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DW Weekly #210 – Trump’s tech stability, UN funding cuts, and global AI shifts

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25 – 2 May 2025


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Dear readers,

In the week behind us, we focused on Trump’s first 100 days of digital governance. Dr Jovan Kurbalija, in his blog ‘Tech continuity in President Trump’s first 100 days’, deems that Trump’s approach to technology remained remarkably stable despite political turbulence in trade and environmental policy.

Connected to Trump’s foreign policy is the UN situation. Namely, the UN faces renewed financial uncertainty as Donald Trump’s administration reviews all US support for international organisations.

The US president has instead proposed substantial reductions or even the elimination of federal income taxes once the full impact of import tariffs is realised. In a 27 April post on Truth Social, Trump revealed that the plan would primarily benefit individuals earning less than $200,000 annually. Trump has also signed executive orders easing his controversial 25% tariffs on automobiles and parts to relieve pressure on carmakers struggling with rising costs.

The European Commission faces growing criticism after a joint investigation revealed that Big Tech companies had disproportionate influence over drafting the EU’s Code of Practice on General Purpose AI.

Alphabet, Google’s parent company, may soon be forced to split into separate entities, with its Chrome browser emerging as a desirable target.

The UAE has announced the launch of its AI Academy, aiming to strengthen the country’s position in AI innovation both regionally and globally.

The United Kingdom and the United States are set to strengthen their collaboration in advancing cryptocurrency adoption.

Microsoft has unveiled a set of five digital commitments aimed at supporting Europe’s technological and economic future.

Intel is witnessing strong demand for its older Raptor Lake and Alder Lake processors, as buyers shy away from newer AI-enhanced chips like Meteor and Lunar Lake.

For the main updates and reflections, consult the Radar and Reading Corner below.

DW Team


RADAR

Highlights from the week of 25 – 2 May 2025

the white house

As digital tensions rise globally, President Trump’s early tech agenda signals a strategic gamble that bets on tradition while the rest of the world pushes for transformation.

eu flags in front of european commission 1

The US government opposes the new AI Code, calling it anti-innovation. Critics say Big Tech had too much access.

UNHQ

As the UN braces for possible funding upheavals, the future of global cooperation could hinge on decisions unfolding quietly behind closed doors in Washington.

US tariffs Trump Samsung Apple

Ford, GM, and Stellantis welcome Trump’s tariff rollback as a step forward, though supply chain challenges remain.

US department of justice google chrome antitrust lawsuit

With a 65% market share, Chrome could reshape the tech landscape if sold. OpenAI, Yahoo and others are circling.

sam altman

Following backlash, OpenAI restores GPT-4o’s previous version and vows to avoid disingenuous praise in future.

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International cooperation is essential for success, with both countries aiming to set groundbreaking regulatory standards for the crypto industry.

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New data centre growth will double Microsoft’s European capacity between 2023 and 2027.

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As global powers invest in shaping the next generation of AI innovators, classrooms emerge as unexpected arenas where technology, diplomacy, and geopolitics converge.

gemini chatgpt meta AI antitrust trial

ChatGPT and Meta AI still lead in total user base.

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The PPP aims to overhaul digital asset laws, allowing non-profits to trade crypto and institutionalising corporate participation by Q2 of this year.


READING CORNER
BLOG From geopolitics to classrooms featured image

The competition between the US and China in AI education is emerging as a vital battleground amidst geopolitical tensions. Both nations prioritise AI education to prepare future generations for a transformative technological landscape.

BLOG Tech continuity in President Trumps first 100 days featured image

During President Trump’s first 100 days, technology policy exhibited continuity rather than disruption, focusing on AI and digital regulation characterised by incremental adjustments. 

meta ai

What happens when one of the world’s biggest tech giants bets its future not on control, but on giving its most powerful AI tools away for free?

post Weapons of Emotional Destruction

What if the internet’s true legacy isn’t connection, but emotional warfare? In 2015, Aldo Matteucci asked whether we’ve unleashed a fire that even Shiva could not contain.

UPCOMING EVENTS
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May 2025 online courses | Diplo Academy Diplo Academy is excited to announce the start of four online courses on 5 May 2025:

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 WSIS+20 review: What’s in it for Africa?  An expert-guided dialogue among diplomats | Dedicated exclusively to African Permanent Missions to the UN in Geneva.

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Swiss Plateforme Tripartite: Meeting on WSIS+20 On 6 May, the Swiss Federal Office of Communications (OFCOM) will host a virtual meeting on the WSIS+20