Pre and post Covid-19 --- HT test: It would be good to soon read some official analysis about pre and post covid-19 cyber related statistics Usage/digital platforms/changes in way we use internet and so on.

Source author: Vladimir Nikolov vladimir984@yahoo.com

HT test --- This is another HT test to see it is working.

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

practice --- .

Source author: Valerii Paziuk paziukvalerii@gmail.com

Example for introduction meeting --- Hypertext entry example

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

This is just a test --- This is just a test

Source author: Eduardo Ruiz Mazon eruizm@sre.gob.mx

Practice HT --- practice HT

Source author: Carlos García Delgrado cgarciad@sre.gob.mx

Test --- Checking that HTs work fine

Source author: Juan Feliciano Ascencio Moctezuma jascencio@sre.gob.mx

HT Testing --- Just testing HTs

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

Final essay assignment --- Hi Scott, yes, I'm confirming that this final assignment can be used to fulfill the final assignment requirement for the Advanced Diploma in Internet Governance. Good luck with your final steps toward the ADIG.

Welcome, Vladimir, we look forward to working with you, and others in the group on the ADIG. Be sure to let me know if I can help in any way.

Source author: Ginger (Virginia) Paque VirginiaP@diplomacy.edu

RE: Code of conduct --- Interesting point. I think this is similar to the idea that was ash the origin of the "law of war" and later on the "humanitarian law". For this set of rules to be implemented, one of the requisites is that parties to a conflict are identified, and this is exactly what makes cybersecurity difficult, which is that most of the attackers are anonymous.

Source author: Guillaume Michel Blin gmichel@sre.gob.mx

Weekly on-line meetings --- Very much looking forward to our exchanges and to benefiting from the diverse backgrounds and experiences of the participants !

Source author: Florence Tinguely Mattli florence.tinguely-mattli@eda.admin.ch

Testing HTs --- This is a test message.

Source author: Pavitra Ramanujam pavitra.ramanujam@gmail.com

Advanced diploma!? --- Also interested what are the requirements for obtaining advanced diploma, as Mr.Spence mentioned. (3 courses related to IG). Will be glad to continue with participating in more Diplo courses in the future.

Source author: Vladimir Nikolov vladimir984@yahoo.com

"Cybersecurity Ethics" --- Vladimir

I am not anticipating that the "normal" guys say from the UN Group of Experts or OECD etc would seat with these actors from the dark web and expect them to comply or even entertain any ethics process; What I am thinking is whether the dark Web actors have any internal standards in their philosophy. Everyone of them has some philosophy for wanting to hack institutions and these philosophies may be political or dominance or financial benefit or some standard that they espouse.

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

also to get the Advanced Diploma, correct? --- This can also be written as part of obtaining the Advanced Diploma (after three courses on IG), correct?

Source author: Scott Spence scott.a.spence@gmail.com

or Thanksgiving on one course day! --- I note that one course day is on Thanksgiving (25 November) which is an important holiday in the US (and I may be flying cross-Atlantic that day) so I may not be able to join the class.

Source author: Scott Spence scott.a.spence@gmail.com

and equally alarmingly... --- And equally alarmingly facilities such as nuclear power plants or facilities containing highly pathogenic agents or toxic chemicals.

Source author: Scott Spence scott.a.spence@gmail.com

"Cybersecurity ethics" --- Great point by Benette! The benefit of "code of conduct" is evident, and I believe that is what many stakeholders are exactly doing now (in the cybersecurity legal domain, regulation, national legislation, international law, international cooperation, critical infrastructure, UN). However, I can't comprehend how such "code" could be imposed/enforced in areas as the dark web, and in the internet in general, where we face decentralization and many other obstacles to implement regulation/standards. I expect to learn more from the lecturers and the participants for the difficulties that cyber-regulation faces in this context.

Source author: Vladimir Nikolov vladimir984@yahoo.com

Hospitals and power supply networks --- I would like to open a discussion on what I may call "cybersecurity ethics" if this is ever possible. Even in traditional warfare, there is a belief that warring factions do not attack civilians or basic physical infrastructure like schools and hospitals. Should such a standard be implemented? should there be a code of conduct even in the dark web and among bad actors? why deactivate or seek to create irreparable damage to water supply systems or power grids? for dominance?

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

Cybersecurity Course expectations --- I am also looking forward for greater discourse on the impact on developing countries especially on Small Island Developing States (SIDS)

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

Share of experience --- Will be glad to hear more on this topic (attack of critical infrastructure as hospitals and pipelines / lessons learned) from participants in the course who may come from countries that have faced such attacks recently (USA, Ireland, UK).

Source author: Vladimir Nikolov vladimir984@yahoo.com

HT test - cybersecurity course expectations --- hypertext tool seems very practical, easy to use and to interact with all course participants and lecturers. Looking forward to exchange opinions and knowledge with all of you. Especially interested in the current stance of affairs and capacity building related to cybersecurity in developing countries; the lag/gap between developing and developed countries and the risks arising as a consequence - in the interconnected, inter-weaved and co-dependent cyber world.

Source author: Vladimir Nikolov vladimir984@yahoo.com

Discussion-tree challenge! --- 3-4 HTs is a minimum and we definitely invited you to make more. Some of the most interesting exchanges occur in discussion trees as we respond to each other's HTs. I challenge somebody to respond to my comment and add another branch to this tree :)

Source author: Biljana Scott biscott@diplomacy.edu

Reverse image searches & phoney-me --- Thank you Petru and Andrej for the links you posted, I found both very informative. I am now going to try out 'reverse image searches', something Ive never used before, though I suspect it will be a Lon g time before I am able to simulate myself in line with the technology Andrej's link demonstrates!

Source author: Biljana Scott biscott@diplomacy.edu

URL Link --- This is a great opportunity to insert a link to your comment providing the source of your definition, Mohammad. If it was your own summary, then make sure to take the credit :)

Source author: Biljana Scott biscott@diplomacy.edu

Kairos: the opportune moment --- We will look at examples of different types of ambiguity (narrow, broad and scope ambiguity) and will link our discussion to deniability and credibility.

André, your mention of going off on a tangent at 'just the right time' brings to mind the notion of 'Kairos', the twin brother to Chronos in Greek mythology, who measured time not as the metronome does but as a moment of opportunity that has to be recognised and acted upon.

You are absolutely right to distinguish between audiences - one of the biggest challenges we have is to adjust our communication to today's global audience.

Source author: Biljana Scott biscott@diplomacy.edu

Week 3 meeting --- We're going to have lots of fun during our weekly meeting for Lecture 3 when we will do a Zoom session on connecting with the driving concern of our interlocutor :)

Source author: Biljana Scott biscott@diplomacy.edu

Examples are always welcome --- We look forward to your examples of Speech Acts from Security Studies, Desirée!

Source author: Biljana Scott biscott@diplomacy.edu

We aim to please :) --- I look forward to hearing your feedback at the end of the course, Blanca!

Source author: Biljana Scott biscott@diplomacy.edu

Interesting indeed --- Language as action and the speech act are indeed fascinating subjects. It is amazing how saying something can imply doing something. Of course, much has to do with who says it, how, when and to whom. It has a lot of impact in security studies and I look forward to analysing this subject more closely.

Source author: Desirée Colomé Menéndez dcolome@sre.gob.mx

Info on context --- I think this is a key element for the analysis and I appreciate that you take into account for us.

Thinking about the Spanish language. for exmaple, it is amazing the amount of trouble one can avoid by having proper contextual knowledge of the use and meaning of certain words and/or expressions in different countries. We all speak Spanish, but it is certainly not the same language sometimes.

Source author: Desirée Colomé Menéndez dcolome@sre.gob.mx

Yes Maryam... --- ...we shall tackle this subject more, especially during weeks 4, 5, and 6 of the course.

Source author: Andrej Skrinjaric andrejs@diplomacy.edu

You are right Eric... --- ...tweets should also be listed here, but even though they are not, we shall discuss them a lot in the lecture texts as mini case-studies with a special focus on Trump's tweets which were indeed an unique form of diplomatic/political narrative back at the day.

Source author: Andrej Skrinjaric andrejs@diplomacy.edu

Both hearts and minds --- That's very true Andre....the best way to win the audience over, or to rally them to support your cause (in the case of politicians) is to appeal both to their hearts (evoke emotional response) and their minds (provide 'undeniable' arguments).

Source author: Andrej Skrinjaric andrejs@diplomacy.edu

Are they?:) --- We have quite a few diplomats in this course so I'm looking forward to hear what they have to say about this Petru.

And are 'telling the truth' and 'not saying a lie' the same thing?:)

Source author: Andrej Skrinjaric andrejs@diplomacy.edu

Thanks Mohammad for these... --- ...short definitions of the terms we are going to discuss a lot throughout the course.

Source author: Andrej Skrinjaric andrejs@diplomacy.edu

Good question Alejandra! --- The 3-4 entries refer to the total weekly count, i.e., those made on the lecture text + those made as replies to others.

Of course, if you find particular discussion very interesting, please do not hesitate to make more.:)

Source author: Andrej Skrinjaric andrejs@diplomacy.edu

Well MacOswald... --- ...we hope we'll meet your expectations!:)

Source author: Andrej Skrinjaric andrejs@diplomacy.edu

Thanks Petru... --- ...for sharing the link, and glad to hear you like it Eric!

Source author: Andrej Skrinjaric andrejs@diplomacy.edu

manipulation --- hope we can talk a little bit about manipulation and its effect on the semantic level in political discourse.

Source author: Maryam Almheiri jody_06@hotmail.com

What is a diplomat ? (3) --- "An ambassador is an honest man sent to lie abroad for the good of his country.”

That is the most circulated definition of a diplomat. No wonder! Henry Wotton, who produced it, lived and served as an ambassador in the 17th century. For its popularity it had the advantage of time.

However, and I am saying that as a diplomat, nowadays diplomats are supposed to tell the truth and nothing but the truth, aren't they?

Source author: Petru Dumitriu PetruD@diplomacy.edu

What is a diplomat? (2) --- "A diplomat is a person who can tell you to go to hell in such a tactful way that you’ll look forward with pleasure to making the trip" (attributed to Caskie Skinnett)

Source author: Petru Dumitriu PetruD@diplomacy.edu

@Blanca, André: diplomacy and gender stereotypes --- Right! My fault! I did not use the quotation marks. The definition is not mine! It is attributed to Robert Frost, an American poet who lived before the invention of political correctness.

And, by the way, personally I use every possible way to avoid telling my age. By omission and by use of ambiguity ...

Source author: Petru Dumitriu PetruD@diplomacy.edu

Not as easy as sometimes made out to be --- Politicians, especially second-rate ones, seem to be fond of giving non-answers. To pull ambiguity off is, however, an art. Answering by directly skirting around a question does not work with any but the most friendly of audiences. The trick is, as far as I'm concerned, to get /really/ close to the subject matter but go off on a tangent at just the right time.

Source author: André Xuereb andre.xuereb@um.edu.mt

Oft overlooked --- If I had to point out the most glaring omission from my days as a student, it must be that I was simply never made aware of the importance of establishing an emotional rapport with your audience. Science teachers, in particular, strove for clinical and dispassionate descriptions, which makes for awful reading.

Source author: André Xuereb andre.xuereb@um.edu.mt

Fair point --- It is far too easy to fall into the trap of stereotypes, gender in particular. On the other hand, the joke really wouldn't work well played on men like me. Being almost bald, no one ever tells me I look anything but old... unless they are drunk or a student who needs to score some points 🤣

Source author: André Xuereb andre.xuereb@um.edu.mt

Gender & Diplomacy --- Interesting approach.....

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

scope of the diplomatic skills acquired during the course --- By the end of the course I would like to better understand how the native language and the background of each person affect diplomatic skills

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

What is a diplomat? --- A diplomat is a man who always remembers a woman's birthday but never remembers her age.

Source author: Petru Dumitriu PetruD@diplomacy.edu

Define inference --- a conclusion reached on the basis of evidence and reasoning. "researchers are entrusted with drawing inferences from the data"

Source author: Mohammad Daud Mahmoody dauodmahmoody@gmail.com

Brief definition of analogy --- a comparison between one thing and another, typically for the purpose of explanation or clarification. "an analogy between the workings of nature and those of human societies" a correspondence or partial similarity. "the syndrome is called deep dysgraphia because of its analogy to deep dyslexia" a thing which is comparable to something else in significant respects. "works of art were seen as an analogy for works of nature"

Source author: Mohammad Daud Mahmoody dauodmahmoody@gmail.com

Brief meaning --- a figure of speech in which a word or phrase is applied to an object or action to which it is not literally applicable. "when we speak of gene maps and gene mapping, we use a cartographic metaphor" Similar: figure of speech figurative expression image trope allegory parable analogy comparison symbol emblem word painting word picture conceit a thing regarded as representative or symbolic of something else. "the amounts of money being lost by the company were enough to make it a metaphor for an industry that was teetering".

Source author: Mohammad Daud Mahmoody dauodmahmoody@gmail.com

Brief meaning --- To present, describe, or interpret, or to introduce a bias or slant, so as to give something a favorable or advantageous appearance.

Source author: Mohammad Daud Mahmoody dauodmahmoody@gmail.com

Meaning of semantics --- the branch of linguistics and logic concerned with meaning. The two main areas are logical semantics, concerned with matters such as sense and reference and presupposition and implication, and lexical semantics, concerned with the analysis of word meanings and relations between them. the meaning of a word, phrase, or text. plural noun: semantics "such quibbling over semantics may seem petty stuff"

Source author: Mohammad Daud Mahmoody dauodmahmoody@gmail.com

Language as action --- It seems very interesting to me. I hope we can new skills during this 10 week course.

Source author: Mohammad Daud Mahmoody dauodmahmoody@gmail.com

Definition of a Politician --- "A politician is a man who does not think before he says two things."

🤣

Source author: André Xuereb andre.xuereb@um.edu.mt

HT entries --- I have a question here: Does the 3-4 HT entries requirement refer only to those made on the lecture text directly? or contributions/replies to other people's HT entries are accounted as part of these 3-4?

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

all modules --- looks interesting to me. I cannot wait...

Source author: MacOswald Jumali macjumali@yahoo.com

:) --- well....silence can also speak volumes Marie!:)

Source author: Andrej Skrinjaric andrejs@diplomacy.edu

Definition of a Diplomat --- "A diplomat is a man who thinks twice before he says nothing.”

Edward Heath

Source author: Marie Betts-Johnson mbj@ipicalifornia.com

Thanks for sharing the link Christian... --- ...I could not agree more with what Bradley said. However, we are talking about very thin line here as both ambiguity, nuance, or any other form of signalling is almost always contextual (i.e., depends on the context) on one hand and culturally determined on the other which is very important for diplomats who often work in inter-cultural settings. This means there is no clear check-list of things to may attention to in order to master these skills. Instead we are required to constantly analyse, rethink, and adjust our communication which isn't always easy....then again, this is what makes it fun, right?;-)

Source author: Andrej Skrinjaric andrejs@diplomacy.edu

Congratulations Blanca... --- ...you created your first HT successfully!:)

Source author: Andrej Skrinjaric andrejs@diplomacy.edu

The leitmotif --- Persuasion is the leitmotif of the entire course Herve, in the sense of putting your argument across in as favourable light as possible. The mid-course assignment is designed in a way to allow you to test and hone your skills in this regard, as we ask you to promote two opposing views on the same matter. Hope you'll enjoy it!:)

Source author: Andrej Skrinjaric andrejs@diplomacy.edu

Yes, you can delete an HT comment... --- ...by opening it and the clicking the 'Action' button in the upper right-hand side corner which will load a drop-down menu with 'Edit' and 'Delete' options.

However, please note that you delete only HT comments that no one replied to, i.e., as soon as some replies to your comment, it becomes 'locked' and you can't delete it any more.

Source author: Andrej Skrinjaric andrejs@diplomacy.edu

Glad to hear you like this tool... --- ...Mamta, and I hope you'll take the most of it throughout the course!

Source author: Andrej Skrinjaric andrejs@diplomacy.edu

The power of feelings --- Working from the emotional point of view allows convincing from the most human side of the negotiating parties. Defining common values and feelings is a key strategy linked to "pathos"

Source author: Mario Fanjul mariofanjulbenitez@gmail.com

Values and credibility --- Defining and disseminating the values of an institution improves its credibility and helps the community understand the priorities of the institution. Sometimes it is better to "define yourself" than to try to play "several bands"

Source author: Mario Fanjul mariofanjulbenitez@gmail.com

Dangers of generalizing issues --- The problem of generalizing issues will leave other challenged not fully addressed. which might leave people more vulnerable.

Source author: Baboloki Tebatso baboloki20@gmail.com

being a general HD staff --- This is sometimes challenging to have the right amount of knowledge when covering a bit of all topics. A good network of competent colleagues, staying up to date and reading/following trainings is key in becoming to the right level of knowledge. Obviously, where possible, technical or senior management colleagues need to be included.

Source author: Barbara Wibmer barbara.wibmer@ifrc.org

Age of fake news --- As we already discussed, in the age of social media and 'fake news', this has become even more of a topic.

Source author: Barbara Wibmer barbara.wibmer@ifrc.org

Keeping the public in mind --- I think this should be an overall goal anyway so that as a stakeholder we have the credibility and are well-known in our part of work to be strong hum diplomats. So this should be an ongoing work in collaboration with colleagues from comms, programs, etc.

Source author: Barbara Wibmer barbara.wibmer@ifrc.org

having chosen the wrong target? --- While the following can be the case, sometimes it is also a result of having chosen the wrong interlocutor who may not be in a position to make certain changes/take certain actions.

Source author: Barbara Wibmer barbara.wibmer@ifrc.org

if that works too well... --- in my previous work in the refugee rights/services field, this was often the outcome with those persuaded from other stakeholders ending up working for our organization which was good somehow but also made us restart the persuasion/winning others over part since that person had left. At the same time we had someone in our team who knew this stakeholders very well.

Source author: Barbara Wibmer barbara.wibmer@ifrc.org

Covid vaccinations persuasive language --- During this chapter I have been thinking a lot about the persuasion language used in relation to covid vaccine in my country. There are many interesting persuasion techniques listed here that have been used in the public messaging. I haven't been following this messaging worldwide but guessing others might have observed similar techniques and use of persuasive language.

Source author: Catherine Gearing cathgearing@gmail.com

Two way persuasion --- Anna, what we mean is that the nature of persuasion involves various forms of dialogue, some of which might involve a degree of giving and taking so that you can reach your red line objective.

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

Avoiding debate --- Thanks Anna. This text point is about style and winner-loser outcomes. There's nothing wrong with giving a strong speech, but it's best to know how it will be received by the other side because the last thing you will want is an angry debate about something which could well be peripheral to what you want to achieve.

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

HD timing --- You're right Taban, don't collide with other events but if you can coincide sensibly that can give you many advantages.

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

Fake news and misinformation --- Thanks Catherine and Baboloki. In recent years we've become much more attuned to stories about fake news, alternative facts and the like. They are both, however, forms of propaganda which have been in use forever although their prominence is now ever-present thanks to the way media presentations are now distributed. We will stay with this discussion.

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

Patience --- Thanks Anna. We say that building credibility "could" take years but if you need action immediately a first task is to ensure that the other side of the table understands that too. There is a special need for good stakeholder analysis when immediate decisions are needed.

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

The power to be recognised --- Thanks Mario. It's usually important to ensure that your credibility is verified by someone else, particularly if you're working with a community where the opinions of elders, village personalities and others is important. This is another example of the value of opinion leaders.

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

Overnight opinion leaders --- Thanks Ivy. This is why I mentioned influencers from such media as Tik Tok in another entry.

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

Time with interlocutors --- Thanks Cara and Catherine. There are differences between physical meetings with interlocutors and those conducted virtually. It's often possible to do something like have a drink or a coffee with interlocutors, and those meetings where you simply see a face on Zoom or hear a voice on an audio connection. The latter, in particular, requires different skill-sets. I try to find a way to have more personalised chats, even online, with key people.

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

Humanitarian sectors vs private lobbying groups --- Private lobbying groups often invest a lot of time and resources in the preparation phase which includes focus groups. Unfortunately this is not the case with humanitarian sector which at times leaves HD campaigns ineffective and lacking.

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

Textbook examples --- Thanks Ivy. I agree, and it is, to me, lazy. The use to which you refer certainly grabbed headlines at the time, so it served a purpose for the speaker.

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

Measuring HD's success --- Thanks Ivy, and to JM too. When I was at IFRC I resisted attempts to score HD itself on some kind of success register, for the mark of success is best judged by the operational people for whom the HD was employed. There does, however, need to be a way of gauging that success so that at the very minimum lessons can be learned. It's good to see that so many operational leaders undertake this course, and this in itself is a mark of understanding how HD's value can be recognised.

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

Photos for fundraising --- Thanks John for offering a course of action on this. Maybe this can be mentioned during our sessions this week.

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

Ethical story-telling --- Thanks Cara, and also to Shane, Ivy and others. It's hard for me to address the issue of the ethics of the display of images being out-dated when it remains so common, and when it is also used so frequently by trolls and others. I hope this can be discussed during our sessions this week.

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

Persuasion --- This is very wise, KW. It's important to keep the FHPs in mind as a source of protection for your position from the possibility of opposition persuasion or what might be termed Stockholm Syndrome effects.

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

Relationship building is key --- in my experience before engaging decision makers it is imperative to build relations with their office. this may fasten the decision making process

Source author: Didi Monnakgotla didintle.monnakgotla@ifrc.org

Rebuilding Credibility --- essential to note that organisations are perceived differently by many and bad publicity is inevitable at times- especially with unverified media. that is why it is essential to for organisations to be agile and learn to respond even during adversities. Staff need to community with one voice

Source author: Didi Monnakgotla didintle.monnakgotla@ifrc.org

Persuasion by using images --- I would definitely frown upon using images that depict vulnerabilities of affected people especially children. Recently there was a cross fire on one of the images posted by WFP- social media community frankly blamed International agencies for the "mess" and dependency on aid in Africa. When using images to perused i would rather prefer images depicting resilience

Source author: Didi Monnakgotla didintle.monnakgotla@ifrc.org

A to way street? --- I would not consider persuation in itself a two-way street although it is often conducted in dialogue.

Source author: Anna Beijmo advocacy@forumongi-rdc.org

Avoid debate --- Is this always the case, I am thinking of when giving a strong speech as part of humanitarian diplomacy?

Source author: Anna Beijmo advocacy@forumongi-rdc.org

Compromise --- Yes Marwa, but in certain situations (armed conflicts, detention), compromise could be very close to compromission, a step which is unacceptable in our line of business.

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

Immigration --- Marwa, I think we can agree that the issue of immigration plays on a mix of socio-economic and political issues combined with various degrees of xenophobia and racism, to be found all around the world. Out of reach for HD alone. But HD can win battles on the way, such as living conditions of migrants, rescue of migrants at sea, regularization of the statute of undocumented migrants, etc.

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

Persuasion and culture --- Very true Virginia, one way of adressing the issue could be to find some common values which could constitute a basis for a dialogue. They exist between most cultures. We ae regularly confronted to the problem when interlocutors tell us that IHL is a western concept, but most cultures and civilizations share the same values, but express them differently.

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

Mandate and credibility --- John, we could say that the mandate derives from the Institution's credibility and long-established track record .

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

Handshake --- Yes Wossene, but let us not forget that in some cultures, a handshake is worth more than a piece of paper!

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

is the issue even an issue --- understanding the local context means also accepting the possibility that a 'perceived issue' may not in fact be an issue for the community. This is especially true for gender related topics where perhaps 'issues' are framed in a Western lense, but the community and women of that locality may not deems some of the gender issues as issues to begin with thus sometimes good intentions can just result in mistrust and loss of credibility if the wrong topic is tackled

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

polarised topics --- How can this be achieved when dealing with highly polarised topics such as immigration?

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

Are we persuadable? --- This is a very good point. I feel that the expectation is that we aren't but we are amenable to compromise. I think we should be, because the principle of humanity should be at the core of any persuasion exercise and if the goal is assisting vulnerable communities, then as long as that goal is achieved it shouldn't matter who is persuading who.

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

Taking notes --- Often I've found that the interlocuters we are meeting with are also taking their own notes in the meeting too. I think it works much better when you have one person from your organisation that is leading the meeting and focusing only on that while another takes the notes. In one of my roles we had discussions about note takers using laptops in meetings so meeting notes would be more legible (we dont have time to type them out afterwards) but we decided against it as the tapping sound of laptops can potentially put interlocuters a bit more on edge/guard in comparison to quiet note taking by hand

Source author: Cara Ceriani caraceriani@hotmail.com

Persuasion --- When persuading different actors and using fundamental principles, an organization can earn credibility and trust. This could be helpful during the negotiation stage, making it less hard or difficult to engage with the target group.

Source author: Katlego W. Phele phelekatlego@gmail.com

Credibility --- Organizations should make it an aim to protect their credibility and value, by having structural policies and ethics for employees to adhere, and abide by. This will guard against behavior/practices that may lead to loss of credibility.

Source author: Katlego W. Phele phelekatlego@gmail.com

Avoid taking notes --- It is probably a good idea to be two people, one who can focus on the conversation and one that takes notes. And to explain for your counterparts why you let your colleague take notes.

Source author: Anna Beijmo advocacy@forumongi-rdc.org

Beginnings are tough. --- Taban, that may be, but one must start somewhere?

Source author: Daniel Beaudoin beaudoin.dnl@gmail.com

Challenging indeed. --- Excellent point, and very challenging. How does one negotiate FGM related issues without making that mistake? Tough.

Source author: Daniel Beaudoin beaudoin.dnl@gmail.com

Note taking frenzy. --- Good point John. I would suggest that at least one person remain attentive and not take notes.

Source author: Daniel Beaudoin beaudoin.dnl@gmail.com

Not always in writing. --- Wossene, yes it is. Note, that minutes do not always come in written form.

Source author: Daniel Beaudoin beaudoin.dnl@gmail.com

Code of Conduct --- I agree with all your comments. From a NS perspective, it has happened on several occasions, clean up made after misconduct by a staff /volunteer and trying to rebuild trust amongst stakeholders. Therefore, it is essential to have the Code of Conduct signed and Community Engagement & Accountability(CEA) mechanisms in place to manage and stop/minimize the negative consequences.

Source author: Sheebah Mirisa orgdevmgr@redcross.org.sb

ABC --- Humanitarian Diplomats may regarded as Agents of Behavioral Change. IFRC reputable YABC program targets behavior (change within self to be able to create and generate change on the outside).

Source author: Sheebah Mirisa orgdevmgr@redcross.org.sb

Avoid taking notes --- What about having an agreement to have minutes at the beginning of any discussion? Of course this is also a part of HDiplomats' persuasion and negotiation skill as well.

Source author: Wossene Hailu Wossene_Hailu@wvi.org

Avoid taking Notes. --- i have participated in several meetings with colleagues from other organization, and you them busy taking notes during meetings . This in most cases creates suspicion with government bureaucrats especially in volatile situations . But sometimes it is important that you have to take notes to help you later in writing your report. Any suggestion advice to HD diplomat ho how to deal with such situation ?

Source author: John Lobor john.lobor@ssdredcross.org

'Positive image' appeals --- Developing a in a responsive relationship to 'shock effect' campaigns, 'positive image' ones also rely on photorealism to represent the reality of suffering . The difference is that these campaigns reject the imagery of the sufferer as a victim and focus on the sufferer's agency and dignity.This is eviden in Oxfam's campaigns such as Save the Children(1991). which sums up two key characteristics of the 'positive image' style (1) it personalizes sufferers by focalizing the appeal on distinct individuals as actors(e.g. , as participants in development projects and (2) it singularizes donors by addressing each one as a person who can make a concrete contribution to improve a sufferer's life(e.g. through child sponsorship.)

Source author: Emmanuel Henry Pierre manniepierre@hotmail.com

Rational persuasion --- From personal experience , this has been an important tool during the Covid19 pandemic as a tool for Social mobilsation to convince the population to follow Covid19 protocols . The information communicated is based on research and evidence. Despite the overwhelming evidence a good number of people still go unvaccinated . Any approaches that could help improve the situation ?

Source author: John Lobor john.lobor@ssdredcross.org

Mandate. --- The GC gives the ICRC the mandate to intervene in conflict situation. . Does mandate and credibility mean the same thing ?

Source author: John Lobor john.lobor@ssdredcross.org

Logic of complicity --- The circulation of 'shock effect' images in contexts of affluence and safety , social distance operates as a moralizing force through the logic of complicity. Complicity renders the spectator a witness of the horrors of suffering and, in so doing, makes of our inaction a personal failure to take responsibility for their misfortune . It taps into the feelings of shame.

Source author: Emmanuel Henry Pierre manniepierre@hotmail.com

"Shock effect' appeals (2). --- The Red Cross 1961 campaign also relies on raw realism to depict human bodies in extreme state of starvation . The image is a composition of people devoid of individualizing features - biological, such as their age and sex or social such as clothing. They are half -naked, exposing emaciated rib cases, arms and legs. The campaign is 'victim- oriented' they focus on the distant sufferer as the object of our contemplation.

Source author: Emmanuel Henry Pierre manniepierre@hotmail.com

Partnership. --- Partnerships can contribute towards building the credibility of whether small organizations through trust, transparency and accountability. Due diligence

Source author: John Lobor john.lobor@ssdredcross.org

'Shock effect' appeals --- The campaigns of Oxfam 1956 and Red Cross 1961 rely on a documentary mode of representing suffering in its plain reality. Oxfam's 1956 mother-child visual complex constitutes the classic imagery of the 'ideal victim' . The lack of eye contact suggests that the mother is unaware of being caught in camera, yet the picture is focalised on her arm reaching out to an imaginary benefactor in plead of help, while the urgency in her emaciated face testifies to the despair of her condition.

Source author: Emmanuel Henry Pierre manniepierre@hotmail.com

local and International chain --- Common practice in the Red Cross Red Crescent Movement. International Red Cross and Red Crescent partners, partnering with the host National Society . Complementarity and comparative advantage and local knowledge, culture from the local partner. Good mode of working.

Source author: John Lobor john.lobor@ssdredcross.org

Persuasion challenges --- There is a point to keep in mind in the process of persuasion: showing respect in cultural terms does not imply acceptance of certain practices. During fieldwork we observe culture shock and the complex task of asserting rights that had never before been contemplated in their codes and traditions. Overcoming these barriers through persuasion and convincing is a challenge for humanitarian diplomacy.

Source author: Virginia Maria Callau Vidal vircavidal@hotmail.com

Emotional persuasion risk --- It may become disastrous more especially in fragile states. Any publicity tool used to convince and see a tangible action may be taken by the opposition and often referring to the source for example ' The Red Cross" may cause damages in HD with government.

Source author: Taban Sabir Alahai taban.sabir@ssdredcross.org

Emotional intelligence --- I think that emotional intelligence is largely an innate ability, but like everything in life there are techniques to learn and perfect it. Facing situations and evaluating the results, from the approach of self-analysis helps to improve.

Source author: Virginia Maria Callau Vidal vircavidal@hotmail.com

Reputation for life --- For Institutions like the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, to continue upholding the reputation, individuals who worked and left have a permanent hallmark not in their lives , but continue carrying the image of the institutions as people have known him or her for.

Source author: Taban Sabir Alahai taban.sabir@ssdredcross.org

Experience and Previous success --- An individual cannot confidently engagement in HD when he or she is inexperienced or new to the institution/organization. A wealth of experience in a specific field and in the role makes a good HD expert.

Source author: Taban Sabir Alahai taban.sabir@ssdredcross.org

NS need to investment in Volunteers-HD --- You are right on building credibility. Is therefore incumbent on entities or NSs to invest in their Volunteers who are the images within their Communities and cascade upwards to staff and the institution's Management and leadership.

Source author: Taban Sabir Alahai taban.sabir@ssdredcross.org

Implementation --- Right you are Taban, the implementation is very often the most difficult part, for different reasons. Maybe your decision maker is not the only boss in the set-up, or maybe what the other party was looking for was to be able to announce publicly they had reached an agreement, without being really interested to go one step further. Lobbying, networking will be the weapons of choice of the HDiplomat to try to get to the implementing stage.

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

Bad timing --- HD engagements should be well calculated not to collide with important political engagements or events. Decision makers always give priority to power relation issues.

Source author: Taban Sabir Alahai taban.sabir@ssdredcross.org

Implementation of decisions --- Decision makers are always very busy individuals. As a humanitarian diplomats, follow ups through shared contacts is very important. Otherwise, decisions taken risk not being implemented.

Source author: Taban Sabir Alahai taban.sabir@ssdredcross.org

Responsibility --- Very true Maria, we know that the (mis)behavior of one rotten egg can have dire consequences.

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

Credibility --- Marwa, as you know, credibilty is built over time, no miracle there. Furthermore, if an organisation - big or small - is predictable in its way of dealing with different situations (and respect for the FPs helps in this matter), it will contribute a lot to establish this credibility.

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

Evaluation --- You are right Ivy. Ideally, the HDiplomats should spend time reflecting on past actions. Not always possible as it is time consuming. In a way, this is what courses like this one (and others organized by other humanitarian institutions) try to achieve through research papers or seminars. All the organizations conduct such exercises, for example when they elaborate the budget for the next year, but the results remain in the institution and are not shared with others.

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

opinion leaders --- i total agree because this information share in this domain spread fast and mostly are unconfirmed. People choose who to trust which might have an effect on HD.

Source author: Baboloki Tebatso baboloki20@gmail.com

pathos to counteract the propaganda --- As propaganda is more commonly used in many politicised issues, this means emotional campaigns are sometimes the only way to balance the scale to allow for any type of informed discussion, otherwise you would lose even before you begin your persuasion mission.

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

Time limits --- The sandwich technique can work too with the tricky or sensitive part in the middle. I sometimes worry about leaving it till the end in case the meeting gets interrupted or cut short, which happens. Depending on what the context is, having some good results/news to share can also be helpful. If you are running a program, service, relief distribution in a particular area.

Source author: Catherine Gearing cathgearing@gmail.com

Taking care of one's reputation and brand --- Wossene, this is an interesting point. As you said it is possible to lose that reputation in one day, for that reason I think there is a lack of transparency in the humanitarian sector especially when it comes to misconduct. Unfortunately the action of one employee can have such devastating effects that organisations often either turn a blind eye or handle a matter with absolute secrecy, which leads to other problems.

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

Local and international chains --- So important when working internationally and have someone who can provide good, honest, reliable context. We talk about the importance of sometimes needing time but this is a way to take some shortcuts. It doesn't always work but if you can find the right person or people it can be so beneficial.

Source author: Catherine Gearing cathgearing@gmail.com

Challenge for lesser known or new organisations --- This can be a challenge for smaller humanitarian organisations or even large organisations working in remote areas where no one has heard of them. How can this credibility be established? Also how can bigger organisations help grassroot and other local organisation who will struggle to build credibility on their own.

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

Credibility and power --- I would say that the ICRC's credibility comes from the GCs. The GCs gives it a 'right' to be present.

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

Fake news and misinformation --- With the growing concept of fake news and misinformation in the public domain, especially through social media. Perhaps this is something we need to consider when undertaking HD and persuasion, there are very powerful voices in the public domain and the information is not always true. Credibility is so important and really good evidence based information.

Source author: Catherine Gearing cathgearing@gmail.com

pic more that 1000 words --- Sorry ,just had a look at your profile picture, which i did not see before! If a high level person does a field visit, sure there will be useful pictures. E.g. a secretary General of Org xy gets a first hand impression about the situation. But a Comms officer posing with a "beneficary" or a manager of a NGO handing out relief item, just for the show.... both a no-go. Peter Mauer visiting Afganistan and having talks with officials... a big yes. So it should show your job/role!

Source author: Gerhard Tauscher gerhardtoday@gmail.com

Emotional Intelligence. --- This is such an important skill in diplomacy and the humanitarian sector yet it is one that is hard to assess for when recruiting. How can we enhance our emotional intelligence? Do people believe it is a skill we can develop and improve or one that naturally develops based on experiences?

Source author: Catherine Gearing cathgearing@gmail.com

HD and liking + consensus --- Even the video is more about persuasion in the business world, worth looking. I like the part of "Liking and consensus" possible the easiest to use in HD.

Source author: Gerhard Tauscher gerhardtoday@gmail.com

persuasion as a lubricant --- i agree that it is through continuous engagement that one is able to soften and convince the other party to consider the proposed intervention or the nee to support. its is not meant to make things more difficult.

Source author: Baboloki Tebatso baboloki20@gmail.com

Organizational values --- Much of this often comes back to the Fundamental Principles. The strength of our argument is also supported by the values of the organization we represent. We essentially reflect the organisation's values.

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

The universality of stories --- What is amazing about McKee's outline of the story has been consistent over time and seems to cross cultures. This would make it a valuable tool for persuasion. I'd be keen to hear some real world examples of efforts to persuade crossing cultural divides through story telling or any further reading on this.

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

Simple stories --- The classic "goodies and baddies" story is one of the most popular with the media (second only to conflict). In humanitarian communications we routinely pitch these simple stories to the media because we know that's what works. It is an effective way to get our ideas across, but it does maintain a very simplistic discourse.

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

What does it actually mean? --- Is it just me or the term science diplomacy sounds a bit strange? why not sustainable development diplomacy?

Source author: Efrat Daskal efrat.daskal@mail.huji.ac.il

Re --- @Katharina, you mean the class meetings?

If yes, the chat session can be accessed in this platform by clicking on the 0.3 Orientation meeting, will take you directly to the chatroom. However, I will send the email with detailed information regarding our upcoming meetup in the morning.

Best regards,

Source author: Judy Okite judyo@diplomacy.edu

Re: --- Thank you YingChu Chen,

That is important information and if there is anyone having trouble accessing the HTs, can try that as well.

Best Regards

Source author: Judy Okite judyo@diplomacy.edu

This is Meta... --- For the internet enables us to see its own origin story and share about it real-time!

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

Found --- the link

Source author: Katharina Beyer katharina.beyer@etu.unige.ch

Motivating message --- Thank you Ginger, a very interesting reminder of how much progress has been made and a motivating message of how much can be done

Source author: Aura Fossati aura.fossati@gmail.com

Link for classes --- ... and HT-Test... will we get a chat room or a zoom link for the classes? Looking forward "seeing" you soon!

Source author: Katharina Beyer katharina.beyer@etu.unige.ch

Looking forward... --- to meeting everyone virtually!

Source author: Trishia Octaviano trishia.octaviano@asef.org

citation --- Citation is a big challenge for me. I would really appreciate if anyone could suggest good extra resources on citation ( be it citation machine, YouTube videos, article, or book) . Thank you !

Source author: Sovanndanit Roath sovanndanitroath@gmail.com

History in the making --- Thanks @Ginger for this walk down « history » lane. The text and the video also shows us how these visionaries were informed and inspired by their predecessors.

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

Test for HT --- I found some of my extensions on the Chome make some trouble reading HT. It is a test to discover which extension makes this issue. I stopped the privacy badger bye EFF already.

Source author: YingChu Chen jungheng@gmail.com

Power Politics --- while it is true that you have to go straight to the top to the decision makers who can make change on the issues you need to be changed or influence, we have to be mindful of gate keepers who could make it difficulty for you from reaching the boss. Common challenge we have to deal with.

Source author: John Lobor john.lobor@ssdredcross.org

Personal data protection risks --- Back in the days, it was only the individual and few governmental agencies that had access to citizens' personal data (archived offline), thus, with less risks for data breaches. Today, our personal and other sensitive data (even bio-metric) is completely public (via social networks, e-banking, e-commerce etc.). We do not have control of our data (ownership/storage/archiving/analytics/resale). We face many uncertainties. How our data will be used by new corporations, governmental agencies and software powered by AI, big-data, behavioral analysis?...A new "social credit system" similar to the one in operation in China could limit our access to real life or even "archive" us "offline" :)

Source author: Vladimir Nikolov vladimir984@yahoo.com

Information as a weapon --- @Juan. Interesting viewpoint. However, your commentary seems to suggest that if the information has a political undertone or objective then it should not fall within the context of security when compared to a discourse on security breach; Would you concede that political objectives lead to policy decisions which translate into getting the cybersecurity experts to develop tools (legally or illegally) to meet the political objectives? or alternately, security experts may have a particular agenda to see geo-political dominance by state actors and hence influence the political debate for policy decisions?

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

Information as a weapon? --- Do policy discussions on cyber security have to address disinformation campaigns? This is a difficult topic. If certain information is being shared through perfectly normal and legal channels, it can be hard argue that we are facing a threat. One must make the difference between the dissemination of information resulting from a security breach, and the dissemination of information carried out by state or private actors to pursue specific interests. When it comes to the latter, the issue falls more on the political realm. The difficult part is not to equal cyber security with censorship or strict regulations to the freedom of speech.

Source author: Juan Feliciano Ascencio Moctezuma jascencio@sre.gob.mx

IT Security --- I am used to see the term "IT security" and I consider it to be comprehensive. It encompasses the technical and human aspect. By 'human aspect' I mean the exchange of information that we users engage in on a daily basis. I found only one definition of IT security, provided by Cisco, a private company: "IT security is a set of cybersecurity strategies that prevents unauthorized access to organizational assets such as computers, networks, and data. It maintains the integrity and confidentiality of sensitive information, blocking the access of sophisticated hackers."

Source author: Juan Feliciano Ascencio Moctezuma jascencio@sre.gob.mx

Autonomous lethal weapons --- There has been must discussion on the issue of violation of sovereignty and cyberattacks on the threshold; how do we deter the use of autonomous lethal weapons (ALWs) in the hands of bad state actors or espionage activities seeking geopolitical dominance?

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

hackable self-driving cars --- Why design a self-driving vehicle which is "hackable" in the age that we are living? why not include security features using AI to deter attacks?

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

Science and fiction blurs --- @Delgado While this scenario is indeed very scary I would how Blockchain Technology would assist in the security of such personal data if used intuitively. Any comments?

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

High Tech world of Tomorrow --- With AI and IOTs being the new norm in a digital world, it is possible that cybercriminals perform a profile on a cluster of key users to understand their movements and activities and using their connected digital watch or other gadget as a GPS transmitter and cause irreparable harm/loss to personal assets/homes, bank accounts - you name it. Essentially, clever and innovative use of these technologies where users are always online and therefore can be easily traced, we become walking "vulnerables"

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

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Cybersecurity --- What was once considered fiction is now standard practice in our modern world of cyberspace and technology. Can someone imagine AI algorithms being used by bad actors from the dark web and the proliferation of connected smart devices in the world of IOTs?

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

Cyberattack vs armed attack --- These two terms seem to be used interchangeably in these times but it is critical that we provide a definition to what constitutes an armed attack vs a cyber attack. In traditional warfare, we usually speak of armed attack where one nation or organization or person uses a traditional physical weapon to attack another whether their person, sovereign state or otherwise. we see this as an armed attack.

in cyberspace, the environment has changed but the end result may be even more devastating than the physical armed attack - only this time we use electronic tools that we term cyber attack. is there a threshold that determines its now a cyberattack while bots or electronic mines are lying in wait to be activated within one's domain from a foreign electronic agent?

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

Terminology --- @Phan This is an interesting observation. However, from the context used by the author, Critical Societal Infrastructure (CSI) is in reference to cyberspace as a component of modern society (i.e. the environment for facilitate digital services in all sectors of society) while Critical Information Infrastructure (CII) pertains to the systems and resources relevant to the actual transmission and dissemination of information. You may wish to see the former (CSI) as the roadmap while the latter (CII) as the actual traffic

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

threshold --- How we can call it as an armed attack?

Source author: Phannarith Ou phannarith-ou@mptc.gov.kh

Win? --- or we already win?

Source author: Phannarith Ou phannarith-ou@mptc.gov.kh

More platforms in ASEAN --- - SOMTC (Senoir Official Meeting on Transnational Crime) - ADMM (ASEAN Defense Minister Meeting) - ADGMIN (ASEAN Digital Minister Meeting) - ASEAN Cyber-CC (Cyber Coordination Committee)

Source author: Phannarith Ou phannarith-ou@mptc.gov.kh

Terminology --- Then it come to another terminology. I usually see the word the Critical Information Infrastructure (CII). Base on this context, it is CSI = CII. Can we use it interchangeable?

Source author: Phannarith Ou phannarith-ou@mptc.gov.kh

All terms describe one aspect of the same problem --- Cybersecurity could encompass most of the others. Computer security would relate more to those diveses, whereas information would be directed towards safeguarding of information. Information system security would be related to the measures taken to safeguard the system. IT security would describe them all. Network and Data are similar to information system security and data security, respectively.

Source author: Carlos García Delgrado cgarciad@sre.gob.mx

Science fictions blurs with reality --- Risks associated with poor cybersecurity are plenty. In a futuristic -not so far away- society, hackers could steal somebody's identity completely, not only to rob them of their possessions, but also -and this is scary- to supplant someone-‘s life totally, with not many recourses for victims to establish their true identity, since all systems could get compromised.

Source author: Carlos García Delgrado cgarciad@sre.gob.mx

HT test --- Thank you Andre.

Source author: Tarniem Shokry Iskandar tar.eskander@hotmail.com

HT test --- Noted with thanks Andre.

Source author: Mavis Tungulu mtungulu@gmail.com

Course blog vis-a-vis interaction messages --- Thank you very much for your question. The idea is that you make a post on the blog that will be visible to every class member once they visit the classroom (and also receive a copy in notifications, namely in the daily summary of activities in class). The interaction messages are essentially the same as sending an email to the whole class, meaning that the whole class will immediately receive your message. My suggestion is that participants predominantly prefer using the Classroom blog and HTs to interact with each other.

Source author: Andre Saramago andres@diplomacy.edu

Internet and Cyberspace --- As I understood from the course readings 'Internet' refers to the infrastructure and tools that support the exchange of information by users. 'Cyberspace' is the universe of all the interactions performed by Internet users, from operating critical infrastructure, to sending emails, and online shopping.

Source author: Juan Feliciano Ascencio Moctezuma jascencio@sre.gob.mx

Trust in the topical PD actor, or in the country he represents --- To come back to the first lesson of this class, the agency of the nation that is represented by a PD actor is an important aspect in building trust, as the trustworthy behaviour (towards local partners, the target audience,…) of a single PD actor who represents the country. Thus, PD is best planned together with the actual policies. It can only be successful if it is coherent with action on the terrain.

Source author: Koenraad Du Pont koenraad.dupont@diplobel.fed.be

No, that is not what I wanted top say --- But I do think that on certain unforeseen occasions, an Embassy (e.g.) simply can’t stay absent if it wishes to be perceived as a credible PD-actor. For instance helping or showing solidarity after a disaster, being compassionate during a period of loss, using a sudden hype as leverage, …

Source author: Koenraad Du Pont koenraad.dupont@diplobel.fed.be

A coordinated plan of action --- surely is the best guarantee for efficient use of the means that you are willing to allocate to a public diplomacy campaign. In addition it helps to stay “on track”, to stay focused on the objectives and to evaluate your PD performance regularly. Coordination among the various actors and stakeholders is an imported condition for any ambitious PD plan。 However， as I said before, a PD plan should not become dogmatic. The environment in which PD operates can shift in an unexpected manner. New obstacles and opportunities may present themselves. The PD responsible person should evaluate these in the light of the PD campaign objectives and make the best out of the. This also is an essential skill in public diplomacy.

Source author: Koenraad Du Pont koenraad.dupont@diplobel.fed.be

Important point --- The awareness of local culture and social sensitivities are crucial to formulate an effective PD. Through partnership with local non state actors will help us to craft the PD that is fit with the local culture since those local non state actors such as local NGOs or networks, etc are best actors to guide us on their country culture and social understanding.

Source author: Thida Sreng thidasreng@gmail.com

visa and consular services --- unfortunately visa and consular services had a specifically critical and often negative role during the pandemic. A lot of work will be needed to correct people's perception of their work in the coming months seeing many were frustrated with cancelled visa or needed support from their consular service.

Source author: Kate Bruene Katharina.Bruene@dfat.gov.au

listening yes, but responding too --- ideally PD should create people-to-people exchanges, no matter on what level and lead to a two-way communication. For public diplomacy to work, the MFA need to listen to perceptions about their country but similarly respond with explanations.

Source author: Kate Bruene Katharina.Bruene@dfat.gov.au

studying Public Diplomacy --- I agree public diplomacy has received much more attention in recent years. However, as far as I am aware, few academic institutions have focuses on public diplomacy with specific courses so far. - aside from Universita Cattolica del Sacro Cuore and the Furtwangen University. We too have discussed in the course that few public diplomacy practitioners have received formal training (until this course). Are there courses the lecturers can recommend? Do we need a strategy to ensure public diplomacy is accepted as a full discipline in academia and practice?

Source author: Kate Bruene Katharina.Bruene@dfat.gov.au

General public --- I think that the posts on social media should be diversified in which directed both the general public and the group of bureaucrats at home countries. Some posts can be the popular topics that directed to general public and some are directed to bureaucrats at home country. Therefore, it makes the page to look interesting to all audiences.

Source author: Thida Sreng thidasreng@gmail.com

Agree --- I agree with you Aung, the effective use of social media by government institutions and officials will produce positive outcomes for PD. However, the contents should be precise, influential and disclosable to public.

Source author: Thida Sreng thidasreng@gmail.com

Evaluation of the effectiveness --- Evaluation of the effectiveness of "soft power" is a very difficult task. J. Nye himself noted that, in contrast to military force or economic measures that can achieve certain results in a certain period of time, "soft power" is more difficult in use. After all, many key resources of “soft power” are outside the control of the state, and the effect largely depends on the readiness of the audience to perceive the proposed values.

Source author: Irina Iutiaeva twitter.mfa@yandex.ru

"Soft power" strategy --- I do agree that "soft power" policy should be conducted on the basis of a long-term strategy. This strategy should provide for the creation and maintenance of political, public and educational institutions, have the necessary financial resources, technical equipment and human resources.

Source author: Irina Iutiaeva twitter.mfa@yandex.ru

Relevance of soft power today --- I think the relevance of soft power depends on the nation. In some countries, instruments of "soft power" are becoming more and more popular these days, in others they are fading into the background. In particular, many experts state the decline of the “soft power" of the United States and the growth of soft power” of the PRC in the XXI century.

Source author: Irina Iutiaeva twitter.mfa@yandex.ru

Compatriots as brand ambassadors --- Many representatives of Russian diaspora who achieved success in business abroad contribute to the promotion of Russian culture. In this regard, some of them can be truly called brand ambassadors.

Source author: Irina Iutiaeva twitter.mfa@yandex.ru

Celebrities as brand ambassadors --- In Russia, we also have brand ambassadors who obtained Russian citizenship in adulthood, love Russia and feel free to share their positive feeling about our nation. Gérard Depardieu is probably the brightest example.

Source author: Irina Iutiaeva twitter.mfa@yandex.ru

Brand ambassadors in Russia --- Russian artists and scientists, businessmen & benefactors all contribute to the positive image of our country. Among our brand ambassadors are definitely Russian athletes who delight us with their victories at international competitions.

Source author: Irina Iutiaeva twitter.mfa@yandex.ru

Sustainability --- Just to add to the discussion: the Russian MFA is widely represented in social networks operating 19 Ministerial accounts on 12 digital platforms and coordinating on some 700 accounts of foreign missions. All of them are sustainable.

Source author: Irina Iutiaeva twitter.mfa@yandex.ru

Personal SM for a diplomat --- I share the view expressed by the colleagues above that personal SM is a good idea for senior diplomats. First of all, such accounts are more likely to have big and interested audience, secondly - a more experienced diplomat can formulate important messaged in a more precise way, which is for the benefit of all PD actors.

Source author: Irina Iutiaeva twitter.mfa@yandex.ru

Verification --- It is important that such accounts have the blue verified badge so that foreign colleagues could easily understand that this account is authentic, notable and active. I think it makes digital diplomacy more effective.

Source author: Irina Iutiaeva twitter.mfa@yandex.ru

Agree --- Although attempts can be made to speed up the approval process in terms of emergency, it may be difficult to diminish all the usual chains of approval procedure. It may depend on the characteristics of the national approval process, but in any case, it may be difficult to respond to developments in social media in a timely fashion.

Source author: Takahiro Hara takahiro.hara-2@mofa.go.jp