When Cattleya Talked (11)

"In a cosy coffee shop, Cangik and Limbuk sat at a small table, sipping their lattes and engaging in a lively conversation. Cangik, ever the witty and observant one, leaned in with a grin. 'You know, Limbuk, I was chatting with this culinary entrepreneur the other day. He’s got a few eateries around town and he’s always bragging about his latest ventures.'

Limbuk raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. Cangik continued, 'But what really caught my attention was when he mentioned that he could charter a private jet for $556.306. I mean, who needed that kind of luxury when you’re just trying to serve a good plate of martabak, bananas, and keripik?'

Limbuk chuckled, nodding along. 'And then I started wondering, where did he get all that money from? I mean, I’ve seen his establishments. They’re nice, but not exactly Michelin-star material. It’s like he’s running a food empire on a shoestring budget… or maybe not?'

Limbuk laughed more openly now, shaking her head in amusement. Cangik went on, “Think about it. He’s got private jets, and expensive stuff, and yet his restaurants are just… well, they’re just dining spots. It’s like he’s living in a different world. A world where money grows on trees and good food is just a side effect of being wealthy.”

Limbuk rolled her eyes good-naturedly, clinking her glass against Cangik’s in a toast. “And don’t even get me started on the Instagram posts. ‘Just another day in the life of a culinary mogul’… with a private jet in the background. It’s like he’s trying to convince us that his business acumen is on par with his ability to serve a decent cup of coffee.'

Limbuk laughed harder now, shaking her head in mock exasperation. Cangik added, 'But you know what the best part was? When he said things like, ‘I’m not just a businessman; I’m a visionary.’ A visionary who couldn’t even afford to serve a decent cup of coffee without breaking the bank a.k.a. money laundering.'

Cangik paused for a moment, looking thoughtful. 'By the way, Limbuk, were you still going to guard your friend from all these absurdities? It's time for a change.'

Limbuk responded, 'Well, I’ve been trying to protect him from all of his ridiculous stories. But maybe instead of constantly guarding him, I should just ask him to get down from his high chair.'

Cangik nodded, 'That’s better. You’d better ask him to get down before he’s forced to do it.'

Limbuk thought for a moment. 'But if he’s just allowed to walk away after he comes down, then what’s the point? If he’s just going to walk away after that, then it’s all for nothing.

Cangik replied, 'I understand what you’re saying. Sometimes, everyone must be responsible for what they’ve done, including against you, right Limbuk?'

The scene ended with their laughter echoing through the cosy coffee shop, as they revelled in the absurdity of it all. The world outside might have been full of quirks and contradictions, but inside, at least for now, they had each other and a shared sense of humour to keep them grounded. Then slowly their voices were heard singing Rihanna's song, 'Just gonna stand there and hear me cry? Well, that's alright, because I love the way you lie.'"

"Diplomatic isolation can significantly weaken a nation, it can erode economic stability, political power, security, and social cohesion, making it more vulnerable to both internal and external challenges," Cattleya continued.

"Diplomatic isolation refers to the condition in which a nation is largely cut off from formal diplomatic relations with other countries and international organizations. A country may become isolated due to its aggressive or hostile foreign policy, such as engaging in warfare, supporting terrorism, or violating international law. Severe and systematic human rights abuses can lead to international condemnation and isolation. Radical political ideologies, such as extreme nationalism or authoritarianism, may alienate other nations, leading to diplomatic isolation. A country undergoing civil war or severe political instability might be diplomatically isolated due to the unpredictability of its government. Failure to adhere to international treaties, nuclear non-proliferation agreements, or other global norms can result in isolation.

The terms 'diplomatic' and 'diplomacy' are related but distinct in their meanings and usage. Diplomatic refers to something related to or characteristic of diplomacy. It can describe the methods, tools, or practices used in diplomatic activities. Diplomacy refers to the practice, process, and art of communication and negotiation between actors in the international system, aimed at achieving their foreign policy goals and resolving conflicts and disputes. It involves the use of various methods and tools, such as dialogue, persuasion, compromise, and coercion, to influence and shape the behaviour and outcomes of other actors. Diplomacy is the main instrument of foreign policy, representing the broader goals and strategies that guide a state's interactions with the rest of the world. Diplomacy is the broader concept involving the practice of international relations and negotiation, while diplomatic refers to specific aspects or elements related to this practice.

Digital diplomacy, also referred to as Digiplomacy and eDiplomacy, is the use of the Internet and new information communication technologies to help achieve diplomatic objectives. It involves the interplay between technology and diplomacy, encompassing various aspects. Internet-driven changes in the diplomatic environment includes the emergence of new topics on diplomatic agendas, such as cybersecurity and privacy. The use of digital tools in diplomatic practice includes the use of social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Google to practice diplomacy.

Digital diplomacy allows for two-way communication with foreign publics, increasing the impact of public opinion on foreign policy agendas. It provides additional channels for engaging with influential people and organizations on multilateral diplomatic campaigns. Digital diplomacy aims to keep the global audience informed about the latest international issues and to be as transparent as possible.

Different terms like digital diplomacy, virtual diplomacy, cyber diplomacy, and e-diplomacy are used interchangeably but emphasize different aspects of digital communication in diplomacy. Social media, big data, and artificial intelligence (AI) are key tools in digital diplomacy, influencing how diplomatic activities are conducted and the topics on the diplomatic agenda. Digital diplomacy offers benefits such as increased transparency and public engagement but also poses challenges like the spread of disinformation and the need for monitoring online risks.

The European Union has adopted digital diplomacy as a tool to secure its global role in the digital world, protect its strategic interests, and promote its regulatory framework for an inclusive digital transformation. Initiatives like the 2012-2014 Campaign to End Sexual Violence in Conflict, led by then British Foreign Secretary William Hague, used a multi-channel digital and offline approach to engage UN organizations and states.

Digital diplomacy has become a crucial aspect of modern international relations, transforming statecraft and providing new means for diplomatic engagement and communication.

Diplomatic isolation can have profound effects on a nation, including economic hardships, reduced political influence, security vulnerabilities, social and cultural stagnation, internal instability, and humanitarian crises. Diplomatic isolation weakens a country's ability to engage with the rest of the world, leaving it vulnerable to a range of negative outcomes.

The isolated nation may be barred from participating in key international organizations such as the United Nations, World Trade Organization, or regional alliances, which limits its ability to engage in global governance. The country may have few or no bilateral agreements, which are essential for trade, security cooperation, cultural exchange, and other forms of international collaboration.

Other countries may formally break off diplomatic relations with the isolated nation, closing embassies and ceasing official communications. The international community may impose sanctions or trade embargoes, further isolating the nation economically and politically.

Sanctions are financial and trade-related penalties imposed by one country or international body on another entity, such as a country, company, or individual. These measures are designed to put economic, trade, political, and diplomatic pressure on the targeted entity to encourage it to change its behaviour or comply with international laws and regulations. Sanctions are used to deter specific behaviours, such as human rights abuses, war crimes, or financial crimes like money laundering and terrorist financing. They aim to restrict the targeted entity's resources, including financial, technological, or military capabilities. Economic sanctions were imposed on South Africa during the apartheid era to pressure the government to end its discriminatory policies. The sanctions, including trade embargoes and asset freezes, contributed to the eventual dismantling of apartheid and the transition to a democratic government in 1994.

Sanctions are generally coercive, designed to force compliance with international laws or regulations. Sectoral Sanctions can significantly disrupt economic activities and have broader impacts on the targeted country or entity. The United States imposed economic sanctions on Russia following its annexation of Crimea in 2014. These sanctions included restrictions on financial transactions, asset freezes, and prohibitions on U.S. companies doing business with Russian entities. The European Union reduced diplomatic ties with Russia after its actions in Ukraine, including the closure of EU diplomatic missions in Russia and the suspension of high-level meetings.

Sanctions can be imposed by self-governing states or international bodies like the United Nations (UN) or the European Union (EU). The more nations that agree with and enforce a sanction, the greater its impact is likely to be. The Netherlands has implemented financial sanctions, such as freezing bank accounts and banning investment in certain countries, to enforce compliance with international norms. For instance, after Russia invaded Ukraine, the Netherlands imposed sanctions on Russian entities and individuals, including freezing assets and restricting financial transactions. The United Nations imposed a military sanctions (embargo) on North Korea following its nuclear tests in 2006. This included a ban on all military trade and the freezing of government assets. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) imposed sports sanctions on Russia in 2018 due to doping scandals. Russian athletes were barred from competing under the Russian flag, and many were forced to compete as 'Olympic Athletes from Russia' (OAR). The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) imposed sanctions on North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and other high-ranking officials, including travel bans and asset freezes, to pressure them to abandon their nuclear program. The European Union has imposed environmental sanctions on countries that fail to comply with international environmental laws, such as those related to ozone-depleting chemicals and endangered species.

Sanctions are typically enforced through various mechanisms, including restrictions on financial transactions, trade, and investment. Organizations and businesses must comply with sanctions lists and regulations, which can be complex and rapidly evolving. Sanctions can have significant economic and humanitarian impacts on the targeted country or entity, as well as on neighbouring countries and the international community. The long-standing U.S. embargo on Cuba has significantly restricted Cuba's economic growth and development. The embargo has limited Cuba's ability to engage in international trade, including restrictions on remittances and financial transactions with U.S. entities.

Businesses must stay compliant by regularly reviewing their third-party due diligence policies and procedures against relevant global sanctions lists. Using automated software that updates frequently is a best practice to ensure compliance with changing sanctions, Financial institutions and businesses must regularly monitor and update their systems to comply with evolving sanctions lists. For instance, organizations use sanction search tools to check against publications across regions, such as the U.S., U.K., or EU, to ensure they are not transacting with sanctioned individuals or entities.

An embargo is a government order that restricts commerce or exchange with a specified country, usually as a result of political or economic problems. It can take various forms. Trade Embargo is a prohibition on the import or export of goods, services, and other values to or from a particular country or entity. The United States has maintained a trade embargo on Cuba since 1960, following the Cuban Revolution. This embargo restricts U.S. companies from doing business with Cuba, including exporting goods and services, and prohibits U.S. citizens from travelling to Cuba for tourism purposes. The embargo has been in place for over six decades and has had a significant impact on Cuba's economy.

Restriction on Commerce is any legal stoppage or hindrance imposed on commerce, including prohibitions on specific commodities or freight transportation. In response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the European Union restricted Russian oil imports. While not a complete embargo, this measure significantly limits the amount of oil that can be imported from Russia into EU countries. This restriction aims to reduce Russia's revenue from oil exports and pressure it to end its military actions in Ukraine.

A government order is an official directive from a government agency or regulatory body to prohibit or restrict the movement of merchant ships, goods, or services. In 2019, the U.S. government issued an executive order that prohibited U.S. companies from engaging in any transactions related to the importation of Iranian oil. This order was part of a broader set of sanctions aimed at pressuring Iran to renegotiate its nuclear deal with world powers. The order effectively banned U.S. companies from participating in the global oil trade with Iran, significantly impacting Iran's oil exports.

The embargo can impact targeted entities. The United States has imposed various economic sanctions on Venezuela, including a trade embargo, in response to the country's authoritarian government and human rights abuses. These sanctions have severely restricted Venezuela's ability to access international financial markets and have limited its ability to import essential goods like food and medicine. The embargo has contributed to Venezuela's economic crisis, exacerbating poverty and humanitarian issues within the country.

Companies operating globally must navigate complex webs of embargoes and sanctions to avoid legal repercussions. For instance, during the COVID-19 pandemic, many countries imposed export restrictions on personal protective equipment (PPE) like masks and gloves. Companies involved in the production or distribution of PPE had to ensure they were complying with these restrictions to avoid violating embargoes or sanctions. This required regular monitoring of changing regulations across different regions.

Embargoes are often used as economic sanctions to punish or deter objectionable behaviour, such as human rights violations, armed conflict, or other policies deemed unacceptable by the imposing country or international organization. They can significantly impact the targeted country's economy and trade relationships, although their effectiveness in changing the targeted country's policies is often debated.

Diplomatically isolated countries are more vulnerable to external threats. Without allies or diplomatic channels, they may struggle to defend themselves or negotiate in times of conflict, making them targets for aggression or exploitation. Diplomatic isolation can lead to cultural and social isolation, cutting off the nation from the exchange of ideas, innovation, and global cultural movements. This can hinder societal progress and development.

The pressures from economic hardships, reduced security, and lack of international support can exacerbate internal instability. This can lead to political unrest, weaken the government's control, and increase the risk of civil conflict or regime change. In cases of severe isolation, the country may face challenges in receiving international humanitarian aid during crises, leading to worsened conditions for its population.

We have concluded our discussion on diplomatic isolation. Moving forward, we will address a related topic: external pressures. External military threats can lead to the occupation or annexation of a state, a consequence often resulting from historical colonization. The rivalry between powerful states frequently destabilizes or divides weaker ones. We will take a brief pause before proceeding. Biidhnillah."

Next, Cattleya recited a poem,

In diplomatic isolation's dark shade,

A nation's strength is slowly frayed.

Cut off from the world's gentle breeze,

It withers, lost in silent pleas.

Citations & References:

- Corneliu Bjola & Ilan Manor, The Oxford Handbook of Digital Diplomacy, 2024, Oxford University Press

- Nicholas Muldern, The Economic Weapon: The Rise of Sanctions as a Tool of Modern War, 2022, Yale University Press

- G. R. Berridge, Diplomacy: Theory and Practice, 2015, Palgrave

- Gary Clyde Hufbauer, Jeffrey J. Schott, Kimberly Ann Elliott & Barbara Oegg, Economic Sanctions Reconsidered, 2007, Peter G. Peterson Institute

- Kelly M. Greenhill & Peter Krause, Coercion: The Power to Hurt in International Politics, 2018, Oxford University Press

[Session 12]

[Session 10]

Bahasa

When Cattleya Talked (10)

"Nala Gareng quipped, "Imagine if your parents decided to change the household rules so you could run for bureaucrat. Sounds bonkers, right? Well, in Indonesia, it’s not just bonkers; it’s practically a national sport. The parliament decided to rewrite the election law just for the 29-year-old President’s son. Because, you know, age is just a number… unless you’re trying to be taken seriously.

The parliament members, in their infinite wisdom, thought, ‘Why bother with experience or qualifications when you have a famous last name?’ It’s like they say: ‘If you want to make a good first impression, start with a good last impression!’

But wait, there’s more! They also decided to tweak the rules so that anyone who opposed their plans could run for bureaucrat if they were younger than the President’s son. Talk about flipping the script! It’s like they’re saying, ‘Hey, if you’re against us, you might be a critic, but we’ll let you run for bureaucrat if you’re younger than our boy!’

The protesters were not amused. They took to the streets, chanting slogans like ‘Fairness Now!’ and ‘No Nepotism ego!’ But the police were ready. They used water cannons and tear gas to remind everyone who’s boss. Because nothing says ‘democracy’ like a little bit of tear gas and some good old-fashioned Tiananmen crowd control.

And then, just when it seemed like things couldn’t get any more absurd, the police arrested over 300 protesters. Now, you might wonder what exactly the police did wrong.

Well, let’s see. Firstly, they arrested people without proper evidence or due process. It’s like they said, ‘Hey, we’ll just grab anyone who looks like they’re protesting and call it a day!’ This is not exactly how you handle peaceful demonstrations.

Secondly, they used excessive force. Water cannons and tear gas are fine for dispersing crowds, but beating and kicking protesters? That’s just not cool. It’s like they said, ‘Hey, we’ll just show them who’s boss… by stomping on them!’

Thirdly, they targeted journalists and legal observers. It’s like they said, ‘Hey, we’ll just intimidate anyone who tries to report on our shenanigans!’ This is not how you handle free speech in a democracy.

And lastly, they arrested children and underage students. It’s like they said, ‘Hey, we’ll just grab anyone who looks young and call it a day!’ This is not exactly how you handle peaceful protests.

In conclusion, if you ever find yourself in a situation where your parents decide to change the rules just so you can run for office, remember: it’s all just a big joke ... or is it? Maybe we should just laugh and hope that someday we’ll have a government that takes itself seriously to promote this country and its people.

But wait, there’s more. The story isn’t over yet. The General Election Commission (KPU) has also started to flirt with the DPR. It’s like they’re sending each other love letters—whether it’s an invitation to flirting or an engagement—but the public can smell the stench from a mile away.

It feels like now is the time to destroy arrogance and uphold social justice for all. It’s time to make sure that every vote counts and every voice is heard. No more nepotism, no more favouritism—just fairness and transparency for all.

And also, this is the perfect moment to stand up for social justice, to make sure that power doesn’t corrupt and that everyone has an equal chance to participate in democracy,' concluded Nala Gareng."

"Technological and military advancements are typically seen as strengths for a nation, but they can also contribute to its weakening under certain conditions," said Cattleya.

"Technological and military advancements refer to progress and innovations in technology and defence capabilities that can impact various aspects of society, governance, and international relations. Development of the internet, smartphones, artificial intelligence (AI), and big data analytics have revolutionized communication, information sharing, and data processing. They enable greater connectivity, efficiency, and automation but also pose risks related to cybersecurity, privacy, and digital inequality. Biotechnology such as Genetic engineering, CRISPR technology, and advancements in medical diagnostics and treatments, has the potential to transform healthcare by enabling personalized medicine, improved treatments, and disease prevention. However, it also raises ethical concerns and can lead to issues like genetic discrimination.

Solar panels, wind turbines, and energy storage systems aim to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and combat climate change. They contribute to sustainability but also require significant investment and can disrupt traditional energy sectors. Automation like industrial robots, autonomous vehicles, and drones, increases efficiency and productivity in manufacturing and other industries. However, it can also lead to job displacement and requires careful management of workforce transitions.

The technologies such as precision-guided munitions, nuclear weapons, and hypersonic missiles, enhance a nation's military capabilities, improving accuracy and range. They also contribute to global arms races and increase the potential for devastating conflicts. Cyber warfare, for example: cyberattacks, espionage, and digital surveillance, involves using digital tools to disrupt, damage, or gain unauthorized access to information systems. It can undermine national security and critical infrastructure, posing significant threats to both military and civilian targets. AI-driven surveillance, autonomous drones, and decision-support systems enhance military capabilities by improving data analysis, targeting precision, and operational efficiency. However, it raises ethical questions and potential risks related to autonomous decision-making in warfare. Space technology like Satellite communication, space-based missile defence systems, and space exploration, provides strategic advantages for communication, navigation, and reconnaissance. It also introduces new domains for conflict and requires international cooperation and regulation.

While technological and military advancements can provide significant advantages, they also introduce new risks and vulnerabilities. For instance, reliance on advanced technology can lead to cybersecurity threats, and military advancements can spur arms races and global tensions.

Technological and military advancements can have profound ethical and social implications. Issues such as privacy, surveillance, and the moral use of military technologies need careful consideration. Both technological and military advancements often require substantial financial investment. Balancing these investments with other societal needs is crucial to avoid economic imbalances and potential negative consequences.

Overall, technological and military advancements drive progress but also necessitate thoughtful management and regulation to mitigate associated risks and challenges.

As nations become more dependent on advanced technology, they also become more vulnerable to cyberattacks. A successful cyberattack on critical infrastructure, such as power grids, communication systems, or financial institutions, can cripple a nation. As a nation integrates advanced technology into its critical infrastructure, the risk of cyberattacks increases. Essential services like power grids, transportation, and financial systems become targets for hackers, which can disrupt the entire nation. In 2015, Ukraine experienced a massive power outage due to a cyberattack on its power grid. This attack, attributed to Russian hackers, left around 230,000 people without electricity. The event highlighted how overreliance on technology can expose a nation's infrastructure to severe vulnerabilities.

Heavy reliance on automation and technology can lead to a decline in critical human skills. If technology fails or is compromised, the workforce might not be equipped to manage without it. Dependence on automation and technology can lead to the loss of essential skills within the workforce. If the technology fails, the workforce may not be equipped to handle tasks manually, leading to operational breakdowns. In manufacturing, the widespread use of robotics and automated systems has led to a decline in manual labour skills. If a factory's automated systems are disrupted by a cyberattack or technical failure, the lack of skilled workers to perform tasks manually could halt production entirely.

Massive investment in military advancements can drain resources from other critical areas such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure. This can lead to economic imbalances and neglect of essential public services. The Soviet Union during the Cold War is a classic example. The USSR’s focus on military spending to keep up with the U.S. in the arms race strained its economy. The neglect of consumer goods and services contributed to economic stagnation, which eventually played a role in the collapse of the Soviet Union.

Advancing military technology often requires substantial financial investment. This can lead to significant national debt, particularly if the economy cannot sustain such spending levels without cutting into other critical areas. The United States has faced growing concerns over its national debt, partially due to extensive military spending. The cost of maintaining advanced military technologies, coupled with other government expenditures, has contributed to a debt level that some economists warn could pose long-term risks to the U.S. economy.

Technological advancements can lead to a widening gap between different segments of society. Those who lack access to new technologies may find themselves economically disadvantaged, leading to social unrest. In many developing countries, the digital divide is a significant issue. Urban areas may benefit from technological advancements like high-speed internet and smart infrastructure, while rural areas are left behind. This disparity can lead to increased migration to cities, social tensions, and protests, as seen in countries like India.

New military technologies, such as drones or autonomous weapons, raise significant ethical questions. The potential for misuse or accidents can lead to loss of life and international backlash. The use of drones in counterterrorism operations by the U.S. has been controversial. While effective in eliminating targets, drone strikes have also resulted in civilian casualties. This has sparked debates over the ethics of using such technology, with critics arguing that it can lead to extrajudicial killings and violate international law.

When one nation advances its military technology, others may feel compelled to do the same, leading to an arms race. This can increase global tensions and the likelihood of conflict. The Cold War saw a significant arms race between the U.S. and the Soviet Union, particularly in nuclear weapons. This rivalry led to global tensions that brought the world close to nuclear war during events like the Cuban Missile Crisis. The arms race strained both economies and kept the world in a state of constant fear.

A nation that aggressively pursues military advancements may alienate its allies and provoke its adversaries. This can lead to diplomatic isolation, reducing the nation's influence on the global stage. North Korea’s focus on developing nuclear weapons has led to its isolation from much of the international community. Despite its military advancements, the country faces severe economic sanctions and diplomatic isolation, limiting its influence globally and weakening its economy.

A powerful military-industrial complex can exert significant influence over national policy, sometimes prioritizing military needs over public welfare. This can lead to imbalances and public dissatisfaction. In the United States, the military-industrial complex has been criticized for its influence on government policy. This was famously warned about by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in his 1961 farewell address. Critics argue that this influence has led to unnecessary military spending and interventions,

When a government concentrates power in the hands of those controlling advanced military technologies, it can lead to authoritarianism. This can stifle democracy and create internal conflicts. In Egypt, military leaders have historically played a significant role in governance. The military’s control over advanced technology and resources has allowed it to maintain power, even at the expense of democratic processes. This has led to periods of authoritarian rule and social unrest, as seen in the aftermath of the Arab Spring. diverting resources from domestic needs like healthcare and education.

Technological advancements can disrupt established industries, leading to job losses and economic instability. If the workforce is not retrained, this can create long-term unemployment and social issues. The rise of automation and AI in manufacturing has led to significant job losses in traditional industries like automotive manufacturing. In regions like the Rust Belt in the U.S., this has caused economic decline and social challenges, as workers struggle to find new employment opportunities.

Relying on foreign technology, especially in critical sectors like defence, can be a strategic vulnerability. If diplomatic relations sour or supply chains are disrupted, a nation’s security and economy could be at risk. Europe’s dependency on Russian energy technology and resources has been a significant concern, especially during the Ukraine conflict. The reliance on Russian gas has left several European nations vulnerable to supply disruptions and political pressure, highlighting the risks of depending on foreign technology for critical needs.

Handling the challenges posed by technological and military advancements requires a multifaceted approach that balances innovation with security, ethics, and societal well-being. Nations should invest in building and maintaining strong cybersecurity frameworks to protect critical infrastructure, government systems, and private sector networks from cyber threats. Implement regular security audits and ensure that systems are consistently updated to protect against emerging threats. Educate citizens and organizations about cybersecurity best practices to reduce vulnerabilities related to human error.

Creating and enforcing ethical guidelines for the development and use of advanced technologies, especially in areas like AI, biotechnology, and autonomous weapons. Implementing regulations that govern the deployment of new technologies to prevent misuse, protect privacy, and ensure safety. Working with international bodies to develop and adopt global standards for ethical technology use, especially in military applications.

Focus on retraining and upskilling workers to adapt to changes brought by automation and other technological advancements. This helps mitigate job displacement and ensures a resilient workforce. Encourage innovation not only in defence and technology sectors but also in healthcare, education, and renewable energy to create a balanced and sustainable economy. Ensure that military expenditures are balanced with investments in other critical areas like healthcare, education, and infrastructure to avoid economic strain.

Actively participate in international arms control agreements to prevent arms races and reduce the risk of military conflicts. Work with other nations to address global security challenges, including cyber threats and the militarization of space. Use diplomatic channels to reduce tensions with other nations, particularly those that could lead to military confrontations.

Invest in research and development (R&D) to reduce dependency on foreign technology, especially in critical areas like cybersecurity, defence, and infrastructure. Foster collaboration between the government and private sector to drive innovation and ensure that technological advancements align with national interests. Develop resilient and secure supply chains for essential technologies to reduce vulnerabilities from global disruptions or geopolitical tensions.

Implement policies to ensure equitable access to technology across all segments of society, reducing inequality and social tensions. Encourage public engagement and dialogue on the societal impacts of technological and military advancements to ensure that decisions reflect broader societal values and concerns. Counter misinformation and promote accurate, responsible reporting on the impacts of technological and military advancements.

Conduct scenario planning exercises to anticipate and prepare for future technological and military challenges, including potential cyberattacks, economic disruptions, or new forms of warfare. Fund research into emerging threats, such as cyber warfare, bioterrorism, and climate-related security risks, to develop proactive strategies for mitigation. Establish rapid response mechanisms and crisis management frameworks to deal with emergencies arising from technological failures or military conflicts.

Invest in academic research and policy think tanks to explore the long-term impacts of technological and military advancements and develop evidence-based strategies for managing them. Promoting leadership that prioritizes ethical considerations in the development and deployment of new technologies and military strategies. The latter is very important and has become a demand in the current era in all fields. Ethical leadership is the practice of leading an organization or group based on principles of integrity, fairness, and responsibility. Ethical leaders prioritize doing what is right, even when it may not be the easiest or most profitable path. They make decisions that reflect moral values and consider the impact on all stakeholders, including employees, customers, and the broader community. By setting a strong ethical example, these leaders foster a culture of trust, transparency, and accountability, which can lead to long-term success and a positive organizational reputation. Ethical leadership also involves encouraging others to act ethically and creating an environment where ethical behaviour is recognized and rewarded.

A state that becomes diplomatically isolated may struggle to defend itself or maintain economic stability. Prolonged economic or political sanctions can weaken a state, leading to collapse. We will continue the discussion on the topic of diplomatic isolation. Biidhnillah."

Then Cattleya recited a poem,

With wisdom, we advance in tech and might,

To shield our world and keep our future bright.

Let progress serve both humankind and earth,

In harmony, we find our greatest worth.

Citations & References:

- Harry McCallion, A History of Modern Mercenary Warfare, 2023, Pen & Sword Military

- Paul J. Springer, Outsourcing War to Machines: The Military Robotics Revolution, 2018, Praeger

- Jonathan Parshall & Anthony Tully, The Shattered Sword: The Untold Story of the Battle of Midway, 2007, Potomac Books

- P.W. Singer, Wired for War: The Robotics Revolution and Conflict in the 21st Century, 2009, The Penguin Press

- John Lewis Gaddis, The Cold War: A New History, 2005, The Penguin Press

[Session 11]

[Session 9]

Bahasa