Technology

The focus of DGAP’s research and consulting on this core theme is the interdependency of technology and foreign policy. Technological innovation — as well as the diffusion and impact of emerging technologies — is always influenced by the social, economic, and (security) policy contexts in which it occurs. At the same time, technologies affect international actors by changing their areas of influence, options for action, and goals. Today, technology not only continues to play a role in determining foreign and security policy in the classical sense, but it also almost always includes an international dimension, for example in its consequences for regulation or global chains of supply and production.

Recent publications

Trump’s Reshuffling of US Foreign Aid Endangers Internet Freedom

Why Germany and Europe Must Step into Shaping a New Digital World Order

The open internet and digital rights are being challenged more fundamentally than ever before. This time, however, the challenges are not coming from China or Russia but from the United States, which for years was considered a key player in promoting internet freedom. Donald Trump’s unprecedented suspension of US foreign aid to civil society threatens to strengthen state surveillance and censorship worldwide. This could affect Germany, too, if China and Russia expand their spheres of influence using digital technologies. The German government and its allies must not leave the digital future to authoritarian regimes.

Alena Epifanova