cooperation needs coordinating mechanisms --- An important observation, Petal. To what extent are the SDGs and the framework around them (HLPF reviews for example) providing such a framework?

Source author: Katharina Höne KatharinaH@diplomacy.edu

between Rio 1992 and Rio 2012 --- Thanks for these additional details and for providing further points in the narrative of global discussions on sustainable development, Massimiliano. It's always a fine balance to decide how much detail to give. Some parts are always left for the discussion to fill in - depending on participant's interests. So, many thanks fro you for taking it further.

Source author: Katharina Höne KatharinaH@diplomacy.edu

multilateral diplomacy --- In my opinion, one of the core functions of multilateral diplomacy is to build collectively a common narrative of global affairs. One of the benefits of the SDGs narrative is to have a common understanding of the current global challenges and a common language to describe the collective (international and regional) and the "individual" (country/local) action needed to achieve the agreed goals.

Source author: Samir Yeddes samir.yeddes@eda.admin.ch

Learnt the hard way --- I can't agree anymore on the point made on C-19 and it being the point where the globe realized the importance of science, it is something we have been looking forward for decades but so sad to see it coming only after it had cost millions of lives and lots of losses to C-19 to add science as a priority and in the agenda of diplomatic roundtables.

Source author: Muna Zaqsaw zaqsaw.muna89@gmail.com

Reply to Samir --- Samir, your comment here opened my eyes to the fact that this maybe the reason the globe is behind against the agenda 2030. Maybe this is noting that these SDGs has to be addressed through UN activities only, therefore others might not be taking it as seriously as needed. I had to pause here after your comment for a while especially for a country like mine, where most of our activities might be donor driven. on this case, we may have delivered a lot more if all the bodies of the government since the launch of the SDGs recognized that they have to pick out relevant SDGs and work against them rather than waiting for sponsored projects only. Thanks for sharing this thought.

Source author: Muna Zaqsaw zaqsaw.muna89@gmail.com

not UN --- Actually, one shouldn't refer to SDGs as UN SDGs; Agenda 2030 is an agenda agreed upon by all UN Member States, but its implementation is the responsibility of all States, not the UN. Calling the SDGs "UN SDGs" is slightly misleading, as it might be interpreted as if it is a UN-only operation. It is a collective plan of action, and all countries (at all levels, including local and regional) should be implementing it.

Source author: Samir Yeddes samir.yeddes@eda.admin.ch

Bottom up --- Eventhough centralized planning helps empowering for bottoms up approach is the way to realize the goals. The tech transfer hubs mentioned earlier as solutions to the COVAX mismanagement, for future pandemics is a clear example.

Source author: George Thomas georgethomasdesk@gmail.com

Experience from Taiwan --- Thank you YingChu and others for this rich discussion and sharing your first hand experiences. Indeed very valuable for a beginner like me

Source author: George Thomas georgethomasdesk@gmail.com

Lessons from COVID-19 are apt here --- It seems only when we humans are faced with life-threatening situations (even then there are those we oppose to do the right thing!) do we jolt into action!

COVID-19, a truly global problem, has laid bare what collective action can achieve, as citizens and as countries or the mounting losses where its missing. While its roots are in SDG 3 (Health), it impacted most of SDGs, most visibly - 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11, 16.

Countries went to fire-fighting mode with strict measures about closing borders, wearing masks, keeping distance and getting vaccinated. Stick was used when the carrot wasn't working!

Collective (proportionate) sacrifice seems to be only the way forward to achieve SDGs. Whether the stick will work to push us in that direction or whether it will break the rules & norms of multilateralism, which would be self-defeating, remains to be seen.

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

Evolving over time...imperfectly --- The particular exercise may be 13 sessions, but this is built on work over the past 50 years, and it took another 2years before the SDGs were announced. It is an iterative process, as it should be, with evidence refining each iteration.

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

Vaccine Diplomacy cuts both ways... --- 'Vaccine diplomacy' is the latest self-explanatory buzzword, and it operates in a specific context....to get vaccines from manufacturing countries (ex: US, EU, Russia, China, India) to countries that desperately need them. It has had limited success - countries which make them also are hoarding (US & EU going now into booster doses), and in case of India, its initial bravado has been extinguished by 2nd wave this year, and had to import vaccines. Access issues are manifold: technical (capacity to make them - https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/biontech-says-aims-start-building-mrna-vaccine-factory-africa-mid-22-2021-10-26/), financial (capacity to buy, COVAX addresses this), and physical access (distribution to remote regions and to have in place supply chains).

Borrowing from the military playbook, attention and resources become readily available, when you add 'security' to areas, think cyber-security, energy-security, and global health security! :)

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

Ambitious - Yes, Unrealistic - Perhaps? --- Thank you all, it is an important diversion.

Over the past 50 years, while it is heartening to see the acknowledgment for course correction and to bring the countries to sign onto SDGs - an achievement unto itself for UN, the reality of tension between economic growth and sustainable development has only grown. There is now a call to revamp or at least revise the SDGs to make them more achievable - "All in all, the goals to eliminate poverty, hunger and inequality, and to promote health, well-being and economic growth are headed for extinction." https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-020-02002-3 There is also pushback on this in https://irp-cdn.multiscreensite.com/be6d1d56/files/uploaded/200826%20WP_Speaking%20Truth%20to%20Power.pdf, saying - "...goals are achievable but unlikely to be achieved, particularly given the politics of the rich countries and of major countries to join in an internationally coordinated response...mobilize the 2% of world gross product to achieve the SDGs, including the 0.4% in transfers to the poorest countries". COVID-19 has been a reality-check, bringing forth the socioeconomic disparities and resulting fragility as well as the critical importance of science to the rescue and the gain from collective international action or the loss from lack of it. Strengthens the case for Science Diplomacy!

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

Common strategies? --- As we set goals for common and global problems, are the local differences accommodated? Take an example of extreme hunger in some states like South Sudan caused by civil unrest. The strategies here would differ from a middle eastern state implementing sustainable schemes for agriculture. Can we have different strategies but common indicators for progress?

Source author: Kiconco Patricia kictricia@gmail.com

transfer of technologies --- Just to add to previous points - the same issue arises with the COVID-19 vaccines and the possibility of their manufacturing and distribution in developing countries. The developed countries provide technologies and know how that was developed and works under the conditions present in their setting. I hope to get a chance to discuss this exact issue in the following module on SDG 3 and the waivers of intellectual property rights for vaccine manufacturing discussed at the WTO.

Source author: Pavlina Ittelson pavlinai@diplomacy.edu

Rights of people --- Encieh, this refers to the rights of people to influence and determine how their economy develops.

Source author: Pavlina Ittelson pavlinai@diplomacy.edu

Partnerships and an Implementation Framework --- The establishment/strengthening of collaboration and partnerships for the implementation of the goals would be required. Additionally the implementation framework for these goals would be required. For example a whole systems approach to education (not only primary education) should be considered. Integrating formal, informal and non-formal learning at all levels for the education system could be considered

Source author: Petal Punalall Jetoo pjetoo@gmail.com

Vienna formula --- Yes, the Vienna formula is in force. It is part VIII of the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties (1969). The Vienna Convention is also called 'treaty of treaties' as it regulates how international treaties are defined, drafted, amended, interpreted, etc. When following the Vienna formula here, only UN member states or UN agencies are allowed to participate. The UN member state then can decide whether it would like to do so.

Source author: Pavlina Ittelson pavlinai@diplomacy.edu

UN and enforcement --- This particular conference ended in a set of non-binding recommendations. The SDGs themselves are not legally binding either. The countries voluntarily commit to these recommendations or to the SDGs themselves. There are, of course legally binding documents related to the SDGs - such as the Kyoto Protocol or Paris Agreement. UN does not play a role of enforcer here.

Source author: Pavlina Ittelson pavlinai@diplomacy.edu

Benefits of setting targets --- Targets provide a means of measuring progress against the goals. It serves as a means of comparison among countries as well.

Source author: Petal Punalall Jetoo pjetoo@gmail.com

Benefits to Human Development and the Environment --- These common goals target human development (education, health) and the preservation of the environment - people and planet. Human development and preservation of environmental integrity are common priorities for all countries

Source author: Petal Punalall Jetoo pjetoo@gmail.com

50 years of SDGs --- I would argue that what was framed in 1972 as environmental protection issue has evolved beyond social and economic development to encompass intergenerational and social justice, poverty and hunger eradication, protection of human rights, gender equality, etc. It is not the same world as 50 years ago and the goals have developed as well.

With regards to formulating and implementing - formulating the goals themselves and countries approving them has a great value in moving in the right direction. Based on these commitments, other parts of the puzzle start to emerge - such as financing structure for SDGs (through IMF or private sources), NDCs, etc which lead to implementation. The examples are recent commitments to combating climate change, or the efforts with vaccination distribution. Of course the efforts and the implementation are lacking, it has been recognized throughout, but what would be a good alternative?

Source author: Pavlina Ittelson pavlinai@diplomacy.edu

Nicaragua --- In 2020 I was living in Nicaragua. The government there decided to ban COVID-19 as absurd as it may seem. The authorities report few infections just because they do not perform tests. In the vast majority of deaths the cause is reported to be "atypical pneumonia" or other diseases. Many doctors have been fired for departing from the official narrative or simply for diagnosing COVID-19 without political authorization. The main strategy at the beginning of the pandemic was to call a mass demonstration of the official party with the title "Love against the coronavirus." Access to PCR tests is still very limited and vaccination is used as a political weapon.

Source author: Carlos Arturo Garcia Bonilla carlos.garcia@cancilleria.gov.co

Indigenous Knowledge --- Scientific development and the applications of relevant environmental technologies should include indigenous knowledge. By engaging indigenous peoples site specific applications can be tailored.

Source author: Petal Punalall Jetoo pjetoo@gmail.com

I agree with your comment, Aura --- Those that you described are some of the principles of "South-South" cooperation, which made the developing countries (and the "emerging powers" such as the BRICS) take a more active role in promoting regional/inter-regional and global sustainable development.

Source author: Massimiliano Lombardo m.lombardo@unesco.org

UN Role --- The UN in its global mandate can give recommendations/suggestions. It would be difficult for them to mandate actions at the national level. For example a recommendation can be broad enough so that many countries can implement it with different national approaches.

Source author: Petal Punalall Jetoo pjetoo@gmail.com

Agenda 21 introduced the so-called "Means of implementation" --- To me, the best thing about Agenda 21 was that for the first time in a multilateral agreement document were included text sections about specific measures to implement the proposed goals/objectives and activities. This contributed to the development of some cooperative initiatives, especially within the UN-system. Certainly, the means of implementation of Agenda 21 are better described and outlined than those of the 2030 Agenda.

Source author: Massimiliano Lombardo m.lombardo@unesco.org

Responsabilities --- MDGs were focused on developing countries ignoring that many of the problems we face as humanity are caused by the consumption model of developed countries

Source author: Carlos Arturo Garcia Bonilla carlos.garcia@cancilleria.gov.co

2060 goals then --- too disappointing. If it goes like this we will reach the goals in 2060 and the goals of 2010 will not work half a century later

Source author: Encieh Erfani encieherfani@gmail.com

only 13!! --- only in 13 sessions, let say in 45 days, they planned for the goals affects the life of generations!!

Source author: Encieh Erfani encieherfani@gmail.com

disasters --- plan for disaster risks like pandemics

Source author: Encieh Erfani encieherfani@gmail.com

future generations --- - saving the resources of our planet for future generations

Source author: Encieh Erfani encieherfani@gmail.com

? --- I am wondering about this criticism; no poverty and gender equality are not human rights?

Source author: Encieh Erfani encieherfani@gmail.com

Common set of targets --- What I see as a benefit is that it shows all countries that most of the issues of the millennium are common to all even if they affect countries differently. This will facilitate collaboration between states to find solutions to these common challenges.

Source author: Désiré NEBOUA dneboua@yahoo.fr

law --- If there was any law, we did not face all these challenges and it seems there will be no law in future too. Who can punish a country which is responsible for global warming?

Source author: Encieh Erfani encieherfani@gmail.com

bottom-up? --- That is one of the reasons why we could not get the SDGs in due time, yet.

Source author: Encieh Erfani encieherfani@gmail.com

strategy --- The strategy of reaching targets is more important than targets. Indeed the targets are planned to solve global problems, however the global problems does not mean common problems. Most of the low and middle income countries due not care about global warming due to economical problem.

Source author: Encieh Erfani encieherfani@gmail.com

global south? --- and these norms are not working for global south.

Source author: Encieh Erfani encieherfani@gmail.com

Technology transfer --- Thank you you for pointing this out Patrick. My experience studying and working in (medical) laboratory settings, I have come across several instances where we have machines that were donated by collaborating organizations or universities that haven't been used in years because they were not adapted to our Ugandan conditions like low power supply. I think putting these differences into consideration prior looks out for sustainable resource management.

Source author: Kiconco Patricia kictricia@gmail.com

more than science in science diplomacy ... --- I would take your statement to mean that understanding the economic perspective and even negotiations in this area is also essential for science diplomacy (and science diplomats)? COVAX is a really interesting example in this regard.

Source author: Katharina Höne KatharinaH@diplomacy.edu

technology transfer ... --- This is very well put, Patrick. And thank you for this example. I think we can find examples of exactly what you outline here in many areas.

Source author: Katharina Höne KatharinaH@diplomacy.edu

unsustainable goals? --- Thank you so much for your comments, Tereza and KatharinaB. It made me smile, but also poses some serious questions regarding the SDGs. What do others think about this 'diversion of attention'?

Source author: Katharina Höne KatharinaH@diplomacy.edu

What does common mean --- The benefits of having common goals are to be able to build synergies at different levels in order to jointly achieve them. That said for this to have meaning and a real perspective of success, these goals must indeed be "common", which means they must be identified according to a horizontal approach, by engaging all the countries and stakeholders in the process, according to the needs of each one and by also setting up common means of implementation and effective coordination.

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

climate change & pollution --- according to a WHO report, this is among the 10 leading threats to global health, and plays a role in further threats (Non Communicable Diseases, vulnerable settings, emergence of new pathogens /outbreaks). Climate change is also an important drive for migration. It affects the availability basic needs as food, housing and clean water.

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

You get what you paid for --- Thank you for raising these $$. It's not just about the huge figure- trillions, but it's also about being less than half of the required founding. And I don't know if one can be serious to expect a result with this range of investments. Again, there are parallels in the medical world: Here in CH, substitutes to the tobacco growing industry is higher the the budget for Smoking secession programs. WHO runs on 1/30 of annual Health care expenditures of a rich country representing a bit more than 1/1000 of the world population. Is it fair to criticise the WHO for not having done enough for pandemic preparedness?

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

achieving SDGs will probably help --- ...reducing these root causes, since for example poverty can be a driver for war and political instability, but then we are back to how do we achieve SDGs in the context of war and political instability? At the moment I can't see many examples where international organisations had a significant impact on neither. When I think about Myanmar, where initially democratisation / political stabilisation led to better socio-economic development, now the spiral is the other way around. The destabilisation from the pandemic might have been a facilitator, but the expression of different interests of the international community also had their part. Let's hope ASEAN takes it as their chance to show their power.

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

Toward international co-operation in scientific research --- Reading the Nairobi Declaration it struck me that in principle 6 the importance of science is now framed in a need to EXPAND CO-OPERATION between states in scientific research.

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

This is the problem --- This is exactly the problem with the SDGs. Implementation and rhetorics is two different stories. I so much wish we talked less about the SDGs and were able to provide tangible and clear results.

Source author: Tereza Horejsova terezah@diplomacy.edu

SDGs result of 50 years of work...? --- I apologise in advance my comments related to SDGs will be critical. If 50 years of work results in formulating (stressing, formulating, not implementing) a few general goals, it is actually very sad.

Source author: Tereza Horejsova terezah@diplomacy.edu

Diverting attention --- Sorry to divert attention but I thought it was funny. When I quickly read the title, I first read "unsustainable development goals" - and for a minute I was thinking, well, this is accurate thought quite provocative start :-)

Source author: Tereza Horejsova terezah@diplomacy.edu

Global challenges --- We have been thinking in terms of local communities to face global challenges. This simple way of thinking is insuficient to adress our problems as specie. This kind of agreements is an advance. However, UNGA is still a place dominated by political interests i.e. local interests. One importan difference whit SDGs is the creation of the Open Working Group where it was possible to discuss this issues from a less political and more scientific perspective.

Source author: Carlos Arturo Garcia Bonilla carlos.garcia@cancilleria.gov.co

My experience in Taiwan's effort in SDGs --- YingChu, take me as an example where I was invited to be part of an Elite international leadership program funded by the Taiwanese government in 2016. Three weeks exploring the government of Taiwan where 90% of the governments presented their work against the SDGs and that was impressive how much they consider it in their plans and strategies. being a UN member states or not is another story that I am sure we might tap into through the course. Understanding the political ties in such context.

Source author: Muna Zaqsaw zaqsaw.muna89@gmail.com

Un momentito --- In Spanish spoken in Mexico, diminutives are the softener of choice. Everything can be diminish, even time (give me a "little moment", please!), to minimise imposition.

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

Agree, but.. --- adding the "for me" is more than just a nuance. The person asking might mean that if you don't comply, he/she could get in trouble, too, as it is part of their obligations to make YOU fasten your seatbelt and sign the form. Though at the end, of course it is coercive.

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

@Bi: reductive dichotomy - like vs. dislike --- 1. My understanding: If I expand my circle, I will narrow, my interlocutor’s circle. Once I click “dislike”, I place myself in the opposite camp. It is difficult to find convergence between such clearly entrenched antagonist positions. No one know why I like or dislike the thing, the person, the idea. I narrow my circle to the minimum, almost meaningless.

2. If we have two blunt options only, “like” and “dislike”, without nuances, then we may have a problem. I do not say that truth (or compromise) is always in the middle. But I dare to say that truth is rarely in the extremes.

3. I also had in mind the Bolsheviks’ slogan: whoever is not with us (like) is against us (dislike). I am aware that this is taken out of the Biblical context, but even the Evangelists were neither very subtle about the meaning of this pronouncement, nor very clear for that matter.

“For whoever is not against us is for us”|. Mark 9:40

"Do not stop him," Jesus replied, "for whoever is not against you is for you." Luke 9:50

“He who is not with me is against me, and he who does not gather with me scatters.” Matthew 12:30

Source author: Petru Dumitriu PetruD@diplomacy.edu

Pandering --- Some people, or even cultures, are more sensitive to praise and flattery. Now that diplomats have taken up to twitter and other social media, I see a new wave of ambassadors in Mexico blatantly pandering the audience to gain followers and expand their reach. It is a very effective way of doing so, at least in Mexico, (if you want to make Mexican friends, tell us how much you like our food and we will be yours forever). But it often lets me wondering, then, what's the role of truthfulness, if any at all?

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

Diplomatic summits' challenges --- I've had the chance to work at a various multilateral summits, and this example reminded me of the G20 in Los Cabos, in 2012. Back then, I was surprised to discover that probably one of the most challenging moments of a multilateral summit (that is, that involves heads of state and/or government) is the arrival of the delegations. If you have 20+ delegations, coming each with its own caravan and its own security detail, to be welcomed by the same person (another HoS/G), you need a looot of time, like 5 - 7 min per delegation, so 1 hr 40 min in total? So, nobody wants to be the first one to arrive and be waiting inside for this whole procedure to unfold. Local Protocol works out the order of arrival (it could be precedence, it could be alphabetically, there are different ways to obtain your preferred outcome). That's one of the toughest negotiations in a summit, and there's always someone unhappy who breaks protocol and arrives pretty much at the time he/she pleases. Maybe this was the case with Berlusconi? So, he's breaking the first rule maybe because he perceived someone else broke rule 2/3?

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

Reductive dichotomies and building walls --- Interesting that you should see dichotomies as an instance of narrowing the circle. To divide the entire world into two camps (like or dislike, friend or unfriend, with us or against us) is to expand the circle of us (versus them) considerably and - here is the key problem in my view - to solidify the boundary between them so that it is virtually impassable. Like Trump's wall.

Source author: Biljana Scott biscott@diplomacy.edu

An instance of quote mining (or 'clip' mining) --- Your comment on needing to understand an extract in its larger context is very important, Blanca, thank you for providing it.

Since context determines meaning, removing context through quote mining is bound to change the original meaning. This is why editing can redirect our minds onto the conclusions others want us to reach - always worth looking out for.

Source author: Biljana Scott biscott@diplomacy.edu

Boorishness, signalling or both through dog-whistling? --- A classic example of non-acknowledgment, thanks Blanca.

Source author: Biljana Scott biscott@diplomacy.edu

Stigmatised by an appellation: Chinese virus, Mexican fu --- Giving a country name to a virus is damaging both to its reputation and its economy. The Mexican swine flu (H1N1) of 2009 cost the country some $US2.8bn from the loss of nearly a million tourists over a five-month period, and $US2.8bn in pork exports.

Can our Mexican colleagues comment on their experience of this stigma?

Source author: Biljana Scott biscott@diplomacy.edu

Spin on 'freedom' --- Both the logo 'LGBT FREE zone' and the Magazine editor's comment "people congratulated us because we Poles love freedom" provide clear evidence of how we can use positively loaded words (such as 'freedom') to promote negative messages of discrimination and exclusion.

There is a whole story encapsulated in the concept of 'being free of something' and its implications and entailments should be called out by other editors, bloggers and influencers - by all of us.

Source author: Biljana Scott biscott@diplomacy.edu

"It's not MY problem" --- Interesting interview, thanks Christian. The expression 'It's not my problem' signals the drawing boundaries between YOUR problem and MY safe ground - usually characterised by integrity and right-mindedness. In this case he's drawing boundary between the interviewer's concern with racial profiling and his own supposedly colour-blind application of the law to any wrong doing. 1m 20 seconds: 'A lot of the people come from Mexico and they come here illegally, it's not MY problem, so we're just enforcing all the laws and we're going to continue to do so..'

Source author: Biljana Scott biscott@diplomacy.edu

Reaction to Greta Thunberg’s Blah blah Blah --- The strength of the speech lies for me in the fact that the one who says blah, blah, blah should normally be the one who listens. It is clear that the audience hears only from politicians blah, blah, blah, since no action is seen. This same expression, when presented by a politician, could be understood as a way of saying that one proposes exactly the opposite. But in Greta’s words, politicians only talk but nothing changes.

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

Maximising imposition and not minimising --- At this clip, first the journalist imposed on China the narrative that China did not respect human rights and via this narrative she tried to humiliate China's Foreign Minister for being representative of a human rights violating country. However, the Chinese FM could also respond in a better way, but instead of responding he reacted negatively to the journalist. Neither the journalist nor the FM considered the 4 principles of courtesy in the question and the answer.

Source author: Mohammad Daud Mahmoody dauodmahmoody@gmail.com

Obvious announcement of hostility --- In this video, there is no exhibition of any principles of courtesy by President Trump. He neither acknowledged her respecting him as she stood up, he also did not make any try to make her feel good, he obviously tried to impose his own wish on her, and he never tried to expand circle of inclusivity. In my opinion according to what we have studied in this lesson, it is non diplomatic approach and it does not reflect to be the president treating the head of the Congress.

Source author: Mohammad Daud Mahmoody dauodmahmoody@gmail.com

Secretary of State Blinken saying of Mexicans: “We are family” --- At a recent high profile/high stakes diplomatic encounter on September the 9th, 2021, when re-launching the High Economic Dialogue between the U.S. and Mexico, the U.S. Secretary of State Anthony Blake began by expressing the convergence of the Mexican and the American People not only in terms of a two centuries old diplomatic relationship (with strong periods of tensions) and economic free trade exchanges but going a lot farther in INCLUDING Mexicans by saying: ‘We are family” alluding to a very strong value of Mexican society (inside Mexicans families there is love, solidarity, support, sharing). This form of acknowledgement and inclusion produced a positive impact on his Mexican counterparts fostering a good environment for the talks between the Mexican and U.S. Delegation.

This diplomatic language of inclusion by the U.S. Delegation was reiterated at the High Level Dialogue on Security launched in October the 8th, 2021.

https://www.cnn.com/2021/10/08/politics/blinken-mayorkas-garland-mexico-security/index.html

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

@Bi, Andre, Blanca, Andrej: humility and self-respect --- This controversy reminds me the famous reflection of Jules Renard: "Sois modeste ! C'est le genre d'orgueil qui déplaît le moins." (Be modest! It is the kind of pride that displeases the least)(my approximate translation).

Balance and moderation should be the main approach to the avoid excesses.

Easier "said" than done?

Source author: Petru Dumitriu PetruD@diplomacy.edu

The new world order division: "like" and @dislike" --- I resent the stupidly reductionist world of the "like" and "dislike" verdicts, which replace a good judgment. That artificial dichotomy is a remarkable contribution to "narrowing the circle".

Source author: Petru Dumitriu PetruD@diplomacy.edu

What is the value of words in the mouth of politicians? --- Yes, we can frame in various logical patterns what politicians say. However, to be honest, I believe that the so-widely embraced concept of "communication" is the old business of manipulation and propaganda, disguised under new clothes.

As a Chinese proverb goes: "Everything we hear from politicians is not the truth, despite possible resemblance."

Source author: Petru Dumitriu PetruD@diplomacy.edu

Make Singapore Great Again?:) --- Thanks for sharing this example Christian...unfortunately, this is something we can see everywhere, especially at the time of crisis, and again, I think this has something to do with the inherit tribalism.

What I found particularly interesting here is the PM's comment "These are policies where the benefits are there but they are long term, the downsides are immediate, the side effects are visible, people react to them and we have to respond to this." which I think explains a lot - over the course of the last few decades (helped by, but not exclusively thanks to social media) we are used to instant results, gratifications, comments, likes, etc. meaning we are now living in 'right now and right here' mode much more than generations before us who were, in general, more focused on 'brighter tomorrow', i.e., long-term results.

This 'shorttermness' is a nasty trend that leads us to lose sight of the broader picture, and can explain many occurrences in the modern World that we can recognise as 'worrying'.

Source author: Andrej Skrinjaric andrejs@diplomacy.edu

Agreed Liliana... --- ...this was hard to watch.:(

However, at the same time, please note that, once again, there might be a cultural component at play here. Debating in this manner is, to my understanding, quite common in the UK parliament.

Bi, please advise if I got this wrong.

Source author: Andrej Skrinjaric andrejs@diplomacy.edu

Old-boys' networks --- There are many studies that show that in interviews it is the interviewees who looks, speak and dress like the interviewers who get selected, thus perpetuating a power hierarchy.

Source author: Biljana Scott biscott@diplomacy.edu

Changing the culture as we watch --- A very interesting article, thanks. It is interesting to note that in order to change the culture both Berlusconi and Trump used mass media (TV in B's case, Twitter in Trump's - beware of his his Social Media platform!). It is dismaying to learn than sexism can so readily be equated with success.

"Unfortunately, I know that the personal sexism of men like Trump all too often becomes public policy. As a woman who endured Italy’s Berlusconismo, I watched as my leader’s sexism gradually become a political and cultural phenomenon."

Source author: Biljana Scott biscott@diplomacy.edu

Nature, nurture and bell-shaped curves --- I agree with you Christian that tyranny is not an 'excuse' for rudeness. I found it interesting as an explanation, however. In most of this lecture, I have foregrounded universals of politeness. In this sentence, I try to acknowledge categories where politeness and consideration don't seem to occur as the default. This does not mean that they cannot be learnt. All codes of politeness have to be learnt, after all, but whereas most human beings are inclined not only to learn them but to adhere to rules of politeness/consideration (to a greater or lesser extent), some seen not to have that gene at all. They then have to put more effort in. Since tyrants don't usually bother making any effort for the good of others, I was offering an apologia rather than an apology on their behalf!

Source author: Biljana Scott biscott@diplomacy.edu

Dignity as a shared value --- I like this analysis very much, Desirée, especially as dignity could be considered as a synonym for 'face' and therefore very relevant to this lecture.

I also like Blanca's request for positive examples. I think these are so much the default that we do not really notice them until they are breached, as in these examples.

I like the idea that dignity is not something we own but something we share. Mandela said 'A man who tires to rob me of my dignity will lose'. This sentiment is also found in Pope Francis" 'When I trample on the dignity of another, I trample on my own.'

Source author: Biljana Scott biscott@diplomacy.edu

Perceived vs real --- While putting concepts into two distinctive (and usually opposing) pairs is a useful tool to help us understand them better, using these opposing dichotomies to then continue discussing these same concepts is, in my opinion, a trap. Not to mention how it can lead to a rather philosophical debate like the one you provided here John about 'perceived' vs 'real' reality.

This is why I always feel the situation on the ground is what needs our attention, and discussing it from a theoretical point of view just leads us away from the solution.....feel free to call me a pragmatic!;-)

Source author: Andrej Skrinjaric andrejs@diplomacy.edu

So what x 2 --- Isn't it interesting how these behaviours elicit different interpretations? The question of 'what was meant' by somebody's words, actions or silence is one that matters to us as a species and our answers determine how we fit into group dynamics.

I often ask myself 'so what?', both in the sense of 1. So, what was actually said/done 2. So what (what is the significance) of what was said or done. This invites me to go back and forth testing hypotheses about possible intentions and the most likely interpretation. It also allows me to acknowledge alternative takes.

Source author: Biljana Scott biscott@diplomacy.edu

Visual thinking and the need for translation --- As a visual person myself, I find these schema very effective both in mapping out the components and in remembering them. Now the challenge is to link them to diplomacy using logos.

Source author: Biljana Scott biscott@diplomacy.edu

Thanks John for this example... --- ...from the 'legal perspective'.

I can imagine how this may be very relevant in the corporate sector, but in the context of international relations the 'face saving' efforts usually don't come with this potentially legal ramification.

If I'm wrong and someone in the class can provide an example, please do share!

Source author: Andrej Skrinjaric andrejs@diplomacy.edu

Multidimensional --- Good question Mamta, but I'm afraid it's one without clear answer. Public image is an asset on its own that can prove useful in many different areas; investors tends to invest in countries that are considered as 'stable' and 'safe'; such countries also tend to attract more highly educated expats and immigrants which then results in their further development in many fields, from technology to medicine; their voice is then also better heard in the international setting thus giving them much stronger 'punch' than they would have without the 'good reputation'.

In other words, the soft power that comes as a result of (good) public diplomacy is a multidimensional thing that, in the end, benefits the whole country/society.

Source author: Andrej Skrinjaric andrejs@diplomacy.edu

Sensitivity to truth? --- I did not really follow his work, nor did I watch too many of his YT interviews, but I have the same feeling like you Bi when watching this clip - he simply identifies the problem and analysis it from an aspect that makes perfect sense.

Could it be that he's so controversial simply because he says the truth and calls thing by their real name, which is something the audience does not want to hear? Have we humans became so lulled in different forms of PC talk that we simply can't hear (let alone handle) the bare truth?

Source author: Andrej Skrinjaric andrejs@diplomacy.edu

The same with covid-19 pandemic --- The same thing is happening with the covid-19 and/or vaccination debate these days Eric.:(

Looks like this need to gather in groups, rally behind one cause, and then 'trash' the other side regardless of arguments is inherit to us humans, and obviously has (or at least had) evolutionary role?

Source author: Andrej Skrinjaric andrejs@diplomacy.edu

How to mend broken relations --- Thanks for the example Blanca, which shows that it's getting harder and harder to deny something these days when everything leave a digital footprint.

I also wonder how how did Mexico and Cuba mend their relations after this?

Source author: Andrej Skrinjaric andrejs@diplomacy.edu

both...and... --- I agree with Marie - raising someone up does not (necessarily) mean putting oneself down. There are many instances when this is more 'both...and..' kinda deal, rather than 'either...or'.

Example: in my part of the world hospitality is a matter of pride and hosts often go above and beyond to make the guest feel welcomed and good. In the olden days, it often included letting the guest sleep in your bed with the host sleeping on the floor. Also, more often than not, this 'code of hospitality' was especially observed in poorer regions where people had less to offer in terms of food and drink, so they tried to 'compensate' for that by treating guests with special care.

However, the reason for putting oneself down like this was not a result of some sort of masochistic needs, but because in doing so the hosts felt good and took pride in the fact they treated someone so generously, i.e., there was a personal 'gain' in this act.

Source author: Andrej Skrinjaric andrejs@diplomacy.edu

Trump.....again --- "The United States will be powerfully supporting those industries, like Airlines and others, that are particularly affected by the Chinese Virus!"

Source author: Hervé Pool erve619@gmail.com

So you're saying --- She seems very enthusiastic to impute to Jordan Peterson (brilliant intellect & scholar of personality) what she considers as popular to her audience. Repeating "so your saying" in this situation, is also an attempt to oversimplify the views of Mr. Peterson.

Source author: Hervé Pool erve619@gmail.com

How to insult a German --- An insult with total disregard for principle No.1. He did respond later on to say that he was discussing the appointment of NATO's SG.

Source author: Hervé Pool erve619@gmail.com

Ambassador --- hahaha, Ambassador, it is relevant, but it has to be accompanied by equipping the Missions with relevant resources, budget and training of officers

Source author: Lapologang Judah lapoduna@gmail.com

Sounds very good. --- And do they manage this well?.....BTW, how come no African regional group has emulated the CARICOM model of a 'single economic negotiator'? IF somehow this happened, that group would gain great power......

Source author: Kishan S Rana kishanrana@gmail.com

May I respectfully disagree? --- First, when I speak of most countries, I mean just that. Do please tell me of a specific instance where you might disagree. Second, LDCs cannot live on handouts....Think of Maldives or Bhutan, poor countries with few resources, they managed to become attractions for tourists. Or Mauritius, with virtually no natural resources, today a middle-income country with a current dollar per capita income of over $10,000.

Source author: Kishan S Rana kishanrana@gmail.com

Sorry, but that example is not clear. --- WTO negotiators ARE govt. officials, so what's wrong with acting to promote one's country and then raising that issue at WTO?.....Conflict of interest will arise if an official is both a promoter, and represents a specific business enterprise.

Source author: Kishan S Rana kishanrana@gmail.com

You are right, of course. Each country's eco dip... --- ...has to be tailored to its context, resources and esp. its possibilities. That is another reason not to rely on slogans but to get to specifics, based on what is feasible....Look around, there are lots of African models -- Rwanda, Mauritius, and Botswana, among others.

Source author: Kishan S Rana kishanrana@gmail.com

Isn't that a philosophical Q? --- Regardless of who is to be blamed -- and of course the govt is responsible -- the key issue is to take action and rectify matters.

Source author: Kishan S Rana kishanrana@gmail.com

Waqas, I am amazed that the MFA in your country... --- ...waited till 2020 to create an economic division. Why was so much time lost? Too much focus on political diplomacy, or was it disinterest on the part of diplomats -- that's hard to believe, given their competence. And did not the media comment on this all these years?

Source author: Kishan S Rana kishanrana@gmail.com

Yes, Waqas, business schools are useful for... --- ...for eco promotion work. So are thinktanks and the media.

Source author: Kishan S Rana kishanrana@gmail.com

Good idea. --- Hope it delivers.

Source author: Kishan S Rana kishanrana@gmail.com

Moral: use well.... --- ...what you do get. Use it wisely.

Source author: Kishan S Rana kishanrana@gmail.com

The flip side of 'leadership'... --- ...is 'followership' -- and few speak of this. I mean, how to be a good 'team-member'....But before getting to this, a basic Q: How to motivate young officials to work hard for the country's advancement....They will learn best from a good Amb's actions.

Source author: Kishan S Rana kishanrana@gmail.com

A suggestion: --- Better to say, 'targeted promotion of the country's economic objectives'.

Source author: Kishan S Rana kishanrana@gmail.com

My friend, you mention 'mandate' -- does any MFA give this really? --- The only modern MFA that tells each Amb what they are to do, in specific terms, are the French, via their 'Ambassador's Instruction'....Each of these is customized, and written after full consultation with all ministries....As a 5-time Amb, the only time I received real instructions was from PM Indira Gandhi in the 5 minutes I spent with her, before leaving for Algiers, in August 1975...That became a guide for the final 20 years in the Foreign Service....My point: Today's Amb has to write her own instructions. Be bold and ambitious. The country's economic interests are one area where the Amb can really make a difference...Political ties are set in a framework that is almost unalterable.

Source author: Kishan S Rana kishanrana@gmail.com

Indeed!!! --- Especially very helpful in countries where the government is the main if not sole employer of its citizens.

Source author: Malefetsane Dominic Mosala mosalalaw@gmail.com

Very true!!! --- I have seen a bigger fraction of African Ambassadors here in Geneva, most of which are small Missions with minimal human resource (even bigger ones) concentrating or rather utilising most of their time in office on WTO issues more than any other issues from other international organisations and UN agencies. This shows how countries actually give priority to promoting their economical growth more than anything.

Source author: Malefetsane Dominic Mosala mosalalaw@gmail.com

Country's economic interest. --- I want to submit that "most countries" in this lecture instance often refer to both developed and developing instead of the very least developed countries whose top diplomatic priority is sadly not mainly the promotion of their country's external economic interests but rather to attract and secure foreign aid.

Source author: Malefetsane Dominic Mosala mosalalaw@gmail.com

True that --- business enterprises are the main direct beneficiaries but the government and society are also direct beneficiaries. Governments benefit directly through tax revenues while communities on the other hand benefit through "giving back to the community" initiatives and programs investors embark on. In Lesotho, it is mandatory as a matter of formality in granting a trading licence that the investor applicant should undertake to give back to the local communities at the stage when their business venture is enjoying lucrative returns. Sadly this requirement is normally not complied with, due to corrupt practices on the part of officials or defiance on the part of investors, taking advantage of lack of enforcement mechanisms put in place by the government.

Source author: Malefetsane Dominic Mosala mosalalaw@gmail.com

Indeed!!! --- Official representatives are mainly economic diplomacy facilitators and promoters due to their training in diplomatic talks, conduct and relations while other expert stakeholders play a key role in the implementation of such economic engagements on the ground. In some instances however, official representatives play both roles. This happens with some diplomatic Missions deploying and incorporating say for example a trade expert from the Ministry of trade into the MFA in order for them to represent the country both as foreign service official and a trade negotiator in the WTO.

Source author: Malefetsane Dominic Mosala mosalalaw@gmail.com

Question --- Economic diplomacy has in the past over-prioritized trade over investments. This is useful in the case of developed world who are looking markets for their export. How does this help developing countries who export less and import more? Isn’t it time for the developing world to over-prioritize investment promotion to expand their manufacturing and export capabilities? What worked for the developed world might not necessarily work for the developing world.

Source author: Dubo Mohamed mohacpr@gmail.com

Improving coordination in economic diplomacy --- upskilling diplomatic staff on trade, investment, tourism etc issues can save on the budget used to deploy additional attaches or outsourcing agents for such activities

Source author: Lapologang Judah lapoduna@gmail.com

JAMPRO --- Interesting

Source author: Lapologang Judah lapoduna@gmail.com

Exports are vital --- Particulalrly for countries that are struggling to attract FDI due to their small economies and markets like Botswana. with a population of 2.4million, most investors tend overlook us and prefer to set up in populous countries where they are guaranteed a large market for their products.. Our strategy is to pursue an export led economy and take advantage of the regional and continental market

Source author: Lapologang Judah lapoduna@gmail.com

commercial diplomacy --- could it be a targeted promotion of economic foreign policy?

Source author: Lapologang Judah lapoduna@gmail.com

Most Global South countries can ill-afford... --- ...such specialists. The far better way is to give main tasks to professional diplomats and get them to multitask. That is the Indian way -- and it works very well.

Source author: Kishan S Rana kishanrana@gmail.com

Sorry, I did not quite get that. --- Do you applaud these NGOs and German foundations, or do you want your own NGOs to do better? Request clarification.

Source author: Kishan S Rana kishanrana@gmail.com

Here's an irreverent thought. --- Save money and don't send 'Tourism Attaches'. Instead tell Embassies to deliver on getting more tourists to come from their assignment countries....And recall a few Amb that don't deliver....Is that feasible? Or too 'harsh'???

Source author: Kishan S Rana kishanrana@gmail.com

Omphile Sethunya, what is a way out? --- Poor internal coordination, misgovernance, inefficiencies -- all these are self-inflicted ailments. And how might we find a way out? Some thoughts: 1. Empower civil society. 2. Give real teeth to the judiciary -- as seems to be happening in Kenya. 3. Bite the bullet and celebrate a free press....Yes, this is hard to do. But it is possible.....Bipul is a great achiever in an NGO that has done very well. He is the right person to give a detailed comment on this.

Source author: Kishan S Rana kishanrana@gmail.com

Congratulations, Lapologang. Excellent example. --- Here's a contrarian view: Foreign aid is like a drug -- produces dependence and leads to bad habits (like corruption)....But few countries have the courage, or vision, or the means to get out of this 'AID TRAP'....Comment please, especially disagreement!!

Source author: Kishan S Rana kishanrana@gmail.com

Many thanks, Cecilia. --- You and others in the class have inspired me to post on my website 4 articles I wrote in 2013 and 2014, which had not been placed there. One is about our experience with setting up a 'Development Partnership Adm' -- in the teeth of our Finance Ministry that refused to give any money. MEA simply saved money from other activities...When life gives you a lemon, make lemonade! Another deals with the 'home tasks' of MEA.....I am sending you these 4 PDF files separately. If any of you feel that too much is offered to you, simply delete the stuff.

Source author: Kishan S Rana kishanrana@gmail.com

Separating Commercial diplomacy to exclude activities (in range & scope) from Economic Diplomacy --- A question emerges which I have come across extensively in terms of range and scope i.e., 'Is Government part of the problem?'

However, it is much debated in terms of range & scope.

Source author: Waqas Mahmood waqasmdogar90@gmail.com

due diligence... --- Embassies also assist potential investors with background information of a prospective business to ensure credibility. This processes is also crucial to avoid investment mishaps as mentioned in the lecture text.

Source author: Omphile Sethunya Sedimo sedimosethunya44@gmail.com

Launch of Economic Diplomacy Division in Pakistan --- Pakistan lacked in economic diplomacy initiatives in the past due to long-period military dictatorships and defacto status as result of covert military takeovers of governance setup. The Economic & Foreign Policy remained in the domain of the de facto. At that time, the legitimacy-seeking factor prioritised ways for short cut recognition. It is only in 2020 that Economic Diplomacy Division was separately launched in Pakistan in order to pursue prioritised goals & objectives related to Commerce, Trade, Investment, Production and Privatisation. Since launch of Economic Diplomatic Division, There has been marked difference in Pakistan's Foreign Policy in matters of National Interest pertaining to Economic Security. Pakistan has also been taking better decisions to avoid FATF sanctions. However, the current hybrid regime needs to be replaced by proper security-oriented Civilian leadership that for example, understands Henry Kissinger successful diplomacy role in aftermath of Arab-Israeli 1973 war. However, first ELECTED President (later became Prime Minister after 1973 constitution) of Pakistan, Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, went for pure 'socialist' reforms in 1970-77 before being ousted from power through military takeover. The launch of ED Division in Pakistan in 2020 is a step in the right direction.

Source author: Waqas Mahmood waqasmdogar90@gmail.com

Business Schools & Universities as instruments for ED --- In Pakistan, the State has spearheaded research into Economic Diplomacy. The Business Schools & Universities have been provided platform for knowledge contribution in order to bring innovation. For example, Pakistan has a huge youth population which needs platform for showcasing its potential through start ups. As a result, the initial result been an IT boom. There has been steady increase in the integration of activities of different sectors - as seen in IT & Production - which has led to an efficient supply chain, too. The covid-19 led to many producers to meet functional capacity as orders were placed after being shifted from other potential sellers. There is a opportunity in every crisis. There is advisory platform given to Business Schools & Universities for their policy input and engagement.

Source author: Waqas Mahmood waqasmdogar90@gmail.com

Who takes responsibility? --- Reading this case study was very helpful to get a clearer idea of how cyber attacks work. On the issue of state-backed attacks we open a very difficult debate. How can a victim determine who carried out the attack in a compelling way? The international community needs to agree on something like a 'responsibility assessment" that can help victims to back their claims.

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

Who should be made responsible? --- I remember a few years ago when, largely, I was told that cybersecurity was about people doing insecure practices. Implied in it was a discourse that being hacked was necessarily a consequence of a bad decision from the victim. Now, with more experience, I have to disagree with that perspective I was given. The case of Orion and many others show that even very security-focused organisations and people can get hacked out of no fault of their own. This makes me wonder about the legal consequences. What do we make out of an organisation who did all the due diligence but got its customers' personal data leaked out of a third party's vulnerability?

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

A recommendation for consideration --- @Vladimir ... One (non-technical) approach that I would suggest is that developing countries should (1) ensure that they establish robust, active and proactive CERTs or CSIRTs within their countries - within both the public and private sectors; and (2) build a network of capacity and sharing among these CERTs/CSIRTs whereby training, sensitization and capacity building can be delivered and spread widely throughout these countries. This can, of course, take many forms, including both practical and theoretical work, but the important step here would be to formalize what has been happening informally thus far, with groups like the APWG working to try to harmonize and streamline some of these efforts. Are there any other recommendations from colleagues?

Source author: Tracy Hackshaw TracyH@diplomacy.edu

Nation states as suspects --- @Nikolov. In the scenario between India and US on use of dark web for triggering an attack, this is an example of "hacking as a service" which cab ne offered on the web. State actors can simply use these players for espionage "games" to disrupt the geo-political stability and yes, possible trigger at war. The underlying motivation may be for political dominance; who to blame? Big question!!!

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

engineering capacity --- @Nikolov. Great observation. However, these experts are not from a developing state but a corporation- Microsoft. How many developing countries have such expertise and in such great numbers on a specific discipline? the payment to these experts may well fund the public service of some developing countries - and here lies the problem: if we agree that the weakest link is the human factor then developing countries have become vulnerable assets to these SOLARWIND hackers or use them as staging grounds for attacks; capacity building becomes vitally important for developing countries

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

Game changer --- :) I'm sharing a recent anecdote from the pre-election political campaign of a country... A leader of a ruling party announced new projects as a "Game Changer"....a few hours later an opposition leader replied and announced that rather than Game Changer - the election results will bring a Game Over! :) To draw an analogy...cyberattacks can indeed bring a Game Over rather than Game Changer...

Source author: Vladimir Nikolov vladimir984@yahoo.com

Engineering capacity --- Faced with these numbers...what is our reality? How can developing countries defend against states with so vast cyber power.

Source author: Vladimir Nikolov vladimir984@yahoo.com

Nation states as suspects --- Just an example for discussion...An US entity (institution, secret service or corporation) "rents" a hacker group from, lets say India, using darkweb...The group executes a successful attack on the carefully chosen US target from India...The cyberforensics discovers the attack came from India.... Who to blame!? ...Many arguments to start a war....

Source author: Vladimir Nikolov vladimir984@yahoo.com

Modern supply chains --- Let's take cars as an example. They are built with thousands of third party components (from wheels, tires, motor parts, to chips and infotainment devices) coming from different continents. Airplanes have millions of components. This makes the scanning and security check of all such components (especially the electronic components and integrated computers) impossible. Car producers usually trust their supplier/s. Most of the stuff today comes from China...If China wants to be step forward in geopolitics and future cyberwars with "competitor" countries, it can easily "supply" the world with malware infected components for whatever product - (smartphone, PC, motherboards, external storage drives, server machines etc.) and thus, if needed, to stall the entire targeted economy/industry or other victim with ease....

Source author: Vladimir Nikolov vladimir984@yahoo.com

security by design vs. combating crime --- The push for security by design will only go so far as allowed by powerful players and nation states, who even want to force developers to create and design devices with built-in back doors, all in the name of combating terrorism or some other form of international crime, but all too often only used politically and militarily agains suppossed enemies.

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

Cybersecurity officer --- Obviously, very soon we will witness employment of cybersecurity officers across different organizations (private and public - governmental institutions)...Having specially trained experts (not an IT generalists) in this field is a real necessity today.

Source author: Vladimir Nikolov vladimir984@yahoo.com

Insurance --- Very interesting point indeed. I am wondering also how the insurance sector is reacting to a lack of security and risks realted to IoT.

Source author: Andrin Schwere andrin.schwere@eda.admin.ch

Values --- Thanks Mira for this very important observation. Motivation that drives humans to conduct attacks of any sort is something that needs to be addressed clearly. Can we really change the motivations of 'threat actors'?

It boils down to developing core values of the society, as you rightly suggest. And this requires ensuring to develop values from the early childhood.

This goes well beyond cyber range, of course. As Vint Cerf, one of the fathers of the Internet, said: Internet is a mirror of the society; if you don't like what you see - don't smash the mirror...

Source author: Vladimir Radunovic vladar@diplomacy.edu

Business policies --- Hi Thomas, interesting point you mention. There are indeed company policies like rotating jobs, where people continuously move between different responsibilities in the same department or separation of duties. As you can imagine, the objective is to split the knowledge and do not depend on one person.

The problem as you mention is something that has to be monitored. The policies without supervision are worthless.

The same works for the laterally move. The system logs everything, but if no one is checking on the logs, less or nothing happens if the system detects unusual access.

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

Irreversible trend --- I completely agree with you, then the questions are: do we want to be helplessly dependent on computers and the internet in most aspects of our lives? and if not, can we do anything about it, as the trend seems to be irreversible?

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

Perfection vs maximizing impact --- @Tracy. Great discourse. If we use the COVID-19 efficacy rate as a comparison, who determines what percentage is acceptable before release of the product? If Manufacturers believe that they need to be the first to market DESPITE being aware that a few patches (areas of vulnerability) can be tolerated, aren't we inviting further exploits? Who sets the standards?

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

Perfection vs maximizing impact --- @ Sébastien I don’t think you will find any argument there from anyone, INCLUDING the OEMs themselves. However, I think the $billion question is EXACTLY who defines what is sufficient, or what is reasonable in terms of testing before release? I have quite a few discussions with software developers at levels of the spectrum over the years, and for them, this is a frustrating exercise. Yes, we have some OEMs who abuse this process, but the vast majority of developers believe they are careful, responsible and test their software thoroughly before release. Is this an exact science? No. Do we still have (an unacceptably high level of) product recalls - even in the very same automobile industry you have highlighted? Yes. But the question remains, how realistic is it to get something perfect before release? We can use the ongoing debate about COVID vaccines and anti-viral drugs as an example. Does the marginal impact between 95% and 100% perfection (if that can be ever achieved, in the first place) worth waiting for? And again, who determines what equates to 100% perfection? Some interesting questions … do colleagues have additional thoughts, feedback or ideas regarding this?

Source author: Tracy Hackshaw TracyH@diplomacy.edu

Is the blockchain vulnerable? --- A good question to ask here @Phannarith is whether or not this was a case of insecurity or a vulnerability in the fundamental blockchain technology itself, or the way that the DeFi platform (in this case, Poly Network) was deployed. As a reminder, in this particular case, the cybercriminals exploited a vulnerability in Poly Network ITSELF with Poly Network being a platform that attempts to connect different blockchains so that they can work together.

Source author: Tracy Hackshaw TracyH@diplomacy.edu

Examples of walking the talk? --- Thanks for this observation @Florence. And I appreciate your effort to bring the discussion back full circle to brass tacks. And in this regard, I wish to pose the question to all colleagues - can you point to definitive examples - whether in the public or private sector - where you can provide CLEAR evidence that Cybersecurity (and critically, associated activities such as risk assessment) was identified as an organizational priority (the talk) AND where there was a clear budget line item reflecting this (walking the talk) ? I believe that this will be simultaneously interesting and enlightening.

Source author: Tracy Hackshaw TracyH@diplomacy.edu

AI and cybersecurity (again) --- Guillaume, you mention the use of AI for cyber-attacks, which is becoming critical. There is also the other way round: cyber-attacks which impact the AI decisions - not least about lethal autonomous weapons. Make it even more complex: AI that drives cyber-attacks against AI decisions...

How do we make sure that some critical AI applications are made almost bullet-proof (not 100% secure, of course, but least vulnerable possible)? And that we use AI to combat its misuse for cyber-attacks?

Source author: Vladimir Radunovic vladar@diplomacy.edu

Risk tolerance: What is your risk appetite? --- To build up on reflections about increasing risks, and risk assessment mentioned by Ioni, Phannarith and Tracy, let me add a note related to - risk tolerance (and 'risk appetite').

Once we do risk assessment and get aware of threats and our weaknesses, we should also define our 'risk appetite' or the level of risk we can tolerate.

We will never be able to have 100% security - and we will inevitably remain vulnerable in some parts. This is not only a result of too complex environments and numerous (often invisible) vulnerabilities, but also of our limited resources: each institution can poor only certain amount of resources (people, money, time) into cybersecurity. A combination of risk assessment and risk appetite helps us prioritise our resources to defend what is critical to us.

One example is also the vendors themselves: they always prioritise critical vulnerabilities for patching; less critical vulnerabilities 'can wait'. One problem with this approach with vendors is that they don't have a full picture of how their products will be used - and if a vulnerability they assess as not critical may become critical in a different setting/use. Thus, the risk appetite of their customers vary.

Source author: Vladimir Radunovic vladar@diplomacy.edu

Important task --- It seems hard to prevent the cyber space from being imperfect. Therefore, it is important to educate Internet users about the dangers they are exposed to. One important task for diplomats and activists is to push for the development of education programs aimed at the average user. Everyone should have the opportunity to know what "cyber" is all about and make informed decisions. It would be good to review what has been done on this issue and think of innovative ways to foster the much needed "cyber education."

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

non-Petya or Win32/Petya/Black Energy --- Ukraine, my home country, has experienced non-Petya and Black Energy attacks a couple of times so far. Preliminary, experts from the Cyberpolice Department of Ukraine found that the virus attack on Ukrainian companies arose due to the update of the program "M.E.doc." I am interested to see examples and more information about these viruses in the next chapter.

Source author: Valerii Paziuk paziukvalerii@gmail.com

Value to Threatening actors --- The illustration of Risks is cute and effective to bring picture of day-to-day cyber risk situation we have. Nonetheless, it is not enough I think to only reduce threats and vulnerabilities because motivation is another key of risk happening.

Motivation is the one factor conducting human’s action (threatening actor) to exploit the vulnerabilities because its related to some kind of “asset”/“something valuable” clashes with us as a common or their outsider.

I think it will be good for schools and capacity building in internet-related issue to deliver identification on what philosophical conduct should emerge/normalize in society.

Source author: Mira Fajriyah halo@mirafajri.id

E-scam is a real threat --- Many people got scam messages who ask help for transfering an substantial amount of money. Fortunately those who asked me never accepted. The threat is real.

Source author: Ioniarimalala RAKOTONIRINA ioniarimalala@gmail.com

Success stories --- @Juan ... than you for sharing this. Perhaps you might go a bit further and share exactly WHY you believe that you, your family and friends have not been victims to these scams. What type of risk assessment did you (and your family and friends) undertake and why do you think it was successful?

Source author: Tracy Hackshaw TracyH@diplomacy.edu

More positive than negative --- Agreed @Bennette ... let's hope that as we move forward beyond and out of the current situation that many of us face, we see more positive than negative in the digital space, especially in the area of emerging technologies.

Source author: Tracy Hackshaw TracyH@diplomacy.edu

Be aware of a possible scam --- То, что мошенничество происходит каждый день, не новость. Мне известен один случай, когда якобы представители банка, то есть обычные мошенники, записали голос под видом робота и представились сотрудниками банка и попросили ввести номер карты на мобильном телефоне, получив таким образом все данные, необходимые для взломать банковский счет.

Source author: Valerii Paziuk paziukvalerii@gmail.com

Be a step ahead --- Sun Tzu said : “If you know the enemy and know yourself, you need not fear the result of a hundred battles. If you know yourself but not the enemy, for every victory gained you will also suffer a defeat. If you know neither the enemy nor yourself, you will succumb in every battle.”

Source author: Valerii Paziuk paziukvalerii@gmail.com

communication cyber weapons --- A distinctive feature of the latest military equipment is its automation or robotization. Based on the analysis of modern military conflicts, it was found that drones can be called one of the most famous examples of automated combat or reconnaissance vehicles. Since their use involves remote control of the operator, the development of communication cyber weapons is promising.

Source author: Valerii Paziuk paziukvalerii@gmail.com

Common scam --- I have been using email since I was 15 years old. I remember receiving multiple emails from people claiming to be investors, traders, activists, writers, journalists, etc. proposing collaboration deals. It is impressing that such scams are still used. Luckily, family members and friends have not been victims.

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

Two hats --- Stakeholders interested in gaining the best cyber defense capabilities must inevitably think as an attacker. It is crucial that they undertake assessments to identify vulnerabilities that can lead to attacks. Therefore, they adopt the two roles. It is important that defenders approach AI with this view.

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

By Phone long history short --- Long time ago a friend of me told me once he received a call from his bank (fake) asking for some information and telling him about some irregular transactions, he got scare and told them he will look after this information. He checked his bank account and got a messages that someone tried to enter into his account so that freaked him out even worst. Finally they got another call from the same agent from the bank (fake) and he gave them his information to fix the problem. after this call he recieved again a call but in this time it was for the real bank telling him that they detect someone tried to do a transaction with his resources so they stopped to confirm that was real.

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

Cybersecurity Paranoia --- Exactly Iván! Probably most of us feel some degree of paranoia, after actively following and engaging in the course :) ...We see how vulnerable our daily usage of internet has become...The problem with the general public (users) is that most of us are still not aware of the consequences and the final plan/s hackers have in mind....And not only hackers....Same applies to corporations as Google/Facebook/Twitter and all others that collect, store, analyze, use and sale for profit our data and our interests/preferences to other interested corporations. All digital personal data/traces we have left throughout our lives, backed up with AI - most of our daily routines and whereabouts will be so easy to track/trace and even predict. At times, even the so simple "auto complete" option in our browser knows what next we plan to open on the net! Indeed scary...One more proof that Orwell's 1984 was and is a remarkable masterpiece :) ...I will share a link with George Orwell's final warning! :) <br /> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9k_ptxWsadI

Source author: Vladimir Nikolov vladimir984@yahoo.com

Heat and hunger --- I agree these factors can definitely negatively impact a negotiation but they can also work in your favour (on occasions). I had an interlocuter who was struggling in the heat and humidity after a long site walk which was in their lunch break. When we put forward our requests at the end of that walk they pushed back but then conceded rather quickly after they saw we weren't giving up as they seemed very keen to just get out of that environment and back to the aircon and their lunch.

Source author: Cara Ceriani caraceriani@hotmail.com

Dress code - power dynamics --- I agree it depends on the audience - for higher level officials, suiting up or dressing up a bit to match their dress code would be appropriate and necessary to be taken seriously in some contexts.

When meeting affected populations more casual dress can be used to superficially lessen the differences in power so people do not feel so alienated and hopefully be more comfortable opening up and trusting you

Source author: Cara Ceriani caraceriani@hotmail.com

we must talk-1 --- This is a difficult thing to do in the age of counter-terrorism laws and regulations that severely impact how and with whom humanitarian actors can engage. Unfortunately, counter-terrorism laws are forcing most humanitarian agencies to talk less.

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

Difficult --- We all agree and the video is great. But these conversations, in some cases, can be extremely confronting. This activity is not to be under-estimated and the mental effort can be significant, with impacts on yourself. Self preservation must also be a consideration to achieve sustained efforts for such complex dialogue.

Source author: Shane Wilkes swilkes4129@gmail.com

Negotiation --- Many thanks Katlego for these interesting links. I really enjoyed them. Particularly, but not limited to the concluding remarks "looking at humanitarian diplomacy through the lens of practice helps increase our understanding of what it means in reality."

Great link to share. Thanks again

Source author: Shane Wilkes swilkes4129@gmail.com

Taliban --- Thank you Katlego for this very interesting link. I was Delegate General of the ICRC for Asia between 1990 and 2002, in charge, among other things, of Afghanistan. I also negotiated the opening of the ICRC delegation in Afghanistan in 1986-7. Why do I say this? Because in 1986, Mullah Omar (who became later the head of the Taliban movement), was an obscur Mudjaheddin commander who had been very badly injured in combat against the Soviet army. He was operated in the ICRC surgical hospital in Quetta (Pakistan) and recovered. This is the reason why, when the "Emirate of Afghanistan" promulgated in 1996 a law banning the emblem of the cross from the territory of Afghanistan, fine prints at the bottom of the page read: this does not apply to the emblem of the ICRC". And this is one of the reasons why the ICRC has been reasonably successful in its negotiations with the Talibans between 1996 and 2001! A knowledge of recent history helps a lot in Humanitarian Diplomacy negotiations.

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

Tribal Negotiations --- in my experience agreements need not be written- a verbal consenus by the tribal leaders is sufficient because there is a common understanding on the consequence should either party breach the agreement

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

Negotiate towards long term benefit --- Talking is good- and win-win situation needs to be prioritize. whilst peace and stability is key, how do we guard against trade offs that will grossly affect vulnerable groups in the long term? E.g: advocate for peace and surrender country minerals?

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

People of influence --- when xenophobic attacks erupted in South Africa and the country was at a stand still, after many days of trying to diffuse the situation by engaging the "different ministries" and other high level delegates, a meeting with taxi industry leaders and tribal kings in the hostels was what diffused the situation. Imperative to understand the local context and people of influence

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

Eswatini opposition rejects "dialogue offer" with Mswat --- Key to negotiation is the willingness to listen and engage. After the Eswatini King held a tribal engagement and did not open the floor for questions or further discussion when violence erupted again in the country and SADC delegation suggested a dialogue between the two parties, opposition refused https://www.dailymaverick.co.za/article/2021-10-25-eswatini-opposition-rejects-king-mswatis-offer-of-a-national-dialogue/

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

“Third ear” --- Ilana Zohar in her article, “Art of negotiation” Leadership skills required for negotiation in time of crisis (2015) states:

“Listen for What the Other Person Really Wants to Say, But Does not - The third ear involves listening for the essence of things. A useful reminder is to use the "e" and "a" and "r" of "ear" :explore what is not clear, acknowledge what is understood, then respond.”

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

Frontline --- I can see your point Ivy, this being said, if you think about it (and you say it yourself), the soft skills are the same. The difference is that on the frontline, your interlocutor might have a kalashnikov and maybe will threaten you with it, which will generate a huge amount of stress. But sitting in a meeting with a Prime Minister will also generate stress, although of a different kind. I am not sure we could introduce stress management in this HD course, but it is an idea.

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

Red lines --- This is where your red lines come in. You need to know how far you are willing to compromise about the outcome, or what you are willing to "give" to get 100% of the outcome you wish. But this is of course difficult when it comes to humanitarian principles as they are not negotiable.

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

Negotiation vs persuation --- I would argue and say that if you do not need to compromise there is probably no negatiation, because you either agree from the start or disagree to a point where only one part's wished outcome is satisfied 100%. Then I would rather call it persuation.

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

Red lines --- Before you start negotiating you need to know your red lines, how far you or your organisation is willing to go in terms of compromises, to reach your an outcome that is good enough.

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

Verbal vs written --- Interesting point Catherine, and let us not forget that the value of any agreement depends on the determination of the parties to respect it! I spent 10 years negotiating access to security detainees in Myanmar, it ended with a handshake in 1999 and the agreement lasted until my interlcutor was placed under house arrests (several years later)! In another Asian country, it took 3 years to negotiate a written agreement on the same topic, and it was not respected almost immediately. Such is the life of a HDiplomat !!

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

French --- Gerhard, 13 countries in the world have French as official language, and of course, this does not include countries like Canada (Québec), Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia and a couple of other, where French is the second language.. Furthermore French has been the language of Western diplomacy for two centuries, so it seems there is a strong reason to celebrate the Francophonie!

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

ICRC lead kidnapping cases --- I know that the ICRC is very good at that. Maybe the ICRC should open tease services to any kidnapping, be it private, business,..... That would make sure that there is no market, no ransom paid,.... less future kidnapping.

Source author: Gerhard Tauscher gerhardtoday@gmail.com

drinking cultures --- In Europe, especially in Eastern Europe it would include some drinks at any time!

Source author: Gerhard Tauscher gerhardtoday@gmail.com

french language --- Can support that and add to your "French theory". There are regular Francophonie Summit and International Francophonie Day (20 March). Its celebrated by the French Diplomatic system. I always wondered about that as very special French. If e.g. Germany would do something similar in that scale, it would be seen as a part of Nazi Germany been back!

Source author: Gerhard Tauscher gerhardtoday@gmail.com

domestic vs international --- I think that Japanese would make a difference if it is a negotiation within Japan or with a foreign entity. In the professional world all parties will be aware of the traditional norms and theories.

Source author: Gerhard Tauscher gerhardtoday@gmail.com

new chance in a crisis --- I believe that a crisis can open new opportunities and the parties might understand better the need to come to a solution.

Source author: Gerhard Tauscher gerhardtoday@gmail.com

Question --- If sub-national entities sign commercial agreements who will a) protect such agreements b) in case of disagreements who will be taken to court— the state or the sub-national entity that has signed the agreement?

Source author: Dubo Mohamed mohacpr@gmail.com

Commercial diplomacy on behalf of... --- Should we add also local governments and non-State entities to your list Mavis? Thanks.

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

Commercial diplomacy --- To this entry I would like to add that commercial diplomacy uses politics and influence of the State to defend its economic interests and successfully penetrate international markets to consolidate businesses and attract foreign direct investment.

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

And what about social media? --- Vladimir, I greatly appreciate you playing Devil's advocate here. My personal belief lies in freedom of speech and the upholding of human rights, but I would be lying if I told you I don't think about the other side often. One of the arguments often used to justify freedom of speech as a categorical imperative for all nations is that it creates a "market of ideas" where innovation flourishes, and development follows. Under this notion, a nation that favours censorship indirectly goes against the development of its people. However, we can only look at the large scale information disorders we saw in the last few years, or Trump's use of social media, the genocide in Myanmar, Facebook being responsible for this and that and not being willing to change... I think this scenario is terrible because it attacks some of the very justifications we have for freedom of speech online.

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

One of the differences --- In my work I've faced a crucial difference between these two: cybersecurity is inherently linked to computers while information security precedes it in origin and applies to physical information as well. For example, in our COVID research we have a great deal of information originally recorded in paper documents. We have our own team of archivist and they use the CIA triad — in fact they trained our entire team on it just a few days ago.

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

I was in this situation --- I had a conversation with a board member where I basically told her this same scenario. (For clarification, I was telling about the possibility of it happening.) Her response: first panic as she realized how much we had to lose, then urgency as she told me to go on ahead and get the software my team was requesting. ...That said, board members and executives have brief memories. I got an approval that one time, but they fall into a comfort zone where they think it will all be ok now, no more improvements necessary. The next time shaking them out of it is harder, and it keeps getting harder every time...

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

Quantum computing --- Here's my scenario: in the future, maybe ten or so years from now, there will be a slight increase in credit card frauds. Just small enough that no one notices, but it will keep growing and no one will be able to tell where it's coming from. Then, in the middle of an otherwise regular day, an unprecedented wave of credit card and bank fraud will leave the whole economic system in shambles. The truth will then come out: multiple criminal organisations are now in possession of quantum computers and have trivialized encryption and password protection worldwide. Governments and the private sector will try to contain the damage, revert these transactions... But they'll realize they are now locked out of their own systems, as the hackers now own the keys to the house -- or all the houses.

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

Also, a matter of costs and hygiene --- Adding to what you said, Scott, I find that working from home has had a positive economic impact. People save money (and time) by not commuting and they can save even more on rent by moving to cheaper locations now that distance is no longer an issue. There's also an issue of COVID and hygiene. Sadly I cannot work from home and my workplace often has COVID+ people in it. The time we all need on the shower is not small, and the stress of possibly bringing in pathogens home is a source of anxiety. Given our circumstances, working from home is a great option. I wish I could do it!

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

Is there such a thing as a "standard balance"? --- I've been reflecting quite a lot about this over the last few months. In my family, workplace and social circle I see a whole spectrum on this matter: some went on depression while working from home, some flourished when returning to the office, and many more who now outright refuse to return to their workplaces because working from home is just better for them.

I know some people who work in the tech sector who take this as a workers' rights matter. They communicated to their employers, in a non-negotiable manner, that they won't be returning to the offices, period. If they're asked to they will quit and find a workplace that allows it.

I think that, as we come out of the pandemic, we may have to deal with the fact that mixed on-site and work from home teams may become common. Maybe the "right balance" between these extremes is unique to each individual and their psychology.

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

Definitions are key --- It may appear that definitions sometimes are only matters of semantics, but in the case of cibersecurity they are essencial, since as mention, several stakeholders hold different perspectives of what the phenomena is and what to do about it, if anything. Another problem is that some of those players are plaintiffs, defendats and even judges, at the same time, which complicates the matter, like the USA or the EU, which have to act to strike a balance between security and company growth.

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

To turn the ship around --- Your comment remind me to one part of Marc Goodman, Future Crimes, esp. p517-520 when he mention Facebook’s slogan of “move fast and break things” which considerably a common mentality fo software engineer.

He recommend Big Tech to pay for incentive for everyone (hacker) that found vulnerabilities in its system. He said it is better than to let these hacker sell that discovery to Crime, Inc.

Source author: Mira Fajriyah halo@mirafajri.id

Global cybersecurity --- There comes the question if shouldnt exist an follow up from an international regulation.

Source author: Juan Miguel López Vázquez Samaniego jsamaniego@sre.gob.mx

can't lose the people's trust --- @Aura - Sounds like a great project that was entered into with the right attitude by the researchers involved. I think something that is often forgotten by researchers is that the general public and communities where the work is being done are important stakeholders in the research enterprise (presuming that the research being done is being funded by a tax-funded agency, which is by and large the case at least in the US). Losing the trust of the people means that there is now a group of people who may not support spending tax dollars/euros/etc. on scientific research, so it's a short sighted approach which is ironic for paleontologist and archeologists who should have a broader perspective of deep time, right?

Source author: Ryan Haupt ryan.haupt@nysf.com

learning from each other --- Vid, I think exposing researchers to the policy process and policy makers to the research process is extremely helpful. That was actually one of my duties as a Science Policy Fellow. It usually involved setting up meetings for scientists with their legislators (usually someone on their staff) on Capitol Hill, helping the scientist put together a one-pager about them and their research, training the scientist about how to have a constituent meeting, go to the meeting with them (so they don't get lost and to keep the meeting on track). Usually we'd have at least 3 meetings a trip because folks have 1 representative in the House and 2 senators. So that definitely helped the scientists get a taste of the policy world, and to turn that around I would ALWAYS recommend the scientist invite the legislator and/or their staff to visit their campus or lab or even field site. Can't say it always worked out, but hopefully it was a step in the right direction.

Source author: Ryan Haupt ryan.haupt@nysf.com

scientists setting the stakes --- @Veronica - I like those ideas a lot! I think we also need to help scientists understand that the way they frame their results can impact the policy process in ways that are actually the opposite of what they are hoping to achieve. A scientist may say that they have a 95% certainty that human-derived CO2 emissions are driving climate change, and someone who does not want to take action on climate change may see that and say "see? not even the scientists are sure, so we don't need to take any action". Whereas if scientists realized that in the policy realm they need to frame their results along the lines of "CO2 is a pollutant in our atmosphere, there is more of it in our atmosphere than there used to be, and we have X, Y, and Z methods for determining that much of it is coming from human activities." One challenge here is that science is fundamentally descriptive in nature not proscriptive, so scientists are comfortable describing things as they are but have a hard time being comfortable with taking the next step, which in this example would be to say "therefore we SHOULD reduce carbon emissions as much as possible and as quickly as possible", but that is likely the conclusion they are hoping the policymaker will draw, so they need to make sure they are framing their descriptive results in ways that guide the conversation in that direction.

Source author: Ryan Haupt ryan.haupt@nysf.com

AUKUS --- True, China and the United States will continue to dominate world economies. For a moment, there were fears that AUKUS will start another Cold war with China but that is unlikely to happen since Australia and US have strong bilateral ties with China already. Furthermore, the Chinese Americans are seen as playing a significant role in influencing American policies toward China, and US private business is also likely also to pressurize their government to be more considerate towards China.

Source author: Matshedisa Emily Mokoena mokoenamati@gmail.com

coherent national foreign policy --- In order for the national government not to perceive para-diplomacy as a challenge to their sovereignty, it is important that the variety of voices coming from one country to the international arena, presents a coherent national foreign policy.

Source author: Matshedisa Emily Mokoena mokoenamati@gmail.com

Role of para diplomacy during Covid-19 --- Para-diplomacy has been playing an important role during the Covid-19 crisis. An example: Barcelona (Spain) has decided to spend 400,000 euros to fight Covid-19 in cities abroad. Therefore, the internationalization of domestic constituencies, especially through decentralized cooperation creates direct benefits for the sub-state bodies.

Source author: Matshedisa Emily Mokoena mokoenamati@gmail.com

Arbitration in different countries --- Yes it differs, take for example a country like South Africa, it enacted the Protection of Investment Act in 2015, which is in line with the country's constitution. Even though the Act permits the government to consent to international arbitration, that only happens after the investor has exhausted all domestic remedies. Also, South Africa and the investor's home state have to agree to conduct the international arbitration, and the international arbitration, is seen as being between the two states and not between South Africa and the investor.

Source author: Matshedisa Emily Mokoena mokoenamati@gmail.com

the doctrine... --- was used to curb the abuse of diplomatic protection by foreign investors especially, from powerful countries.

Source author: Omphile Sethunya Sedimo sedimosethunya44@gmail.com

The Calvo Doctrine --- is a foreign policy doctrine which holds that jurisdiction in international investment disputes lies with the country in which the investment is located. The Calvo Doctrine thus proposed to prohibit diplomatic protection or (armed) intervention before local resources were exhausted.

Source author: Mavis Tungulu mtungulu@gmail.com

The Calvo Doctrine --- The Calvo Doctrine says, in essence, that investors have to accept the jurisdiction of the host country's laws and should not appeal to their own governments in case of any conflict in the enforcement of a contract.

Source author: Mavis Tungulu mtungulu@gmail.com

Help me to help you --- I use this approach a lot as it takes away the 'blame' factor and authorities are then likely to (hopefully) be more receptive as you arent just pointing out problems telling them to fix them. The 'help me to help you' makes the dialogue more solutions focused too.

Source author: Cara Ceriani caraceriani@hotmail.com

Inter-personal relationships --- It's always good to hear from colleagues about their interactions with different interlocuters so you know what to expect / their personality etc. but I have found sometimes though that someone my colleague found it easy to build rapport with, I may struggle with and vice versa, people they struggled to deal with I have found quite easy.

Source author: Cara Ceriani caraceriani@hotmail.com