In the rapidly evolving landscape of global affairs, the United States finds itself in a new era of strategic competition. To navigate this era successfully, the country must leverage various instruments of power to deter and outcompete its rivals. While military strength is crucial, diplomacy plays an equally important role in strengthening the United States’ position in the world.
Recognizing the significance of diplomacy in the twenty-first century, the Scowcroft Center for Strategy and Security launched a project to analyze and develop ideas that can enhance US diplomacy. As part of this endeavor, the center organized a workshop in 2023 that brought together diplomats, scholars, technologists, and experts to explore the challenges and opportunities presented by artificial intelligence (AI) in diplomatic efforts.
The first issue brief in this series shed light on the evolving context of US diplomacy and discussed strategies to adapt to the demands of the modern world. This article builds upon that foundation by examining the specific impact of generative AI (GAI) on diplomacy and offering recommendations on how to harness its potential effectively.
Generative AI, a subset of AI focused on creating new content, has gained significant attention in recent years. Tools like ChatGPT have become increasingly accessible, sparking interest in AI both within scholarly circles and the general public. Recognizing its transformative potential, the US government has taken steps to address the challenges and opportunities AI presents.
In 2021, Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized the importance of embracing emerging technologies, including AI, in shaping the future of American diplomacy. The State Department has made efforts to modernize and evolve its practices accordingly.
Furthermore, in October 2023, the White House issued an Executive Order on the Safe, Secure, and Trustworthy Development and Use of Artificial Intelligence. The order outlines guiding principles for the development and deployment of AI, including attracting foreign nationals with expertise in AI. The US State Department also released its Enterprise Artificial Intelligence Strategy, emphasizing the exponential growth of generative AI and its potential to empower diplomatic efforts.
Diplomacy has emerged as a critical battleground in strategic competition, with rivals such as China and Russia utilizing diplomatic tactics to expand their influence. China has sought to shape global norms while diverting attention from its human rights abuses, employing public diplomacy and tailored content to further its objectives. Similarly, Russia has used diplomacy to garner support and oppose international resolutions critical of its actions.
Through the strategic application of generative AI, the United States can enhance its diplomacy capabilities. By leveraging secure AI infrastructure, fostering a culture of AI adoption, ensuring responsible AI deployment, and promoting innovation, the State Department aims to empower its diplomats rather than replace them.
FAQ:
Q: What is generative artificial intelligence (GAI)?
A: Generative artificial intelligence (GAI) is a subset of artificial intelligence focused on creating new content.
Q: How has the US government addressed the challenges and opportunities presented by AI?
A: The US government has issued an executive order outlining guiding principles for the development and use of AI and has released an enterprise AI strategy to empower diplomatic efforts.
Q: Why is diplomacy important in strategic competition?
A: Diplomacy plays a critical role in shaping global relationships and influencing international outcomes in strategic competition.
Sources:
Scowcroft Center for Strategy and Security: https://www.atlanticcouncil.org/
US State Department: https://www.state.gov/
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is generative artificial intelligence (GAI)?
A: Generative artificial intelligence (GAI) is a subset of artificial intelligence focused on creating new content.
Q: How has the US government addressed the challenges and opportunities presented by AI?
A: The US government has issued an executive order outlining guiding principles for the development and use of AI. Additionally, the US State Department has released an enterprise AI strategy to empower diplomatic efforts.
Q: Why is diplomacy important in strategic competition?
A: Diplomacy plays a critical role in shaping global relationships and influencing international outcomes in strategic competition.
Definitions:
– Generative Artificial Intelligence (GAI): A subset of artificial intelligence that focuses on creating new content.
– Scowcroft Center for Strategy and Security: A think tank that analyzes and develops ideas to enhance US diplomacy. [source](https://www.atlanticcouncil.org/)
– US State Department: The executive department of the US federal government responsible for the country’s foreign affairs. [source](https://www.state.gov/)
Suggested Related Links:
– For more information on the Scowcroft Center for Strategy and Security, visit their official website: [Scowcroft Center for Strategy and Security](https://www.atlanticcouncil.org/)
– To learn about the US State Department and its initiatives, visit their website: [US State Department](https://www.state.gov/)