criminal law and technology --- This is an interesting point of view, but I also want to bring the other side of this technology development debate: the law can't change quickly, especially criminal law. Therefore it should stay technology neutral to cover future threats. For example, cyebrfraud would be fraud no matter what kind of technology is used for it. The same with attacks, or illegal access. So we need to take technology into account when we want to address the problem in terms of current situation, but we need to stay technology neutral when we are drafting the laws.

Source author: Tatiana Tropina tatiana.tropina@gmail.com

NFTs --- I would like to know what you all think of NFTs and how can they change the way economy works, although they are not fungible, there is a lot of cryptos travelling around this NFTs.

There are also "games" that allow you to earn more of this NFTs by playing, and from what I know, anyone can create this NFTs.

Source author: Diego Alberto Estrada Ramos destrada@sre.gob.mx

indeed --- this indeed sounds disturbing!

Source author: Jeroen Thielemans j.thielemans@stichtingsona.org

How will they affect the future? --- How will cryptos affect the future of economy, is there a way to make them a stable coin/currency? I think El Salvador adopting Bitcoin as a legal tender will set an example of what to and not to do while trying to go from "real" money to cryptos.

How will the future generations manage this transitions and how well adapted will they be by the time this is needed?

Source author: Diego Alberto Estrada Ramos destrada@sre.gob.mx

it is not about preference --- @Devita Interesting point. However, if cybercrime is to incorporate emerging technologies in ICT (which on the surface looks commendable) in order to have a broader definition then we may be going down into a rat hole because the definition would need changing every 6 months?? as new technologies or new or innovative technologies emerge. Should the definition take into consideration Hacking as a service (HaaS) or Ransomware as a Service (RaaS). To me, both of these ICT-related or cyber-related services (illegal or not) are considered criminal behavior in cyberspace.

Source author: Bennette Thomas thomasb@dominica.gov.dm

It is not about preference --- Both definitions are seemingly saying the same thing in different ways. I think there is a general consensus on what constitutes or should be considered as cybercrime. However, given the vast rate at which technology is advancing and integrating into our daily lives, I believe that the definitions should be updated to include the parameters of cybercrime in alignment with evolving technologies.

Or maybe a separate international body or subsidiary organ should be established under the UNODC to gain some common ground on the definition of cybercrime, as it is not only important to look at cybercrime from a crime perspective but an ICT outlook is very important as well...hopefully, the upcoming negotiations would result in a more universally acceptable definition.

Source author: Devita Abraham abrahamd@foreign.gov.tt

banks --- Some banks has a good practices when cybercrime is issue or someone is trying to do irregular transaction. In my own experience once I did a big transaction then my bank blocked that transaction and called me to make sure everything was ok.

Source author: Iván Arnulfo Fernández Hernández administracionini01@sre.gob.mx

are the cryptocurrencies secure? --- I have not read a lot about cryptocurrencies but I know someones are getting pupular, like the stock market sometimes are super expensives sometimes not that all. But my questions is how cybercriminals could use this for harm people or get pay for thiers services. are the countries able to use this cryptocurrencies? This is a topic that I would like to dive deep into.

Source author: Iván Arnulfo Fernández Hernández administracionini01@sre.gob.mx

Can Tor also be used for online criminal activities? --- Given the level of anonymity maintained with the use of Tor, this protection can also be give to the criminal elements in cyberspace and may prove difficult to trace activities done by criminals and we know that the perpetrators of cybercrime are already one step ahead of most individuals in respect of their technological capabilities.

Source author: Devita Abraham abrahamd@foreign.gov.tt

Money language --- Money is a language that any executive will pay attention to. If we manage to explain the cybersecurity perspectives with the benefits and the consequences reflected in money's loss, reputation, etc. This might be helpful to explain to them our point of view

Source author: Alan Kaheri Chavez Castro itsupportirl@sre.gob.mx

Is the MFA the ultimate defense? --- In Ireland, the country where I'm leaving right now. Is "common" to receive a FB message from your fake's friend profile asking you for an SMS code you will receive on your phone because they did a "mistake", then use the code to bypass the MFA.

I believe social engineering is the most powerful tool right now, with companies developing security patches, they can not do anything against social engineering, other than offer information and training.

Source author: Alan Kaheri Chavez Castro itsupportirl@sre.gob.mx

Emerging CyberCrime --- Predicted technological development should be analysed to forecast the potential of cybercrime and maybe the risk they pose in the future.

Source author: Shabanah Mustapha shabanah.mustapha@igovtt.tt

Blockchain tech --- As far as I understand the main strength of blockchain technology is that it cannot be forged or duplicated, therefore it guarantees the integrity of the transaction. Is that correct?

Source author: Jorge Ernesto Salcido Zugasti jsalcido@sre.gob.mx

Not only items --- Certainly by looking at the diversity of the items that composes this artwork we can grasp the scope of the offer (and demand) on the dark web. As impressive, if not more, also the services you can acquire, many of them totally illegal.

I agree with Florence, the robot cannot be held accountable for its purchases, it has to be the human being behind the robot, if there is even one.

Source author: Jorge Ernesto Salcido Zugasti jsalcido@sre.gob.mx

Tools works in both direction --- like the text said, Tor web brower help us to protect our information also can be a useful to crimials. it is depends how we look through the tools we created, some fo them can be used for good or for bad intentions.

Source author: Iván Arnulfo Fernández Hernández administracionini01@sre.gob.mx

New technology --- Like the tools hackers are using to harm people or companies also there is a lot of them helping us out with new challanges. In other hand the term unbreakable is not longer affordable because sooner o later someone will find the way to make it public.

Source author: Iván Arnulfo Fernández Hernández administracionini01@sre.gob.mx

State Capture --- Has State capture had any significant effect on attraction of FDI/investor confidence?

Source author: Lapologang Judah lapoduna@gmail.com

Thanks Lapologang for the question --- The Green Passport initiative was terminated when a new government came in 2004. As I could remember (I was not in the public service then), there were criticisms of this initiative from politicians forming the new government in terms of corruptions and those you mentioned. As I recall, the new government abolished the initiative totally because it was not its initiative and did not want to be accountable to criticisms.

Source author: David Ateti Teaabo david.teaabo@gmail.com

I agree.. --- with you @Simataa, the region needs a stable South Africa. For us in Botswana, the economic dependence was painfully felt during the pandemic lockdowns when suddenly there was worry about food supplies, fuel and even medical supplies. I take it that this was a lesson for us to reinforce our efforts for economic independence which can be achieved through a strategic economic diplomacy drive. BUT, one has to admit that it will take a while for most countries in the SADC to reach that level of economic self sufficiency.

Source author: Omphile Sethunya Sedimo sedimosethunya44@gmail.com

good question --- I think the answer is: up to now, governments realised that the process of convincing of private sector is too slow, this is why we are seeing various cybersecurity and cybercrime regulations that aim at private sector being imposed in many countries. This is quite a controversial issue because this drags resources from voluntary investment to cybersecurity and from proactivity to compliance with regulation in a reactive way. But this is indeed the trend of the last 5-6 years.

Source author: Tatiana Tropina tatiana.tropina@gmail.com

preventive vs corrective --- Cybersecurity in many ways is always more preventive than corrective, but cybercrime frameworks are always both: they aim to correct the public order after committing the offence by bringing perpetrators to justice and by prohibiting certain behaviour they try to prevent it. As to the stakeholders, of course cybersecurity is shared responsibility. But when it comes to cybercrime, law enforcement is not. It is a domain of the state, not private sector, not users, because of the investigation and punishment and checks and balances involved. So I would say that the "shared" notion depends on the context on what kind of frameworks and measures we speak of.

Source author: Tatiana Tropina tatiana.tropina@gmail.com

Traffic monitoring --- This highly depends on the national laws. Most of the national laws I am aware of allow to monitor the traffic for the cases of serious crime or crime that entails certain level of punishment. As the traffic monitoring is interception in fact, many countries require approval of court for application of this measure. But this really highly depends on the national legislation. The Budapest convention suggests the standard, e.g. the monitoring should be enabled but the countries decide when, how, and for what kind of crimes.

Source author: Tatiana Tropina tatiana.tropina@gmail.com

The process --- The do have the process of voluntary disclosure of domain name registration data by private providers, and they provided an opportunity for the countries to opt-in for disclosure of subscriber data by direct requests to the providers, but only subscriber data. A country can opt out from this mechanism or protect certain groups of users from having their subscriber information being disclosed via direct request form abroad. As in many countries request for disclosure of data doesn't require the court approval, this is a "mild" version of direct requests. All other requests have to follow MLATs processes but the 2nd protocol is trying to speed them up, provide shorter deadlines and establish mechanisms for emergency assistance. Where the court approval is required in the national legislation in the MLAT process, there will be a need for the court approval, yes.

Source author: Tatiana Tropina tatiana.tropina@gmail.com

Private Sector is key --- @Devia. How can government/public policy makers convince the private sector to invest in cybersecurity funding when governments have not seen or understood the threat that cybersecurity poses. One must be first convinced before investing and that is not the case I must confess with respect to governments as their priority lies in more "urgent" areas either due to lack of or limited financial resources or simply to win the next election cycle.

Source author: Bennette Thomas thomasb@dominica.gov.dm

Adhoc Committee vs OEWG --- @Devia. This is the usual bureaucracy of many committees without coordination or duplication of efforts instead of a common perspective.

Source author: Bennette Thomas thomasb@dominica.gov.dm

Adhoc Committee vs OEWG --- Questions were raised as to the real intention of the Intergovernmental Adhoc Committee given that the work of the open-ended working group (OEWG) was not completed. In addition, the this resolution was presented in the Social, Humanitarian and Cultural Committee as opposed to the Committee that deals with International Security under which the OEWG fell. It was the view of some Member States that the report of the OEWG should have been completed in order to feed into the development of an international convention. Either way, in order for there to be some level of success, countries have to be willing to constructively engage in good faith in the sessions for the development of the convention while respecting sovereignty.

Source author: Devita Abraham abrahamd@foreign.gov.tt

Private Sector is key --- The cooperation of the private sector is essential in combating cybercrime but how do governments/policymakers convince private sector to invest in cybersecurity initiatives that are not beneficial to them from a financial perspective.

Source author: Devita Abraham abrahamd@foreign.gov.tt

Education --- Like we had been discused in the past modules, education, give the right tools to fight back the cybercriminals are important. Also when I think about tools I am not only thinking about computer, software and hardware, it is more than that, I think legislations are important and like this module said, the cooperation of all the countries is important.

Source author: Iván Arnulfo Fernández Hernández administracionini01@sre.gob.mx

Cybersecurity is a common interest --- Seems that exists a general agreement on the importance of cybersecurity. However, if cybersecurity should be corrective or preventive still on the table.

Exist different commissions, frameworks, public and private interests to work on cybersecurity. But, looks like is taking us too long to set the rules of the game.

I believe the solution is a merger between public, private, and citizens. Who do you think should have more weight in cybersecurity participation, enforcement, and daily concern?

Source author: Alan Kaheri Chavez Castro itsupportirl@sre.gob.mx

Unified legislation --- You raise a very interesting point, but also a difficult one. I think for most countries the Internet is seen as no man's land or everybody's territory, a bit like the space. So whichever country has the capabilities to explore it it's entitled to do so. Perhaps the idea of a unified legislation will be easier to accept for governments that don't want to yield their sovereignty over the Internet.

Source author: Jorge Ernesto Salcido Zugasti jsalcido@sre.gob.mx

compel an ISP --- @Alan. One possible circumstance is terrorism; another can be knowledge of any national security situation which has the potential to undermine democracy or places the country at risk; It is for this reasons and more that a case has to be made to a Judge to substantiate the claim because this can be abused and misused by those in authority. This also brings the vexing issue of electronic surveillance of persons and invasion of privacy?? More reason to get judicial approval.

Source author: Bennette Thomas thomasb@dominica.gov.dm

Compel an ISP to monitor traffic --- The government responsibilities and laws are still new for me. But under what circumstances, law enforcement authorities can demand to monitor the traffic in real-time? Who decides if exist enough proves to do it? Can this start to be used arbitrarily? Interesting topic which definitely I'll do my research on.

Source author: Alan Kaheri Chavez Castro itsupportirl@sre.gob.mx

undermining MLATs --- The problem is that by bypassing MLATs these initiatives bypass human rights and safeguards. They just don't have enough level of human rights protection. They put providers in a position to assess the legality and proportionality of requests for data, which is exactly what can be considered as protection of fundamental rights. But providers don't have capacity and shouldn't be in a position to act like judicial authorities. And this is the crux of the issue.

Source author: Tatiana Tropina tatiana.tropina@gmail.com

disclosure of electronic evidence --- @Tatiana. What are the legal implications for disclosure of electronic disclosure as recommend by the Second Additional Protocol of the Cybercrime Convention? Wouldn't this process have to be approved by a Judge? Can someone compel disclosure from say a private entity where the crime may have originated?

Source author: Bennette Thomas thomasb@dominica.gov.dm

capacity building --- This is what Council of Europe did for capacity building: https://www.coe.int/en/web/cybercrime/capacity-building-programmes The ITU developed various toolkits for cybercrime legislation and general resources for understanding cybercrime for developing countries. They also had projects like HIPCAR to go to some small countries and help to draft legislation. The UNODC definitely has some capacity building project, but what exactly they are doing is quite hard to find.

Source author: Tatiana Tropina tatiana.tropina@gmail.com

training --- and what happens after the training frequently is that the personnel leaves to private sector. The law enforcement still hasn't figured out how to retain qualified people.

Source author: Tatiana Tropina tatiana.tropina@gmail.com

MLAT and Political regime --- @Tatiana I somewhat agree with your rationale but would you agree that the issue of human rights is based on the policies of the political regime - some countries do not respect human rights (eg freedom of expression, speech, assembly peacefully, access to court, etc.) If some regime do not adhere to these tenets, how will cooperation on human rights enshrined at the core of MLAT work?

Source author: Bennette Thomas thomasb@dominica.gov.dm

Agree --- Very much agree with you. The role of international human rights standards in criminal law especially when in comes to the national criminal legislation in many countries looks in the best case aspirational and in the worst case non existent. This is one of the most controversial issues for the upcoming UN cybercrime negotiations. PS. I see that you left a lot of thoughtful comments to this part of the course, and I am very much looking forward to hear your opinions in our discussion during the session on Thursday!

Source author: Tatiana Tropina tatiana.tropina@gmail.com

Very well said --- Florence, I agree with you. I would say even more: instead of struggling with the paradox of shared space which when it comes to many issues will have jurisdictional (but not territorial) borders, there is a need to work with what is there as the issue of crime would always be tied to the issue of jurisdictional borders. This has to be fixed, and not via the argument about shared spaces but via better collaboration between jurisdictions.

Source author: Tatiana Tropina tatiana.tropina@gmail.com

Harnessing AI’s power for health --- Thanks for the link @KatharinaH Quite a comprehensive study I attended today the online Diplo event on harnessing AI’s power for Health and the role of AI in mental health as well as the ethical and human rights dimensions were also part of the conversation.

Source author: Mouloud Khelif mouloud.khelif@gmail.com

Remdesivir / Gilead --- Great example of voluntary licensing. Thank you, Vid.

Source author: Katharina Höne KatharinaH@diplomacy.edu

Affordable and Sustainable --- I agree with Petal's response. These three targets are very to achieve in low-income and middle-income countries in a short period. But helping them have careers in medical and health care can educate people in those countries and help them have a chance to change their economy better. Training people with affordable health care devices and probably having the ability to work with nursing-related jobs to change their household income is the first step.

Source author: YingChu Chen jungheng@gmail.com

The importance of acting globally --- Given the global aspect of the pandemic, international organizations should have made it clear immediately that any company or state that reaches the milestone of the vaccine cannot think of using it to make a profit. When it comes to saving humanity, you shouldn't think about business. However, this does not mean that those who worked to develop the vaccine should not have a return from the investment made, the international community should cover the costs of the research, but at the same time should also be committed to fair distribution and access to all, just as with a global public good.

Some countries think they can go alone, but the emergency has demonstrated the importance and the effectiveness of multilateralism and to act as one world community. All countries should believe in cooperation and in international institutions such as the World Health Organization, which holds 194 countries together.

Source author: Vojko Bratina vbratina@katamail.com

choice of words / update to the text --- noted!

Source author: Katharina Höne KatharinaH@diplomacy.edu

MDG endorsement --- Max, thank you so much for the clarification. Well spotted and I could not image a more perfect explanation. We will update this part for the next iteration of the course!

Source author: Katharina Höne KatharinaH@diplomacy.edu

brain drain in medicine - is there a responsibility? --- I'm cycling back this comment of yours, Katharina. Throughout discussion, we had a number of comments on brain drain and its consequences. I wanted to follow up with a question here: as you say, there are countries (often Western countries) that benefit from this, do they have a responsibility vis-a-vis the countries affected by brain drain in medicine?

Source author: Katharina Höne KatharinaH@diplomacy.edu

Vaccine Nationalism vs. Equity vs. Hesitancy --- @Katharina, the WHO fair allocation framework calls for "requiring sacrificing some degree of national benefit". With vaccine hoarding (buying and sitting on doses over the actual need goes beyond nationalism - which could be defined as 'own citizens first'), that principle of sacrifice for collective good is already discarded. Even if we were to achieve equity i.e. access to vaccines to all those who need it, we're still dealt with hesitancy due to the infodemic of misinformation. I would like to be wrong when I say its a lost cause already.

Source author: Vid Nukala Vid.Nukala@gmail.com

COVAX and soft power --- Following up on my previous point (and your comment here and your previous one, Muna), I want to ask: Is COVAX nothing more than a soft power initiative?

Source author: Katharina Höne KatharinaH@diplomacy.edu

vaccine nationalism --- Thanks for the reference, Vid. I think the terms vaccine nationalism is a very appropriate one. As a follow up question: is vaccine equity going to stay wishful thinking?

Source author: Katharina Höne KatharinaH@diplomacy.edu

Linking SDGs to boost solutions --- Well said Mouloud.

Source author: Veronica Elena Bocci v_ele_bo@hotmail.com

Vaccine Diplomacy --- The case of the Cuban medical diplomacy and the raised relevant concerns about its negative impact on domestic health services reported by Katharina make me think to Russia and its Vaccine Diplomacy in the COVID-19 era: offering vaccines to foreign countries to increase your influence, while you struggle to vaccinate your citizens (also China used this type of Diplomacy heavily, but this didn't affect its internal vaccination capacity).

Source author: Veronica Elena Bocci v_ele_bo@hotmail.com

A multi-faceted SDG --- Reading this list of targets, I realise how wide the action to achieve SDG 3 needs to be. While many targets directly relate to the health system (supported by adequate R&D), the road safety involves from road maintenance to teaching the culture of safety at schools; and reducing illnesses and deaths from hazardous chemicals and pollution is very much related to industrial policies and industries' behaviours... Overall, a very hard SDG.

Source author: Veronica Elena Bocci v_ele_bo@hotmail.com

The role of raw materials --- I'd like to bring into the discussion that efforts in R&D can be frustrated by the concentration in few countries of the production of generic active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), with India and China representing alone >60% of world production. This can have a strong impact on ensuring citizens’ access to safe, effective and high-quality medicines at an affordable price, and also become a 'bagaining chip' in regional or global disputes...

Source author: Veronica Elena Bocci v_ele_bo@hotmail.com

multilateral cross-border surveillance --- Yes, indeed Muna, thinking and acting solos is not the way. COVID certificates has opened up an opportunity to think of global surveillance for these communicable diseases and even NCDs (to protect the vulnerables from future vulnerable exposures). I understand there is a huge risk hidden as well, as we keep such private data available for global surveillance- but this could be a starting point to develop technologies that prevent data mishandling

Source author: George Thomas georgethomasdesk@gmail.com

a holistic approach --- As my colleagues mentioned, its impossible to focus on 1 target but we need a collective approach by linking the SDGs and not keeping SDG 3 to itself. Of course targets and indicators help us in achieving them. We need to go beyond just treating patients with health issues (as we would all end up being patients if the other factors are not cared for) but we need to look into the risk factors arising from climate, pollution, food security and every other SDG that has an impact on health.

Source author: George Thomas georgethomasdesk@gmail.com

Modest efficacy and administration challenge of malaria vaccine --- It needs all hands on deck to get rid of malaria. It is a remarkable achievement that a malaria vaccine has been approved. Unfortunately, it has modest efficacy and the most difficult part will be administration of the vaccine as it needs 4 injections to be administered to children before the age of five. So to get malaria under control we not only need vaccination effort but also malaria control measures, including mosquito nets and preventive medicines.

Source author: Sona Chowdhury sonachowdhury2014@gmail.com

Cross-border collaboration --- For any international project that will directly impact the community, along with scientists; government officials and officials of the diplomatic corps will have to be on board to finally execute and implement the international project.

Source author: Sona Chowdhury sonachowdhury2014@gmail.com

TB the disease of LMIC --- Sadly diseases such as TB are restricted mostly to low-middle-income countries and therefore it doesn't receive the necessary attention and funded. Secondly multi-drug resistant TB is another issue. HIV and TB-TB is mostly seen in immunocompromised patients such as HIV-positive individuals. The HIV patients I work with very few have TB, since they have access to medicines and treatments available in USA.

Source author: Sona Chowdhury sonachowdhury2014@gmail.com

preventable diseases --- I agree with you prevention of disease depends on an individuals diet and lifestyle to a certain extent. Take the case of India where obesity is at an all time high. Obesity was also a contributing factor for severe illness from COVID-19.

Source author: Sona Chowdhury sonachowdhury2014@gmail.com

Vaccine development is complex process and takes 10 to 15 years --- I am not sure where you got this timeline of 2 years. From bench to a person's arm a vaccine development process normally takes 10 -15 years. Exploratory stage, preclinical, clinical and post-licensure monitoring of vaccines. It is a complex and expensive process and many vaccines fail in Phase I. The only reason COVID-19 vaccines had a short turn over was because it was an emergency and therefore regulatory authorities gave an EUA for these vaccines. Governments and biopharma had to chose the fastest and the most suitable vaccine candidate-not the best candidate (to get the best requires more time and research)

Source author: Sona Chowdhury sonachowdhury2014@gmail.com

The role of social scientists --- Great point on communication Muna. I agree and I think that this is where social scientists can help us to engage people and use effective communication techniques.

Source author: Petal Punalall Jetoo pjetoo@gmail.com

Emerging lessons from COVID-19 --- The COVID-19 pandemic has revealed learning opportunities globally and nationally. It has shown that basic health care and supporting infrastructures need to be more accessible to all, especially minority groups and those living in remote areas. Public-Private partnerships and aid the reduction in the cost of health care.

Engaging citizens in health promotion is essential. The WHO outlines the following key policies and strategies for health promotion

Health promotion • Policies and interventions to address tobacco, alcohol, physical activity and diet (e.g., FCTC , DPAS , alcohol strategy and NCD best-buys) • Dietary and nutritional intervention should also appropriately tackle malnutrition, defined as a condition that arises from eating a diet in which certain nutrients are lacking, in excess (too high in intake), or in the wrong proportions • Intersectoral policies and health services interventions to address mental health and substance abuse • Strategies to promote sexual and reproductive health, including through health education and increased access to sexual and reproductive health, and family planning services • Strategies to tackle domestic violence, including public awareness campaigns; treatment and protection of victims; and linkage with law enforcement and social services. (http://www.emro.who.int/about-who/public-health-functions/health-promotion-disease-prevention.html)

This module presents data that shows that persons with pre-existing conditions such as dietary and nutritional deficiencies and obesity among others were more severely affected by COVID-19.

Source author: Petal Punalall Jetoo pjetoo@gmail.com

Medical sciences --- Not only medical sciences, because we have seen how technology has improved access to health in some countries. I will give the example of Rwanda, in Africa where drones have been used to transport blood packs to health facilities located in very remote areas that are inaccessible by road.

Source author: Désiré NEBOUA dneboua@yahoo.fr

Science diplomacy? --- Can we call this science diplomacy? In this example, it is clear that it is the health program managers and scientists who initiated and led the collaboration between the two countries to find solutions. We do not see the role played by diplomats in facilitating this collaboration between French Guyana and Brazil and in the negotiations that took place during this collaboration. It is also not clear whether this collaboration between the scientists of the 2 countries contributed to improving their relations. I think this kind of collaboration is common between scientists to find solutions to common problems.

Source author: Désiré NEBOUA dneboua@yahoo.fr

not perfect --- The mechanism is not perfect at all, however its existence is much better than nothing.

Source author: Encieh Erfani encieherfani@gmail.com

risk reduction --- disaster prediction and risk reduction helped here. We need such initiatives more.

Source author: Encieh Erfani encieherfani@gmail.com

again politics --- some stupid politicians rejected the COVAX basket. What a pity!!

Source author: Encieh Erfani encieherfani@gmail.com

politucians --- we need trust in science among politicians. Public are more open than politicians to scientific results.

Source author: Encieh Erfani encieherfani@gmail.com

malaria vaccine --- hope malaria vaccine helps to end it faster

Source author: Encieh Erfani encieherfani@gmail.com

education --- reduce water and air pollution, encourage to use bicycle instead of car, access to sport facilities to all, increase the knowledge by education

Source author: Encieh Erfani encieherfani@gmail.com

side effects --- unfortunately side effects of COVID which cause death have not considered in the death rate of COVID.

Source author: Encieh Erfani encieherfani@gmail.com

poor Afghanistan --- Taliban are more dangerous than pandemic in Afghanistan. They destroyed everything in just one month and the world is silent. This silence will affect all of us soon when is too late to fight with this "terrorism pandemic".

Source author: Encieh Erfani encieherfani@gmail.com

correlation? --- I always wonder how one can relate any progress to SDGs? there are several parameters involved.

Source author: Encieh Erfani encieherfani@gmail.com

suport research --- supporting scientific research, trusting the results and sharing with developed countries and learn from their experiences is crucial for low and middle income countries

Source author: Encieh Erfani encieherfani@gmail.com

risk --- That is the missed target and goal in SDGs. We planned everything for normal condition.

Source author: Encieh Erfani encieherfani@gmail.com

man power --- Even with more funding, a major problem is the lack of researchers and laboratories to do such research in low income countries.

Source author: Encieh Erfani encieherfani@gmail.com

!! --- I wonder to see this in targets. Sounds bizarre.

Source author: Encieh Erfani encieherfani@gmail.com

clarification --- Thank you Max. Your explanation was really helpful. Now I understand how my country "accept" the SDGs and they do nothing to reach these goals. Actually it is forbidden to address these goals since they found it against the culture of country.

Source author: Encieh Erfani encieherfani@gmail.com

prediction --- If we predict disasters like pandemic in SDGs we were in better situation than today. We could plan for research institutes and factories by considering pandemic disaster. Indeed with few factories capable of making vaccine we do not reach the goals; e.g. despited several pandemic in Africa, there is no vaccine factory in whole Africa.

Source author: Encieh Erfani encieherfani@gmail.com

we were slow --- I think in the case of other vaccines we were too slow due to the bureaucracy, otherwise the normal time for vaccine production should not be longer than 2 years.

Source author: Encieh Erfani encieherfani@gmail.com

how much consensus is possible (SDG 3.7) --- Max, I have a quick follow up question for you. I very much agree with your point: "fully open and inclusive intercultural, ecumenic dialogue and consensus". But I'm wondering exactly about your example on reproductive healthcare (SDG 3.7). Dialogue yes, but consensus is impossible? What is your take / advice on this?

Source author: Katharina Höne KatharinaH@diplomacy.edu

what needs to be done? --- Thank you for this wonderful start of a discussion. So, three points from what you have mentioned so far: (a) build trust (including trust in science) (b) focus on targets and indicators (c) engage in 'fully open and inclusive intercultural, ecumenic dialogue'.

Source author: Katharina Höne KatharinaH@diplomacy.edu

Digital solutionism --- Thanks for the great example on 'Internet Hospitals" (updated link, see above). I really appreciate your comment that the obstacles to rural health care are not only technological ones. In debates about how various digital tools can help accomplish the SDGs, I sometimes get the impression that we see a lot of solutionism (esp. when it comes to AI applications in the health sector) No technical solution can work without considering social, econcomic, and political factors.

Source author: Katharina Höne KatharinaH@diplomacy.edu

slow decision-making --- Great observations, Massimiliano and Patrick. Two quick reflections: While there are provisions for, for example, UN Security Council, to meet in crisis situations (as per rules of procedure), there are no provisions for expedited decision-making in a crisis situation. By definition, the multilateral decision-making process will be slow in this regard. I think this should not take away from the fact that relevant UN organisation responded very quickly to the pandemic, while the UNSC was criticised for inactivity.

Source author: Katharina Höne KatharinaH@diplomacy.edu

Semantic categories --- Here, Biden qualifies this war as uncivilized and calls for a return to civic decency offering a message of unity and restoration to a deeply divided country, after the riots at the capitol.

Source author: Blanca Jimenez bjimenez@sre.gob.mx

Assertion --- Biden uses this assertive sentence to attack Trump.

Source author: Blanca Jimenez bjimenez@sre.gob.mx

Credibility and appeal to autohority and precedent --- By quoting St. Augustine, and especially by stressing that he is a saint who belongs to "his" Church, Biden seeks legitimacy. Indeed, he is the second Catholic president of the United States, after Kennedy, the others having been Mormons or Methodists.

Source author: Blanca Jimenez bjimenez@sre.gob.mx

Assertion --- Biden repeats this assertive sentence four times before, in order to underline the fact that, despite the violent events at the Capitol, the country wasn't weakened.

Source author: Blanca Jimenez bjimenez@sre.gob.mx

Appeal to authority and precedent --- By quoting Lincoln, Biden creates a frame of reference within which he wants to be seen, to go down in America's history, as the president of unity; unity being actually the common thread of his speech.

Source author: Blanca Jimenez bjimenez@sre.gob.mx

Appeal to stories and emotions --- Biden seeks to elicite emotion by the use of this comparative sentence, with factual figures.

Source author: Blanca Jimenez bjimenez@sre.gob.mx

Musicality --- Repetition of tasks (much to repair, to restore, to heal, to build and, as a result, to gain).

Source author: Blanca Jimenez bjimenez@sre.gob.mx

Reframing --- Biden reframes here the two first assertive sentences of his speech.

Source author: Blanca Jimenez bjimenez@sre.gob.mx

Pre-emptive argument --- Biden, the winner of the elections, acknowledges that what is really being celebrated is not his triumph but that of democracy.

Source author: Blanca Jimenez bjimenez@sre.gob.mx

Typecasting --- This is an example of self-aggrandisement, self-promoting the USA.

Source author: Blanca Jimenez bjimenez@sre.gob.mx

Is that counting AI? --- In the case of applications like smart cars that have AI integrated into them things can be even more difficult. Very frequently AI applications are made by neural networks and don't have a readable code that can be verified, making it even harder to find and resolve vulnerabilities.

Source author: Gustavo Paiva gdp.direito@gmail.com

What kind of legal enforcement? --- I think it's fair and about time to talk about some level of enforcement, but I think the bigger question is how to put this in place in a way that is actually effective. By this I mean that legislation is a difficult and time-intensive process. Laws are slow to be put into place and practice. In contrast, in the case of cybersecurity what counts as a good standard can advance and change so much and so quickly. Maybe it would be more productive to pick one or more of the standard-setting organisations we already have in place and make it mandatory for software companies to reach a minimum level of safety determined by said agencies.

Source author: Gustavo Paiva gdp.direito@gmail.com

Less harsh in hindsight --- I used to be extremely critical of governments and companies hit by cyberattacks until a few years back. I used to think it overwhelmingly was attributed to negligence on their part. To this day I'm still aware that there, indeed, is a great deal of negligence going on, but I'm also more understanding as I learned that even the best, most professional efforts and tools available in the market might still be insufficient. If you have a sufficiently interested and persistent attacker it might only be a matter of time before you become a victim. Mind you, companies and governments can still be made victims due to vulnerabilities (and negligence) in third party software they could never have anticipated. As I understand this now, I've become less harsh towards victims of large scale cyberattacks.

Source author: Gustavo Paiva gdp.direito@gmail.com

The sensation of paranoia --- My company handles highly sensitive and economically critical COVID data, and APT groups are our main source of concern in terms of cybersecurity. We try to remain discreet and out of the public eye, as this discretion is also a layer of security, but we can't rely exclusively on that. Because of this, during our day-to-day operations and when we are making decisions cybersecurity can become a sort of "paranoia-esque" element. We haven't faced any cybersecurity conflicts, and we are out of the public eye, but there's a constant lingering sentiment that it can happen at any moment despite our best efforts. This makes it very hard to properly quantify risks.

Source author: Gustavo Paiva gdp.direito@gmail.com