| Tech Kingdom or Tech Democracy? Technology Diplomacy in the Second Trump Administration |
| The second Trump administration presents a critical juncture for the evolution of tech diplomacy, a field that has increasingly shaped global power dynamics. This write-up examines the evolving concept of sovereignty in the context of technological progress, exploring how the rise of Big Tech companies has redefined traditional understandings of statehood and geopolitical influence. In the 21st century, major technology corporations have achieved quasi-sovereign status through monopolistic power, unparalleled technological capabilities, and transnational influence. Below, we will analyze the convergence of technological and political power under a renewed Trump administration, the reconfiguration of sovereignty, and the broader implications for international diplomacy and governance. The Convergence of Technological and Political Power: Techno-Utilitarian Alliance The first Trump administration witnessed an evolving partnership between technology corporations and the federal government, driven by a techno-utilitarian ideology where transactionalism and statecraft merged. This trend is expected to deepen in a second Trump term, reinforcing an ecosystem where economic and technological interests align with geopolitical strategies. Silicon Valley played a dual role in Trump’s first election and presidency. While many executives voiced opposition to his policies, some prominent figures and venture capitalists actively supported his agenda, notably on deregulation and tax cuts. The 2016 and 2020 elections saw significant tech-driven campaign strategies, with social media platforms becoming battlegrounds for political influence. Facebook’s role in targeted political advertising and Twitter’s moderation policies became focal points of controversy, shaping the electoral landscape. Additionally, lobbying efforts by tech giants influenced regulatory decisions, especially concerning antitrust and content moderation laws. DOGE – Actions and Implications for the Government The Department of DOGE (Decentralized Online Governance Entities) challenges traditional governance structures by operating outside conventional state control. These decentralized, technology-driven organizations exert significant influence despite having no formal electoral legitimacy. Their actions—spanning cyber disruptions to experimental, decentralized governance models, which demand a start-up spirit, efficiency, and long hours—expose vulnerabilities in state authority and test the resilience of existing cybersecurity frameworks. DOGE traces its conceptual origins to Renaissance Venice, where merchant networks operated with quasi-sovereign power, balancing state interests with decentralized trade governance. This historical parallel resonates with Musk’s vision of decentralized decision-making through blockchain technology and autonomous online communities. Musk’s projects, such as X (formerly Twitter) and Neuralink, reflect a broader ambition to create digital spaces that operate beyond traditional governmental oversight, challenging conventional regulatory frameworks. Platformization of Governance States increasingly adopt platform-like behaviors, characterized by transactional governance, flexible policy adaptation, and the direct engagement of digital platforms in governance. This mirrors the operational strategies of Big Tech, where user data, influence, and infrastructure control shape global decision-making. The Trump administration is likely to continue leveraging unconventional negotiation tactics, including transactional threats and policy reversals, to pressure adversaries and allies into strategic concessions. This approach, observed in past trade negotiations and diplomatic standoffs, reflects Big Tech’s experimental strategies where bold, provocative proposals unsettle regulatory authorities, forcing them into reactive compromises. Technology Corporations as Transnational Actors The quasi-sovereign status of Big Tech firms allows them to dictate regulatory frameworks, engage in cross-border negotiations, and shape international norms. The second Trump administration is likely to further encourage the privatization of governance functions, positioning technology companies as core diplomatic actors. Meta’s legal battles with the EU over digital taxation, content moderation, and data privacy laws highlight the growing friction between American tech giants and European regulators. With Trump’s backing, Meta and other firms could push back against stringent EU regulations, advocating for more business-friendly policies through bilateral trade agreements. This may result in the U.S. government pressuring European allies to ease digital market restrictions. The Rise of Tech Diplomacy as a Policy Instrument and Hybrid Diplomacy The increasing reliance on technology in global governance necessitates a hybrid model of diplomacy that integrates state-led initiatives with private-sector engagement. Under a second Trump term, the U.S. may accelerate bilateral and multilateral tech diplomacy efforts, using private companies as both conduits and enforcers of national interests. Musk’s direct interactions with world leaders and policymakers position him as an unofficial but influential tech diplomat. His discussions with Trump and other global figures on free speech policies, AI governance, and space exploration underscore the increasing role of private entrepreneurs in shaping diplomatic agendas. This direct engagement bypasses traditional state channels, raising questions about accountability and corporate-driven policy influence. Emerging Global Influences A fundamental question arises regarding the ethical framework guiding tech diplomacy under a second Trump administration: will U.S. leadership prioritize technological dominance and strategic power plays, or will it uphold a rules-based international order? As longtime tech industry observer and commentator Kara Swisher argues, it is highly improbable that Silicon Valley leaders will act according to any value other than shareholder interests. This corporate-first mindset suggests that Big Tech’s approach to diplomacy will likely be driven by profitability and market control rather than ethical governance or geopolitical stability. At this stage, the long-term trajectory remains uncertain, as many key players, including tech executives, are waiting to assess the impact of Trump’s leadership on regulatory and international frameworks. However, these dynamics are worth watching, particularly given the global nature of innovation. Over 50% of unicorn startups have foreign-born founders, many from regions affected by unrest, humanitarian crises, or systemic poverty. Their perspectives and experiences may shape the ongoing debate over whether technological governance should be built on principles of global cooperation or unilateral economic and political dominance. Musk’s Political Disruption: A Third-Party Tech Revolution Musk seems to be applying his “move fast and break things” ethos to U.S. politics. Given his track record of disrupting entrenched industries, the idea of a tech-driven, decentralized, and anti-establishment third party isn’t entirely out of the question. Rather than a traditional political organization, he could leverage X (Twitter), AI, and blockchain to create a real-time, crowd-driven governance model, appealing to Silicon Valley entrepreneurs, crypto advocates, and disillusioned moderates. However, Musk thrives on influence without direct accountability—shaping narratives, influencing policy, and leveraging his platforms without committing to a rigid political structure. A full-fledged party would entangle him in bureaucracy and electoral constraints, making it far more likely that he would back a tech-powered political movement from behind the scenes rather than formally stepping into the arena. Conclusion The second Trump administration is poised to redefine the relationship between technology and state power. As tech diplomacy becomes a critical tool in managing international relations, the convergence of governance and technology will shape the future of sovereignty, security, and diplomacy. The increasing entanglement of government and major technology firms raises fundamental questions about balancing national interests and corporate autonomy. Whether the U.S. embraces a more centralized, interventionist approach akin to China’s model or continues its traditional emphasis on market-driven governance will be a defining question of the next four years. Understanding these shifts is essential for navigating the complexities of the emerging global digital order. Written by Christina Steinbrecher-Pfandt, CEO Tech Diplomacy Network Kara Swisher on Jeff Bezos and Elon Musk: “Our Toddler Oligarchs” – John Chambers to be Awarded 2nd Annual Technology Diplomacy Award The Montgomery Summit 2025 Santa Monica, CA –– March 5, 2025 The Montgomery Summit, a premier technology conference hosted by LA-based VC firm March Capital, and the Tech Diplomacy Network, announced John Chambers, Founder and CEO of JC2 Ventures and former Executive Chairman and CEO of Cisco Systems, will receive the 2nd annual Tech Diplomacy award for playing a crucial role in strengthening the partnership between the U.S. and India to advance technology growth and innovation in both countries. Over nearly five decades as an investor and corporate leader, Mr. Chambers has fostered and championed the globally significant relationship between the U.S. and India. As Chairman of the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF), he has helped foster cross-border collaboration in innovation, digital transformation, and cybersecurity, as well as champion initiatives that empower Indian startups, bridge digital infrastructure gaps, and create opportunities for talent exchange, all while reinforcing India’s role as a global technology hub. Chambers on Receiving the Award “I’m very honored to receive the 2nd Annual Technology Diplomacy Award,” said Chambers. “Nearly two decades ago, I was one of the first American CEOs to recognize India’s potential for business, technology, and entrepreneurship. At the time, Cisco invested heavily in India’s potential – and today we can all recognize that this prediction was extremely accurate. I’m proud of USISPF’s work, which has been instrumental in positioning the US-India relationship as the most strategic partnership in the world and fostering collaboration in key sectors like technology, manufacturing, and trade. What’s even more exciting is that this is just the beginning. As we face the most disruptive tech transition the world has ever seen with AI, we are on the verge of groundbreaking innovation. By building on existing areas of partnership and identifying new areas for collaboration, we can drive economic growth, improve standard of living, and address global challenges to help empower the next generation of innovators.” Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been committed to modernizing the country’s technology under his “Digital India” initiative, which Chambers has helped advise. This effort has since spurred technology diplomacy between the U.S. and India, where major American tech companies are expanding into India – for example, recent semiconductor chip investments from Lam Research and Advanced Micro Devices (AMD). This is now a critical relationship for global innovation, economic growth, and geopolitical stability, and by deepening ties further, both nations can shape the future of technology in a way that embraces entrepreneurship, promotes democratic values, and supports economic prosperity worldwide. Tech Diplomacy Network Statement “John Chambers has demonstrated outstanding tenacity in fostering cross-border collaboration between the U.S. and India, setting a global standard for tech diplomacy in the private sector. His visionary leadership has not only strengthened innovation and talent exchange between the two nations but has also underscored the vital role of technology in shaping international relations,” said Christina Steinbrecher-Pfandt, CEO, Tech Diplomacy Network. “Having visited India over 50 times, John has deeply engaged with the country’s culture, vision, people, and businesses—building lasting partnerships that drive digital transformation and entrepreneurship.” John Chambers Bio John Chambers is the founder and CEO of JC2 Ventures, where he focuses on helping startups build and scale. He invests in companies that are leading market transitions, such as Altimate AI, ASAPP, Aspire Food Group, Avathon, Balbix, BigSpring, Nile, ParkourSC, Pindrop, Privoro, Quantum Metric, SAFE Security, Uniphore, Virsec, and Visionary Group. Chambers has also invested in companies that have gone public including, Bloom Energy, Rubrik, and Sprinklr, and marked key acquisitions in the industry, such as Dedrone, Lilac, OpenGov, and Pensando. Prior to founding JC2 Ventures in 2018, Chambers spent 25+ years with Cisco, serving as CEO, Chairman and Executive Chairman. With countless lessons learned during his tenure at Cisco and working with startups, Chambers wrote Connecting the Dots: Lessons for Leadership in a Startup World. Chambers is the Chairman of the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF) and was appointed Global Ambassador of the French Tech by President Emmanuel Macron of France. About The Tech Diplomacy Network The Tech Diplomacy Network, founded in February 2023 by Patricia Gruver-Barr and Martin Rauchbauer and run by Christina Steinbrecher-Pfandt (CEO), aims to establish a global community dedicated to sharing best practices in the field. Tech Diplomacy, born in the San Francisco Bay Area amidst the tech boom, represents an evolving practice in international relations catalyzed by the rise of tech corporations and their significant impact on society, economies, and institutions transcending national boundaries. Tech Diplomacy serves as a conduit for constructive discourse among UN member states, international organizations, the tech industry, civil society, and academia. Each year the Tech Diplomacy Award honors a distinguished leader by acknowledging exceptional contributions to the Tech Diplomacy field through innovative and visionary leadership. About The Montgomery Summit Each year, The Montgomery Summit hosts an exclusive gathering of entrepreneurs, top-tier investors, and leading corporate executives from private growth technology firms and venture capital firms. This event showcases presentations from over a hundred hand-selected private companies, along with dynamic keynotes, panels, and networking opportunities. Founded by Jamie Montgomery in 2004, the event has been a cornerstone in fostering connections among technological visionaries and innovators worldwide for two decades. Contact Information Contact Christina Steinbrecher-Pfandt for more information at: christina@tech-diplomacy.org. – News Roundup Global A new report from the Royal Society and the American Association for the Advancement of Science introduces the “Science Diplomacy in an Era of Disruption” framework, highlighting science diplomacy as a strategic tool and addressing challenges like economic competition, tech advancements, and the influence of non-state actors and global tech companies. Read it here. Read some key takeaways from the Paris AI Summit and Munich Security Conference, both held earlier this month. As cyber threats become more sophisticated, governments must adopt more comprehensive approaches to cybersecurity, using cyber diplomacy to foster international cooperation, establish norms, and enhance cyber resilience, Megi Benia writes for Georgetown’s Security Studies Review. However, a lack of clear frameworks and unified strategies makes it difficult for stakeholders to collaborate effectively, and this must be addressed so nations can benefit from cyber diplomacy as a tool to prevent, detect, respond to, and recover from cyber incidents. An investigation revealed the extent to which Google has assisted authoritarian governments, including the Kremlin in Russia and the Communist party in China, with censorship requests, having “engaged with the administrations of about 150 countries since 2011 that want information scrubbed from their public domains” and interacting “with dictatorships, sanctioned regimes and governments accused of human rights abuses, including the police in Taliban-controlled Afghanistan.” This raises serious concerns around the company’s influence on free speech and information integrity, Siân Boyle reports for The Guardian. Since U.S. President Donald Trump’s return to office, confusion has engulfed Western cybersecurity efforts and hindered key initiatives against cyber threats from Russia and China. As top cyber officials depart Washington and foreign aid is frozen, allies have been left in limbo. As for adversaries? They’ve been left room to grow their digital influence, Maggie Miller and Antoaneta Roussi report for Politico EU. North America The reelection of Donald Trump catalyzed a political and cultural “rightward shift” for major technology companies like Meta, whose leaders are seeking to align with the new administration, such as through reducing mechanisms to address challenges like hate speech and mis- and disinformation. This is leading to a decline in activism, diversity initiatives, and dissent in Silicon Valley workplaces that contrasts sharply with the liberal startup and tech hub we’ve come to know, Hannah Murphy and Stephen Morris report for the Financial Times. With the U.S. considering stricter export restrictions on semiconductor technology for China, a spokesperson for the nation’s foreign ministry has warned such an act will be counterproductive and disrupt the global industry’s progress. A recent White House memorandum criticizes digital services taxes imposed by foreign countries as unfairly targeting U.S. tech giants, warning retaliatory tariffs may be issued if these taxes are not repealed in “an aggressive stance that could spark a trade war,” Andrew Leahey argues for Forbes: “at its core, the memorandum does not appear to be about free markets or economic fairness—but defending corporate privilege. The threat of tariffs is being used in an attempt to shield US companies from the same scrutiny and obligations that every other business in the world faces.” Sujai Shivakumar, Charles Wessner, and Thomas Howell evaluate the critical role of semiconductor technology in U.S. national security and strategic measures necessary for the nation to “realize the new Trump administration’s goal of sustaining U.S. technology leadership in semiconductors, doubling on support, backed by substantial and sustained investments and incentives, is essential” in this recent report for the Center for Strategic and International Studies. Major funding cuts for federal scientific research made by the Trump administration pose ramifications for the country’s tech competitiveness, astronomer and academic Chris Impey argues for The Conversation. Skilled foreign workers departed the U.S. for Canada consistently under both Trump and former President Joe Biden despite a predicted “Trump bump” of tech workers to the North, who were driven more by visa and green card challenges than by anti-immigration policies, recent research from The Logic shows. The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission will start imposing a fee on Google in April to recoup enforcement costs for the Online News Act, which requires large internet platforms to pay for news content, a move meeting criticism from experts for risking “exacerbating heightened trade tensions between the Trump administration and Ottawa” and from the U.S.-based multinational tech company for being an unfair burden. Europe Elon Musk’s social media platform X successfully petitioned for the removal of a German judge overseeing a legal dispute concerning the sharing of election data with activist groups. While the court initially required X to provide real-time access to election data to monitor misinformation, this move reflects Musk’s ongoing challenges with European regulations and data access rights. There was much fear around mis- and disinformation targeting the country’s parliamentary elections held on February 23rd, with the Interior Minister calling on social media companies last month to ramp up their efforts in preventing election-related information pollution following reports of Russian interference. The EU is making investments into advanced microchips to reduce foreign reliance, boost capabilities in AI innovation, space, and other industries, and regain a competitive edge in semiconductor production. Apple pulled its Advanced Data Protection feature from the U.K. market following government demands for increasing law enforcement’s access to encrypted iCloud data, sparking concerns among encryption advocates as citizens face weaker security and U.S. lawmakers who fear the move may undermine American data privacy and national security should the company respond similarly to other government’s requests. U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration floated the idea of “seeking $500 billion in mineral wealth from Ukraine to repay Washington for wartime aid” this month, in addition to restricting Ukraine’s access to satellite internet service Starlink as leverage in negotiations on access to Ukraine’s critical mineral resources, Andrea Shalal and Joey Roulette report for Reuters. Ukrainians continue to rely heavily on the service for connectivity and military operations. As of this week, a framework agreement has been reached between the two nations on “the joint development of rare earths, critical minerals, oil, gas and other natural resources.” U.S. Vice President JD Vance had some scathing critiques for Europe’s tech regulations during his first overseas trip in his new position, arguing they suppress AI innovation and restrict online speech. The “muted response” of EU officials to the attacks inspired mixed reactions from European lawmakers, with some urging they take a stronger stance, Laurens Cerulus reports for Politico EU. The European Commission approved Finland-based multinational Nokia’s 2.3 billion USD acquisition of U.S.-based optical networking company Infinera with no competition concerns, giving Nokia a 20% share in the optical transport equipment market, positioning it as the second-largest player behind China-based Huawei, and is expected to facilitate the sale of networking equipment to major tech companies expanding their data centers to meet growing AI demands like Amazon, Alphabet, and Microsoft. The EU must resist pressure to lift Russian sanctions and instead enforce them more rigorously, Sergiy Makogon and Martin Vladimirov write in their analysis for Center for European Policy Analysis, arguing the need to eliminate dependence of countries like Hungary, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia on Kremlin-controlled energy to ensure the region’s long-term security and economic stability. Romania’s Energy Minister believes U.S.-backed nuclear power projects in the country should not be affected by political disputes around a canceled presidential election in December, voided due to suspicions of Russian interference, emphasizing they are beneficial for both nations and should persist despite critiques from members of Trump’s administration on how the election was handled. Africa In this special report from Reuters, Joey Roulette, Eduardo Baptista, Sarah El Safty, and Joe Brock explore China’s expanding space diplomacy across Africa, evidenced by the negotiating of several bilateral agreements and big investments into satellite infrastructure and development. While such initiatives boost the continent’s space capabilities, they benefit China’s global influence as the U.S. significantly reduces foreign aid and risks losing influence in the global space race: “privately, China is getting far more in return for its investment. This includes access to surveillance data collected by satellites and telescopes as well as a permanent presence in facilities it builds, according to six people with direct knowledge of China’s space projects in Africa.” Although data consumption in Nigeria decreased from 2024 to 2025, Nigerian internet users surpassed 1 million terabytes in internet data consumption last month, indicating increasing digital adoption in the country. AI startup EqualyzAI has launched a platform to promote African languages as part of the company’s goal to make AI innovations more inclusive and accessible across the continent. “Our mission is to ensure that AI speaks our languages, understands our contexts, and addresses our unique challenges. This is not just about technology; it’s about empowerment and inclusion,” co-founder Olubayo Adekanmbi stated when announcing the launch last week. This week, South Africa’s Competition Commission provisionally determined Google’s search algorithm favors international news outlets over local media, “insofar as it overrepresents global news media in South Africa for search and top stories and underrepresents local language and community media,” Nqobile Dludla reports for Reuters. The Commission recommends the tech company pay an annual fee for three to five years and adjust its search mechanisms to address the disparity, although Google unexpectedly denies the claims. The Commission also scrutinized Meta and X, warning all three companies will face financial penalties if they do not comply within six months to cease deprioritizing South African news content and enhance monetization opportunities. Elections in Africa are increasingly at risk of being undermined by the malign use of AI tools through the creation of deepfakes, cheap fakes, and fake news, content that is cost-effective and influential as it is easily and quickly produced in large quantities. This raises two important questions: how can citizens defend themselves against these manipulative and democracy-eroding tactics, and what can be done about it? Sudan’s military has benefited greatly from drones provided by Turkey in making recent gains against the Rapid Support Forces, marking “the first instance of Turkey providing direct military support to the government – potentially shifting the balance of power in the conflict.” A senior Sudanese army officer noted the drones have effectively diminished the RSF’s previous advantage and provide necessary air support for ground operations. French prosecutors have concluded an investigation into allegations Apple’s subsidiaries utilized minerals from conflict zones in Congo and Rwanda, ultimately determining the claims are unsubstantiated, although legal representatives from the former nation plan to contest the ruling. The Mastercard Foundation has withdrawn its $100 million investment from African venture capital firm 54 Collective, a decision intensifying concerns among African entrepreneurs about over-reliance on Western philanthropic funding in light of a continuing downtrend since 2022. Asia OpenAI is disallowing users in China and North Korea from using their tools to curb “malicious activities,” referencing “AI-generated content being used for surveillance, influence campaigns, and fraudulent schemes” as reasons for this move, the Digital Watch Observatory team reports. China is accusing Taiwan of seeking to move its semiconductor industry to the U.S. to achieve political support from Washington, following reports Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co may invest in U.S.-based Intel. China’s Taiwan Affairs Office criticized Taiwan’s ruling party for “selling out” Taiwanese companies, but the government states it has no information on TSMC’s overseas investment plans. The release of China-based AI startup DeepSeek’s advanced reasoning model, R2, is being expedited following the success of its R1 model, with the company’s cost-effective models challenging Western tech giants and its innovation prompting concerns about China’s growing influence over the global AI landscape. For more, check out this write-up that asks, “is DeepSeek a democratization of technology or a Chinese threat?” As Gulf Cooperation Council nations transition to “culture-driven economies” and increasingly play host to “initiatives focusing on AI, cloud computing, biotech and fintech,” they become better positioned to engage on the global stage, Eva Oloumi and Nii Simmonds write for the World Economic Forum. Despite Kazakhstan’s vast reserves of rare metals and earth elements and increasing global demand, geopolitical tensions and lack of investment hinder the nation’s ability to capitalize on its resources, with experts suggesting rare earth extraction will remain limited without long-term political and financial stability. Watch this recent panel discussion on the U.S. and Japan’s tech ties hosted by the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. 250+ individuals from 20 different countries, a majority in Africa and Asia, were freed from telecom fraud centers in Myanmar and brought to Thailand earlier this month under suspicion of human trafficking. Learn more about scam centers in Southeast Asia, which lure foreign workers under false pretenses to carry out cyber fraud schemes, in this thoughtful article from The New York Times. An Associated Press investigation revealed Israel’s military has significantly increased its reliance on U.S.-developed AI and cloud computing technologies from companies like Microsoft and OpenAI to identify and target suspected militants in Gaza and Lebanon. This is raising significant ethical concerns about the deployment of commercial AI models in active combat situations, Michael Biesecker, Sam Mednick, and Garance Burke report: “Israel’s recent wars mark a leading instance in which commercial AI models made in the United States have been used in active warfare, despite concerns that they were not originally developed to help decide who lives and who dies.” Nandan Nilekani, co-founder of the Indian tech multinational Infosys, believes India is set to be “one of the biggest users and developers of artificial intelligence as it rapidly adapts to the digital world,” Dina Temple-Raston reports for The Record. Taiwan’s Ministry of Digital Affairs developing advanced tools leveraging AI and machine learning for early fraud detection and continuous automated monitoring under its National Centre for Cybersecurity Technology, collaborating with local governments and non-profit organizations to promote digital policy innovation, improve public services, and support data-driven social initiatives. Latin America A U.S. judge has determined that right-wing tech companies Trump Media & Technology Group and Rumble will not have to comply with a Brazilian Supreme Court order to remove accounts of a supporter of former right-wing Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro from their platforms, ruling the orders were not served “in accordance with international treaties” in a reflection of ongoing legal challenges in cross-border social media content regulation and discussions surrounding the censorship of political discourse. In northern Colombia’s La Guajira region, the government’s push for renewable energy projects like wind farms is meeting resistance from the Indigenous Wayuu community over environmental and cultural impacts, citing insufficient consultation and potential threats to their sacred sites. Tensions between the groups has stalled numerous projects and highlights why progress towards renewable energy must be balanced with inclusive and respectful practices. Panama has gone from the first Latin American country to endorse China’s Belt and Road Initiative in 2017 to ending its involvement. Recently-confirmed U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio characterized President José Raúl Mulino’s decision as “a great step forward for US-Panama relations” following the top-ranking diplomat’s first official visit to the Central American country, during which he aired concerns over Chinese influence in the region. Despite a ban on the satellite internet service, Bolivians are smuggling in Starlink kits to access better connectivity due to frustrations stemming from an unreliable state-run internet system dependent on a Chinese satellite. Authorities are now considering potential regulatory changes to accommodate low-orbit satellite providers like Starlink, as advocates argue high-speed internet is crucial for Bolivia’s continued development, William Wroblewski reports for Rest of World. In this interview, president of the Brazilian Association of Information and Communication Technology Companies Affonso Nina reflects on datacenter investments in Brazil and the future of the sector with BNAmericas. Alibaba has launched a cloud region in Mexico by establishing its inaugural data center in the country, growing the Chinese multinational tech company’s presence in the region and enhancing its cloud infrastructure for local customers. Regional collaborations present an opportunity to advance AI governance in Latin America and address the region’s unique challenges, promote human rights, and ensure the development of sustainable, actionable policies. “Latin America can benefit from AI, but it must establish specific guardrails to prevent harms and guarantee human rights,” Maia Levy Daniel writes for Brookings. Digital Public Infrastructure is ushering Latin America and the Caribbean into a new age by providing essential systems like digital identities, payment platforms, and data-sharing networks, thereby enhancing accessibility and efficiency in public services. Challenges encompass limited technical expertise, low public trust in digital services, affordability, and accessibility in rural areas, requiring investments into building better infrastructure, strengthening governments’ digital capabilities, upholding strong data protection measures, fostering private-public collaboration, and implementing adaptable DPI solutions. Oceania Australia possesses a unique opportunity to influence global economic models and international standards by proactively engaging with emerging technologies like Chinese-developed DeepSeek instead of being passive, James Birt opines for News.com.au, arguing that embracing these kinds of innovations can position the nation to be a leader in AI across sectors like healthcare and education: “instead of seeing DeepSeek as a danger to be blocked, policymakers, researchers and corporate leaders might consider it a prompt to think more deliberately about our country’s digital future.” The AI app was banned from use on government systems and devices early this month and continues to face intense scrutiny as a national security risk. Recent cyber incidents in Pacific Island nations indicate a critical need to bolster cybersecurity defenses in the region. A cyber intrusion in Samoa was attributed to a Chinese state-sponsored hacking group earlier this month, while Papua New Guinea’s Internal Revenue Commission was targeted back in January, highlighting the region’s vulnerability to increasingly sophisticated malicious actors, Blake Johnson, Fitriani and Jocelinn Kang write for the Australian Strategic Policy Institute. Documents recently obtained by RNZ reveal that in October 2023, New Zealand’s Human Rights Commission criticized social media platform X (formerly Twitter) and those run by Meta for not adequately protecting former Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern from intense online abuse, including gender-based violence and death threats. In response, internet safety organizations Netsafe and NZ Tech sought legal representation to challenge the HRC’s claims, with the dispute highlighting concerns over the effectiveness of the Code of Practice for Online Safety and Harms and relationships between regulatory bodies and Big Tech. Australia’s eSafety Commission has slapped the instant messaging service Telegram with a ~1 million AUD fine for a months-long delay in responding to inquiries concerning measures to combat violent extremist content and child sexual abuse material last year, noting this hindered the commission’s ability to fulfill its duties and functions as mandated by the Online Safety Act. Telegram will need to pay up, ask for an extension, or appeal, and told Cybernews they intend to pursue the latter option, claiming this is an “unfair and disproportionate penalty” that “concerns only the response timeframe.” Australian children are having no trouble circumventing social media age restrictions according to a recent report from Australia’s eSafety Commissioner, identifying that in 2024, 80% of children aged 8 to 12 were using platforms like YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat, most of which rely on self-declarations of age when signing up. This makes it easy for underage users to access them and prompts discussions of what needs to be improved ahead of a ban that will prohibit under-16s from accessing these platforms, set to go into effect in December 2025. Follow our LinkedIn page to keep up to date on our upcoming events, publications, and efforts to foster collaboration and dialogue between the diplomatic community, civil society, and the tech industry. |
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Tech Diplomacy Newsletter 2-25
