Donor -driven protection activities --- Some international organisations are increasingly dependent on funds from a handful of key donors states and often use funding for their presence in protracted conflicts to sustain their global status and operation.

Source author: Emmanuel Henry Pierre manniepierre@hotmail.com

Disregarding role of volunteers --- sometimes other players disregard role and contribution of volunteers. this is mainly contributed by lack of understand of their contribution and influence in decision making.

Source author: Baboloki Tebatso baboloki20@gmail.com

NS maintaining neutrality --- Diversification of funding streams is key, especially growing income generating projects in that way NS will not be swayed by their "big" funders- financial independence is key

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

Private and Media as Actor --- @Taban, i agree with your statement- private sector is also responsible for funding government agenda to gain favor in procurement. Private sector can play a major role in advancing agenda of vulnerable communities especially when governments loots. Private sector can withhold taxes for example to make sure that government accounts

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

Coordination is key --- Duplication of efforts by NGO in humanitarian response is a pandemic. This is what leads to non effectiveness of HD as NGO work against each other and compete for funding- thus frustrating the community

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

High turner over of Key interlocuters --- In fragile countries, for example like South Sudan, key players can be removed from a key position from time to time. Once this happens, established HD relations are brought to square one.

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

Understanding local Gatekeepers --- For International Actors, understanding the local context should involve close working relationship with local actors, who knows better their operational environment.

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

Difficult Balance --- Indeed it's difficult to balance , but if actors can clearly disseminate their support to achieve a collective goals with Authorities, perception concerns can be dispelled at the earlier stage.

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

Cross- Organizational Program. --- In order for the sector to more effectively respond to humanitarian crisis, it is critical that NGOs recognize the value added of a coordinated approach and implement information and communication policies that support increased coordination.

Source author: Emmanuel Henry Pierre manniepierre@hotmail.com

Asian NGOs --- NGOs in Asian countries often quite frequently experience fluctuations in funding of the constant shifting in priorities of their international donors. Therefore, without domestic sources Asian NGOs are forced to realign their priorities with donor interests in order to compete for funding.

Source author: Emmanuel Henry Pierre manniepierre@hotmail.com

Ongoing national discussions. --- National Societies play a critical role in ongoing national discussions concerning civil society involvement in the response to disaster and other crisis and in defining its role with government ministries dealing with issues such as asylum-seekers, rehabilitation of war victims and migrants.

Source author: Emmanuel Henry Pierre manniepierre@hotmail.com

IDRL --- Thinking of some countries that may be ill prepared or lacking resources during disasters, based on IDRL, maybe relief operations are more immediate.

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

Critical Role of National Societies --- National Societies’ auxiliary role is very critical in addressing pertinent humanitarian issues such as HIV/AIDS. In the Botswana context, many NGOS were key in spreading health messages about HIV/AIDS, together with relevant government authorities. Different actors came into play, including the media.

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

Work --- Work involves roles of humanitarian actors on how they will respond to complicated humanitarian situations

Source author: Abraham Kisang kisangkisumbat@gmail.com

Expertise and overall impact --- Does expertise on the issues organisations chose to advocate also mean that they can act as a paradigm of best-practices in the areas they are advocating? Can this affect their impact and overall advocacy objectives as well as organisations' public image and credibility?

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

Gen Dufour --- Thanks JM, appreciate your enthusiasm!

Source author: Ivy Susanti ivysusanti@gmail.com

Avoiding One size fits all approach --- this is a interesting point! Crucially a context analysis through stakeholders mapping, understanding the causes and consequences of conflict in area provides a vital channel to avoid one size fits all mentality. This is to say that each humanitarian operation has its own dynamics impacted by local politics and culture.

Source author: Riyadh Sidat riyadh.sidat@un.org

ICRC's position during WWII --- There has been a lot of criticism of ICRC's action or inaction during WWII which the ICRC has apologised for. While, thankfully, the world didn't endured a crisis of similar magnitude to WWII again, however there have been many crises and genocides over the last 70 years where the ICRC remained silent, I wonder if 50 years from now we will still believe that quiet interventions and diplomacy was the right call.

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

Financial dependence --- NSs partial financial dependence on governments puts them in a difficult position of reliance which makes "independence and neutrality" difficult in practice.

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

Coordination within the movement --- In my experience, I agree that there are definitely still a lot of challenges associated with movement coordination - a lot of working in silos, different expectations and power/privilege at playetc. It can be a tricky space and good coordination often comes down to positive interpersonal relationships/communication and clear expectations

Source author: Cara Ceriani caraceriani@hotmail.com

Procedures - Unity --- This is a really interesting point and relevant to the principle of unity. How are relationships between these NS then managed/how involved are they with each other? How is the dissolution/absorption managed?

Source author: Cara Ceriani caraceriani@hotmail.com

oops! --- And I beleive this comment got lost in this very levely discussion, sorry

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

Military in humanitarian response --- Yes Ivy, and I beleive this is why General Guillaume Henry Dufour was the first President of the ICRC !!

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

APll --- Right you are Marwa, AP ll has only been ratified by 169 countries, but it extend the protection to the victims mainly on two points: First, that the distinction between internal and international armed conflict is artificial from the point of view of a victim. Humanitarian principles should apply regardless of the identity of the combatants. Second, that international law does not apply to non-international situations.

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

Everyone wants to be heard --- The syndrome of everyone wants to be heard in the Non governmental sphere can be abit problematic when their agenda is underlying agenda is unclear especially when it is a small state bombarded with NG actors.

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

Expectations --- Managing expectations can be a bit challenging internally and externally. Reminder of our expertise, the FPs, and the Core Humanitarian Minimum Standards when applied can managed expectations. HD at the highest level but should also translate down to the grassroot level as well.

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

Emblem use Without Connotation --- Yes, I agree. A very insightful reading which gave me more understanding into the development of the emblems. Turkey as an Islam state, also the first Islam state to set up a Red Cross operating like other Red Cross Societies disregards those connotations held against the emblems and obviously founded its needs based on the fundamental principles.

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

Ns --- National societies through its auxiliary role it give them the right to a sit around the table. As of them subscribing to the NGO forums of their relevant countries i somehow differ as some of the NGO don't comply to the Fundamental principles. However the NS can create an enabling environment for the NGO bodies for negotiations and advocacy.

Source author: Baboloki Tebatso baboloki20@gmail.com

The power of partnerships --- Alliances and other partnerships are essential to promote joint actions. Sometimes they are "marriages of convenience" with common goals but different identities. It is important to carry out a good mapping of actors to establish which alliances could emerge at a given moment.

Source author: Mario Fanjul mariofanjulbenitez@gmail.com

It is not easy to separate --- On several occasions, it is observed how humanitarian assistance is used as a political weapon to pressure the negotiating agenda or influence the population. In these areas, the independence and neutrality of humanitarian actors is fundamental.

Source author: Mario Fanjul mariofanjulbenitez@gmail.com

The power of persuation --- The resolutions, although they may not be legally binding, represent an extraordinary tool for political pressure, especially in the face of national and international public opinion. In the case of treaties, as there are often no "disciplinary" mechanisms, the utility is similar.

Source author: Mario Fanjul mariofanjulbenitez@gmail.com

FP logic --- Impartiality is the principle that decision ought to be based on objective criteria., rather than on the basis of bias, prejudice, or preferring to benefit one person over another for improper reasons. Even if an entity do support the government it should be based on the needs of the person. both an entity and the government should reach an agreement. i agree it may be compromised in a crisis zone.

Source author: Baboloki Tebatso baboloki20@gmail.com

The "after-crisis" --- Acting in post-disaster scenarios requires a good context analysis and a correct work strategy beyond the specific crisis. Thus, being there before, during and after the emergency is a hallmark of the organizations, highly valued by the target population.

Source author: Mario Fanjul mariofanjulbenitez@gmail.com

Difficult balance --- Working with governments requires good humanitarian diplomacy skills. Working with public entities without losing impartiality is a complicated exercise but, well done, it can bring important and positive benefits.

Source author: Mario Fanjul mariofanjulbenitez@gmail.com

An historic contribution --- The ICRC Movement's contribution to the development of international humanitarian law is arguably one of the greatest contributions to responding to crisis situations and an exercise in authentic humanitarian diplomacy. Creating consensus among diverse actors is not an easy task, especially when crises emerge.

Source author: Mario Fanjul mariofanjulbenitez@gmail.com

stable policies --- If the policies of government are stable and better then business would get impacted in a positive way and vice versa.

Source author: Baboloki Tebatso baboloki20@gmail.com

Public support as a risk for impartiality --- Could aid to public authorities challenge the principle of partiality? If an entity supports the work of the government, it could be identified as part of it, or at least as an ally, from the point of view of other actors in a crisis zone.

Source author: Mario Fanjul mariofanjulbenitez@gmail.com

Political Environment from What perspective? --- Of course, the political environment is crucial in humanitarian analysis. The problem is when the policy environment is genuinely aware of humanitarian needs or more focused on other current affairs

Source author: Mario Fanjul mariofanjulbenitez@gmail.com

Are procedures keeping with the times --- With many semi-autonomous regions emerging and new States or occupied States coming into being, this is likely to impact the formation or dissolution/absorption of some NSs. Has there been any development in procedures to effectively address the rapid changes occurring around the world?

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

Results for vulnerable people --- What truly inspire and mobilize NGOs and humanitarian workers is to be able to respond to the needs of vulnerable people as well as to raise their voices and represent them in forums where they can't be present. This approach of HD is very suitable and powerful for our actions.

Source author: María Romero Pardo sohi1z1@hotmail.com

Secure humanitarian access --- This is a complementary component or dimension of the secure humanitarian space. When it comes to secure humanitarian access, HD has to promote our ability to safely access to crisis-affected populations and their access to services and assistance in a safe and dignified manner. HD has to help us to deliver the assistance to these population in time and manner.

Source author: María Romero Pardo sohi1z1@hotmail.com

HDiplomats advocating for coordination platforms 3 --- This says it all, for some of our discussions. Australia established a national committee like this after the conference, but not enough other countries did so and I fear that it's not remembered in lots of countries or even National Societies.

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

HDiplomats advocating for coordination platforms 2 --- (the text is from the Plan of Action adopted at the conference) 2.1. States will: (a) establish or update national disaster preparedness plans which incorporate linkages, where necessary, to international systems of disaster response and have clearly defined and agreed roles and responsibilities for National Societies, including representation on appropriate national policy and co-ordination bodies;

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

HDiplomats advocating for coordination platforms 1 --- Thanks Wossene, John, Ivy and the many who've contributed to this good question. I'll say more later, but for now observe that this issue predates the cluster system and a good paragraph was adopted by the International Conference of the RCRC in 1999. It hasn't been followed up as well as it deserves. The relevant test is:

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

Privatisation and accountability --- Thanks Cara. This is a very good point but hardly anyone in today's neoliberal politics seems to care. Mandatory gaol for "three strike" offences in lots of countries serves the same politics.

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

Evidence and climate change --- Thanks Joe and Shane, and JM. One of the points many National Societies found helpful was to be able to refer to the 2007 International Conference points about climate change being one of the great challenges for the future. That helped insulate themselves, to a degree, from the politics.

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

The MedIa objectivity --- In some country contexts, individuals can own media houses to advance either their political or business ambitions, such media may pose divergent views on key humanitarian issues.

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

NGOFORUM Membership --- Is important for NS to scribe to the membership of NGO Forum of their respective countries on observer basis. As the Forum is central to information gathering analysis on policy, funding, operation, advocacy, lobby and has a lot of HD reference information.

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

Review of the Sevilla Agreement --- I would love to hear more about this topic, what's the way forward to address this? Also given that each branch of the movement has mostly difference source of funding, then why is there still a lack of harmony. Normally the competition between NGOs arise because everyone competes for limited resources, which applies to the movement but not to a great extent.

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

Common Art. 3 to the GCs --- Common Art 3. to the four GCs also covers non-international armed conflict. This is quite important because not all States have signed AP II

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

Coordination is Key --- Where there are very many actors, if there are no Coordination mechanisms, this will result in difficult humanitarian diplomacy due to the confused operational environment

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

Stronger Movement --- Each time the Movement come to work together, lessons are learnt which strengthen better strategies of working together for a greater coverage of needs of vulnerable people and a greater foot print.

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

Military as ‘humanitarian’ actors - 2 --- E.g. In the beginning of the Ebola outbreak in Sierra Leone, the nationwide response led by the Health Ministry led to a surge in weekly casualties in less than 6 months since the first case identified. The SL Government, with strong support from the UK government, set up a national coordination system and appointed the defense minister and a retired soldier, who later resigned from his cabinet position, to lead the coordination body. It was successful in getting the country to achieve zero Ebola, including in mobilising capacity from the police/military to assist people at districts and villages.

Source author: Ivy Susanti ivysusanti@gmail.com

Military as ‘humanitarian’ actors - 1 --- In field humanitarian operations, most often decisions are made largely on practical considerations. A lot of these stories are not documented the way we want to understand it; we need to be in the centre of action to allow good observation. One approach that is quite subtle is to assign retired military officers, including military/police retirees who are on active duty, to lead the national humanitarian response team.

Source author: Ivy Susanti ivysusanti@gmail.com

Military as 'humanitarian' actors --- Today's militaries often include 'humanitarian' projects, whether it's 'winning hearts and minds' or as 'force multiplier'. This has significantly blurred the traditional traditional idea of separation between humanitarian and military actors. Do we try and re-assert the separation, or at least clearly position ourselves apart. Or navigate and possibly benefit from this existing reality?

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

working together at the national level --- Virginia, I'm always interested to hear how the structures work in other countries. Is this system only at the national level? Or also replicated at regional or local levels too? Also do you know how many people sit on this group? For the La Palma crisis, was the regional/local represented?

Source author: Catherine Gearing cathgearing@gmail.com

HD influencing standard MOU's with private sector --- A good place to undertake HD and influence is in the MOU's between gov't and the private provider. This enables it be with ALL providers and part of the expected service delivery. Rather than trying to convince service providers to do additional work that is not in their MOU. We have done some initial planning to do this with housing and disability services providers in including disaster preparedness and response in their work as part of their MOU.

Source author: Catherine Gearing cathgearing@gmail.com

Privatisation --- Cara, unless the prison is being paid on a per head count basis, in which case they will be willing to have a full facility and hold people for longer.

Source author: Catherine Gearing cathgearing@gmail.com

Basis of the exclusion of actors --- I'm interested in why some groups are included and excluded here and the basis for that. From looking at the inclusion of the armed groups that want to achieve legitimacy it feels like there's a need for people to want to participate in deliberative forums for them to be included. If that is the case, are there people excluded that are important?

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

Challenges to the established role --- I'd love to read more about any case studies where there have been local changes where the auxiliary status has either worn away or been actively removed by governments... or maybe this is to come in the next section.

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

Interesting --- Very much agree that this is an interesting read, especially the way the Red Crescent is an inversion of the Turkish flag, just as the Red Cross is an inversion of the Swiss one.

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

Indonesia’s ‘Palang Merah’ --- Thanks Gerhard and JM. There were indeed numerous attempts in Indonesia to change the Red Cross emblem to Red Crescent. The Indonesian Red Cross (PMI) was set up by Presidential Decrees back in the 1950s and 1960s and some people saw this ‘gap’ as an opportunity. The Crescent is associated with Islamic religious symbol, but Indonesia is not (de jure) a Muslim country. I remember the ICRC’s legal team worked with the PMI and other relevant stakeholders for years with same arguments e.g. the Red Cross emblem is reversed Swiss flag, widespread acceptance by the Indonesian people for decades, gave new significance to the Red Cross symbol as JM mentioned etc. Eventually a Red Cross Law was enacted in 2018 affirming the use of Red Cross emblem for PMI.

Source author: Ivy Susanti ivysusanti@gmail.com

Military in humanitarian response --- Thanks Virginia, I fully agree with you. Here we’re discussing about the military's role in international humanitarian response. But you’re right, the military also contribute to humanitarian response coordinated by the State where international humanitarian assistance is not called.

Source author: Ivy Susanti ivysusanti@gmail.com

Unaware of the auxiliary status --- Also as this outsourcing continues to grow the number of new players in this space continues to expand significantly with many of these public/private sector agencies being unaware of the auxiliary status, principles or the functional arrangements.

Source author: Catherine Gearing cathgearing@gmail.com

Outsourcing gov't services --- As governments continue to outsource their key services to the public/private sector including prisons, disability services, housing, health etc. many arrangements with service providers do not articulate or specify their roles outside BAU. An example being emergency housing for highly vulnerable evacuees, a role previously held by government but following services being outsourced now not designated to any agency.

Source author: Catherine Gearing cathgearing@gmail.com

The long road to respect for the law. Analysis 3 --- So during the process we have to help them, focusing on the idea that violence does not help to legitimize their power.The more difficult path comes afterwards. So they need additional humanitarian skills to maintain the support of the population and protect them, and to be able to meet their basic needs within the framework of the obligations acquired by their legitimacy as recognized actors on the international scene, as is the case with the Taliban today.

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

The long road to respect for the law. Analysis 2 --- These groups always need the support of the local population to survive.However, what happens, when they finally come to power, is that they do not know how to handle it, and that is when the duties of assistance to their population and their obligations under international humanitarian and human rights law, become a challenge and a priority for their agendas.

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

The long road to respect for the law. Analysis 1 --- I can only speak from what I have seen.Well-organized groups are hierarchical, there are different levels of command and they have different perceptions of their mission, conditioned by their training and level of responsibilities.Surely the leaders are certainly aware of their duties, but until they are pressured or overwhelmed by a non-tactical situation, it does not become their priority.

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

Data vs money --- Right you are Shane, but Australia is not the only example we can find where immediate financial interests have put the climate change response on the back burner.

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

Christian symbol --- Yes Gerhard, this is a difficult point. The problem of the interpretation of the RC symbol is particularly obvious in the Middle East and North Africa, not so much because of its Swiss origin but mainly because of the cross worn by the crusaders during their numerous expeditions to conquer Jerusalem. It is also a question of language. In Indonesia, the most populated Muslim country in the world (277 millions people), the emblem of the National Society is the Red Cross, not the Crescent, simply because in the local language, Bahasa Indonesia, Red Cross translates as Palang Mehra, which means approximately the red meeting point (between the people in need and the people who come to help). Without any religious connotation or historical background, it does not create any problem for the people.

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

Partnership NS / Gvt --- The partnership between public authorities and National Societies varies from country to country. Some NSs managed to clearly position themselves while others did not. In emergency situations, NS must also position themselves vis-à-vis other components of the RCRC Movement and other humanitarian actors.

Source author: Thierry Desmons tdesmons@icrc.org

Prevention work and neutrality --- To make HD a useful tool to influence preventive decision making it must be more important than ever to base the HD on evidence through research, as decisions around how prevention is best done is often coloured by party politics, which makes it difficult to stay neutral.

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

Emergency response --- In theory that is right but for some countries with very poor governing structures, like the DRC, the authorities are way too absent, and the emergency response is very much relying on response from international actors, within and outside the UN system. Although it should be a task for the Humanitarian diplomat to advocate for a change that is a long term change. In the meantime, the more immediate needs would be to advocace for the best possible coordination within the humanitarian system, especially if the cluster system is not well functionning.

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

Independance --- Especially in a sector which has become competitive and where it is sometimes easier to align its action with a policy than to strive to maintain its independence.

Source author: Thierry Desmons tdesmons@icrc.org

Competing for funding --- I am not sure that you can say that the fact that money still runs through the international NGOs is a question of competition. Hopefully many INGOs support financial capacity building of local NGOs so that the ocal NGOs will be able to receive the money directly in the future. According to the localization agenda this should be the case and I know that here in the DRC many donors try to move from funding through INGOs to direct funding to the local NGOs. Many countries and INGOs have committed to this shift and should deliver upon it.

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

Civil-military cooperation 1 --- The civil-military cooperation actions are not only carried out in environments of conflict or international catastrophe; the main mission of the army is defense, but I would like to highlight that they are trained in IHL and human rights; they work in support of the population in emergency situations where immediate help is essential.

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

Working together at the nacional Level --- The spanish civil protection system for national emergencies (2015) has multiple actors: Government, NGOs, National Police, Civil Guard and the Army Emergency Unit (UME). They work together in drills and have come to standardize norms and procedures that are applied in annual drills to deal with real situations, such as the management of the La Palma volcano crisis.

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

coordination of actions in emergencies -1 --- I would like to highlight how the National Red Cross, being an auxiliary institution of the public authorities, has been able to integrate into the system of civil protection response capabilities in Spain, promoting humanitarian principles, contributing especially to improve the coordination and expanding the response in civil society.

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

cluster additions --- That's well said. To make the Link with the other voices on that issue. The government can ask for support from the cluster system ( e.g. IM) and keep the coordination in their hands. Often the cluster system is seen as to heavy/ "to taking over" and not activated at all by HCT or HC/RC.

Source author: Gerhard Tauscher gerhardtoday@gmail.com

internal conflict --- In theory yes, In Sri Lanka, my last posting for 3,5 years, the external teaching, lecturing and request for justice, after a 30 years lasting war, is simply seen by the hard liner government as interference in internal issues!

Source author: Gerhard Tauscher gerhardtoday@gmail.com

long term vision --- Is that because the companies did a costumer survey and most people dont care. I think this would be very short sighed. To stick to principles needs sometimes a long breath.

Source author: Gerhard Tauscher gerhardtoday@gmail.com

New actors in conflict zones. --- After reflecting on new actors coming into play, I wondered to what extent international law regulates the presence of private security companies (PMSCs) and the impact of their actions, especially in terms of liability under IHL.I know that since 1977 they have not been considered mercenaries, but they have no specific IHL coverage, as they are neither combatants nor civilians.So what is their current status as a legal entity with legal responsibilities for their actions?. For the time being it seems that this question has been limited to being dealt with from a human rights point of view (the Human Rights Council adopted Resolution 15/26(73). From the point of view of humanitarian diplomacy they are actors on the ground.

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

Coordination within the Movement --- In many countries, there are coordination challenges that we have to overcome. Tools have been developed but are still insufficiently used (i.e. SMCC). The components of the Movement still function too separately and in a complementary manner.

Source author: Thierry Desmons tdesmons@icrc.org

Review of the Sevilla Agreement --- Tensions exist around how respective roles and responsibilities are being implemented, with sometimes lack of consistency and clarity in how the international components and NS working internationally interact operationally with the NS of the country and amongst themselves. In addition, many NS expressed the need to reflect that the importance of investment in local humanitarian action and NS willingness to assume leadership roles in their countries, reflecting their increased capacities.

Source author: Thierry Desmons tdesmons@icrc.org

Understanding, locating and mapping of local and international decision making structure --- One of the most important capabilities that humanitarian diplomats are supposed to have is the ability to comprehend, locate, and map local and international decision-making structures. Knowing how they feel about a certain subject can help humanitarian diplomats plan the method they will use to persuade them to change their minds.

Source author: Wossene Hailu Wossene_Hailu@wvi.org

Int’l humanitarian coordination - 2 --- The request for international support must come from the affected State following thorough in-country analysis. In short, you’re quite right John: an HDiplomat’s role is to support building the State capacity in preparing and responding to humanitarian crisis in a coordinated manner, and not to advocate the activation of international coordination mechanism during a crisis.

Source author: Ivy Susanti ivysusanti@gmail.com

Red crystal --- http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4015/4307549589_13fb9b3e86_m.jpg The practical use of the new symbol for the first time in the Haiti EQ 2010.

Source author: Gerhard Tauscher gerhardtoday@gmail.com

IFRC Diplomatic status --- IFRC has Legal Diplomatic status in a number of countries including my country South Sudan. would good for your to check with IFRC in how many countries they have been granted that status.

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

Dissemination of IHL --- Dissemination of IHL and Core humanitarian principles is mandate of the NS to support their Government through the National Council for the Implementation of IHL. In conflict environment the ICRC works sometimes together with the NS.

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

Limits to NS Auxiliary role --- The context varies from country to country. Auxiliary role does not limit the NS but it depends on how close the NS is affiliated to the government and is not seen as impartial, neutral and Independent in the way their leaders are appointed and how it runs its day to day business. In South Sudan we have been able to work on both sides of the pollical and military divide without a problem. The Institution is accepted on both sides but there were cases where individuals were not accepted in certain geographical areas due their ethnicity.

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

Proliferation of NGOs --- In the wake of dwindling funding from the big donors who are now looking inward in support of their own populations due to poor performance of their economies due to the Pandemic, is the world likely to witness a trend in the death/decline/closer of NGOs due to funding challenges, which would have serious consequences on service delivery in fragile countries.?

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

Proliferation of NGOs --- In South Sudan there are 263 NGOs as of 2019 providing a range of services from humanitarian, environment and human right campaign. In political fragile countries the humanitarian services have been left to the NGOs." NGOs running the Government " .

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

Advocacy campaign --- There organizations like Human Rights Watch, Amnesty International and Green peace which are well known in field of Human rights and environment engage in public campaign and rousing Public opinion have always ended being censored.<br /> can the Red Cross in future take "hybrid" diplomacy in future of the two approaches ?

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

Advocacy campaign --- The Philosophy of Advocacy campaign varies from one organization to another. The movement is well known for discreet diplomacy or private advocacy throughout its history which has achieved remarkable humanitarian success due to confidence by public authorities.

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

Secure Humanitarian Space --- Creating secure humanitarian space involves non- state actors if they control territory and population that need to be be provided with humanitarian assistance . eg Areas under the control of ISS or El Shabab

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

Knowlwdge and respect of the law --- I wonder if all organised non-state armed groups are aware of this fact and these obligations. How can we recall and promote this awareness?

Source author: María Romero Pardo sohi1z1@hotmail.com

swiss flag vs christianity --- "The Swiss flag consists of a white cross symbol on a red square background.

The white cross on the red base represents the belief in Christianity. Swiss flag in the traditional sense represents freedom, honor, and loyalty. The Swiss flag in modern times also represents neutrality, democracy, peace, and shelter." from: https://www.mappr.co/flag-maps/switzerland/ So thats why the RC flag could as well be missunderstood as a christian symbol!

Source author: Gerhard Tauscher gerhardtoday@gmail.com

diplomatic status --- Unfortunately the IFRC does not have a legal status in all the countries they are present. A proper legal ( diplomatic) status of IFRC would open up a lot of opportunities, access to top country meetings, ministry briefings, free import of goods, VAT exemption, an so on.

Source author: Gerhard Tauscher gerhardtoday@gmail.com

Relationship mapping --- Studying in depth the power and interests would let us know where to invest resources in networking, negotiations and other actions. This exercise reveals different layers of interconnection and influence.

Source author: María Romero Pardo sohi1z1@hotmail.com

Military in humanitarian response - 2 --- The ICRC’s dissemination of IHL to police, armed forces and non-state armed groups is effective in raising their awareness and obtaining buy-ins that enable the ICRC to implement its mandate. UNHCR also conducts information sessions with the same key stakeholders under its legal protection program while other UN agencies may enlist civil-military coordination experts.

Source author: Ivy Susanti ivysusanti@gmail.com

Military in humanitarian response - 1 --- The armed forces, by its very essence, is built to defend a country from external threats. Humanitarian response involving expat aid workers, founded on ‘foreign’ ideals and concepts such as human rights or Fundamental Principles, should be in any military’s risk registers. Arming ourselves with this basic knowledge may hopefully help better understand their role in humanitarian response and behaviours towards aid workers or affected populations such as refugees and illegal migrants.

Source author: Ivy Susanti ivysusanti@gmail.com

Limit to NS’ auxiliary role - 2 --- E.g. The ICRC provided humanitarian aid to both the victims of armed conflict in Aceh, Indonesia, as well as the non-state armed groups. During my field visits, I didn’t remember seeing anyone from the NS or NGOs in the villages suspected as pro-separatist movement in the past, but ICRC left ‘humanitarian footprints’ in the most isolated places. That was about 2 years after the Peace Agreement was signed in 2005. But the Indonesian Red Cross has been very active in disaster responses in other places in Indonesia.

Source author: Ivy Susanti ivysusanti@gmail.com

Limit to NS’ auxiliary role - 1 --- From observation, National Society’s work are most often limited by its auxiliary status which has nothing to do with compliance with Fundamental Principles. In order to continue with critical humanitarian work especially in a conflict situation, it seems that the presence of international Red Cross society in the country can help, but certainly with the host government’s approval.

Source author: Ivy Susanti ivysusanti@gmail.com

competing for funds --- This is a special case i think. Otherwise what is happening is that there is stiff coemption for funding among the NGOs and UN Agencies and even within the Red Cross. Sometimes the competition favours NGOs from the North. ECHO funds in South Sudan can only be accessed by EU NGOs working in South Sudan. National Organizations are elbowed out. Can HD come in such scenarios ?

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

Non-state armed groups. --- They normally use violence against the state for their political agenda. . In DRC they are reported to be over 40, creating an insecure environment for humanitarian actors. Nevertheless as Diplomats we have to continue negotiating with them for access to the victims of conflict.

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

UN Cluster System --- Normally there are the cluster systems in countries where there are emergencies. This is coordinated through UN OCHA. In the absence of the cluster system you absolutely right that the HD has a role to play in promoting coordination mechanisms with the Government agencies.

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

Movement partners coming together --- This meant mobilsation of Financial resources, technical expertise, volunteers and coordination with other actors and local authorities. One plan of action and putting the national Society at the Centre of the operation. Good strategy which should promoted in emergency situations.

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

Conflict sensitivity --- Conflict sensitivity is another complementary exercise that allows us to better understand the context, the stakeholders and need in an area where we want to carry out humanitarian actions

Source author: María Romero Pardo sohi1z1@hotmail.com

Context analysis --- Understanding and having a great knowledge of the contexts where we work it is critical. One important way to do so it is carrying out a context analyis that will give us a good overall picture of the area and helps us to understand its dynamics.

Source author: María Romero Pardo sohi1z1@hotmail.com

Sensitizing humanitarian actors on humanitarian priorities --- Sensitization and preaching and advocating for human rights in various ways facilitates the work of humanitarian diplomacy. This can be done in various media, public forums and personal relationships. The desired results can also be achieved if there is a deliberate training and workshop for stakeholders on humanitarian priorities.

Source author: Wossene Hailu Wossene_Hailu@wvi.org

Humanitarian diplomats tasks in advocating to coordination platforms --- Absence of coordination usually becomes a challenge in most countries in response to catastrophes. This brings duplication of resources, unable to stand together to influence policy makers and loss of synergy to mitigate the challenges on the ground. One of the tasks of humanitarian diplomats is to make key stakeholders to make coordinating platforms so that to reach the vulnerable in a certain crisis.

Source author: Wossene Hailu Wossene_Hailu@wvi.org

Modern Slavery Acts --- I assume this would include the introduction of Modern Slavery Acts in UK, Australia, some EU countries (probably some other places too..?) where business are required to report annually on the risk of modern slavery in their supply chains as well as actions to address those risks. In Australia I believe these reports are made public but there are no penalties for non-compliance (except obviously the potential for bad PR). I would be interested to hear thoughts on how effective such reporting measures are or examples of other accountability measures

Source author: Cara Ceriani caraceriani@hotmail.com

Privatisation, accountability, securization, blurred lines --- States are using neoliberal policies to privatise prisons, immigration detention and other security services as a way to distance themselves and therefore reduce accountability. If private companies are running places of detention then is it not in their interest for (more) people to be detained? Lines blurred further when the same companies that are running prisons are also running immigration detention. This can lead to increased securization of immigration detention (detention which is meant to be purely administrative and not punitive) which is a cause of concern.

Source author: Cara Ceriani caraceriani@hotmail.com

Invitees --- Yes we are standing invitees, and we collaborate to a point. My experience has found we are often not seen as helpful, but perceived to be extracting their data/information and then using it for our own purposes. The relationship can get strained and needs to be managed carefully. We are seen as not so much as transparent as a one-way mirror, where we are the only ones who see.

Source author: Shane Wilkes swilkes4129@gmail.com

Actively not competing for certain funding --- When living in central Australia the organisation I worked for had a policy to not compete against local Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs) for funding for projects that were specifically targetted towards Australias First Peoples. I have not come across such examples in the international humanitarian space and would love to hear if anyone has such examples to share?

Source author: Cara Ceriani caraceriani@hotmail.com

Stakeholder mapping --- This is also referred to as stakeholder mapping and I have found that the Power-Interest matrix (graph) can be very useful. Also, it is not a static exercise, it will change over time, and for a given scenario (as outlined in the text), so it is a dynamic process that should be reviewed regularly.

Source author: Shane Wilkes swilkes4129@gmail.com

Governments and Civil Societies --- National societies (NS) also must work closely with government responders and other local civil societies plus engage under a Cluster system (if enacted), which makes for a heavy mix of actors for NS to collaborate and understand.

Source author: Shane Wilkes swilkes4129@gmail.com

Content is key! --- I enjoyed your examples and I believe they illustrate very well the very important point that content and key personalities are essential to attract publics and make the digital platforms worth while!

Source author: Bianca Anechitei Bianca.ANECHITEI@eeas.europa.eu

Media Literacy Conference --- In relation to WEstern Balkans, the EU has developed the "Media Literacy conference" that brings together for a few days fact-checkers and media organisations in the Western Balkans. Fact-checking organisations link up with partners in the region, workacross borders and team up with organisations in the European Union. the idea was to encourage organisations to continue their work to counter disinformation in a region where this phenomenon has been rather wide spread, and at the same time protect and promote fundamental rights, such as freedom of expression and media pluralism

Source author: Bianca Anechitei Bianca.ANECHITEI@eeas.europa.eu

Human rights online and offline --- This is to add yet another dimension that the digital world has brought to the international debate.

Source author: Bianca Anechitei Bianca.ANECHITEI@eeas.europa.eu

Also, depends on what you value most --- International views especially the views of the West and some Muslim countries on the issue of so-called Rohingya people in Myanmar is totally different from the domestic views. This could be perhaps that the West approaches much focusing from the angle of human rights based whereas Myanmar sees the issue as a political and economic challenge involving terrorism, cross-border illegal migration, competition over limited resources, poverty, and rule of law and security though it also values and respects individual rights. Myanmar therefore approached to cope with international perspective in seeking humanitarian variable and sustainable solutions to the issue of Rakhine state by appointing a number of foreign eminents including Dr. Kofi Annan, former Thai deputy prime minister Dr. Surakiart Sathirathai and Pilipino Ambassador Ms. Rosario Manalo. Finally, the conclusion is always dependent on what you values most.

Source author: Aung Naing Soe ansoe.mofa@gmail.com

yes but... --- when linked too much together, we tend to 'repurpose' the same message on different channels, without adapting it to the right context. This is of course linked to resource issues as well but important to keep in mind who the target audience is and how the message changes for them.

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

algorithm --- Plus, of course, the algorithm of some of the biggest online platforms tends to favour those posts for users that include similar sentiments, words and opinions to those they have consumed before. How can we make sure our posts are then seen by a large number of people online and not just those already following/agreeing with us?

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

agree --- ordinary internet users becoming reporters of course also brings the challenge with it that they might be reporting but not following the same ethical and objective standards media generally does. Social Media platforms have not yet managed to highlight misuse enough and mark up those comments that might not be based on facts. Something to remember when sharing content!

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

Potential impediment on one side --- Web relationships between and among different actors and involvement of more individual interests in today's increasingly complex political settings and policy process have posed significant challenges to public relations officers in the employment of digital tools and social media in their contemporary PD establishment. Even one post on social media may be contradictory or disliked by someone, some interest groups (including political party) or even conflicting views to some country that could lead to negative response (as people can make commentation easily) or even official protest resulting subsequent large negative impacts on the bilateral relations. This becomes fear of engagement for many public relations officers (esp those in highly hierarchical bureaucratic structure) that persists in effective use of digital tools and social media in PD.

Source author: Aung Naing Soe ansoe.mofa@gmail.com

Tuning pressure --- As Hien argued 'the function (of social media) itself allows diverse opinions to be brought out on stage' in Module 4 session, I applaise its siginificant role of social media. On the other hand, I also think it is necessary to carefully observe that people tend to gather in posts of people who have the same opinion as themselves, with or without bubble filter, and it is difficult to post dissenting opinions in them. I think Japanese people in particular have a strong tendency to be aware of the 'tuning pressure'.

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

Key tool should be an effective tool --- Despite having, Facebook page of several foreign offices remains unknown to many even among domestic population. This is because general public have proven to show their interests on news transmitted by independent media rather than those operated by govt offices. One approach to attract wider audience is that MFAs should operate their Facebook page in much more attractive ways rather than simply posting long, boring, unattractive and vague description of information about what their government have done. Instead of issuing rather formal or vague description, it is more important to focus on clarity and attractive description of the message.

Another effective approach is leader’s Facebook use. For example, PMs Lee Hsien Loong (1.7M followers); Modi (46.7M followers); and President Biden (11.4M) have effectively employed social media tools for making significant public outreach. When it comes to Myanmar context, Former President U Thein Sein and State Counsellor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi had mobilised large number of peoples through their Facebook accounts.

Source author: Aung Naing Soe ansoe.mofa@gmail.com

Global outage on 4 October 2021 --- Yesterday, the platforms Facebook, Instagram and Whatsapp faced a global outage that cost 160 million USD per hour. How has this affected the work of MFAs ? Did it come at a crucial moment or cause a delay in public engagement ? How would events like this affect the global netizens, especially if it happens more often or systems become vulnerable to breakdowns/attacks?

Source author: Natapanu Nopakun natapanu.n@mfa.go.th

Two sides of the same coin --- It is true that currently social media is very popular faster and easy to access. Therefore ordinary Internet users have also become reporters which could be good and bad. There are many people in Cambodia became victim of fake, unprofessional and misinformation report.

Source author: Usaphea Horn usaphea.horn@gmail.com

Twitter account --- MFA of Cambodia doesn't have a Twitter account. However, it is constructing it.

Source author: Usaphea Horn usaphea.horn@gmail.com

No place is totally safe --- Most, if not all, nations have relied heavily on digital platform to engage various activities. Therefore, we have to critically consider all the time about security related matter. Therefore, it could be a good topic, in my opinion.

Source author: Usaphea Horn usaphea.horn@gmail.com

Tagging --- Indeed, reaching the audience is the most important. But how best to? Tagging those related to the content and messaging in a way that relates to the audience.

Source author: Natapanu Nopakun natapanu.n@mfa.go.th

Channels and responsibilities --- The more channels, the higher the responsibility. Channels and platforms can be linked better as an ecosystem.

Source author: Natapanu Nopakun natapanu.n@mfa.go.th

Success? --- I agree that likes/shares/following do not equate the success in shaping public perception nor in increasing country’s influence. So, I’m wondering what good examples of how to evaluate the success of social media for diplomacy can be. In many cases, social media obviously led to actions or accelerated changes; for example, #BlackLivesMatter. However, I believe that changes may take longer time in many cases. Meanwhile, there may also be difficulties in assessing impact of a campaign.

Source author: Panika PITTAVESTSOONTHON pa.pittayavestsoonthon@mfa.mail.go.th

In addition to ... --- I think another important aspect of digital diplomacy is ‘to access the target’. Although the message is good and the audience is well-identified, it is important to make sure that the message will reach targeted audience. Official social media accounts of political leaders attract a lot of followers because, partly, they are well known, certified, and credible. However, for diplomats or embassies, increasing visibility of the accounts and finding audiences should also be important part of the strategy. In my opinion, one way is to use the right hashtags to connect to those who have common interests. Meanwhile, being engaged (such as mention, tag, comment or shout out) by influential accounts or accounts with huge followers is another way to promote visibility and credibility of the account.

Source author: Panika PITTAVESTSOONTHON pa.pittayavestsoonthon@mfa.mail.go.th

filter bubbles --- In my opinion, filter bubble is both an opportunity and challenge since people will reach only the information or arguments that match well with their viewpoint. Therefore, can/should one message be designed to subtly fit many filter bubbles (in terms of the message itself and the presentation) at the same time?

Source author: Panika PITTAVESTSOONTHON pa.pittayavestsoonthon@mfa.mail.go.th

Thai MFA on digital dip exchange --- The Thai MFA is keen on having informal Zoom meetings with departments in other MFAs that deal with digital diplomacy. What topics would be of interest to your MFA for this exchange ?

Source author: Natapanu Nopakun natapanu.n@mfa.go.th

bottom of pyramid --- Although bottom of pyramid, they are the most important in the chain as all work emanate from them and mostly the scene for a subject is set at this level.

Source author: Rebecca Peyavali Iyambo riyambo@mirco.gov.na

SADC --- A recent example of this is the AU adopting Algeria''s proposals to strengthen the fight against terrorism in the Sahel-Saharan region.

Source author: Rebecca Peyavali Iyambo riyambo@mirco.gov.na

trade --- Trade is the modern day economic diplomacy that can be a lead in countries wealth creation by increasing imports and exports

Source author: Rebecca Peyavali Iyambo riyambo@mirco.gov.na

agreements --- These agreements if followed through are usually of an advantage to the development of the grassroots

Source author: Rebecca Peyavali Iyambo riyambo@mirco.gov.na

importance of summits --- the good thing about summits is that only countries with similar agenda converge. Beneficially, positive and beneficial relations are forged for the betterment of peoples of all countries involved.

Source author: Rebecca Peyavali Iyambo riyambo@mirco.gov.na

Big Data for audience analysis --- With the development of technology, the techniques of digital diplomacy are becoming more complex. Some experts are already talking about using Big Data for detailed analysis of target audiences.

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

Limited opportunities of PD campaigns in terms of improving perceptions --- The problem is that the perception of a country by foreigners is often based on stereotypes and propaganda clichés disseminated by the press. To communicate a different image of a country a public diplomacy campaign may not be sufficient. It is important to encourage foreign audience to visit the country and seek to objectively assess its problems and achievements.

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

Goals and tools --- Public diplomacy has the tools focused on both long-term and short-term goals. For instance, media are short-term instruments. Thus, Russian expert in public diplomacy E.P. Panova indicates that in terms of the duration of exposure, this tool is clearly inferior to cultural and educational programs and scientific and political discourse, however successful in achieving quick results.

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

I agree --- Without the 'post mortem' we can't learn so I agree that this is vital, but also agree that it is left out a lot!

Source author: Alison Reilly alison.reilly@dfa.ie

@Emily: generation --- I dare to disagree. There is no in-built connotation of progress attached the word "generation". Of course, generations do co-exist, like socially, as you said. The generation Z cannot pretend it is superior the Millennials, for example, or to my generation. They are just different.

In peace-keeping there were still first generations peace-keeping operations (UNFYCIP) that co-existed with second, third and fourth generation (UNTAC, UNOSOM, UNPROFOR).

Source author: Petru Dumitriu PetruD@diplomacy.edu

@ Sebastien, Sovanndanit --- To be honest, I did not notice Donald Trump being concerned about doctrines. If we want to stick a label on his it is ruthless individualism.

Source author: Petru Dumitriu PetruD@diplomacy.edu

'Generation' --- The term "generations" is misleading because it implies a clear chronological progression rather than the simultaneous presence of numerous types of operations; others speak of up to six generations of peacekeeping

Source author: Matshedisa Emily Mokoena mokoenamati@gmail.com

@Sebastien: new international economic order --- Yes, indeed, the Declaration was adopted by the General Assembly in a special session, but the concept was rejected by developed countries and Kurt Waldheim did not make the concept his own. What I wanted to say was placed in the context of the election of the Secretary-General : the concept of NIEO was rejected with his non-election.

Source author: Petru Dumitriu PetruD@diplomacy.edu

@Sebastien: Switzerland and the Security Council --- 1. There was no joke about the Swiss objection to have decisions taken by the Security Council on its soil, in 1945. It is a fact retained by historians.

2. I see Switzerland as an ideal member of the Security Council. To me it's much better to have a neutral and objective member instead of powers with vested interest or members of alliances which will unconditionally align to some decisions.

Source author: Petru Dumitriu PetruD@diplomacy.edu

Democracy --- Democracy would not take its root in some countries till all corruptions are uprooted and rules of laws and constitutions are fully respected ....

Source author: Mohammed Kenneh knt200@mail.com

Reformation of Regional organization --- I believe that regional organizations require structural reformation as United Nation does..to work effectively to lead to desirable results ..

Source author: Mohammed Kenneh knt200@mail.com

Trump and Neo illiberalism --- Those many people include me as I see him as the embodiment of capitalism and illiberal nationalism.

Source author: Sovanndanit Roath sovanndanitroath@gmail.com

2 answers --- "a solution agreed by all permanent members of the Security Council" Therefore the gatekeeper is the SC.

Source author: Sébastien Monnet sebastien-joel.monnet@eda.admin.ch

@Emily: impact of Covid on education --- Yes, you are right. One should say though that education of all children everywhere was affected. For example, in 2020-2021, in Romania the forced online migration of the classroom was a disaster, it created confusion among teachers and students, and the means to adapt were very different, creating gaps and irreversible losses in the teaching processes. The government decided that now all children should go to school and only in exceptional circumstances sending the children home.

Source author: Petru Dumitriu PetruD@diplomacy.edu

@Mohamed: the worst scenario? --- What is the worst scenario you have in mind?

Source author: Petru Dumitriu PetruD@diplomacy.edu

UNESCO i --- As a result of COVID-19, teachers in many African countries will be unable to finish the syllabus, leaving many gaps in children's education. This also threatens to undermine the achievement of SDG 4: quality education for all by 2030. Global Priority Africa of UNESCO is working hard to make Goal 4 a reality.

Source author: Matshedisa Emily Mokoena mokoenamati@gmail.com

Pandemic and Africa --- Though Africa has experience in dealing with pandemic as they fought hard to battle with Ebola .., the goverments and international community should work hand in hand not to repeat what happend in the Ebola era in some African states and some other countries of the World ...

Source author: Mohammed Kenneh knt200@mail.com

Who is really incharge of the United Nation? --- As United Nations have been overwhelmed by vetoes and donors influences in running its activities , ..I am wondering how the intercontinental organization would work effectively in the worst scenario..

Source author: Mohammed Kenneh knt200@mail.com

@Mohamed: UN and Palestine --- Unfortunately, although it was the United Nations who legitimated the creation of the State of Israel, at present Israel does not accept a major role for the United Nations.

Source author: Petru Dumitriu PetruD@diplomacy.edu

UN& Palestinian Course --- Are there any chances of bringing the two parties on table I mean Israel and Palestine to sort out the differences and work towards peace between them to live side by side as neighboring countries as multeral diplomacy is concern ?

Source author: Mohammed Kenneh knt200@mail.com

Terrorist today, and politician tomorrow --- Armed groups in Colombia have been termed as rebels, terrorists, or criminals; however, some groups may have multiple identities and their labels  may even shift. In the 2000s, Colombian President Uribe was determined to militarily destroy the FARC a group he termed as narcoterrorists, inferring it had no political agenda. In Colombia, Juan Manuel Santos' election as president in 2010 was important in part because, while he rejected the FARC's methods, but recognized their political nature.

Source author: Matshedisa Emily Mokoena mokoenamati@gmail.com

The AUKUS deal --- This is such a hot topic in the international relations scene. I think it really does illustrate exactly the quote “ there is no permanent friend, there is no permanent enemy, there is only permanent interest”

Source author: Sovanndanit Roath sovanndanitroath@gmail.com

@equality of language = equality of states? --- In the United Nations the sovereign equality of states is a principle of the Charter. It is hard to believe having 100 official languages will lead to a better implementation of that principle.

Take the example of the European Union, where all national languages have equal use. Other than using exponentially more resources for translation and interpretation would the equal use of the Latvian and German language, make Germany and Latvia equal in terms of realpolitik?

Source author: Petru Dumitriu PetruD@diplomacy.edu

@Emily: the undue use of points of order --- Your observation is correct. Very often delegates use the points of order just to disrupt debates or decision they do not like.

However, many other delegates use the points of order for the purpose they were invented. The lesson is that the diplomat has to know very well the rules of procedures so as one's points of order are taken seriously.

Abusum non tollit ussum, says a Latin maxim. The abuse doesn't take away from the use

Source author: Petru Dumitriu PetruD@diplomacy.edu

@Sebastien: resistance to the use of AI --- Well, while some are preaching the use of AI, in reality the UN translators will oppose bureaucratic resistance to the use of AI for translations. I made a shy suggestion in my report on policy research uptake in JIU in that direction, which was received with distinct grumbling in some corners

Source author: Petru Dumitriu PetruD@diplomacy.edu

@Sebastien: more official languages? --- I am even less sure about need for more languages in the United Nations. Translation is very costly and time consuming. By the time the translations are ready, new text are in the making, so practically they are not use. If China, Russia or Saudi Arabia have something to say or if they want to do something they will not wait months to see the translations.

Even if many people have reasons to dislike the hegemony of the English language, there is no other more efficient way. For the time being, the 6 UN official languages carry a political significance, but this have a high cost, which is not practically justified.

Source author: Petru Dumitriu PetruD@diplomacy.edu

Languages and Members of United Nations . --- As language is pride to culture and people , I believe there should be more representation of languages in the United Nations to open more rooms for equality that UN preaches.

Source author: Mohammed Kenneh knt200@mail.com

Point of order --- According to my observations,  points of orders interrupt meetings, and generally dampen the mood of the meeting. Then if one raise the point of order to seek clarity, why so often is done in such a disruptive manner, what is the lesson in that?

Source author: Matshedisa Emily Mokoena mokoenamati@gmail.com

Languages --- Not too sure about adding official languages to an already complex collaborative process though I can imagine that in the future, improved AI-based translation systems may offer inclusive and affordable solutions for all participants.

Source author: Sébastien Monnet sebastien-joel.monnet@eda.admin.ch

and its relevance --- ...as addressing both persistent challenges and complex emerging challenges do require collaborative approaches across silos!

Source author: Sébastien Monnet sebastien-joel.monnet@eda.admin.ch

Creative practices on full display at UNGA 76 --- ...with the participation of K-Pop sensation BTS who addressed the GA as the special presidential envoy for future generations of the South Korean government! They performed their latest English single "Permission to Dance" and apparently over a million tuned in live... a all-time record for the UNGA! This is what Trevor Noah had to say ;-) “But it makes sense for BTS to show up at the U.N. I mean, out of all the countries there, they probably have the most powerful army.”

Source author: Sébastien Monnet sebastien-joel.monnet@eda.admin.ch

@Sebastien: opinions are divided --- De gustibus non disputandum est! Personally, (please do not take it as an ex-cathedra position!), online diplomacy is counterfeit diplomacy. The screen is not a good environment. Diplomacy without face-to-face contact, the body language, the eyes light and the "temperature", is a dry, odorless, colourless surrogate .....

Source author: Petru Dumitriu PetruD@diplomacy.edu

Impact of COVID-19 on diplomacy --- ...will be, if not already, a fascinating IR research area. The forced 'online migration' has been a blessing for 'long distance' diplomatic relations such as the one that concern me professionally at the moment!

Source author: Sébastien Monnet sebastien-joel.monnet@eda.admin.ch

@Emily: the end of the nightmare in Palestine? --- I know it is a rhetorical question. Some politicians received the Nobel prize for peace for trying to settle the conflict. I do not have an answer.

Source author: Petru Dumitriu PetruD@diplomacy.edu

Economic community of West African States . --- Economic Community of West African States should not allow juntas to derail democratic process in the West Africa ..They should come up with unilateral approaches from nw that could ultimately and eventual deter the rebellion on democracy of staging coup against the elected government. ....

Source author: Mohammed Kenneh knt200@mail.com

Nightmare --- it is demoralizing to learn that the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is one of the world's longest-running and most contentious. The bombings and blockade have left psychological scars on a generation of young people. In Gaza, two out of every three adolescents suffer from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), and some young children are unable to sleep due to nightmares. Will this nightmare ever come to an end?

Source author: Matshedisa Emily Mokoena mokoenamati@gmail.com

interdepartmental coordination --- ..and variations of "bureaucratese" or bureaucracy dialects is always interesting. Though challenging, I find it extremely enriching to be on the coordination end as you learn a lot in the process when preparing meeting or negotiation brief.

Source author: Sébastien Monnet sebastien-joel.monnet@eda.admin.ch

Digital --- Government are always a step behind in terms of digital techologies adoption, let alone understanding. Therefore, the choice to appoint two co-chairs from the private sector in my opinion makes a lot of sense.

Source author: Sébastien Monnet sebastien-joel.monnet@eda.admin.ch

Sanctions and International Community . --- International community should enforce the application of sanctions on the perpetrators as it is one of the strongest ways to deter the perpetrators and violators of international laws and norms .

Source author: Mohammed Kenneh knt200@mail.com

Treaties --- Treaties are important, and peace treaties are normally signed in some African countries, only to be violated and forgotten.

Source author: Matshedisa Emily Mokoena mokoenamati@gmail.com

Andre, Sebastien: per capita efficiency --- I wish the per capita efficiency and competence was as high as in Switzerland in all governments of the world.

But what must be said is than in Switzerland there is another wise minister who helps the Federal Council to make almost always the good decision: the people, which has a direct say in all significant matters.

Source author: Petru Dumitriu PetruD@diplomacy.edu

Global challenges... --- ...the likes of climate change call for a whole-of-society response. The UN or individual states neither have the agency nor the ressources to turn around global warming. The private sector will decarbonize the economy so long as coherent policy making and frameworks are in place. Therefore, collaborations involving the private sector, philanthropists and private funding are indispensable.

Source author: Sébastien Monnet sebastien-joel.monnet@eda.admin.ch

Multilateral Diplomacy --- I believe that Multilateral diplomacy is the real channel to avert war and internal conflicts if the mechanisms and tools are well in place

Source author: Mohammed Kenneh knt200@mail.com

Multilateralism and democracy --- Multilateralism — operating through frameworks of organizations (i.e. UN) often based on treaties and international law and basically grounded in the United Nations Charter.-it has been essential to keeping the peace, intensifying economic stability, addressing possible attacks, and even protecting democracy in both the Cold War and post-Cold War eras.

Source author: Matshedisa Emily Mokoena mokoenamati@gmail.com

NAM --- During the Cold War, NAM advocated that developing countries refrain from allying with either of the two superpowers (the United States and the Soviet Union) and instead unite in support of national self-determination against all forms of colonialism and imperialism. What is the identity and purpose of NAM now that we are in the post-Cold War era?

Source author: Matshedisa Emily Mokoena mokoenamati@gmail.com

Challenges for African integration --- Apart from the often cited problems related to corruption, instability, undemocratic rule and civil strife, there is a lack of private sector activity in regional integration schemes. in some instances economic reforms have also not been properly designed and implemented.

Source author: Simataa Matali simatamatali@icloud.com

Weaknesses of the Council of Europe --- Although the Council of Europe has been a powerful symbol for human rights, reforms are urgently needed in order to curb away its weaknesses such as lack of independence and autonomy of judicial council, varying degrees of executive pressure on the judiciary, opaque recruitment, nomination and promotion criteria for judges, and corruption.

Source author: Simataa Matali simatamatali@icloud.com

The Bretton Woods Institutions --- A new international monetary System was forged by delegates from 44 countries in 1944. those Nations envisioned an International monetary system that would ensure exchange rate stability, prevent competitive devaluations, and promote economic growth.

Source author: Simataa Matali simatamatali@icloud.com

Interesting considerations --- This is an incredibly interesting discussion, thanks for highlighting key points, Ginger.

I would like to know if they also considered what it would actually mean for human rights to be coded into the protocols, how it can be done and the potential impact that it might have on users, private companies, states etc. - essentially, a human rights impact assessment for internet protocols.

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

IDNs and different languages should not lead to internet fragmentation --- Ideally, with the kind of technology available to us with respect to instant translations, there should be no fragmentation of the internet as a result of language. If we are able to integrate translation features well into websites and platforms, we should be able to communicate seamlessly to some extent and it would further serve to bring more people into the conversation.

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

Agree! --- I agree. The internet defaults to English, but it is certainly leaving large parts of the world behind or not at equal footing compared to others. There should be a lot more work done to promote the use of the internet at the infrastructure level in more languages such as IDNs and states should take this on as part of their initiatives to provide internet access.

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

Discontinuing non-functioning TLDs --- Can TLDs be discontinued? Is there a process under ICANN for this to happen under certain circumstances? If they can, maybe some of the cons discussed here as a result of having more and more TLDs can be negated by more robust regulation of them.

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

A bit of both --- I think having more TLDs definitely helps with classifying content online better, but they do make it easier for scammers to buy certain famous domain names under different/obscure TLDs and use them to cheat people online.

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

Not too many... --- I have definitely used well under 15 TLDs it seems - most common ones are .com, .org, .in and .edu.

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

Are we entitled to our data? --- There is a lot of grey area around the ownership of personal data. Looking at it from the rights-based approach, advocates would argue that right to our personal data should be a human right since it is information about ourselves that is being collected by a third party and it is so intrinsic to who we are that it can't be forfeited simply by clicking 'agree' on consumer agreements.

Companies of course would say that the cost of collecting, storing and analysing that data means they should be able to claim ownership or at least control of use and that is the current practice as well. I wonder though if a person were to make a request to a company like Facebook or Google for all of the data they have collected on that individual, including analysis formed on the basis of that data, would Facebook or Google share this information? Should they be mandated to do so by law?

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

Threat to FoE --- Data localisation policies and enforcing cyber sovereignty could have potential consequences for freedom of expression for internet users as well as consequences for intermediaries. With cloud computing and servers spread out across different jurisdictions, states now have to go through a mandated legal process of requesting data on citizens from foreign jurisdictions. With data localisation, states will have immediate access to data of citizens to take down or censor, and can impose harsh penalties on intermediaries who do not comply.

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

General comment --- It is the case of french colonization of Cambodia between 1863-1953. French does product Cambodia; however, Cambodia was also suffered a-lot from French colonization.

Source author: Porsry Ung ungporsry@yahoo.com

New Intermediary Rules in India --- This is one of the key concerns under the new intermediary liability rules that have been released by the government of India last year - a provision in the rules requires intermediaries like WhatsApp and Signal to help the state identify the "first originator" of any message that could cause problems to national security, public order etc. The provision does not ask for encryption to be broken, but puts the responsibility of identifying the first originator on the intermediaries. As WhatsApp is litigating in Indian courts right now, it is impossible for companies like them to identify this first originator without completely breaking end-to-end encryption. Since the matter is still in court, it will be interesting to see how it pans out and if services like WhatsApp will be allowed to operate in the country.

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