DW Weekly #205 – Turkish protests

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Dear readers,

In this week’s edition, we untangle the clash of free speech, power, and platforms, during the mass protests in Türkiye, where many X accounts have been suspended, digging into what it means for global diplomacy, content policy, and the future of online speech.

IN FOCUS: Turkish protests – Freedom of speech has taken centre stage this week, with Türkiye’s streets erupting in mass protests and Elon Musk’s platform X again under fire. With account suspensions, government requests, and a tech giant caught between free expression and compliance, all eyes are on how X navigates this storm.

RADAR: UN General Assembly adopts resolution on WSIS+20 review modalities; Trump weighs tariff cuts to secure TikTok deal; EU softens AI copyright rules; SoftBank leads massive investment in OpenAI.

READING CORNER:

IN FOCUS

Turkish protests

The recent suspension of many accounts on X (formerly Twitter) amid Türkiye’s civil unrest has provoked a complex debate surrounding freedom of speech and content moderation policies. Another case in the row shows the complex balance social media platforms must maintain between upholding free expression and adhering to governmental regulations, particularly in politically volatile environments.

THE CONTEXT: What’s happening in Türkiye?

The turmoil in Türkiye was sparked by the arrest of Istanbul’s mayor, Ekrem İmamoğlu, a potential candidate in the Turkish presidential election on behalf of an opposition party. Charged with alleged corruption and ties to terrorism, İmamoğlu’s detention led to widespread protests across major Turkish cities, including Istanbul, Ankara, and İzmir. Demonstrators viewed the arrest as a politically motivated attempt to sideline a key opposition figure ahead of the 2028 presidential elections. The government’s response was swift, resulting in over 1,100 arrests, including several journalists.

Amid the escalating protests, the Turkish Information and Communication Technologies Authority reportedly requested X to block more than 700 accounts, including those of news organisations, journalists, and political figures. These accounts primarily shared information about protest locations and organised demonstrations. Yusuf Can, the Wilson Center’s Middle East Program coordinator, noted that many suspended accounts were ‘university-associated activist accounts, basically sharing protest information, locations for students to go.’

However, X’s actions were inconsistent. While it allegedly suspended some accounts selectively, the platform publicly rejected the broader demand to block over 700 accounts, labelling the request as ‘illegal’ and asserting:

‘X will always defend freedom of speech everywhere we operate.’  ​

X’s partial compliance with these requests has been criticised, especially given Elon Musk’s previous assertions of championing free speech on the platform. Despite Musk’s stance, X generally does respond to governmental content removal requests, with the company’s transparency report indicating an 86% compliance rate during the second half of 2024 in Türkiye.

Either way, the suspension of accounts during the Turkish protests raises critical questions about the responsibilities of social media platforms. While platforms like X operate globally, they must navigate a complex web of local laws and regulations. In Türkiye, laws mandate that social media companies appoint local representatives and comply with content removal requests under threat of fines or bandwidth reductions. This legal framework places platforms in a challenging position, balancing governmental compliance while trying to preserve user rights and freedom of expression.​

To conclude:

The measures taken by X amid Türkiye’s protests underscore a constant challenge: content policy isn’t unchangeable; it’s a continuous legal dispute between big tech, national power and the voice of the people. Therefore, as social media platforms play an integral role in political discourse and activism, their content moderation policies and responses to governmental requests will remain under intense scrutiny. However, these common controversies demand transparent policies enabling companies to uphold the principles of free expression while curbing harmful content and being mindful of the complex landscape of content policies and political dynamics.

Find the full dig.watch analysis here or in our READING CORNER!

For more information on cybersecurity, digital policies, AI governance and other related topics, visit diplomacy.edu.

Related news:

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Legal experts are divided over whether the SEC’s lawsuit against Musk is justified or politically motivated.

RADAR:

UN General Assembly adopts resolution on WSIS+20 review modalities

On 25 March 2025, the UN General Assembly (UNGA) adopted the resolution defining the modalities for the overall review of the implementation of the outcomes of the World Summit on the Information Society (the WSIS+20 review). 

Trump weighs tariff cuts to secure TikTok deal

US President Donald Trump has indicated he is willing to reduce tariffs on China as part of a deal with ByteDance, TikTok’s Chinese parent company, to sell the popular short-video app.

Visit dig.watch now for the latest updates and other topics!

Marko and the Digital Watch team


RADAR

Highlights from the week of 21-28 March 2025

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By allowing platforms to govern their digital spaces, Section 230 supports freedom of expression and guards against excessive censorship.

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Amid European legal shifts, developers of general-purpose AI models are finding clearer ground, as the latest draft of the EU AI Act’s copyright guidelines embraces practicality and proportionate enforcement.

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As ChatGPT’s features continue to capture the public’s imagination, OpenAI is close to sealing a colossal funding deal led by SoftBank that would double its valuation within months.

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The US is investigating whether banned AI chips reached Chinese firm DeepSeek.

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Financial authorities are split on crypto regulation, with the Central Bank pushing for a ban and the Ministry of Finance considering limited access for top investors.

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Apple has avoided penalties as the EU concludes its inquiry into iPhone browser options, following regulatory adjustments by the company.

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China rejected US accusations in the intelligence report, accusing Washington of using outdated Cold War thinking and hyping the ‘China threat’ to maintain military dominance.

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Bitcoin has dropped from $106,000 to $83,000 amid rising crypto crime, with analysts predicting further declines in the coming weeks.


READING CORNER

X Turkey protests freedom of speech 1
dig.watch

Freedom of speech has taken centre stage this week, with Türkiye’s streets erupting in mass protests and Elon Musk’s platform X again under fire. With account suspensions, government requests, and a tech giant caught between free expression and compliance, all eyes are on how X navigates this storm.

climate flow data
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Every March, yellow rain coats European cities, tinting cars and sidewalks with a golden hue. This striking phenomenon occurs when Saharan dust, carried by wind, travels thousands of kilometres and is washed down by rain. I learnt about it through conversations at the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO), where my office is located. In 2021, when 180,000 tonnes of dust swept across Europe, a webinar with Dr Slobodan Nickovic, creator of the ‘dust model’, deepened my understanding of this interplay between nature, science, and diplomacy, leading to reflections you can read in the original blog.

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No system works without standards – not cities, not cyberspace. As the metaverse grows, it needs rules that go beyond code. Read Part 6 of the new metaverse blog series: UN 2.0 and the Metaverse: Are We Seeing What Is Possible?

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As AI’s energy demands surge, nuclear power is emerging as a key solution to sustain its growth while minimising carbon emissions. Tech giants like Microsoft, Google, and Amazon are investing heavily in nuclear energy to power AI-driven data centres, signalling a potential nuclear renaissance in the age of AI.

UPCOMING EVENTS

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Digital Sovereignty and the open internet: Can they coexist? The Internet Governance Project (IGP) in collaboration with the Quello Center will gather

DW Weekly #204 – Alphabet’s $32 billion grab: Wiz joins Google’s cybersecurity army

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Dear readers,

Google’s parent company, Alphabet, has sealed a $32 billion deal to acquire Wiz, an Israeli cybersecurity powerhouse, marking the largest acquisition in Google’s history. Announced on 18 March 2025, this deal did not just happen overnight; it is a tale of persistence, political shifts, and a fierce battle for dominance in the cloud security landscape. Let’s dive into what this means for cybersecurity, the tech industry, and the broader US-China tech rivalry to focus on what truly matters.

Accelerated negotiations under the Trump administration

The story starts nearly a year ago when Google first tried to snag Wiz for $23 billion in July 2024, but the deal fell through, spooked by fears of harsh antitrust scrutiny under the Biden administration. Fast forward to Donald Trump’s return to the White House in January 2025, and the circumstances shifted. Trump’s inauguration was the game changer. His appointees, Andrew Ferguson of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and Gail Slater overseeing antitrust at the Justice Department, signalled a friendlier stance toward big mergers. For Wiz and Google executives, this was the green light they had been waiting for. Talks that had sputtered since last fall suddenly kicked into high gear, culminating in a deal sweetened by a hefty $9 billion bump and a massive $3.2 billion breakup fee, over 10% of the deal’s value, if regulators block it.

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Background on Wiz

Why the rush for Wiz? It is all about cloud security, a field growing more critical by the day as businesses shift online and cyber threats multiply. Wiz, founded in 2020 by ex-Israeli military tech experts, has soared to a $700 million annual revenue stream, with a 70% growth rate that is the industry’s envy. Its tech helps companies spot and fix risks across cloud platforms like Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure, and, yes, Google Cloud. For Google, which trails Amazon and Microsoft in the cloud race, Wiz is a golden ticket to beef up its offerings. 

Cybersecurity is no longer just a nice-to-have. Last year’s CrowdStrike outage showed how one glitch can cripple industries worldwide. Google’s cloud boss, Thomas Kurian, has relentlessly chased this prize, seeing Wiz as key to closing the gap with rivals.

But this deal is not without controversy. At $32 billion, it is a colossal bet, dwarfing Google’s previous big buy, Motorola Mobility, at $12.5 billion in 2012. The price tag reflects Wiz’s value, sure, but also the risk. Google is already tangled in two Justice Department lawsuits over its search and adtech dominance, and a deal this size could still draw a stern look, even under Trump’s lighter touch. Wiz executives, burned by watching Adobe’s $20 billion Figma bid crash in 2023 over antitrust woes, demanded that sky-high breakup fee as insurance. It is a rare move, most US deals hover around 4-7% for such fees, per a 2023 Fenwick and West study—but it shows how jittery both sides are about regulatory hurdles.

Implications for the cybersecurity landscape

Zoom out, and this acquisition fits into a larger chess game: the USA versus China in tech supremacy. On 17 March, the US Department of Commerce banned China’s DeepSeek AI from government devices, citing fears it could funnel data to Beijing. Wiz’s rise contrasts sharply with DeepSeek’s struggles; while the Chinese firm dazzles with cheap, clever AI models, it is hitting a wall of US restrictions. Google snapping up Wiz is not just about market share; it is a strategic grab to keep cutting-edge cybersecurity tech in Western hands. Israel’s knack for producing security stars—think Siemplify (bought by Google in 2022) or Adallom (snagged by Microsoft in 2015)—only amplifies this angle.

More info on cybersecurity, tech economy, tech industry and other related topics, visit our enormous database treasury on diplomacy.edu.

Looking ahead

Here is the takeaway: our online life is more vulnerable than ever, and companies like Google are racing to lock it down. Wiz’s tools will stay platform-agnostic, meaning they will work across clouds, not just Google’s, a nod to keeping customers happy and regulators at bay. However, the $32 billion question is whether this merger will spark a wave of innovation or just tighten Big Tech’s grip. Experts, like Evelyn Mitchell-Wolf from EMARKETER, warn it will face ‘too much scrutiny to go through completely unimpeded’, given Google’s legal baggage. Others see it as a shot in the arm for startups, with Wiz’s early backers like Sequoia and Index Ventures willing to cash out billions, per PitchBook data.

The cybersecurity world is watching as the deal heads toward a 2026 close. Will Google turn Wiz into a juggernaut that shields us from digital chaos, or will it stumble under its weight, burdened by regulators or rivalries? One thing is clear: Alphabet has made a bold move in the high-stakes game of tech and security, and the board is far from settled.

For more information on cybersecurity, digital policies, AI governance and other related topics, visit diplomacy.edu.

Related news:

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The launch of three data centres in Kuala Lumpur is part of Microsoft’s ongoing investment in Malaysia, aiming to turn the country into a hub for cloud and AI innovation.

In other news:

Zero draft resolution for Scientific Panel on AI and Global Dialogue on AI Governance published

As part of the intergovernmental process dedicated to defining terms of reference and modalities for the Independent International Scientific Panel on AI and the Global Dialogue on AI Governance (whose creation was agreed in the context of the Global Digital Compact), the co-facilitators, Costa Rica and Spain, made available a zero draft resolution on 19 March 2025. 

Apple faces EU crackdown over closed technology

The European Commission has ordered Apple to grant rival smartphone, headphone, and virtual reality companies access to its technology and mobile operating system.

Visit dig.watch now for the latest updates and other topics!

Marko and the Digital Watch team


Highlights from the week of 14-21 March 2025

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Several states, including Virginia, Texas, and New York, have already enacted prohibitions.

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French prosecutors suspect Telegram’s founder of enabling illegal activities on the platform.

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Travellers from 60 non-EU countries, including the UK, will need to apply for the ETIAS starting in late 2026. The application will include personal details, security questions, and a €7…

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The German company aims to deepen collaboration with Chinese suppliers, integrating them into its global innovation network to drive long-term technological advancements and smarter vehicle systems.

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A coalition of European companies proposes a “buy European” policy to stimulate demand and encourage local investment in key technology sectors.

The local Competition Board is evaluating the business practices of global streaming giants as part of its efforts to ensure fair competition within the local digital entertainment market.

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In a recent event in Stoke-on-Trent, teachers gathered to explore how AI could be used in classrooms.

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Global discussions on AI regulation are intensifying, with China setting a precedent for stricter oversight.

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Vice President JD Vance says negotiations aim to create an independent American TikTok.

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The FCC has established a national security unit to strengthen the resilience of the US telecom sector, reduce reliance on foreign supply chains, and address cyber threats, espionage, and strategic…


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UNESCO’s Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence sets a global standard for AI governance. It provides a framework for policymakers to ensure AI development aligns with ethical and inclusive principles.

DW Weekly #203 – Musk under siege: X cyberattack, Tesla crisis, and Trump ties inspire conspiracy theories

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Dear readers,

Elon Musk’s social media platform, X, experienced evident disruptions on Monday, 10 March 2025, affecting tens of thousands of users worldwide. The outages began around 6 a.m. Eastern Time, peaking at approximately 10 a.m. with over 41,000 reported issues, according to Downdetector. Users reported difficulties accessing the platform on mobile devices and computers worldwide, with services gradually returning to normal later in the day.

Elon Musk attributed these disruptions to a ‘massive cyberattack’, suggesting that a large, coordinated group or possibly a nation-state was involved. He said, ‘We get attacked every day, but this was done with many resources. Either a large, coordinated group and/or a country is involved.’ However, cybersecurity experts have expressed scepticism regarding Musk’s claims. They note that Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks, which overwhelm servers with excessive traffic, can be executed by relatively small groups or even individuals without the backing of a nation-state. ​

Musk further elaborated in an interview with Fox Business’ Larry Kudlow, asserting that the attack originated from IP addresses in the ‘Ukraine area’. This claim has raised eyebrows among cybersecurity professionals, as attributing cyberattacks based solely on IP addresses is notoriously unreliable. Attackers often use proxy servers and botnets across various countries to mask their true location, making definitive attribution challenging.

Either way, the timing of this cyberattack coincides with a tumultuous period for Musk’s business ventures, notably Tesla. Shares of Tesla have plummeted 15.4% to $222.15, their lowest since October. This decline is attributed to waning investor confidence due to the company’s declining global sales. Namely, Tesla experienced its first annual global sales decline last year, with significant drops in key markets such as California, Europe, and China. Analysts foresee a further 5% drop in US deliveries for 2025.

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Compounding these financial challenges is Musk’s public alliance with President Donald Trump. Musk has been a prominent supporter of the Trump administration, contributing $277 million to Trump’s campaign and allied Republicans, making him the largest individual political donor in the 2024 election. This alliance has sparked a backlash from Tesla’s predominantly environmentally conscious customer base, leading to protests at Tesla showrooms and acts of vandalism against vehicles.

Furthermore, Musk has been appointed by President Trump to lead the newly established Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), aiming to streamline federal operations and reduce unnecessary expenditures. Musk’s unconventional approach to this role, including setting up a gaming PC in the Secretary of War Suite at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, has drawn both attention and criticism. His methods have been described as radical, openly dismissing traditional roles and respect for federal employees and their work.

Conclusions:

First, the convergence of these events—the cyberattack on X, Tesla’s market challenges, and Musk’s deepening political engagements—paints a complex picture of the current landscape surrounding Musk’s enterprises. The cyberattack raises questions about X’s security infrastructure and the potential motives behind such an attack. If a nation-state were indeed involved, it could signify a targeted effort to disrupt a platform influential in global communications.​

Secondly, Tesla’s declining stock value means broader concerns about the company’s future performance amid increasing competition in the electric vehicle market. Companies like China’s BYD are emerging as formidable competitors, challenging Tesla’s market share. Musk’s political affiliations may also alienate a segment of Tesla’s customer base, further impacting sales.

Lastly, Musk’s alliance with President Trump positions him at a crucial intersection of business and politics. While this relationship significantly influences policies that could benefit his ventures, it also subjects him to heightened scrutiny and potential backlash. Public perception of Musk is becoming increasingly polarised, which could have additional and lasting implications for his businesses.

For more information on cybersecurity, digital policies, AI governance and other related topics, visit diplomacy.edu.

Related news:

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Musk suggested the attack was backed by significant resources, possibly indicating involvement by a large group or nation-state.

In other news:

Tusk warns against arrogance after US-Poland social media clash

In a recent post on X, Poland’s Prime Minister, Donald Tusk, has urged allies to show respect and avoid arrogance, following a heated social media exchange between Polish and US officials.

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Visit dig.watch now for the latest updates and other topics!

Marko and the Digital Watch team


Highlights from the week of 7-14 March 2025

Trunmp

Funding cuts to key cybersecurity initiatives under the Trump administration raise concerns about potential vulnerabilities in future US elections.

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Switzerland will require operators of critical infrastructure to report cyberattacks to the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) within 24 hours from 1 April 2025, with fines for non-compliance taking effect…

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The tax aims to target the profits of major tech companies to support local tech development, though its timing has sparked internal government debate.

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The decision comes after Telegram was allegedly used to coordinate the October 2023 anti-Israel riot at Makhachkala airport.

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The lawsuit claims Meta violated intellectual property rights by using the authors’ works without permission and removing copyright information to cover up the infringement.

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The ECB is also addressing privacy concerns and exploring blockchain technologies amid competitive pressure from global digital currencies like China’s digital yuan and US stablecoins.

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The situation has attracted potential buyers, including former Los Angeles Dodgers owner Frank McCourt, with analysts estimating TikTok’s value at up to $50 billion.

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This initiative is part of the country’s effort to strengthen its STEM workforce to meet national and international demands.

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Developed using 120 Nvidia H100 GPUs in four weeks, the model is based on Meta’s Llama 3.1 architecture and is optimised for traditional Chinese and Taiwanese language styles.

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While supporters cheer potential taxpayer gains, critics see it as a superficial rebranding.


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UNESCO’s Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence sets a global standard for AI governance. It provides a framework for policymakers to ensure AI development aligns with ethical and inclusive principles.

Geneva Dialogue Community Newsletter #1

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Dear friends,

We are excited to launch the Geneva Dialogue Community Newsletter to keep you informed about the most relevant policy developments in cyber diplomacy and cyber governance, critical infrastructure protection and cybersecurity.  In a world where digital policy is evolving rapidly and updates come from countless sources, it can be overwhelming to track what truly matters.

With this newsletter, we aim to share once in 3-4 weeks a carefully selected summary of the most important insights from Digital Watch Observatory, a space with updates and analysis which we at Diplo produce. Our goal is to provide a focused and digestible overview of the latest policy discussions, international negotiations, and emerging risks—helping you stay ahead in the ever-changing landscape of global cyber governance.

We hope this becomes a valuable resource for our community, offering clarity in complexity and fostering informed discussions on responsible behaviour in cyberspace.

The Geneva Dialogue team


Highlights from the previous month

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The OEWG’s tenth session in February 2025 saw states emphasise collective action against cyber threats, address divisions on norms implementation and binding regulations, highlight the Voluntary Fund and Capacity-Building Portal, and discuss the future permanent mechanism for ICT security

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Google has removed an ethical commitment from its AI principles, sparking concerns that it may pursue harmful applications, including weapons technology.

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Singapore introduced three new AI governance initiatives to enhance global safety, including a pilot for generative AI testing, a joint report with Japan on language-specific safeguards, and a Red Teaming Challenge evaluation to address cultural biases in AI models. 

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ANSSI’s new publication advocates a risk-based approach to securing AI systems, emphasising risk assessments, supply chain mapping, continuous monitoring, and safeguards for critical AI applications.

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Google’s report highlights the growing intersection between cybercrime and state-backed cyber operations, noting that cybercriminal networks provide tools, services, and recruitment opportunities for government-linked actors, necessitating distinct but coordinated responses.

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A report by Telstra International and Omdia reveals that 75% of cyber incidents affecting manufacturing firms targeted converged IT and operational technology (OT) systems, highlighting significant cyber risks and a lack of preparedness.

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The EU Commission’s proposal seeks to boost cybersecurity cooperation among Member States through collaborative clusters, a common crisis management taxonomy, ongoing exercises, improved DNS strategies, and enhanced information sharing with public and private entities and NATO.

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The UK Home Office’s new vulnerability reporting policy allows researchers to disclose security issues but lacks legal protections, raising concerns that they could face prosecution under the Computer Misuse Act.

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A reassessment of strategy and diplomatic efforts in US geopolitics.

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CISA has denied reports suggesting a shift in its approach to Russian cyber threats.

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Japan plans to prioritize domestic software for cybersecurity, although experts caution that limiting foreign solutions could hinder access to cutting-edge technologies and reduce industry competitiveness.



Numéro 97 de la lettre d’information Digital Watch – mars 2025

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Coup d’oeil : Les développements qui font des vagues

Gouvernance de l’IA

Les entreprises chinoises soutiennent de plus en plus l’IA de DeepSeek, marquant un tournant pour le secteur. Des entreprises telles que Moore Threads et Hygon Information Technology permettent à leurs clusters informatiques de prendre en charge les modèles R1 et V3 de DeepSeek, qui utilisent des processeurs graphiques (GPU) produits localement.

La Commission européenne a lancé le projet OpenEuroLLM, une nouvelle initiative visant à développer des modèles d’IA open source et multilangues.

L’Australie a interdit l’utilisation de la start-up chinoise d’IA DeepSeek sur tous les appareils gouvernementaux, invoquant des risques de sécurité.

Les dirigeants mondiaux se sont réunis à Paris pour la deuxième journée du Sommet sur l’Action en Intelligence Artificielle (IA), où l’accent a été mis sur l’équilibre entre les intérêts nationaux et la coopération mondiale.

Dans son éditorial De Hammurabi à ChatGPT, Jovan Kurbalija s’appuie sur l’ancien Code d’Hammurabi pour défendre le principe de responsabilité juridique dans la réglementation et la gouvernance modernes de l’IA. 

Technologies 

DeepSeek, une startup chinoise émergente en IA, accélère la sortie de son dernier modèle d’IA, R2, après le succès retentissant de son prédécesseur, R1.

La start-up d’IA d’Elon Musk, xAI, a dévoilé son dernier modèle, Grok-3, que le milliardaire affirme être la technologie de chatbot la plus avancée.

Le New York Times a officiellement approuvé l’utilisation d’outils d’IA pour ses équipes éditoriales et produits, permettant à l’IA d’aider à des tâches telles que la création de contenu pour les réseaux sociaux, la rédaction de titres optimisés pour le référencement et le codage.

Microsoft a annoncé une puce informatique quantique révolutionnaire, Majorana 1, qui, selon elle, pourrait rendre les ordinateurs quantiques fonctionnels d’ici quelques années.

La Chine a averti que les efforts des États-Unis pour faire pression sur d’autres nations afin de cibler son industrie des semi-conducteurs finiront par se retourner contre eux.

Infrastructures

Un laboratoire spatial ultramoderne à la périphérie du Caire, présenté comme la première installation de production de satellites en Afrique, a été construit avec une contribution chinoise considérable.

Le réseau Starlink d’Elon Musk est confronté à une concurrence croissante sur le marché de l’internet par satellite, notamment de la part de SpaceSail, une société basée à Shanghai soutenue par le gouvernement chinois, et du projet Kuiper d’Amazon.

Cybersécurité

La Commission européenne a présenté une proposition visant à renforcer la réponse de l’UE aux cyberattaques de grande envergure.

Des pirates informatiques ont dérobé 1,5 milliard de dollars à la plateforme d’échange de crypto-monnaie Bybit, basée à Dubaï, dans ce qui est considéré comme le plus grand braquage numérique de l’histoire.

Suite à la récente faille de sécurité de Bybit, les principales entreprises de crypto-monnaies ont uni leurs forces pour lutter contre l’attaque et en atténuer l’impact.

Droits numériques

Elon Musk a relancé sa rivalité avec OpenAI en menant un consortium qui a proposé une offre colossale de 97,4 milliards de dollars pour acquérir l’organisation à but non lucratif qui gouverne le créateur de ChatGPT.

Le Service national de renseignement (NIS) de Corée du Sud a fait part de ses préoccupations concernant l’application d’IA chinoise DeepSeek, l’accusant de collecter excessivement des données personnelles et de les utiliser pour l’entraînement de ses modèles.

TikTok a introduit une nouvelle méthode permettant aux utilisateurs américains d’Android de télécharger directement l’application depuis son site web, contournant ainsi les restrictions imposées par les magasins d’applications.

L’autorité sud-coréenne de protection des données a suspendu les nouveaux téléchargements de l’application chinoise d’IA DeepSeek, invoquant des préoccupations liées au non-respect des lois nationales sur la protection de la vie privée.

Un juge fédéral américain a rejeté une demande visant à suspendre temporairement l’accès du Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) d’Elon Musk aux données de sept agences fédérales et à empêcher toute nouvelle réduction de personnel.

Juridique

Une société d’éducation en ligne a intenté un procès contre Google, affirmant que ses aperçus de recherche générés par l’IA nuisent à l’édition numérique

L’administration Trump réévalue les conditions des subventions du CHIPS et Science Act, qui allouent 39 milliards de dollars pour stimuler la production nationale de semi-conducteurs.

La plateforme de médias sociaux X, propriété d’Elon Musk, a obtenu le retrait d’un juge dans une affaire judiciaire en Allemagne concernant les demandes de données électorales en temps réel.

Trump Media & Technology Group and Rumble have filed an emergency motion in a US court against Brazilian Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes.

Trump Media & Technology Group et Rumble ont déposé une requête d’urgence devant un tribunal américain contre le juge brésilien Alexandre de Moraes.

Economie de l’Internet

Les investisseurs chinois se ruent sur les actions liées à l’IA, misant sur le succès de la start-up DeepSeek pour propulser la Chine au premier plan de la course à l’IA sur fond de conflit technologique sino-américain croissant.

Lors d’une réunion à la Maison Blanche vendredi, le président américain Donald Trump et le PDG de Nvidia, Jensen Huang, ont discuté des défis émergents posés par les progrès de la Chine en IA, en particulier l’ascension rapide de DeepSeek qui a perturbé l’industrie technologique mondiale.

Le président Emmanuel Macron a annoncé des investissements du secteur privé d’un montant total d’environ 109 milliards d’euros (112,5 milliards de dollars) dans le secteur français de l’IA lors du sommet de l’IA à Paris.

Elon Musk, qui dirige l’initiative fédérale de réduction des coûts sous Donald Trump, a annoncé que des mesures étaient en cours pour fermer l’Agence des États-Unis pour le développement international (USAID).

Le président Donald Trump a confirmé mercredi qu’il était en discussion active avec la Chine sur l’avenir de TikTok, alors que les États-Unis cherchent à négocier la vente de l’application populaire.

La société de médias sociaux d’Elon Musk, X, est en discussion pour lever des fonds auprès d’investisseurs pour une valorisation de 44 milliards de dollars.

Développement

Alibaba a annoncé son intention d’investir au moins 380 milliards de yuans (52,44 milliards de dollars) dans l’informatique en nuage et les infrastructures d’IA au cours des trois prochaines années.

Le laboratoire pharmaceutique américain Amgen a annoncé un investissement de 200 millions de dollars dans un nouveau centre technologique en en Inde du Sud, qui utilisera l’IA et la science des données pour soutenir le développement de nouveaux médicaments.

Socioculturel

Un tribunal allemand a ordonné à la plateforme de médias sociaux X d’Elon Musk de fournir aux chercheurs des données permettant de suivre la propagation de la désinformation avant les élections nationales du 23 février.

Des procureurs français ont ouvert une enquête sur X, anciennement Twitter, pour des accusations de biais algorithmique.

Meta s’est associée à l’UNESCO pour améliorer la reconnaissance et la traduction des langues par l’IA, en mettant l’accent sur les langues sous-représentées.

Un rapport récent du régulateur australien de la sécurité en ligne (eSafety) révèle que les enfants du pays n’ont aucun mal à contourner les restrictions d’âge sur les plateformes de réseaux sociaux.

Un tribunal russe a condamné Google à une amende de 3,8 millions de roubles (32 600 £) pour hébergement de vidéos YouTube prétendument destinées à instruire les soldats russes sur la manière de se rendre.

Le Mexique s’est fermement opposé à la décision de Google de renommer le golfe du Mexique « golfe de l’Amérique » pour les utilisateurs américains de Google Maps.Pour plus d’informations sur la cybersécurité, les politiques numériques, la gouvernance de l’IA et d’autres sujets connexes, consultez le site diplomacy.edu.

En bref

Les négociations du GTCNL entrent dans leur phase finale

Le Groupe de travail à composition non limitée des Nations Unies (GTCNL) sur la sécurité des technologies de l’information et des communications et leur utilisation (2021-2025) a tenu sa dixième session de fond, l’avant-dernière du groupe avant la fin de son mandat en juillet cette année.

Les tensions ont été vives dès le premier jour, les accusations de cyberattaques et les droits de réponse dénonçant ces accusations occupant le devant de la scène. Les États ont fermement maintenu leurs positions, qui n’ont guère évolué depuis la dernière session en décembre 2024. Le président a souligné le manque de dialogue direct, les participants ayant opté pour une approche de type « forum de discussion» en diffusant leurs positions et en les publiant sur le portail, et a rappelé aux délégués que toutes les décisions devaient être prises par consensus, les exhortant à faire preuve de flexibilité.

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Les rançongiciels, l’IA et les menaces pesant sur les infrastructures critiques restent les principales préoccupations des pays en matière de cybersécurité. Même si les États ne s’accordent pas sur une liste exhaustive des menaces ou de leurs origines, l’accent est mis sur les réponses collectives et coopératives telles que le renforcement des capacités et le partage des connaissances pour réduire le risque de ces menaces, ainsi que de les atténuer et les gérer.

Le débat de longue date entre la mise en œuvre des normes existantes et le développement de nouvelles s’est poursuivi. Cependant, cette session a vu les pays de l’ASEAN adopter une approche plus pragmatique, mettant l’accent sur des mesures concrètes pour appliquer les normes convenues tout en restant ouverts à la discussion de nouvelles normes en parallèle. Dans le même temps, l’appel des pays en développement en faveur d’un renforcement accru des capacités a pris de l’ampleur, soulignant la difficulté de mettre en œuvre des normes sans ressources et sans soutien suffisants.

Les discussions sur le droit international ont peu progressé dans le rapprochement des positions des États – aucun consensus n’a encore été trouvé sur la nécessité de nouvelles réglementations juridiquement contraignantes pour le cyberespace. Il y a également des divergences sur la manière de poursuivre les discussions sur le droit international dans le futur mécanisme permanent des Nations Unies sur la cybersécurité.

Les discussions sur les mesures de renforcement de la confiance (CBM) ont été relativement discrètes, avec peu de nouvelles CBM introduites et des États fournissant peu de détails sur leur expérience du répertoire POC. De nombreux États ont partagé leur mise en œuvre des CBM, souvent liée à des initiatives régionales et à des bonnes pratiques, montrant leur empressement à rendre les CBM opérationnelles. Les États semblent désormais anticiper que le futur mécanisme permanent servira de forum pour des discussions détaillées sur les CBM.

Le Fonds de contributions volontaires et le Portail de renforcement des capacités sont de plus en plus considérés comme des résultats clés du processus du GTCNL. Cependant, les États restent prudents quant au risque de duplication des initiatives mondiales et régionales existantes, et aucun consensus clair n’a encore émergé quant aux objectifs précis de ces dispositifs.

Les États sont toujours aux prises avec les groupes thématiques et les questions de participation des parties prenantes non étatiques dans le futur mécanisme permanent. Les réflexions et les assemblées publiques à venir du Président devraient permettre de trouver des éléments acceptables pour toutes les délégations en vue du futur mécanisme permanent.

Les délégations ont de nombreux points à régler et très peu de temps pour le faire. Bien que cela ait été le mantra des deux dernières années, les négociations entrent maintenant vraiment dans la dernière ligne droite et le consensus reste difficile à atteindre. Cela augure des difficultés non seulement pour le rapport final du groupe, mais aussi une incertitude pour l’avenir des discussions de l’ONU sur la cybersécurité que le rapport établira.
Pour plus d’informations sur la cybersécurité, les politiques numériques, la gouvernance de l’IA et d’autres sujets connexes, consultez le site diplomacy.edu.

La fermeture de l’USAID : le pouvoir d’influence à la croisée des chemins

L’Agence des États-Unis pour le développement international (USAID) est une pierre angulaire du pouvoir d’influence américain depuis 1961, fournissant une aide humanitaire et favorisant le développement mondial. Cependant, la décision de l’administration Trump de la fermer a déclenché un débat intense sur l’avenir de la diplomatie et du pouvoir d’influence américain, un outil clé des relations internationales.

L’USAID en tant qu’instrument du pouvoir d’influence

Le pouvoir d’influence, concept introduit par Joseph Nye, désigne la capacité d’un pays à influencer les autres par l’attraction et la persuasion plutôt que par la force. L’USAID a joué un rôle crucial, en administrant 60 % de l’aide étrangère américaine et en distribuant 43,79 milliards de dollars en 2023. L’agence a formé des élites étrangères, favorisé les relations commerciales et amélioré l’image mondiale des États-Unis.

Malgré ses succès, l’USAID a été critiquée pour son inefficacité et sa mauvaise gestion. Des personnalités comme Elon Musk l’ont qualifiée de corrompue et inefficace, faisant écho aux critiques des think tanks conservateurs et aux rapports d’enquête mettant en évidence les défaillances bureaucratiques. Ces préoccupations ont contribué à la décision de Trump de dissoudre l’agence.

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La décision de fermer l’USAID

Le président Trump, soutenu par Musk, a justifié cette fermeture en invoquant le gaspillage et l’inefficacité. Musk est même allé jusqu’à qualifier l’agence d’« organisation criminelle ». L’administration a proposé de fusionner les fonctions de l’USAID avec celles du Département d’État afin d’aligner l’aide sur le programme « America First ». Cependant, cette décision a suscité des réactions négatives de la part des organisations humanitaires, qui ont averti qu’elle pourrait réduire à néant des décennies de progrès en matière de développement mondial.

Conséquences pour la diplomatie américaine

Le démantèlement de l’USAID élimine un outil majeur de pouvoir d’influence américain. Ses programmes ont permis de construire des alliances et d’améliorer l’image des États-Unis ; sans eux, le pays pourrait avoir du mal à maintenir son influence par des moyens non coercitifs. En outre, la Chine, par le biais de son initiative China Aid, comble déjà le vide laissé par les États-Unis, ce qui pourrait modifier l’équilibre des alliances mondiales.

La fin brutale des programmes de l’USAID, allant du déminage à l’aide aux réfugiés , pose des risques immédiats pour les populations vulnérables. Elle perturbe également un réseau complexe d’aide internationale, impliquant gouvernements, ONG et donateurs privés, soulevant ainsi des questions sur une éventuelle alternative à l’agence.

L’avenir du pouvoir d’influence 

La fermeture de l’USAID soulève des interrogations sur la pertinence du pouvoir d’influence dans un monde de plus en plus dominé par la force militaire et le réalisme politique. Alors que les stratégies militaires et la coercition économique prennent de l’ampleur, l’influence diplomatique basée sur des valeurs telles que la justice, l’équité et la solidarité semble incertaine.

D’autres acteurs mondiaux pourraient prendre le relais alors que les États-Unis se retirent de leur rôle de chef de file et du pouvoir d’influence. L’initiative chinoise « Belt and Road », le « Global Gateway » de l’UE et les projets de biens publics numériques de l’Inde les positionnent comme des leaders potentiels en Afrique et en Asie. Pendant ce temps, la Russie et la Turquie utilisent les médias d’État pour façonner les récits mondiaux.

La diplomatie publique numérique en péril

L’USAID a joué un rôle déterminant dans la diplomatie publique numérique, en soutenant des initiatives liées à l’intégrité de l’information et aux réseaux numériques.  La critique de ces programmes par l’administration Trump suggère une évolution vers une diplomatie plus traditionnelle, en coulisses, plutôt qu’à un recours aux médias sociaux.

Tout cela soulève d’autres questions : la diplomatie numérique va-t-elle disparaître au profit de négociations directes menées par les États ? Qui façonnera désormais les discours mondiaux sur les droits de l’Homme et le développement économique ? La diplomatie culturelle traditionnelle (échanges, rencontres en personne) retrouvera-t-elle sa place centrale ?Pour lire l’article dans son intégralité, cliquez ici. Pour plus d’informations sur la cyberdiplomatie, les politiques numériques, la gouvernance de l’IA et d’autres sujets connexes, consultez le site diplomacy.edu.

L’esprit du basket-ball au service d’une technologie de pointe : que vous a apporté le NBA Tech Summit ?

Le NBA Tech Summit s’est tenu à San Francisco le jour de la Saint-Valentin, en amont du week-end NBA All-Star, mettant en avant les innovations de pointe dans le sport, les médias et la technologie. Avec des figures du secteur tels que Jensen Huang, PDG de NVIDIA, et Steve Kerr, entraîneur des Warriors, le sommet a exploré l’évolution de la diffusion sportive, les investissements majeurs à venir et l’avenir du basket-ball.

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L’un des sujets clés  a été l’impact de l’IA et de la robotique sur le jeu, aidant les joueurs à atteindre des performances optimales. Alors que des avancées similaires ont été observées en amont des Jeux olympiques de Paris, la NBA fait un grand pas en avant avec la réalité augmentée (RA) et la fonction « Tabletop ». Cela permet aux fans de suivre les matchs sur un terrain virtuel où des avatars numériques reproduisent en temps réel les mouvements des joueurs. Cela permet d’analyser les matchs sous plusieurs angles, d’obtenir des statistiques en temps réel et même de simuler des résultats alternatifs.

Au-delà de la simple diffusion, l’engagement des fans est en pleine révolution. Des plateformes basées sur l’IA permettent aux spectateurs de voter pour les participants  aux compétitions, de poser des questions en temps réel et de participer à des événements interactifs avant et après les matchs. L’IA joue également un rôle clé dans l’analyse stratégique, aidant les entraîneurs et les joueurs à prendre des décisions plus éclairées dans les moments cruciaux.

La santé des joueurs est un autre sujet majeur d’innovation. Avec le calendrier intense de la NBA, les nouvelles technologies visent à réduire les blessures grâce à des capteurs portables intégrés aux équipements, mesurant les paramètres physiques vitaux en temps réel. Des inventions telles que les capteurs biométriques, les accéléromètres, la surveillance de la fatigue et les algorithmes prédictifs de prévention des blessures basés sur l’IA fournissent aux équipes médicales des informations instantanées, permettant d’anticiper les risques et d’éviter aux joueurs un surmenage inutile.

Pour les fans, l’expérience visuelle est en train d’être redéfinie. Les caméras haute résolution Ultra HD 8K et à 360 degrés offrent une expérience immersive, tandis que la perspective de la « caméra du joueur » rapproche les fans de l’action. Les progrès futurs comprendront la diffusion holographique des matchs et des commandes de caméra personnalisables, permettant aux téléspectateurs d’explorer le terrain sous tous les angles. Avec l’intégration de la 5G, le streaming sera plus rapide et plus stable.

La précision de l’arbitrage s’améliore également. La technologie Hawk-Eye suit désormais le mouvement du ballon, détecte les franchissements de lignes et garantit un chronométrage précis des tirs. L’IA aide à analyser les contacts entre les joueurs et à signaler les fautes potentielles aux arbitres. Le NBA Replay Center, soutenu par l’IA, accélère la prise de décision, réduit les erreurs humaines et garantit des résultats plus équitables. Des capteurs sur les paniers, l’analyse audio pour identifier les fautes simulées et l’arbitrage multi-caméras améliorent l’équité du jeu.

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La durabilité environnementale est également une priorité. Les stades de la NBA intègrent l’énergie solaire, un éclairage écoénergétique et des systèmes de recyclage de l’eau. Les billets numériques et les paiements sans contact réduisent le gaspillage de papier, tandis que les partenariats avec des organisations telles que la Green Sports Alliance et le NRDC renforcent l’engagement de la ligue en faveur de la durabilité.

Malgré ces avancées technologiques, l’essence du basket-ball reste intacte. Créé en 1891 à Springfield, ce sport continue d’évoluer sans perdre son esprit compétitif et passionné. Alors que l’IA, la RA et d’autres innovations améliorent l’expérience des joueurs et des fans, le basket-ball demeure avant tout  un sport basé sur l’habileté, la compétition et la passion.

Analyse

Journée de la protection des données 2025 : Une nouvelle ère pour la vie privée

La Journée de la protection des données 2025 a rassemblé des experts à Bruxelles et en ligne pour débattre des derniers défis en matière de protection de la vie privée. L’événement a donné lieu à des conférences, des tables rondes et des discussions sur l’application de la des réglementations, la coopération internationale et l’impact des technologies émergentes.

Dans son discours d’ouverture, Leonardo Cervera Navas a mis en garde contre l’utilisation des algorithmes utilisés pour déstabiliser les démocraties européennes et le déséquilibre des pouvoirs causé par les monopoles technologiques. Malgré ces défis, il a souligné que les valeurs européennes et les outils réglementaires tels que le Digital Clearing House 2.0 pourraient contribuer à préserver la vie privée.

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Un groupe d’experts animé par Kait Bolongaro a examiné les priorités en matière de protection des données et les défis liés à leur application. Le Contrôleur européen de la protection des données, Wojciech Wiewiorowski, a souligné le rôle des autorités de protection des données (DPA)  pour assurer la conformité au RGPD. Matthias Kloth a mis en avant la modernisation de la Convention 108+ comme une avancée juridique majeure. Les discussions ont également porté sur la coopération internationale, les experts convenant que bien qu’une collaboration mondiale soit nécessaire, les normes de confidentialité ne devaient pas être affaiblies.

Les questions du public ont soulevé des préoccupations quant à la complexité et au coût de l’application des droits à la vie privée. Wiewiorowski n’a pas vu de révision majeure du RGPD dans un avenir proche, mais a suggéré des ajustements procéduraux. Jo Pierson a proposé que les organisations de la société civile assistent les individus confrontés à des obstacles juridiques. Le débat a également porté sur l’IA chinoise DeepSeek, les panélistes s’abstenant de la qualifier de menace mais soulignant la nécessité pour l’Europe de contrôler les ensembles de données utilisés pour l’entraînement des IA. M. Wiewiorowski a comparé la course à l’IA au « moment Spoutnik » de la guerre froide, se demandant si l’Europe prenait du retard.

Une session sur les futurs défis, dirigée par Anna Buchta, a mis en évidence la complexité de la réglementation. Marina Kaljurand a noté un important déficit de connaissances numériques chez les législateurs européens, rendant les décisions politiques plus difficiles. Elle a également exprimé ses préoccupations concernant la décision d’adéquation du Royaume-Uni, qui expirera en juin 2025 ainsi que sur la détérioration des relations entre les États-Unis et l’UE sous Trump. Le commissaire britannique à l’information, John Edwards, a souligné l’impact perturbateur de l’IA sur la biométrie et le suivi des données, tandis qu’Alberto Di Felice, de DIGITALEUROPE, a critiqué la bureaucratie excessive, plaidant pour une simplification de la supervision réglementaire.

Beatriz de Anchorena, directrice de l’Autorité de protection des données d’Argentine, a défendu la Convention 108+ comme référence mondiale en matière de protection de la vie privée. L’Argentine, premier pays non européen à avoir obtenu l’adéquation de l’UE, est restée un chef de file de la réforme de la protection des données.

Une discussion sur les neurosciences et la vie privée, animée par Ella Mein, a exploré les préoccupations éthiques liées aux données cérébrales. Le professeur Marcello Ienca a mis en garde contre le risque de « neuro-discrimination » et les dangers liés à l’exploitation des données cérébrales. Anna Austin, jurisconsulte à la CEDH, a souligné les difficultés juridiques associées à ces nouvelles technologies, rappelant les exigences élevées pour accorder des dérogations à la protection des données.

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Le dernier débat, dirigé par Gabriela Zanfir-Fortuna, s’est concentré sur le renforcement de l’application des lois. Johnny Ryan, du Conseil irlandais des libertés civiles, a critiqué la lenteur de l’UE dans sa réponse aux abus de données personnelles, tandis que Nora Ni Loideain a mis en avant le rôle du RGPD dans l’attribution de plus grands pouvoirs aux autorités de protection des données (DPA).

L’événement a mis en évidence la nécessité d’une réglementation solide, d’une coopération mondiale sans compromis sur les standards de confidentialité et des mécanismes d’application plus efficaces pour protéger la vie privée dans un paysage numérique en rapide évolution.

Médias traditionnels vs réseaux sociaux et canaux alternatifs

La diffusion rapide de l’information numérique a transformé la communication, offrant à la fois des opportunités et des défis. Si les réseaux sociaux et les plateformes alternatives ont démocratisé l’accès à l’actualité, ils ont également permis  la propagation de fausses informations, de vidéos truquées et de contenus sensationnalistes. La tension entre les médias traditionnels et ces nouvelles formes de communication est au cœur des débats actuels sur les politiques de contenu et l’intégrité des médias.

Le cas de Novak Djokovic à l’Open d’Australie 2025 illustre bien cette évolution. Après que Novak Djokovic a été la cible de propos désobligeants d’un journaliste de Channel 9 à son encontre et celle de ses supporters serbes, Djokovic a refusé de donner une interview sur le court et a préféré s’exprimer directement sur les réseaux sociaux. Sa vidéo est rapidement devenue virale, suscitant le soutien de personnalités comme Elon Musk, qui a critiqué les médias traditionnels en les qualifiant de « filtre à négativité ». Cet incident a mis en évidence la capacité des médias sociaux à contourner les récits des médias grand public, soulevant des questions sur l’objectivité journalistique, la supervision éditoriale et et l’impact de la communication directe sur le débat public.

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De même, l’influence des médias alternatifs dans le débat politique s’est aussi illustrée à travers le podcast The Joe Rogan Experience. En 2024, la participation de Donald Trump à l’émission lui a permis de s’adresser à un large public hors des contraintes des médias traditionnels, ce qui a pu donner un coup de pouce à sa campagne présidentielle. En revanche, Kamala Harris a refusé une invitation exigeant que ses questions soient préalablement validées. Cette différence illustre la manière dont les politiciens s’adaptent aux nouveaux environnements médiatiques : certains  acceptent des discussions spontanées, d’autres préfèrent des communications plus contrôlés. Le cas de Vladimir Klitschko a également démontré comment les médias alternatifs offrent aux personnalités internationales un espace pour aborder des questions mondiales avec plus de nuances.

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L’expérience d’Elon Musk avec les médias met encore davantage en évidence cette dynamique. Après que les médias traditionnels ont déformé un geste qu’il a fait lors d’un événement public, Musk a utilisé X (anciennement Twitter) pour contrer le récit. Sa critique des « médias traditionnels », qu’il juge partiaux et lents à s’adapter, a trouvé un écho auprès de nombreux internautes, renforçant  l’intérêt croissant pour une communication directe et sans filtre. Cependant, ce changement comporte aussi des risques : les réseaux sociaux et les médias alternatifs manquent souvent de supervision éditoriale, facilitant ainsi la propagation de fausses informations.

L’essor des podcasts, des médias indépendants et des réseaux sociaux a perturbé le journalisme traditionnel, offrant de nouvelles façons d’attirer le public. Si ces plateformes offrent une plus grande liberté d’expression, elles suscitent des préoccupations quant à la véracité des informations, le rôle de la désinformation et la responsabilité des créateurs de contenu. Le défi consiste à trouver un équilibre entre l’ouverture et l’intégrité factuelle, en veillant à ce que les médias, traditionnels ou alternatifs, servent le public de manière fiable dans un monde où la limite entre vérité et manipulation devient de plus en plus floue



DW Weekly #202 – Trump’s cyber ceasefire: A new era in US-Russia relations?

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Dear readers,

The Trump administration’s decision to stipulate a cyber peace with Russia marks a dramatic shift in US cyber strategy, reflecting certain diplomatic efforts to resolve the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. The decision to halt offensive cyber operations against Russia, reportedly directed by National Security Adviser Pete Hegseth, has ignited debates over US national security, intelligence operations, and international cyber policy implications. Critics warn that the move weakens US cyber deterrence, emboldening adversaries like Russia to act with impunity, while proponents argue that de-escalation in cyberwarfare could improve diplomatic engagement.

The order to US Cyber Command to stop all ongoing cyber-offensive activities — as well as any planned activity — targeting Russian cyber infrastructure, which has often been linked to disinformation campaigns, espionage, and election interference, comes with other fundamental changes the Trump administration wants to implement to recalibrate US-Russia relations. The same Pete Hegseth, appointed under President Donald Trump as the US Secretary of Defence, played a key role in advocating for the policy shift, aligning it with Trump’s broader agenda of reducing hostilities with Moscow and prioritising direct diplomatic channels over covert cyber operations. Such a cybersecurity policy change is an extension of the administration’s reluctance to escalate confrontations with Russia, especially in cyberspace, which remains a critical battleground in modern geopolitical conflicts.

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However, the decision provoked immediate backlash from lawmakers and national security experts. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer labelled the move a ‘critical strategic mistake,’ arguing that an equally strong offensive capability must complement a robust cyber defence. Schumer’s concerns are echoed by a broader faction in Washington that sees this decision as a capitulation to Russian cyber aggression. In an era where cyberattacks have become a core instrument of statecraft, critics argue that the USA cannot afford to cede ground, particularly to a country accused of interfering in elections and orchestrating widespread cyberespionage.

Beyond domestic political implications, the halt of US cyber operations raises serious concerns for America’s allies. Representative Adam Smith, the Ranking Member of the House Armed Services Committee, has called for greater transparency on the matter, demanding clarity from the Pentagon on the policy’s scope and its impact on intelligence-sharing agreements with NATO partners. The USA has long played a leadership role in countering Russian cyber threats, and this policy shift introduces uncertainties for European allies who have relied on American cyber expertise to fortify their digital defences.

Despite mounting criticism, the Pentagon and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) have downplayed the significance of the change. The US Department of Defense has officially denied the statements of the press. A senior defence official stated that the USA remains committed to defending its digital infrastructure and countering foreign cyber threats but emphasised that cyber policy adjustments should not be interpreted as a retreat from broader security commitments. However, scepticism remains about whether this is a calculated diplomatic manoeuvre or a strategic misstep that could embolden adversaries like Russia further to expand their cyber operations without fear of US retaliation.

The complexity in the US cybersecurity sector

Recent media coverage of the US government’s actions on cybersecurity with Russia has overlooked the complexity of the US cybersecurity sector. A potential halt in cyber operations against Russia, if implemented, would primarily impact US Cyber Command’s offensive operations, which focus on advancing US national interests and military objectives.

However, such measures would not affect the operations of CISA (Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency), which is responsible for domestic and civilian cybersecurity, or the NSA (National Security Agency), which handles intelligence gathering.

The US policy shift partially depicts the evolving dynamics of cyberwarfare, where offence and defence are deeply interconnected. Without an offensive cyber strategy, intelligence agencies may struggle to prevent threats, leaving the USA and its allies vulnerable to cyber incursions. Some experts fear this move could set a dangerous precedent, signalling to other adversaries, including China and Iran, that the USA is scaling back its cyber posture. So, we pose the question: Will the Trump administration’s decision ultimately improve diplomatic relationships or expose the USA to greater cyber vulnerabilities in an unstable digital battlefield, geopolitically speaking?

For more information on cybersecurity, digital policies, AI governance and other related topics, visit diplomacy.edu.

Related news:

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The closure of USAID has sparked debate on the future of soft power and public digital diplomacy in a world dominated by hard power. Questions arise about the relevance of…

In other news:

Microsoft retires Skype, focuses on Teams

Skype, the pioneering internet calling service that revolutionised communication in the early 2000s, will make its final call on 5 May, as Microsoft retires the platform after two decades.

Musk’s bid to halt OpenAI’s for-profit transition rejected

A US court has denied Elon Musk’s request for a preliminary injunction against OpenAI’s transition into a for-profit organisation.

Visit dig.watch now for the latest updates and other topics!

Marko and the Digital Watch team


Highlights from the week of 28-7 March 2025

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China imposed tariffs of up to 15% on US agricultural imports, which prompted President Donald Trump to double tariffs on Chinese goods to 20%.

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The Trump administration is shifting its stance by no longer recognising Russia as a significant cyber threat to US national security, deviating from previous intelligence assessments. This change is communicated…

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A landmark agreement to replace the outdated passport stamping process by collecting biometric data, including photos and fingerprints, from non-EU visitors.

EU Digital Services Act US FCC

The Trump administration has vowed to push back against regulations it sees as unfair to American businesses.

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Bitcoin remains the leading cryptocurrency with an estimated 422 to 455 million owners, accounting for roughly 5% of the global population.

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The indictment comes alongside sanctions on a Chinese tech company involved in selling stolen data.

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This crucial contract ignites ethical discussions regarding AI’s involvement in warfare.

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A new survey reveals that over half of UK firms lack a formal AI strategy, risking their competitive edge.

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The IMF emphasised that the government should not accrue Bitcoin or issue debt instruments tied to it in an effort to improve governance, transparency, and economic resilience while mitigating risks…

deepseek

The start-up’s transparent approach includes insights into its cost management strategies, such as load balancing to optimise computing power and distribute work efficiently across servers and data centres.


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www.diplomacy.edu

UNESCO’s Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence sets a global standard for AI governance. It provides a framework for policymakers to ensure AI development aligns with ethical and inclusive principles.

Data embassies Protecting nations in the cloud featured image
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In today’s digital world, protecting state data is essential. Data embassies, supported by the Vienna Convention, provide an innovative solution. Countries like Estonia and Monaco use them to enhance cybersecurity, ensuring data remains safe and secure.

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The Amazons were real. DNA from warrior burials across the Eurasian steppes proves many were women. But what do they teach us about society? Aldo Matteucci examines.

Digital Watch newsletter – Issue 97 – March 2025

 Hourglass

Snapshot: The developments that made waves

AI governance

Chinese companies are increasingly backing DeepSeek‘s AI, marking a pivotal moment for the industry.

The European Commission has launched the OpenEuroLLM Project, a new initiative to develop open-source, multilingual AI models.

Australia has banned Chinese AI startup DeepSeek from all government devices, citing security risks.

World leaders gathered in Paris for the second day of the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Action Summit, where the focus turned to balancing national interests with global cooperation.

In his op-ed, From Hammurabi to ChatGPT, Jovan Kurbalija draws on the ancient Code of Hammurabi to argue for a principle of legal accountability in modern AI regulation and governance.

Technologies

DeepSeek, an up-and-coming AI startup from China, is rapidly pushing forward the release of its latest AI model, R2, following the remarkable success of its predecessor, R1.

Elon Musk’s AI startup, xAI, has unveiled its latest AI model, Grok-3, which the billionaire claims is the most advanced chatbot technology.

The New York Times has officially approved the use of AI tools for its editorial and product teams, allowing AI to assist with tasks such as generating social media copy, writing SEO headlines, and coding.

Microsoft has announced a groundbreaking quantum computing chip, Majorana 1, which it claims could make useful quantum computers a reality within years.

China has warned that the United States‘ efforts to pressure other nations into targeting its semiconductor industry will ultimately backfire.

Infrastructure

A state-of-the-art space lab on the outskirts of Cairo, touted as Africa’s first satellite production facility, has been built with substantial Chinese involvement. 

Elon Musk’s Starlink network is facing increasing competition in the satellite internet market, particularly from SpaceSail, a Shanghai-based company backed by the Chinese government, and Amazon’s Project Kuiper.

Cybersecurity

The EU Commission introduced a proposal aimed at strengthening the EU’s response to large-scale cyber attacks.

Hackers have stolen $1.5 billion from Dubai-based cryptocurrency exchange Bybit in what is believed to be the largest digital heist in history.

Following the recent security breach at Bybit, major cryptocurrency firms have joined forces to combat the attack and mitigate its impact.

Digital rights

Elon Musk has reignited his rivalry with OpenAI by leading a consortium in a staggering $97.4 billion bid to acquire the nonprofit that governs the ChatGPT creator.

South Korea’s National Intelligence Service (NIS) has raised concerns about the Chinese AI app DeepSeek, accusing it of excessively collecting personal data and using it for training purposes.

TikTok has introduced a new method for US Android users to download the app directly from its website, bypassing restrictions imposed by app stores.

South Korea’s data protection authority has suspended new downloads of the Chinese AI app DeepSeek, citing concerns over non-compliance with the country’s privacy laws.

A US federal judge has denied a request to temporarily block Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) from accessing data from seven federal agencies or making further workforce cuts.

Legal

An online education company has filed a lawsuit against Google, claiming its AI-generated search overviews are damaging digital publishing.

The Trump administration is reevaluating the conditions of CHIPS and Science Act subsidies, which allocate $39 billion to boost domestic semiconductor production.

Elon Musk-owned social media platform X has successfully removed a judge from a German court case concerning demands for real-time election data.

Trump Media & Technology Group and Rumble have filed an emergency motion in a US court against Brazilian Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Moraes.

Internet economy

Chinese investors are flocking to AI-related stocks, betting that the success of home-grown startup DeepSeek will propel China to the forefront of the AI race amid the escalating Sino-US technology conflict. 

In a meeting at the White House on Friday, US President Donald Trump and Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang discussed the emerging challenges posed by China’s AI advancements, particularly the rapid rise of DeepSeek that has disrupted the global tech industry.

Macron announced private sector investments totalling around 109 billion euros ($112.5 billion) in its AI sector at the Paris AI summit, according to President Emmanuel Macron.

Elon Musk, who is leading Donald Trump’s federal cost-cutting initiative, has announced that efforts are underway to shut down the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).

President Donald Trump confirmed on Wednesday that he was in active discussions with China over the future of TikTok, as the US seeks to broker a sale of the popular app.

Elon Musk’s social media company X is currently discussing raising funds from investors at a $44 billion valuation.

Development

Alibaba has announced plans to invest at least 380 billion yuan ($52.44 billion) in cloud computing and AI infrastructure over the next three years.

US drugmaker Amgen has announced a $200 million investment in a new technology centre in southern India, which will focus on using AI and data science to support the development of new medicines.

Sociocultural

A German court has ruled that Elon Musk’s social media platform X must provide researchers with data to track the spread of misinformation ahead of the country’s national election on 23 February.

French prosecutors have launched an investigation into X, formerly known as Twitter, over alleged algorithmic bias.

Meta has launched a new initiative with UNESCO to enhance AI language recognition and translation, focusing on underserved languages.

A recent report by Australia’s eSafety regulator reveals that children in the country are finding it easy to bypass age restrictions on social media platforms.

A Russian court has fined Google 3.8 million roubles (£32,600) for hosting YouTube videos that allegedly instructed Russian soldiers on how to surrender.

Mexico has strongly opposed Google’s decision to rename the Gulf of Mexico as the ‘Gulf of America’ for US Google Maps users.

For more information on cybersecurity, digital policies, AI governance and other related topics, visit diplomacy.edu.


Data Protection Day 2025: A new mandate for data protection

Data Protection Day 2025 brought experts to Brussels and online to discuss the latest privacy challenges. The event featured key speeches, panels, and discussions on data protection enforcement, international cooperation, and the impact of emerging technologies.

In his keynote, Leonardo Cervera Navas warned about algorithms being used to destabilise the EU democracies and the power imbalance caused by tech monopolies. Despite these challenges, he emphasised that European values and regulatory tools like the Digital Clearing House 2.0 could help uphold privacy.

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A panel moderated by Kait Bolongaro examined data protection priorities and enforcement challenges. European Data Protection Supervisor Wojciech Wiewiorowski stressed the role of strong data protection authorities (DPAs) in ensuring GDPR compliance. Matthias Kloth highlighted the modernisation of Convention 108+ as a key legal advancement. The discussion also covered international cooperation, with panellists agreeing that while global collaboration is necessary, privacy standards must not be diluted.

Audience questions raised concerns about the complexity and cost of enforcing privacy rights. Wiewiorowski saw no major GDPR overhaul in the near future but suggested procedural adjustments. Jo Pierson proposed that civil society organisations assist individuals facing legal barriers. The discussion also touched on China’s DeepSeek AI, with panellists refraining from labelling it a threat but stressing the need for Europe to control AI training datasets. Wiewiorowski likened the AI race to the Cold War’s ‘Sputnik moment,’ questioning if Europe was falling behind.

A session on future data protection challenges, led by Anna Buchta, highlighted regulatory complexity. Marina Kaljurand noted a significant digital knowledge gap among European lawmakers, complicating policy decisions. She also raised concerns about the UK’s adequacy decision, which expires in June 2025, and worsening US-EU relations under Trump. UK Information Commissioner John Edwards emphasised AI’s disruptive impact on biometrics and tracking, while Alberto Di Felice from DIGITALEUROPE criticised excessive bureaucracy, advocating for streamlined regulatory oversight.

Beatriz de Anchorena, head of Argentina’s data protection authority, championed Convention 108+ as a global privacy standard. Argentina, the first non-European country to receive EU adequacy, has remained a leader in data protection reform.

A discussion on neuroscience and privacy, moderated by Ella Mein, explored ethical concerns surrounding brain data. Professor Marcello Ienca warned of potential ‘neuro-discrimination’ and the dangers of exploiting brain data. ECtHR Jurisconsult Anna Austin highlighted legal challenges, noting the high standards required for data waivers.

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The final panel, led by Gabriela Zanfir-Fortuna, addressed the need for stronger enforcement. Johnny Ryan of the Irish Council for Civil Liberties criticised the EU’s slow response to data misuse, while Nora Ni Loideain emphasised the GDPR’s role in giving DPAs greater enforcement power.

The event underscored the need for robust regulation, global cooperation, and better enforcement mechanisms to protect privacy in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.


Legacy media vs social media and alternative media channels

The rapid spread of digital information has transformed communication, offering opportunities and challenges. While social media and alternative platforms have democratised access to information, they have also enabled misinformation, deepfakes, and sensationalism to flourish. The tension between traditional media and these new forms of communication is at the heart of current debates on content policy and media integrity.

The case of Novak Djokovic at the 2025 Australian Open highlights this shift. After a Channel 9 journalist made derogatory remarks about him and his Serbian supporters, Djokovic refused an on-court interview and took to social media to share his perspective. His video went viral, attracting support from figures like Elon Musk, who criticised traditional media as a ‘negativity filter,’ This incident underscored the ability of social media to bypass mainstream media narratives, raising questions about journalistic objectivity, editorial oversight, and the role of direct communication in shaping public discourse.

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Similarly, alternative media’s influence on political discourse was evident in Joe Rogan’s podcast, The Joe Rogan Experience. In 2024, Donald Trump’s appearance on the podcast allowed him to engage with audiences outside traditional news constraints, potentially boosting his presidential campaign. In contrast, Kamala Harris declined an invitation after requesting pre-approved questions. This difference illustrated how politicians navigate new media environments—some embracing unscripted discussions, others preferring controlled narratives. The case of Vladimir Klitschko further demonstrated how alternative media offers international figures a platform for nuanced discussions on global issues.

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Elon Musk’s experience with the media further highlights these dynamics. After traditional media misrepresented a gesture he made at a public event, Musk turned to X (formerly Twitter) to counter the narrative. His criticism of ‘legacy media’ as biassed and slow to adapt resonated with many, reinforcing the growing preference for direct, unfiltered communication. However, this shift presents risks, as social media and alternative platforms lack the editorial oversight that traditional outlets provide, allowing misinformation to spread more easily.

The rise of podcasts, independent media, and social networks has disrupted traditional journalism, offering new ways to engage audiences. While these platforms provide greater freedom of expression, they raise concerns about accuracy, misinformation, and accountability. The challenge remains in balancing openness with factual integrity, ensuring that media—whether traditional or alternative—serves the public responsibly in an era where the boundaries between truth and fabrication continue to blur.


DW Weekly #201 – OEWG negotiations enter the eleventh hour

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Dear readers,

Last week, the UN Open-Ended Working Group (OEWG) on the security of the use of information and communications technologies in 2021–2025 held its tenth substantive session, the penultimate session of the group before its mandate concludes in July of this year. 

Tensions ran high since the first day, with attributions of cyberattacks and rights of reply denouncing those attributions taking centre stage. The states held tightly to their positions, largely unchanged since the last session in December 2024. The Chair pointed out that direct dialogue was lacking, with participants instead opting for a virtual town hall approach—circulating their positions and posting them on the portal, and reminded delegates that whatever decisions to be made would be made by consensus, urging them to demonstrate flexibility.

Ransomware, AI, and threats to critical infrastructure remain the biggest concerns of countries regarding the threat landscape. Even as countries don’t agree on an exhaustive list of threats or their sources, there is a strong emphasis on collective and cooperative responses such as capacity development and knowledge sharing to reduce the risk of these threats, as well as mitigate and manage them.

The long-standing debate between implementing existing norms and developing new ones continued. However, this session saw ASEAN countries take a more pragmatic approach, emphasising concrete steps toward implementing agreed norms while maintaining openness to discussing new ones in parallel. At the same time, the call from developing countries for greater capacity development gained momentum, underscoring the challenge of implementing norms without sufficient resources and support.

 Hourglass

The discussions on international law have shown little progress in drawing closer between the positions states hold — there is still no consensus on the necessity of new legally binding regulations for cyberspace. There is also discord on how to proceed with discussing international law in the future permanent UN mechanism on cybersecurity.

Discussions on confidence-building measures (CBMs) were largely subdued, as few new CBMs were introduced, and states didn’t overly detail their POC Directory experience. Many states shared their CBM implementation, which is often linked to regional initiatives and best practices, showing eagerness to operationalise CBMs. It seems states now anticipate the future permanent mechanism to serve as the forum for detailed CBM discussions.

The Voluntary Fund and the Capacity-Building Portal have increasingly been regarded as key deliverables of the OEWG process. However, states remain cautious about the risk of duplicating existing global and regional initiatives, and a clear consensus has yet to emerge regarding the objectives of these deliverables.

States are still grappling with thematic groups and non-state stakeholder engagement questions in the future permanent mechanism. The Chair’s upcoming reflections and town halls will likely get the ball rolling on finding elements for the future permanent mechanism acceptable to all delegations.

Delegations have much to agree upon and exceedingly little time to do so. While this has been the mantra for the last two years, negotiations are now truly entering the eleventh hour, and consensus remains elusive. This spells trouble not just for the group’s final report, but also uncertainty for the future of UN cybersecurity discussions that the report will chart.

For more information on cybersecurity, digital policies, AI governance and other related topics, visit diplomacy.edu.

The event:

flag of the united nations

The Open-Ended Working Group (OEWG) on the security of and in the use of information and communications technologies in 2021–2025 will hold its seventh substantive session on 17-21 February 2025 in New York, the USA.

In other news:

Trump’s team considers tighter semiconductor trade restrictions on China with international cooperation

Donald Trump’s team is considering stronger semiconductor restrictions on China, expanding on measures introduced during Joe Biden’s presidency.

EU Commission proposes enhanced cyber crisis management framework

The EU Commission introduced a proposal aimed at strengthening the EU’s response to large-scale cyber attacks.

Visit dig.watch now for the latest updates and other topics!

Marko, Andrijana and the Digital Watch team


Highlights from the week of 21-28 February 2025

eu flags in front of european commission

The EU Commission’s proposal seeks to boost cybersecurity cooperation among Member States through collaborative clusters, a common crisis management taxonomy, ongoing exercises, improved DNS strategies, and enhanced information sharing.

DSA DMA

Jim Jordan and Scott Fitzgerald question EU rules on Big Tech.

openai o3 o3 mini AI model

Some users exploited ChatGPT to generate misleading news and fake job applications, raising security concerns.

elon musk openai lawsuit

A new wave of competition is emerging against Elon Musk’s Starlink, with rivals like China’s SpaceSail and Jeff Bezos’s Project Kuiper entering the satellite internet market.

Alexandre de moraes screenshot youtube uol

A legal battle unfolds as Rumble and Trump Media challenge Brazil’s restrictions in a US court.

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Chegg claims Google’s AI search features are eroding demand for original content and harming digital publishers.

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Although a quantum attack threat is distant, experts advocate for immediate preparations.

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Eastern Europe’s defence tech sector grows amid tensions.

Youtube

Despite being one of the world’s most influential platforms, YouTube remains shrouded in mystery. A team of researchers has devised an unconventional way to uncover hidden statistics, challenging the carefully…

deepseek5

Known for its cost-effective and innovative strategies, DeepSeek is challenging more expensive Western AI models by using efficient Nvidia hardware and advanced techniques like Mixture-of-Experts (MoE).

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Taiwan firmly denies these claims, emphasising its semiconductor autonomy amid geopolitical tensions.


Reading corner

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The OEWG’s tenth session in February 2025 saw states emphasise collective action against cyber threats, address divisions on norms implementation and binding regulations, highlight the Voluntary Fund and Capacity-Building Portal,…

ai on a scale
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These approaches illustrate a global shift towards embracing AI’s transformative potential while considering the ethical and societal implications, fostering international cooperation to future-proof technological advancements.

steve kerr with ai robots
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Augmented reality features like ‘Tabletop’ allow NBA fans to view matches from multiple angles, analyse performances in real time, and simulate alternative outcomes.

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UNESCO’s Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence sets a global standard for AI governance. It provides a framework for policymakers to ensure AI development aligns with ethical and inclusive principles.

trump musk usaid
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The closure of USAID marks an important shift in U.S. foreign policy, potentially weakening American soft power and leaving a vacuum that rivals like China may exploit. As global diplomacy evolves, questions arise about the future of influence, public diplomacy, and the role of digital networks in shaping international relations.

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How ready are countries for the metaverse? Nations are taking different approaches – state-led, industry-driven, or hybrid models. Where does your country stand? Dr Anita Lamprecht explores.

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Once, diplomacy was a game of kings, queens, and marriages. Now, it’s a world of sub-federal actors, corporations, NGOs, and diasporas. The ambassador is no longer the sole conduit of statecraft – just one node in a growing network. Aldo Matteucci writes.

Upcoming

Digital Diplomacy and Tourism in Africa homepage

The primary goal of this webinar is to provide a platform for dialogue, knowledge sharing, and collaboration among policymakers, tourism stakeholders, and digital technology experts.

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Digital Diplomacy and Tourism in Africa: Unlocking Opportunities for Growth and Collaboration ⏰ 16:00–17:30 (EAT) / 14:00–15:30 (CET)

DW Weekly #200 – AI’s new Cold War redraws geopolitical lines

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Dear readers,

The evolution of AI, particularly the race to develop cutting-edge large language models (LLMs), has become an arena for geopolitical manoeuvring, intersecting with data privacy, technological sovereignty, and international relations. Nations, including the USA, China, South Korea, and the EU, are investing heavily in AI technology, seeking dominance in a field that intersects deeply with global power dynamics, data privacy, and national security concerns.

At the centre of this struggle in the last two months is China’s DeepSeek, a company that has adopted a disruptive open-source philosophy. Unlike Western proprietary models such as OpenAI’s ChatGPT and xAI’s Grok-3, DeepSeek provides unrestricted access to its AI architecture, allowing developers worldwide to modify and self-host its system. This setup fosters transparency, reduces dependence on expensive computing power, and raises critical security concerns. The problem is that Chinese data protection laws could compel data sharing with government entities, sparking fears over data sovereignty and international privacy breaches. These concerns have led countries like South Korea to block new downloads of DeepSeek, signalling the growing unease around AI systems developed under Chinese regulatory frameworks.

South Korea’s ban on DeepSeek exemplifies how AI development is entangled with national security. A global leader in semiconductors and AI research, South Korea has worked closely with US firms in AI advancement, aligning itself with Washington’s broader efforts to curb Chinese technological expansion. Meanwhile, North Korea remains a wildcard in this AI race, having already demonstrated its cyberwarfare capabilities. South Korea’s proactive stance on AI reflects not only its economic ambitions but also its strategic imperative to counter threats from its northern neighbour and the wider geopolitical tensions stemming from China’s AI rise.

 machine, Wheel, Bulldozer, Text

DeepSeek’s open-source approach also sets it apart in the competition between transparency and control. Western AI leaders, including OpenAI and xAI, operate in a more restricted environment where proprietary systems are developed under stringent regulatory oversight. OpenAI, for example, enforces strict data security measures and maintains tight control over its AI outputs, ensuring compliance with international laws. In contrast, DeepSeek’s more accessible framework democratises AI development but leaves room for potential misuse, from security vulnerabilities to circumventing global content moderation policies.

In contrast to DeepSeek’s open model, Grok-3, led by Elon Musk’s xAI, represents a closed, exclusive approach that prioritises performance and real-time adaptability. Grok-3’s DeepSearch feature enhances its reasoning capabilities, allowing users to see how the AI formulates responses. While Musk touts Grok-3 as a breakthrough in AI evolution, its limited accessibility—restricted to X’s Premium+ subscribers and a forthcoming SuperGrok subscription—positions it within an elite, controlled market rather than an open AI ecosystem like DeepSeek’s.

The broader question at the heart of the AI arms race is data governance. The EU’s AI Act, the USA’s evolving regulations, and China’s cybersecurity laws all attempt to strike a balance between fostering innovation and maintaining control. Countries are increasingly aware that AI is more than just a technological tool—it is an instrument of geopolitical influence, capable of shifting economic power, enhancing intelligence operations, and altering global ideological narratives. The fact that AI models can be weaponised to manipulate information or infringe upon national security makes their regulation an urgent international priority.

As AI technology advances at breakneck speed, the fundamental debate between open-source accessibility and proprietary control will shape the global AI landscape. Whether China’s DeepSeek succeeds in reshaping AI innovation through transparency or whether proprietary models like OpenAI and xAI maintain dominance through closed systems, the future of AI remains deeply entangled with the world’s geopolitical chessboard. The race for LLM supremacy is not just about technological breakthroughs—it is about control, security, and the foundation of digital power in the 21st century.

Related news::

deepseek5

The data protection issue is not confined to South Korea; Italy previously blocked DeepSeek’s chatbot due to privacy policy concerns.

In other news:

Trump discusses TikTok sale with China

President Donald Trump confirmed on Wednesday that he was in active discussions with China over the future of TikTok, as the US seeks to broker a sale of the popular app.

Australian kids overlook social media age checks

A new report reveals that the country faces challenges enforcing social media age restrictions for children amidst upcoming bans.

Visit dig.watch now for the latest updates and other topics!

Marko and the Digital Watch team


Highlights from the week of 14-21 February 2025

curry robot ai

This year’s summit showcased cutting-edge innovations, notably featuring Physical AI robots and Boston Dynamics’ Spot robot dogs.

new york times perplexity ai content

In a significant step towards AI integration, The New York Times has granted its editorial and product teams permission to use artificial intelligence tools.

russia and youtube

Critics claim Russia is deliberately slowing YouTube to limit access to critical content.

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The AI industry is witnessing substantial financial investment, with xAI and OpenAI pursuing significant fundraising efforts. Emerging competitors, such as China’s DeepSeek, with cost-efficient models, indicate potential disruptions in the…

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Harvard physicist hails Microsoft’s quantum breakthrough as a potential leap forward.

trump musk ai tesla

A federal court has ruled that Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) can continue accessing US government agency data for now, despite concerns over its authority.

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Disinformation grows as young Europeans turn their back to traditional media.

deepseek3

Inspired by DeepSeek’s AI success, Baidu intends to release Ernie 4.5 as an open-source model.

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Financial fundraising efforts, highlighting the company’s pursuit to uphold its purchase valuation.

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CHIPS Act terms face reconsideration under the Trump administration, potentially causing delays in semiconductor subsidies.

A diplomatic row has erupted between Mexico and Google over the renaming of the Gulf of Mexico on US versions of Google Maps.


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Ethics provides a framework for informed decision-making and distinguishing right from wrong. While technology is neutral, ethical dilemmas arise from human design and use of AI systems. Is “AI ethics” misleading since individuals hold ultimate responsibility for ethical behaviour?

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Did Indian independence leader Subhas Chandra Bose get an unfair reputation? From challenging caste divisions to empowering women, his vision was more radical than many realise. Aldo Matteucci explores.

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The CitiVerse Initiative is testing how AI, digital twins, and virtual worlds can enhance urban life. Can this technology-driven approach create more inclusive and sustainable cities? Dr Anita Lamprecht explores

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Young Serbians are transforming nationalism from division to unity through digital activism and inclusive ideals. Learn about Nation 4.0, a movement redefining Serbian identity.

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In today’s digital world, protecting state data is essential. Data embassies, supported by the Vienna Convention, provide an innovative solution. Countries like Estonia and Monaco use them to enhance cybersecurity, ensuring data remains safe and secure.

Upcoming

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Tech attache briefing: Policy implications and international landscape The event is part of a series of regular briefings on the Geneva Internet Platform (GIP)

DW Weekly #199 – Trump vs USAID: the battle over US foreign aid

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Dear readers,

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID), a pillar of American humanitarian aid for over 60 years, now faces an uncertain future under President Donald Trump’s second term. With its employees locked out and a proposed merger with the State Department, the agency’s fate has raised concerns about the future of US foreign aid. USAID administers over $40 billion annually and is critical in global relief efforts, tackling famine and pandemics, and providing medical and infrastructure support in conflict zones. Its work includes aiding Ukrainian soldiers with prosthetics, demining war-torn regions, and containing Ebola outbreaks in Africa.

However, the Trump administration has criticised some of USAID’s expenditures as wasteful, pointing to projects like funding LGBTQ groups in Serbia and electric vehicle programs in Vietnam. While these claims have been contested as misrepresentations of broader development goals, Trump has remained vocal in his opposition to foreign aid spending. His recent Truth Social post calling USAID’s spending ‘totally unexplainable’ and advocating for its closure reflects his ‘America First’ agenda. His close ally, Elon Musk, has further fuelled the controversy, labelling USAID a ‘criminal organisation’ and suggesting its dissolution is imminent. However, neither has provided substantial evidence to support their claims.

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Trump’s decision to freeze international aid spending for 90 days and move towards folding USAID into the State Department has sent shockwaves through the humanitarian sector. The abrupt halt of aid programmes has left vulnerable populations without essential support. For instance, Syrian prison guards tasked with securing thousands of Islamic State detainees nearly abandoned their posts due to funding disruptions, raising security concerns. Critics argue that dismantling USAID would damage US global influence and create instability in regions that depend on American aid.

Opposition to Trump’s plans is growing, particularly among Democrats and humanitarian organisations that call the freeze illegal and dangerous. USAID’s status is enshrined in US law, meaning its closure or restructuring would require congressional approval—an uphill battle despite the slim Republican majorities in both chambers. Trump’s push to align aid spending with national interests mirrors the 2020 merger of Britain’s Department for International Development with the Foreign Office, a move critics say undermined expertise and diminished the country’s global credibility.

Adding to the controversy, conspiracy theories surrounding USAID have gained ground. Musk and fringe media outlets have amplified claims that the agency funded Hollywood visits to Ukraine or engaged in corrupt activities despite USAID debunking these allegations. Therefore, the allegations could easily be part of a broader trend when misinformation is used to justify drastic policy shifts, making informed debate on USAID’s future more difficult. 

The growing politicisation of the issue threatens to overshadow the agency’s humanitarian mission. As the largest provider of international aid, the USA plays a crucial role in global development, and a reduction in funding could leave a void that other nations or organisations may struggle to fill. Global repercussions could manifest if USAID’s role is diminished or absorbed into the State Department. Hundreds of programmes addressing health crises, food security, and conflict resolution could be severely impacted, particularly in Africa and Southeast Asia. Either way, the outcome of this debate will determine the future of USAID, the broader direction of US foreign policy, and its role on the global stage.

Heading news of the week:

skynews ai summit paris 6824499

French President Emmanuel Macron emphasised Europe’s focus on clean energy for AI, contrasting with the US’s fossil fuel reliance.

In other highlights of the week:

Musk bids $97.4 billion-dollar to reclaim control over OpenAI

Elon Musk has reignited his rivalry with OpenAI by leading a consortium in a staggering $97.4 billion bid to acquire the nonprofit that governs the ChatGPT creator.

France boosts AI industry with 109 billion euro investments

France is set to announce private sector investments totalling around 109 billion euros ($112.5 billion) in its AI sector at the Paris AI summit, according to President Emmanuel Macron.

Visit dig.watch now for the latest updates and other topics!

Marko and the Digital Watch team


Highlights from the week of 07-14 February 2025

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Local Intelligence Service questions LLM’s AI responses and data handling.

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In an important ruling for election transparency, a German court has ordered social media platform X to release crucial data that could help track misinformation ahead of the country’s upcoming…

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A new US law requires ByteDance to sell TikTok or face a ban, prompting the company to offer website downloads.

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EU aims to cut red tape to boost development.

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As AI tools become more sophisticated, concerns grow over their impact on creative writing.

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Cairo’s pioneering space lab marks a shift in the global space race and Sino-African relations.

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The investigation adds to growing legal scrutiny of Elon Musk’s social media platform.

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Diplo’s executive director suggests that existing legal rules should govern AI, with new regulations only addressing specific legal gaps.

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Cairo’s pioneering space lab marks a shift in the global space race and Sino-African relations.

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Macron urged Europe to accelerate AI development to compete with the US and China.

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An open-source machine translation benchmark will help assess AI performance in seven languages.


Reading corner

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The recent AI summit in Paris, while perceived as a diplomatic setback due to the absence of U.S. and U.K. support, successfully reframed the global AI agenda.

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AI is reshaping content creation, but who owns the rights? Diplo alumnus Kelvin Nkai explores the legal and ethical challenges of AI-generated work, from copyright to inventorship.

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Do we really need specialised AI regulation? The internet serves as a valuable precedent for AI regulation. Courts have successfully applied existing laws to

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Advancements in artificial intelligence are accelerating, while regulations struggle to keep up, creating a gap between ethical considerations and legal standards. Can regulators keep pace with these fast changes?

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From panel debates on global data governance to the future of AI in Europe, Data Protection Day 2025 tackled the most pressing issues in data protection.

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Can the metaverse accelerate progress towards the SDGs? In a new blog series, Dr Anita Lamprecht analyses how UN 2.0 is harnessing digital technologies to drive global cooperation and sustainable development. Part 1 of the metaverse blog series ‘UN 2.0 and the Metaverse: Are We Seeing What Is Possible?’

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How the uneven distribution of lithium, cobalt, and rare earths sparks geopolitical tensions, green tech dependencies, and a global scramble for resources? Can supply chains survive?

Upcoming

munich

The 61st Munich Security Conference (MSC) will convene global leaders at the Hotel Bayerischer Hof to address the world’s most pressing security challenges. Taking place amid major political transitions—including a…

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The Open-Ended Working Group (OEWG) on the security of and in the use of information and communications technologies in 2021–2025 will hold its seventh substantive session on 17-21 February 2025…

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APRICOT 2025 will take place from 19 to 27 February 2025, in Petaling Jaya, Malaysia. The nine-day summit consists of seminars, technical training, tutorials, conference sessions, birds-of-a-feather (BOFs), and other…

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February 2025 online courses | Diplo Academy Diplo Academy is excited to announce the start of five online courses on 17 February 2025: