Public Diplomacy in the News: AI's Promises & Perils, World Heritage Sites at Risk, & Churchill's Unconventional Diplomacy

“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.

Liz Allen on AI's promise and perils. AI is rapidly transforming global relationships and daily life, with both significant promise and serious risks. In an interview with Ms. Magazine, Elizabeth Allen, former Under Secretary for Public Diplomacy, discussed how the U.S. government is navigating these changes. Allen emphasized AI’s potential to revolutionize sectors such as healthcare and education, especially in developing countries, while also warning of its perils, particularly in security risks, misinformation, and disinformation. She stressed the importance of global cooperation, regulation, and dialogue in fostering trust and combating the rise of AI-driven disinformation. Furthermore, Allen highlighted the need for gender equity in AI development and policy and underscores the vital role of people-to-people diplomacy in shaping the future, particularly in complex geopolitical relationships like the one between the U.S. and China.

Michelle Onello / Ms. Magazine

UNESCO World Heritage sites in the U.S. face severe climate risks by 2050. A recent analysis by Climate X has identified 21 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the United States as being at significant risk from climate change, with Everglades National Park in Florida and Olympic National Park in Washington among the most vulnerable. Globally, sites like Korea’s ancient Buddhist monasteries and Australia's Sydney Opera House also face severe risks.  The report highlights the growing threat of climate hazards, such as coastal flooding, tropical cyclones, and extreme heat, which could devastate these cultural and natural landmarks by 2050 if urgent action is not taken to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The report underscores the need for immediate investment in climate adaptation to protect these invaluable heritage sites and mitigate future damage.

Tom Howarth / Newsweek

Winston Churchill’s unconventional diplomacy at the White House. Winston Churchill's time as a guest at the White House, as detailed in Robert Schmuhl’s book Mr. Churchill in the White House, exemplified his unique approach to diplomacy, blending charm, humor, and unconventional behavior. Known for working late into the night while indulging in brandy and cigars, Churchill developed strong relationships with U.S. presidents Franklin Roosevelt and Dwight Eisenhower during crucial World War II strategy sessions. Despite eccentric habits, such as walking the halls in a romper or meeting Roosevelt while naked, Churchill’s personal magnetism and political savvy helped solidify key alliances. His visits were not only strategic but also a masterclass in soft diplomacy, ensuring his popularity in America and cementing his legacy in global politics.

The Economist

Cambridge and Castelluccio Valmaggiore unite in cultural exchange. A stone from a former Indian temple arch in Cambridge has been installed in Castelluccio Valmaggiore, Italy, symbolizing friendship and cultural exchange between the two towns. Piero D'Angelico, a local Cambridge hairdresser, saved the stone from being discarded and organized its installation in his hometown, honoring his family’s history of stonemasonry. During a ceremony attended by the mayors of both towns and other dignitaries, the stone was put on display alongside a replica of the Gateway from India arch, further strengthening ties between Cambridge, Italy, and India. The exchange celebrated shared heritage, friendship, and global solidarity.

Alex Spencer / Cambridge Independent

Kamala Harris eyes global expansion of U.S. climate technology to rival China. Kamala Harris could play a pivotal role in advancing U.S. climate technology globally by positioning the U.S. as the preferred partner for developing nations over China, according to an analysis by Axios. Brian Deese, a Harris adviser, proposes an aggressive plan to boost the export of U.S.-made climate tech, leveraging market mechanisms and minimal government grants to finance projects like renewable energy and carbon capture. This strategy aims to fill the gap left by China’s waning Belt and Road Initiative and support global climate resilience, though it would require congressional approval to fully implement.

Felix Salmon & Ben Geman / Axios