IMPRESSUM Annual Report 2025 Published by DiploFoundation (2026) Malta DiploFoundation Anutruf, Ground Floor Hriereb Street, Msida MSD 1675 Malta Switzerland WMO Building (2nd floor) 7 bis, Avenue de la Paix CH-1202 Geneva Switzerland Serbia DiploCentar Branicevska 12a/12 11000 Belgrade Serbia USA Diplo US 1100 15th Street NW, FL 4 Washington, DC 20005 USA Visit us at www.diplomacy.edu Write to us at diplo@diplomacy.edu
Table of contents 1. Introduction...........................................................................................................................................4 1.1 Message from the Executive Director....................................................................................................4 1.2 Our team............................................................................................................................................... 5 2. Building capacities for diplomacy and digital policy................................................................................6 2.1 Capacity development in numbers........................................................................................................6 2.2 Learning in a changing environment..................................................................................................... 8 2.3 Diplo Academy’s regular courses...........................................................................................................8 Supporting accessible and innovative learning...................................................................................10 The AI Apprenticeship: Diplo’s flagship AI training............................................................................. 10 2.4 Malta Scholarships and Small States Fellowships................................................................................11 2.5 Strengthening diplomatic practice through tailored programmes...................................................... 12 Cyber diplomacy and cybersecurity capacity development................................................................12 Diplomacy training and professional development............................................................................ 13 AI and digital transformation.............................................................................................................. 13 Digital governance and economic diplomacy..................................................................................... 13 Specialised policy support and multilateral engagement................................................................... 14 3. Strengthening global digital governance...............................................................................................15 3.1 Geneva Internet Platform: A hub for digital policy dialogue and analysis...........................................15 Digital policy monitoring and analysis................................................................................................ 15 Supporting diplomats in Geneva.........................................................................................................16 AI-powered reporting......................................................................................................................... 17 3.2 Geneva Dialogue on Responsible Behaviour in Cyberspace................................................................ 17 From cyber norms to practical implementation................................................................................. 17 3.3 The CADE initiative: Strengthening civil society voices in digital governance..................................... 18 Supporting participation in digital governance processes.................................................................. 19 Capacity development for civil society organisations......................................................................... 19 Youth engagement and digital literacy................................................................................................20 Monitoring digital policy developments............................................................................................. 20 3.4 Expanding participation in digital governance.................................................................................... 20 Engaging with global digital rights and governance communities...................................................... 20 Strengthening digital governance capacities in Serbia and Armenia.................................................. 21 4. Communication and outreach.............................................................................................................. 22 4.1 Websites and digital platforms............................................................................................................ 22 4.2 Newsletters and mailing lists............................................................................................................... 23 4.3 Social media and multimedia outreach............................................................................................... 24 4.4 Publications and knowledge products.................................................................................................25 5. Financial Report................................................................................................................................... 27
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1. Introduction 1.1 Message from the Executive Director The year 2025 was marked by profound change in diplomacy and global governance. Across governments, international organisations, and other institutions, AI moved rapidly from experimentation to implementation. Policy discussions on cybersecurity, digital governance, and the future of multilateral cooperation continued to evolve, while institutions worldwide faced growing pressure to adapt to an increasingly complex policy environment. Against this backdrop, Diplo remained focused on its core mission: enabling more informed, inclusive, and effective participation in diplomacy and global governance. Building capacities for the AI era Throughout the year, we strengthened capacities through education and training, supporting diplomats, policymakers, technical experts, civil society organisations, and international institutions in navigating emerging challenges and opportunities. Through Diplo Academy, we trained 865 participants from 132 countries, while our global alum community grew to more than 8,200 practitioners. AI featured prominently across our work. The expansion of the AI Apprenticeship programme reflected growing demand for practical understanding of how AI technologies function and how they can be applied responsibly in professional and policy contexts. At the same time, we expanded the use of AI across our educational, analytical, and operational activities, exploring how technology can enhance learning, research, and institutional effectiveness while preserving the value of human expertise. Supporting digital governance Beyond capacity development, Diplo continued to support digital governance processes through the Geneva Internet Platform and the Digital Watch Observatory, providing trusted analysis, policy monitoring, and spaces for dialogue at a time of rapid technological change. Through the Geneva Dialogue on Responsible Behaviour in Cyberspace, we advanced practical approaches to implementing cyber norms, while the CADE (Civil Society Alliances for Digital Empowerment) initiative strengthened civil society participation in digital governance processes worldwide. Strengthening inclusion and participation A common thread across all of these activities was the need for Diplo’s support and reinforcement of inclusion. Whether through scholarships for participants from developing countries and small states, support for diplomats engaging in digital policy discussions, or initiatives that amplify civil society voices in global processes, Diplo remains committed to broadening participation in shaping our shared digital future. On behalf of Diplo's team, thank you for your continued commitment to our mission. Dr Jovan Kurbalija Executive Director, DiploFoundation
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1.2 Our team Diplo's work is made possible by a diverse global team of diplomats, academics, researchers, educators, technologists, and project professionals who contribute their expertise across our programmes, research, policy activities, and institutional development. Our governance structure brings together representatives of founding governments and partner institutions through the Board of Administrators, while senior fellows provide strategic guidance and subject-matter expertise drawn from decades of experience in diplomacy, international relations, development, and academia. Diplo's educational activities are supported by a global faculty of diplomats, academics, and practitioners, whose expertise is complemented by a multidisciplinary team of staff and associates, including researchers, policy analysts, learning specialists, programme managers, software developers, communications professionals, and course coordinators. Operating from offices in Malta, Geneva, Belgrade, and Washington DC, and supported by colleagues working remotely around the world, Diplo combines global reach with local expertise. The organisation's unique cognitive proximity approach enables it to engage effectively with partners and participants across regions, sectors, and policy communities.
2025: Our team in numbers
7 51 47
Board members
24
Providing strategic oversight
Staff members
9
Supporting learning, research, projects, and operations
Lecturers Delivering expert-led capacity development
8,200+
5
Senior fellows Contributing expertise from diplomacy, academia, and policy
Course coordinators Facilitating interactive online learning worldwide
Worldwide alum network Representing a global community of practitioners
2. Building capacities for diplomacy and digital policy Capacity development remained at the core of Diplo's work throughout 2025. As diplomacy, governance, and international cooperation continued to evolve in response to technological change, geopolitical shifts, and emerging policy challenges, Diplo supported diplomats, policymakers, technical experts, civil society representatives, and international organisations through a wide range of online and hybrid training programmes.
2.1 Capacity development in numbers Diplo Academy continued to provide accessible, inclusive, and practice-oriented learning opportunities for professionals worldwide. In 2025, Diplo Academy trained 865 participants from 132 countries through 34 online, hybrid, and in situ training programmes. Women represented 52% of participants, while 64% of learners came from developing and least developed countries, underscoring Diplo's continued commitment to inclusive and globally accessible capacity development. Diplo’s alum network grew to more than 8,200 members worldwide, reflecting the long-term impact of its educational programmes and the strength of its global learning community.
2025: Diplo Academy in numbers
865 34 64%
Participants
132
Trained in online, hybrid, and in situ courses
Training programmes
52%
Covering diplomacy, AI, digital policy, and global governance
From developing countries Supporting inclusive capacity development
8,200+
6
Countries Representing regions worldwide
Female participants Maintaining gender-balanced participation
Worldwide alum network Representing a global community of practitioners
Number of participants per stakeholder group in Diplo’s capacity development programmes in 2023–2025
Number of participants per region in Diplo’s capacity development programmes in 2023–2025
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2.2 Learning in a changing environment In 2025, Diplo continued to adapt its educational approach to a rapidly changing policy and technological environment. Course materials were regularly updated to reflect developments in diplomacy, digital policy, AI, cybersecurity, and global governance. Responding to the realities faced by busy professionals, Diplo began restructuring its long-standing eight-week online courses into more compact four-week formats. This ongoing transition is designed to make learning more accessible without diluting intellectual depth, practical relevance, or learning outcomes, prioritising better engagement, focus, and usability. The course completion rate remained high at 92%. Participants engaged with learning through readings, discussions, practical exercises, simulations, and peer exchange, supported by Diplo's online learning platform. During the year, new AI-powered tools were integrated into the platform to help participants navigate course materials and engage more deeply with learning resources. At the same time, Diplo maintained its long-standing emphasis on expert guidance and dialogue-based learning, bringing together diplomats, policymakers, academics, technical experts, and practitioners to explore complex policy challenges from multiple perspectives.
The new AI assistant, powered by Diplo’s AI engine, is integrated into Diplo’s Learning Management System
2.3 Diplo Academy’s regular courses Diplo Academy's open-enrolment certificate courses continued to provide professionals worldwide with accessible opportunities to strengthen their expertise in diplomacy, artificial intelligence (AI), digital policy, and global governance. 8
In 2025, Diplo offered 16 regular open-enrolment courses (in addition to many other courses offered as part of ongoing projects, described further down):
Humanitarian Diplomacy
E-Diplomacy
February 2025
May 2025
Multilateral Diplomacy
Internet Technology and Policy
February 2025
July 2025
Public Diplomacy
Bilateral Diplomacy
February 2025
July 2025
Artificial Intelligence: Technology, Governance, and Policy Frameworks
Diplomatic Law, Privileges and Immunities
February 2025
July 2025
AI Apprenticeship
Negotiation Skills
March and September 2025
September 2025
Diplomatic Theory and Practice
Cybersecurity
May 2025
October 2025
21st Century Diplomacy
Sustainable Development Diplomacy
May 2025
October 2025
Tech Diplomacy
Science Diplomacy
May 2025
October 2025
Participants could pursue individual certificate courses or build towards broader learning pathways, including the Advanced Diploma in Internet Governance. In addition, nine participants who completed their Postgraduate Diploma in Contemporary Diplomacy in 2024, delivered in partnership with the University of Malta, began working on their Master's dissertations in February 2025. Name
Dissertation title
Sean Whitehead
Driving Market Performance Through Collaborative Governance: Win-Win Strategies for States and the Private Sector
Moses Jere
Bridging the Digital Divide in the Global South through the Global Digital Compact
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Klara Marland
Cyber Stability Through Diplomacy: Strategies for Enhancing Multilateral Cyber Negotiation Processes at the UN
Ines Ben Halima
The Impact of AI on Geopolitics: Evolution and Challenges
Casandra Amstelveen
Reforming Suriname's Foreign Ministry: Leveraging Digital Diplomacy for Strategic Advancement in a Globalized World
Jonathan Mathew
‘That's What the Internet Said’: Navigating Policy Challenges to Online Information Integrity
Emmanuel Elolo Agbenonwossi
Ubuntu and AI: Rethinking Ethical Frameworks for Artificial Intelligence Governance in Africa
Dipendra Raj Dhakal
Millennium Challenge Corporation in Nepal: A Model for Development or a Tool for Soft Power?
Mcharo Ngulube
The Influence of Internet Policies and Strategies on Green Information Technology Infrastructure Adoption in Malawi
Supporting accessible and innovative learning Diplo continued to adapt its course portfolio in response to evolving policy developments and emerging learning needs. Course materials were regularly updated to reflect the latest developments in international policy processes, digital governance, emerging technologies, and diplomatic practice. Throughout 2025, support from the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) contributed to the continuous enhancement of Diplo Academy. This support enabled updating course materials, developing new learning programmes, integrating AI-enabled learning tools, and maintaining the technological infrastructure underpinning Diplo's online learning environment.
The AI Apprenticeship: Diplo’s flagship AI training One of the most significant developments of 2025 was the continued expansion of the AI Apprenticeship, which emerged as Diplo's flagship learning programme and one of its most sought-after educational offerings. Building on its successful 2024 introduction, the programme was delivered through multiple iterations throughout the year.
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Grounded in Diplo's long-standing philosophy of learning by doing, the AI Apprenticeship combines hands-on experimentation, guided exercises, mentorship, and reflection. Participants explore how contemporary AI technologies are built, trained, and applied, gaining practical experience while examining broader questions relating to governance, ethics, regulation, diplomacy, and public policy. By helping participants understand what lies under the bonnet of AI systems, the programme provides a foundation for more informed engagement with the opportunities and challenges that AI presents. This practical understanding enables participants not only to use AI tools more effectively but also to contribute more meaningfully to discussions on AI governance, institutional transformation, and public policy.
A screenshot of a class meeting as part of the AI Apprenticeship course, which ran in March 2025
2.4 Malta Scholarships and Small States Fellowships The Malta Scholarships Programme and Small States Fellowships continued to expand access to Diplo's educational opportunities. Throughout 2025, a total of 142 scholarships and fellowships enabled participants from developing countries and small states to strengthen their knowledge and skills across a wide range of fields, including diplomacy, digital policy, AI, internet governance, cybersecurity, science diplomacy, humanitarian diplomacy, sustainable development, and negotiation. ● Through the Small States Scholarship Fund, 44 participants from 13 countries – Belize, Barbados, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, Madagascar, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Sao Tomé and Principe, Samoa, Suriname, Tonga, and Vanuatu – took part in various online courses throughout 2025. ● Through the Malta Scholarships Fund, full or partial funding was provided to 98 participants from 38 developing countries, allowing them to enrol in online courses.
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2.5 Strengthening diplomatic practice through tailored programmes Alongside its open-enrolment courses, Diplo continued to deliver customised educational programmes and institutional support initiatives for governments, diplomatic academies, international organisations, regional organisations, and development partners. These activities combined Diplo's expertise in diplomacy, digital governance, cybersecurity, AI, and capacity development with the specific priorities of partner institutions.
Cyber diplomacy and cybersecurity capacity development A major area of work during 2025 focused on strengthening cybersecurity and cyber diplomacy capacities across Africa, Eastern Europe, and the Western Balkans through a series of partnerships with the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) and regional organisations. These initiatives supported diplomats, policymakers, cybersecurity practitioners, and training institutions in navigating international cyber negotiations, cybersecurity governance, and responsible behaviour in cyberspace. Particular attention was devoted to the Cyber Diplomacy Capacity Building Programme for ECOWAS countries. Building on previous phases of cooperation, the 2025 programme focused on creating a sustainable network of cyber diplomacy trainers within diplomatic academies and foreign ministries across the region. Diplo conducted a comprehensive mapping of training needs and institutional capacities in ECOWAS member states, developed multilingual training resources and AI-supported learning tools, delivered a four-week online course, and organised an in-person training-of-trainers workshop in Cabo Verde. The programme culminated in a high-level cyber diplomacy briefing and workshop for ECOWAS ambassadors and senior officials in Abuja, helping strengthen recognition of cybersecurity as a strategic foreign policy issue while laying the groundwork for integrating cyber diplomacy into national diplomatic training programmes across the region.
A closing ceremony completed the Training-for-Trainers programme
Diplo also continued its cooperation with the African Union and African stakeholders through cyber diplomacy programmes that support African participation in international cybersecurity discussions and strengthen understanding of cyber norms, confidence-building measures, and digital governance processes. In the Western Balkans, activities focused on strengthening regional cooperation and supporting national capacity development for cyber diplomacy.
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Diplomacy training and professional development The long-standing partnership with Mexico's diplomatic academy, the Instituto Matías Romero, continued through a comprehensive online training programme for members of the Mexican foreign service. The programme strengthened diplomatic knowledge and professional skills across a range of contemporary diplomatic topics and contributed to the continued professional development of Mexican diplomats. Diplo delivered a specialised programme on bilateral and multilateral diplomacy for officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the United Arab Emirates through the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy. Delivered in Abu Dhabi, the programme combined practical exercises, simulations, and case studies to strengthen participants' understanding of contemporary diplomatic practice, negotiation processes, and multilateral engagement. The 13th edition of the ASEF Public Diplomacy Training brought together diplomats and government officials from Asia and Europe through a five-week online course followed by an intensive in-person training module in Singapore. The programme strengthened public diplomacy capacities, strategic communication skills, and cross-regional collaboration while fostering a growing network of public diplomacy practitioners across the two regions.
AI and digital transformation Support for AI adoption and institutional transformation emerged as an important area of work during the year. For the EU Permanent Mission to the UN and the EU Permanent Mission to the WTO in Geneva, Diplo delivered specialised training on the practical use of AI in diplomacy, exploring opportunities, limitations, and ethical considerations associated with AI adoption. Diplo also conducted an institutional AI transformation workshop for the Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, helping participants assess how AI could be integrated into diplomatic workflows, knowledge management, and organisational processes. Diplo delivered training for a group of students at the Beijing Institute of Technology on governing the digital age, examining the intersection of AI, internet governance, digital transformation, and public policy. Bringing together technical and policy perspectives, the programme explored how emerging technologies are reshaping governance and international cooperation.
Digital governance and economic diplomacy Diplo delivered a specialised capacity development programme for officials of the Commonwealth Small States Office, focusing on digital trade and e-commerce policy, governance frameworks, and international negotiations. Combining online learning with interactive sessions, the programme supported officials from small states in strengthening their ability to engage in the increasingly important policy discussions surrounding the digital economy. For the EU Delegation to the United States, Diplo delivered a customised public diplomacy programme focused on the effective use of digital tools and communication strategies in diplomatic outreach. Participants explored approaches to engagement in increasingly complex and fragmented information environments.
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Diplo also contributed to the Arab Youth Center's Advanced Training in Economic Diplomacy programme, delivering specialised sessions on investment diplomacy and trade agreements as instruments of diplomatic engagement. The programme examined how economic tools can be used to advance foreign policy objectives and strengthen international partnerships.
Specialised policy support and multilateral engagement In Geneva, Diplo continued to support diplomats engaging with specialised technology and governance processes. This included a seminar for the UK Mission to Geneva focused on the International Telecommunication Union's World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC), as well as expert contributions to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) capacity-development activities on cybersecurity diplomacy. Additional specialised activities included a workshop on digital policy and legislation for parliamentarians from South Sudan, support for the Women in International Security and Cyberspace (WiC) fellowship programme through the Global Forum on Cyber Expertise (GFCE), and contributions to knowledge-sharing and reporting initiatives linked to internet governance, AI governance, and multilateral policy processes. In 2025, Diplo concluded its collaboration with the UN Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR) on the project Strengthening BTWC Participation through Education. The initiative supported broader and more informed participation in discussions related to the Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention and highlighted the continued importance of education and capacity development in strengthening engagement with multilateral processes.
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3. Strengthening global digital governance 3.1 Geneva Internet Platform: A hub for digital policy dialogue and analysis As digital governance discussions accelerated across areas such as AI, cybersecurity, data governance, and digital cooperation, the Geneva Internet Platform (GIP) continued to provide trusted analysis, neutral spaces for dialogue, and support for informed participation. In 2025, the GIP facilitated eight diplomatic dialogues and eight tech attachés briefings, engaged extensively with Geneva-based missions and international organisations, and produced more than 120 policy publications and briefings through the Digital Watch observatory. Together, these activities helped strengthen Geneva's role as a centre for inclusive and informed digital governance.
2025: The Geneva Internet Platform in numbers
Meetings and briefings
90 51 12
62
With international organisations, governments, businesses, and other stakeholders
Newsletters and digests
29
Keeping stakeholders informed on digital policy developments
Major events monitored
8
Providing reporting and analysis from global digital governance processes
Policy analyses Published through the Digital Watch observatory
Mission engagements Supporting permanent missions in Geneva
Tech attachés briefings Informal exchanges for diplomats in Geneva
Digital policy monitoring and analysis A central component of the Geneva Internet Platform’s work is the Digital Watch observatory, which continued in 2025 to provide timely monitoring, analysis, and contextualisation of developments across more than 50 digital policy issues and processes. As the GIP's flagship knowledge platform, the Digital 15
Watch observatory offered daily updates, thematic research, policy analyses, country profiles, newsletters, and event reporting, helping practitioners and policymakers stay informed and engaged in a rapidly evolving policy environment. Particular attention was devoted to tracking major global processes, including the WSIS+20 review, cybersecurity negotiations, data governance discussions, and emerging AI governance initiatives. Through regular reporting and analysis, the Digital Watch observatory continued to provide accessible and neutral explanations of complex developments and their implications for different stakeholder communities. Throughout the year, the observatory published 62 policy analyses, produced 51 newsletters and weekly digests, and reported from 12 major digital governance events, further strengthening its role as a trusted source of information for diplomats, policymakers, researchers, and practitioners worldwide.
The Digital Watch News+ mobile app provides real-time updates related to digital tech and policy, an events calendar, and various digital policy analyses
Supporting diplomats in Geneva Throughout the year, the GIP continued to support diplomats through targeted briefings, diplomatic dialogues, and knowledge-sharing activities. We placed special emphasis on supporting diplomatic engagement in the WSIS+20 review process. Through regular briefings, background analyses, and informal exchanges, the GIP helped diplomats and other stakeholders better understand evolving negotiations, identify emerging issues, and navigate complex policy discussions. The Tech Attachés Circle continued to provide an informal space for Geneva-based diplomats to exchange perspectives on developments in digital governance. Discussions throughout the year focused on issues including AI governance, the WSIS+20 review, cybersecurity, and the implementation of the Global Digital Compact.
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Diplomatic dialogues hosted by the GIP in Geneva
AI-powered reporting Diplo continued to refine its innovative approach to AI-assisted reporting and knowledge management. Combining human expertise with AI-supported tools, the team provided timely reporting from major digital policy events, helping participants and broader audiences follow discussions, identify trends, and access key insights. This hybrid approach enabled the production of event summaries, thematic analyses, and personalised information services while maintaining the quality control and contextual understanding provided by Diplo’s experts. The experience gained through these initiatives also informed Diplo’s broader work on AI literacy, institutional transformation, and the responsible use of AI in professional environments.
3.2 Geneva Dialogue on Responsible Behaviour in Cyberspace From cyber norms to practical implementation In 2025, the Geneva Dialogue on Responsible Behaviour in Cyberspace continued its work to translate international cyber norms into practical guidance for non-state stakeholders. Building on previous phases of work, the dialogue focused on protecting critical infrastructure and clarifying how businesses, civil society organisations, technical experts, and academic institutions can contribute to implementing agreed norms and confidence-building measures.
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The principal achievement of the year was the completion and launch of the second chapter of the Geneva Manual. Developed through extensive consultations with experts and stakeholders, the chapter provides practical guidance on implementing three UN cyber norms related to critical infrastructure protection and associated confidence-building measures.
Beyond the publication, the dialogue organised consultations, community briefings, outreach activities, and capacity development initiatives to support stakeholders in implementing the manual's recommendations. These activities strengthened awareness of cyber norms and encouraged more active participation by non-state actors in building a secure and stable cyberspace.
3.3 The CADE initiative: Strengthening civil society voices in digital governance The Civil Society Alliances for Digital Empowerment (CADE) initiative, co-funded by the European Union, continued to strengthen civil society organisations' participation in digital and internet governance processes worldwide. In 2025, CADE, implemented through a consortium of regional and global partners led by Diplo, focused on building capacity, expanding policy engagement, and ensuring that civil society voices from developing countries are better represented in global digital policy discussions.
2025: CADE in numbers
2,600+ 600+
Participants engaged
60
Across CADE activities during 2025
Civil society organisations Represented through the CADE network
18
4
Civil society leaders Enrolled in the flagship capacity development programme
Working languages Used for major project resources and training materials
Supporting participation in digital governance processes Throughout the year, CADE actively supported civil society participation in global digital governance processes, including the Internet Governance Forum (IGF), ICANN, the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF), and ITU. Dialogues and learning exchanges enabled civil society actors to engage directly with governments, technical experts, and international organisations, strengthening multistakeholder cooperation and policy influence.
Online and in situ participants during the session ‘From the outside looking in: An informal dialogue on standard-setting, stakeholder inclusion, and power dynamics’, co-organised by Diplo on 9 July 2025 in Geneva
The initiative also fostered stronger South–South cooperation and cross-regional learning. Through peer exchanges, thematic dialogues, and collaborative activities, civil society organisations shared experiences on issues such as digital rights, internet shutdowns, cybersecurity, gender and technology, digital inclusion, and participation in international policy processes.
Capacity development for civil society organisations Capacity development was a central pillar of CADE throughout 2025. Diplo developed and delivered the CADE Capacity Development Programme for CSOs (2025–2026), which attracted close to 300 applications from organisations worldwide. Following a competitive selection process, 60 civil society organisations from more than 30 countries were selected to participate. The programme combined technical knowledge on internet governance, cybersecurity policy, infrastructure governance, and AI with the diplomatic, advocacy, and negotiation skills needed to engage effectively in multistakeholder policy processes. Participants also benefited from tailored support through the CADE Helpdesk, which provides on-demand guidance for engagement in internet governance and digital policy discussions. Alongside the flagship programme, CADE delivered newcomer training, regional capacity development activities, peer-learning dialogues, and mentoring opportunities linked to major regional processes. These included activities connected to the African IGF, LACIGF, Bread&Net, the Pacific IGF, and national IGFs.
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CADE’s presence and engagement at major events in 2025
Particular attention was given to supporting first-time participants, strengthening local and regional communities of practice, and helping civil society organisations translate knowledge into meaningful participation in policy processes.
Youth engagement and digital literacy CADE further expanded its work with youth and emerging leaders through initiatives such as Youth Voices for Digital Rights and digital literacy programmes implemented across different regions. These activities strengthened digital policy literacy, promoted civic engagement, and built a pipeline of future leaders able to contribute to digital governance debates at local, regional, and global levels.
Monitoring digital policy developments CADE’s observatory for civil society continued to expand as an online resource hub, providing accessible information on digital policy developments and opportunities for engagement. During 2025, the observatory published 945 updates and reached close to 27,000 users, significantly exceeding its annual audience targets.
3.4 Expanding participation in digital governance Engaging with global digital rights and governance communities Alongside the CADE initiative, Diplo continued to strengthen broader civil society engagement in digital governance through capacity development, policy analysis, knowledge-sharing activities, and support for participation in international policy processes, with the support of the Ford Foundation. 20
Throughout 2025, particular attention was devoted to fostering connections among digital rights communities, internet governance stakeholders, youth organisations, and other civil society actors worldwide. Through expert briefings, consultations, training activities, and policy dialogues, participants deepened their understanding of emerging digital governance issues and enhanced their capacity to engage effectively in policy discussions at national, regional, and global levels. Diplo also continued to provide accessible, timely, and neutral information on digital policy developments through the Digital Watch observatory and CADE’s observatory for civil society. Reporting, analysis, and knowledge resources supported civil society organisations in tracking developments related to the WSIS+20 review process, internet governance, AI governance, digital rights, cybersecurity, and other key policy areas, enabling more informed and meaningful participation in governance processes.
Strengthening digital governance capacities in Serbia and Armenia In 2025, Diplo launched the Digital Democracy for All (DD4ALL) initiative in partnership with GIZ, supporting efforts to strengthen inclusive and human-centric approaches to digital governance in Serbia and Armenia. In Serbia, activities focused on the intersection of AI, data governance, and human rights. Diplo conducted a mapping of relevant regional and international policy frameworks on AI and data protection, providing a resource to support future policy development. In addition, a specialised training programme was delivered for staff of the Commissioner for Information of Public Importance and Personal Data Protection, strengthening institutional capacities to address emerging data protection challenges in the AI era. In Armenia, the initiative focused on strengthening the capacity of civil society organisations to engage in digital governance processes. Activities included a virtual briefing, an in-situ training workshop in Yerevan, and an online course covering key digital policy issues, including internet governance, AI governance, cybersecurity, digital rights, and data governance. The programme brought together civil society representatives and public institutions, fostering a deeper understanding of the multistakeholder approach to digital governance and strengthening national capacities for policy engagement. The project also laid the groundwork for future activities, including policy-shaping simulations, ideation workshops, and the development of practical resources to support AI governance and digital policy capacity development. Through its work in Serbia and Armenia, DD4ALL contributed to strengthening local expertise, supporting multistakeholder dialogue, and enhancing the capacity of stakeholders to participate effectively in national, regional, and global digital governance processes.
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4. Communication and outreach Effective communication is always essential to Diplo’s mission of supporting informed participation in diplomacy and global governance. Through websites, newsletters, social media, publications, and digital outreach, Diplo continued to connect directly and indirectly with diverse audiences worldwide and expand access to knowledge, analysis, and learning opportunities.
4.1 Websites and digital platforms Diplo’s digital platforms continued to play a central role in communicating our work and supporting engagement with our programmes, research, events, and policy activities. Diplo’s website (www.diplomacy.edu) remained the primary gateway to information on our educational programmes, publications, partnerships, and institutional activities. Throughout the year, efforts focused on maintaining high-quality content, improving accessibility, and ensuring that users could easily navigate the breadth of Diplo’s work. In 2025, the website attracted 707,977 active users, representing an 11.76% increase compared to 2024.
The Digital Watch observatory (dig.watch) continued to strengthen its role as a leading platform for timely digital policy updates, analysis, and research throughout 2025. Over the year, efforts focused on expanding visibility, maintaining a steady flow of relevant content, and ensuring that key global digital developments were communicated in a clear and accessible way.
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The platform recorded its strongest annual performance to date, reaching approximately 1.5 million active users in 2025, an increase of approximately 88% compared to 2024 and 223% compared to 2023.
The CADE observatory (cadeproject.org) established itself as a valuable resource for civil society organisations seeking to engage in digital policy processes. Providing updates on digital governance developments, participation opportunities, and project outputs, the platform attracted close to 27,000 active users during its first year of operation, demonstrating strong demand for accessible information and knowledge resources tailored to civil society actors. Other specialised websites continued to support Diplo's programme and policy activities. The Geneva Internet Platform website (giplatform.org) served as a gateway to information on Geneva's digital governance ecosystem, while the Geneva Dialogue website (genevadialogue.org) provided access to publications, events, and resources related to responsible behaviour in cyberspace.
4.2 Newsletters and mailing lists Diplo continued to maintain active communication with its global community through a range of newsletters and mailing lists. DiploNews provided regular updates on courses, events, publications, partnerships, and institutional developments. The newsletter remains an important channel for engaging alums, partners, faculty members, and the wider Diplo community. The GIP and Digital Watch newsletters continued to provide curated updates and analysis on developments in digital governance, cybersecurity, AI governance, and related policy areas. These publications supported policymakers and practitioners seeking concise and accessible updates on rapidly evolving issues.
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In 2025, the CADE project launched a dedicated newsletter to support communication and knowledge sharing among participating civil society organisations and stakeholders. Originally introduced ahead of IGF 2025, the newsletter became an important tool for sustaining the project's peer-learning community throughout the year. Four editions were published in 2025. Consortium partners further amplified the project’s communications through their institutional platforms. Throughout the year, efforts continued to improve audience segmentation, subscriber engagement, and the effectiveness of communication campaigns.
4.3 Social media and multimedia outreach Diplo maintained an active presence across social media platforms, sharing updates on courses, events, publications, policy developments, and institutional activities. Diplo’s social media recorded sustained growth across all platforms. Facebook led in reach and engagement; Instagram doubled performance; LinkedIn expanded its high-quality professional audience; and X maintained exceptionally high engagement rates. Social media channels amplified the reach of Diplo’s educational and policy work and facilitated engagement with alums, partners, diplomats, researchers, and practitioners worldwide. The continued production of short-form multimedia content, including videos, explainers, interviews, events announcements and follow-ups, and policy summaries, complemented Diplo’s written outputs and supported wider dissemination of knowledge and analysis.
On the social media channel X, by the end of 2025, Diplo’s main account @diplomacyedu had over 15,800 verified followers and an engagement rate of 5.7%; @ediplomat had approximately 15,000 followers; and 24
@DigWatchWorld had just over 13,700 followers, while @GenevaGIP closed the year with over 4,500 followers. On Facebook, DiploFoundation’s profile had 26,4 million content views, and a 73% increase in interaction. On LinkedIn, Diplo’s LinkedIn profile closed the year with more than 14,800 followers – an increase of 2,443 followers. The LinkedIn page for the Digital Watch observatory attracted over 1,100 followers by the end of the year. CADE’s LinkedIn community grew to almost 400 followers, representing more than 100% year-on-year growth. Diplo’s Instagram followers increased to over 5,000, with a 124% increase in reach and a 100% increase in interactions. Diplo’s YouTube channel closed with around 3,500 followers.
4.4 Publications and knowledge products Throughout 2025, Diplo produced a wide range of publications and resources supporting capacity development and informed policy engagement in areas such as AI governance, cybersecurity, digital cooperation, internet governance, digital trade, and diplomacy. Many of these were developed with partners and disseminated through Diplo’s platforms, events, and networks. Highlights included the second edition of History of Diplomacy and Technology: From Smoke Signals to Artificial Intelligence by Dr Jovan Kurbalija, tracing the relationship between diplomacy and communication technologies over 5,000 years. Other notable works were AI Apprenticeship: Learning about AI by developing AI, a practical guide to building digital literacy through hands-on projects; Anita Lamprecht’s UN 2.0 and the Metaverse, exploring how emerging technologies may shape multilateralism; and Espritech de Genève, highlighting Geneva’s growing role in digital governance and innovation. The Digital Watch observatory also launched the updated Digital Geneva Atlas, an interactive resource mapping key issues, actors, and processes in global digital governance in Geneva. The Digital Geneva Passport offers a fast track through the Atlas, distilling information from more than 600 pages of the Atlas and structuring it around 10 technologies and 10 policy issues. Together, these outputs advanced Diplo’s mission to make complex policy issues more accessible and to foster inclusive participation in global governance.
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Some of Diplo’s publications and resources published in 2025
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5. Financial Report DiploFoundation Statement of Comprehensive Income for the year ended 31 December 2025
2025 Eur
2024 Eur
Income
3,176,243
3,146,703
Direct Costs
(2,963,794)
(2,708,902)
Gross Contribution
212,449
437,801
Administration expenses
(236,846)
(298,218)
Finance costs / (income)
(26,512)
(43,174)
(Deficit)/surplus before tax
(50,909)
96,409
-
-
(50,909)
96,409
Income tax expense (Deficit)/surplus for the year
27
28