DiploFoundation

History and mission

Diplo emerged from a project to introduce information and communications technology (ICT) tools to the practice of diplomacy, initiated in 1992 at the Mediterranean Academy of Diplomatic Studies in Malta.

In November 2002, Diplo was established as an independent non-profit foundation by the Government of Malta and the Government of Switzerland. In June 2006, Diplo was granted Special Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) In September 2007, Diplo’s online courses received academic accreditation from the University of Malta.

Diplo's mission is to strengthen the meaningful participation of all stakeholders in diplomacy, international relations, and policy areas such as Internet governance and climate change. It aims to increase the power of small and developing states to influence their own futures and development; increase international accountability and inclusivity; increase the legitimacy of international policy making; and improve global governance and international policy development.

Programmes

A major focus of the organization is capacity development. It delivers credit and non-credit distance learning courses on subjects pertaining to diplomacy and international relations, including public diplomacy, e-diplomacy, and internet governance. The foundation's Master's degree program in contemporary diplomacy, with a separate track on Internet governance, is accredited through the University of Malta.

In the area of Internet governance, DiploFoundation runs the Geneva Internet Platform, an initiative of the Swiss authorities, and the Digital Watch initiative, including the Digital Watch observatory.

Executive

Diplo is run by administrators, staff and associates, consisting of highly experienced diplomats, academics, learning specialists, and computer programmers. The Board of Administration is composed of the following: