Public Diplomacy in the News: D.C.-Rio Collaboration, Liechtenstein's Global Brand, & Russia's Propaganda Tactics

“Public Diplomacy in the News” is a CPD Blog series by Andrew Dubbins that spotlights noteworthy stories on public diplomacy topics such as cultural diplomacy, nation branding, exchange programs, international events and conferences, digital diplomacy, and strategic global communications.

D.C.’s go-go music and Brazil's samba unite in Rio cultural exchange. Ahead of the G20 Summit in Rio, a cultural exchange between Washington, D.C., and Rio de Janeiro is blending D.C.'s go-go music with Brazil’s samba rhythms, highlighting the shared vibrancy of both cultures. Malik DOPE, a D.C. percussionist and America’s Got Talent finalist, is leading performances and workshops, collaborating with Brazilian dancers familiar with go-go’s "beat your feet" dance style. As part of the exchange, D.C.-based artists are also creating a mural in Rio's Santo Cristo area, featuring iconic D.C. landmarks and symbols, fostering a lasting connection between the two cities.

Mike Murillo | WTOP News

Liechtenstein balances security innovation and global diplomacy. In a Q&A with the Harvard International Review, the Prime Minister of Liechtenstein, Dr. Daniel Risch, discussed how the country maintains security through cooperation with Switzerland and Austria, despite having no military since the 1880s, while asserting sovereignty through diplomatic efforts in the UN and Council of Europe. Though historically influenced by Switzerland, Liechtenstein has charted its own path by joining the European Economic Area (EEA) to secure access to global markets, essential for its industrial and financial sectors. Known for innovation in blockchain and financial regulation, the nation restructured its economy post-2008 to become a well-regulated financial hub. While tourism plays a minor role, the princely family contributes through entrepreneurial ventures, including the Liechtenstein Institute on Self-Determination at Princeton, reflecting the country's commitment to diplomacy and global governance.

Harvard International Review

Storm-1516 uses AI and fake narratives to spread Russian propaganda. An NBC interactive story depicts how Russian propaganda group Storm-1516 uses fabricated videos, AI-generated content, and false narratives to influence Western audiences, undermine support for Ukraine, and promote political agendas such as Donald Trump’s re-election. Researchers have identified Storm-1516’s tactics, which include spreading disinformation through international influencers and seemingly independent U.S. actors, reflecting an evolution from crude social media posts to sophisticated fake news operations. Despite some poorly executed videos, the group’s persistence allows occasional false stories to gain significant traction. Experts warn that these efforts threaten democratic institutions and public trust, while U.S. officials have emphasized Russia’s growing use of advanced technologies to deepen societal discord ahead of the 2024 elections.

Brandy Zadrozny | NBC News

COP29 climate aid talks at risk of failure. Irish Environment Minister Eamon Ryan warns that the upcoming COP29 climate summit in Baku faces a "real risk" of failing to reach a financial agreement on climate aid, with developing nations seeking increased funding beyond the current $100 billion annual target. Key challenges include negotiating expanded contributions from emerging economies like China and setting new multi-layered financing goals involving public, private, and development bank sources. Ryan emphasized the urgency of addressing inequities, such as minimal clean energy investment in Africa, and stressed that failure to secure a substantial agreement would damage global trust and hinder progress on climate action.

Politico / Zia Weise

Hawaii and Taiwan strengthen ties through trade and cultural exchange. A delegation from Hawaii, led by Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke, visited Taiwan to strengthen the 31-year sister-state relationship through trade, cultural exchanges, and investment opportunities. During the visit, they met with Taiwan's President Ching-te Lai and other leaders to discuss topics ranging from Taiwan’s semiconductor industry to military cooperation with the U.S. The Hawaii office in the Taipei World Trade Center focuses on trade and green energy partnerships, with efforts underway to restore direct flights between Taipei and Honolulu to boost tourism, student exchanges, and cargo transport, which have been hindered since the pandemic.

Annalisa Burgos | Hawaii News Now