STRATEGY FOR DENMARK'S TECH DIPLOMACY - 2021-2023 FEBRUARY 2021 - POLITICO ...
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STRATEGY FOR
DENMARK’S
TECH DIPLOMACY
2021-2023
FEBRUARY 2021
STRATEGY FOR DENMARK’S TECH DIPLOMACY
Democratic governments in the driver’s
seat of technological development
Preface by Minister for Foreign Affairs
Jeppe Kofod
Technology has never been more pervasive in the and more meaningful lives and assist humanity in to have a stronger say in
lives of people around the globe. Living in one of the solving the shared global challenges of the 21st shaping our technological
most digitised countries in the world, millions of Danes century, especially the climate crisis. Based on future. We will do this
see and use modern technologies every day from this conviction, we want to engage and work with while we continue to
the moment they wake up to the moment they go to like-minded countries, companies and organisations nourish and encourage
sleep. In the wake of an unprecedented and disastrous for a more inclusive, sustainable and human-centred innovation and entrepreneurship and harness the The strategy for Denmark’s tech diplomacy will focus
pandemic, COVID-19 has reminded us of the great technological development. We will make our immense opportunities new technologies present. We our efforts towards a more just, democratic and
extent to which we depend on technology in our voice heard in the EU as Europe takes on a greater must marshal the full force of innovation on issues safe technological future. It lists areas of strategic
personal lives and as we face shared global challenges. responsibility in defining our technological future, and such as affordable universal healthcare, safety for all priority where we believe much is at stake, and sets
we will work within NATO to ensure the rightful place and combating climate change if we want a better out concrete outcomes and outputs that Denmark
New technologies change how people interact and of technology as a key consideration for the safety future for all of humanity. wants to bring to life. Some might argue that it is an
societies function, and they reshape how we engage and security of citizens in Denmark, the Euro-Atlantic ambitious agenda, facing significant headwinds. But
with the world. This has caused new avenues for community and across the world. we welcome the challenge to help lead the way.
foreign policy to open up and issues of technology The strategy for Denmark’s tech diplomacy
now take centre stage in international relations. The balance of power in tech has tipped. Today,
Artificial intelligence, quantum computing and 5G a small number of people in a small number of
will focus our efforts towards a more just,
become more than simply hardware and software; private companies hold immense sway over the democratic and safe technological future.
they are increasingly indicators and arenas of great direction of an increasingly global society. Democratic
power politics while cyber-attacks and disinformation governments, parliaments, and the people they This is a central challenge for technology in the years
campaigns test our digital resolve. legitimately represent have conversely lost some and decades ahead. A challenge that Denmark intends
of their ability to steer our democratic societies. We to meet. In close collaboration with businesses, civil
For Denmark, it is critical that technological want powerful companies to promote responsible society, educational institutions and like-minded
development supports and upholds democratic technology development and use in a way that is countries. We will bring the experiences and lessons of
values, human rights and the integrity of our societal proportionate with their size and influence and we Denmark with us while listening and learning from the
model. Technology should contribute to better, freer want to enable citizens, parliaments and democracies frontiers of technological development.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark 2
STRATEGY FOR DENMARK’S TECH DIPLOMACY
Tech diplomacy in the graphic 1. Digital World Map – market
valuation of major global tech companies
digital age
DASSAULT SPOTIFY ERICSSON MAITUAN
B = Billion dollars $53.45 B $64.24 B $43.05 B $271.68 B
T = Trillion dollars
AMAZON
$1.647 T
As one of the world’s most digitised of tech companies, and concerns about
countries, Denmark has a strong critical digital infrastructure have caused
foundation for engaging with international the pendulum to swing in the opposite
technological development. Our high direction. APPLE MICROSOFT
$2.408 T $1.78 T
degree of societal trust and significant
technological Today, the global tech
SAP
capabilities means There is a more critical view debate is more nuanced.
$157.56 B
that we are quick to of the tech giants. There is no There is a more critical ASML ALIBABA SAMSUNG
ALPHABET TENCENT $707.52 B $526 T
adopt and implement view of the tech giants. $221.71 B
question that the tech sector $1.25 T $856.257 B
new digital solutions in There is no question
FACEBOOK
both public and private must be regulated – the that the tech sector $774 B
sectors. Denmark is question is how to regulate it. must be regulated – the
home to many cutting question is how to
edge companies demonstrating important regulate it. This does not change the fact
examples of responsible application that technology has brought tremendous
of technology, which help promote societal benefits in a wide range of fields
democratic values, develop new solutions such as healthcare, climate, education
to complex problems, and contribute to the and welfare. But it necessitates a more
country’s growth and employment. balanced approach to the full spectrum
of potential of technology, from beneficial
When Denmark appointed the world’s to detrimental. This also requires that
first tech ambassador four years ago, democratic countries muster the courage
optimism about the use of technology to take charge and shape the framework
was widespread. Since then, data leaks, for a responsible technological future, MERCADO NASPERS JB
LIBRE $98.00 B $171.308 B
cyber-attacks, influence campaigns, online rather than leaving this task solely to a $89.59 B
terror content, pressure for fairer taxation small cadre of companies. Source: Stock Market Cap January 2021
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark 3
STRATEGY FOR DENMARK’S TECH DIPLOMACY
Digital platforms connect us more than ever before All around the world, technology and access to the
and have provided an unprecedented number of internet are helping to lift millions of people out
people globally with the opportunity to express their of poverty by giving them access to knowledge,
views. This enriches the public debate and brings education and employment. Technology is also
new perspectives to light. But complex and concealed giving more people the opportunity to start their own
algorithms also challenge the democratic conversation businesses and participate in democratic movements
and at worst foster exclusionary and socially
destructive echo chambers. Digital platforms hold
tremendous potential to create inclusive communities Access to technology and digital
and strengthen democracy, but much of the content platforms alone is not enough to ensure
seen through the prism of social media is filtered and
that the technological future belongs to
targeted according to micro-segmentation of our
digital behaviour and preferences. With different and all citizens, everywhere.
individually adapted versions of reality presented to
every user, debate easily becomes polarised and the and political discussions. Unfortunately, not everyone
risk of misinformation spreading increases. Despite has the opportunity to participate. Almost half of
ground-breaking initiatives such as the EU’s General the world’s population lacks access to the internet,
Technology is a central component of the strategic Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), privacy protections and many girls and women in developing countries
competition between the United States and China. remain limited in a world where it has never been do not receive their fair share of the benefits that
Investments in research and development of new
Technology is a central component of the easier to harvest unimaginable amounts of data about technological development has to offer. But access to
technologies are a key competitive parameter strategic competition our lives and movements. technology and digital platforms alone is not enough
that is shifting the geopolitical balance of power. between the United States to ensure that the technological future belongs to all
Meanwhile, cyber-attacks against public authorities, New technology is high on the agenda of today’s most citizens, everywhere. It requires that human rights
companies and citizens are an ever present threat.
and China. important international forums. Making Europe fit for are also respected online. The rise of the internet
Many countries are using digital tools to advance the digital age is one of the top priorities of the EU. must be accompanied by a commitment to protect
foreign policy objectives in the grey area between war digital surveillance, behaviour control, oppression and NATO and the EU are focused on maintaining a military marginalised groups, children and young people
and peace. Methods include cyber-attacks on critical censorship. Furthermore, non-state actors are utilising technological edge, strengthening digital resilience online, as well as to upholding the rights to freedom of
infrastructure and influence campaigns conducted digitalisation to cause harm. Advanced hacking tools and protecting critical infrastructure. Meanwhile, expression and assembly.
through social media to undermine democracies are readily available to cyber-criminals, and terrorists the UN is exploring how rule-based international
and our alliances. New technologies also provide have gained new means of radicalising, recruiting and cooperation can be adapted to keep up with rapid
authoritarian regimes with new opportunities for planning attacks on the internet. technological developments.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark 4STRATEGY FOR DENMARK’S TECH DIPLOMACY
graphic 2. Survey of the Danish population’s opinions about new technology
statement disagree agree
14% 43%
New technology can solve our greatest societal
challenges (e.g. climate crisis, affordable social
welfare, health care, terrorism, poverty)
Kids and youth are generally safe on the
internet and social media
48% 21% In the 21st century, new players have
stepped onto the global stage. In just a
These unequal market conditions become
a barrier for the many responsible, but
few years, tech companies such as Google, smaller, technology companies when
43% 12%
Tech companies are living up to their societal Facebook, Amazon, Tencent, Baidu and the enormous value creation of the data
responsibility (e.g. in terms of tax payments Alibaba have amassed a size and influence economy is concentrated in the hands of
and responsible handling of data) that surpasses that of many countries. a few. At the same time, it threatens the
They have unprecedented influence on financing of our welfare society when
the development of society and the daily large global tech companies pay meagre
lives of ordinary people – and they often or no taxes. It is critical for our society,
play the role of de facto foreign policy democracy and economy that the world’s
In connection to the strategy, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of actors. Meanwhile, private tech companies largest and richest tech companies – like
Denmark has commissioned a survey among the Danish population are operating large parts of our critical all other companies – pay their fair share
regarding citizens’ opinions towards new technology. The survey digital infrastructure and leading an of taxes and operate responsibly. Although
was conducted with 1,013 representative Danes in the fall of 2020. increasing share of the research into new the tech giants have made strides in many
technologies. Data-driven business models respects, they still fail to meet their societal
and the tech giants’ data monopolies, responsibility to a degree commensurate
which are increasingly dominating both with their influence.
digital and traditional industries, are
challenging markets and legislation.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark 5STRATEGY FOR DENMARK’S TECH DIPLOMACY
RESPONSIBILITY
Responsible, democratic and secure
technological development The tech industry meets its societal responsibility and
operates on a level playing field
Denmark must navigate this new digital pioneer and strengthen technological
age. This requires action, commitment cooperation with other countries.
to global cooperation and the courage to
lead if we are to maintain our democratic The vision for Denmark’s tech diplomacy is
values while realising the potential of thus as follows:
new technology and managing its risks.
A responsible, democratic and
Denmark must take the lead and actively
help shape global technology governance secure technological future that DEMOCRACY
to ensure that technological development delivers solutions to the world’s
supports our security, values and greatest challenges Global digital governance builds on democratic values
prosperity.
To support this vision, Denmark’s tech and human rights
New technology and its societal diplomacy in 2021-2023 will focus on three
implications transcend boarders. To strategic priorities and subsidiary aims.
that end, Denmark’s tech diplomacy will
contribute to domestic discussions with The following pages outline the strategy’s
perspectives and knowledge on global priorities, impact areas, outcomes and key
trends from the frontier of technology performance indicators. Some results can
development. We will represent Danish be delivered by the Ministry of Foreign
interest and raise specific cases directly Affairs of Denmark alone, while the
with the tech industry on behalf of Danish
authorities, in recognition that far-reaching
majority will require close cooperation
with relevant authorities, business
SECURITY
decisions made at the headquarters of organisations, companies, labour and
these companies greatly impact Danish employer organisations, partners and civil Technology supports the safety and security
businesses and the lives of the Danish society at home and abroad. Specific road
of Denmark
people. And we will use our international maps and project plans will be developed
network to promote Denmark as a digital for each focus area.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark 6STRATEGY FOR DENMARK’S TECH DIPLOMACY
RESPONSIBILITY Strategic
priority
Impact areas Outcomes Key Performance Indicators
We will work to ensure that the tech giants meet their societal
Responsibility Fair business Denmark has a strong voice 1. Contributed to Danish policy development on the
responsibility and operate on a level playing field.
models and in the international debate on tech industry’s business models.
market conditions data-driven business models,
platform algorithms and 2. Contributed to international policy development
antitrust in the digital sphere. and mechanisms of action for cases where major
The tech giants should uphold their part Danish and international examples of tech companies fail to meet societal expectations.
of the social contract. Denmark will help responsible development and application
3. Achieved concrete changes in conduct with major
drive forward the global discussion on of new technology, seeking to make
tech companies in a minimum of five specific cases
challenges related to tech companies’ Denmark an international digital pioneer.
raised on behalf of relevant Danish authorities.
data-driven and algorithmic business We will not do this alone, but in dialogue
models and push for international and committed collaboration with the
solutions including on the issue of tech industry and in close coordination
Danish digital Technological development 4. Through leveraging the tech embassy’s network,
taxation of the digital economy – an issue with relevant Danish authorities. By solutions supports Denmark’s social contributed to 10 specific export opportunities
where Denmark is actively engaged in highlighting responsible Danish tech welfare model, growth and for Danish companies and foreign investments
ongoing negotiations internationally. companies and digital solutions for the employment. in Denmark for responsible technology.
Working in cooperation with like-minded public sector with a high degree of trust,
countries, we will promote responsible we will contribute to creating better 5. Established dialogue with labour and employer
organisations in Denmark and relevant
business conduct and contribute to opportunities for responsible Danish
authorities on the challenges and opportunities
clearly defined courses of action when technology across the world and promote
presented by the digital age to the Danish social
the tech giants fail to deliver on societal Denmark as an attractive destination for
welfare model.
expectations and adhere to regulations. tech investments with a clean, green and
We will help lead the way by elevating sustainable foundation. 6. Contributed to Denmark’s digital policy
development with at least 10 reports/analyses
annually on significant tech policy issues.
7. Published and promoted a catalogue with
Denmark is internationally
Danish examples of responsible technological
recognised as a frontrunner
development in the private and public sectors.
for responsible technology
development – in both the 8. Elevated Denmark’s approach to responsible
public and private sectors. technological development globally through
international press and media efforts.
7STRATEGY FOR DENMARK’S TECH DIPLOMACY
DEMOCRACY Strategic
priority
Impact areas Outcomes Key Performance Indicators
We will champion global digital rules and regulations that build on
Democracy European digital The EU has a strong voice in international 9. Delivered concrete policy proposals for
democratic values and human rights.
leadership based cooperation on global digital rules and the development of a well-defined and
on democratic regulations. active tech foreign policy for the EU.
values
10. Created stronger transatlantic
The EU has taken the lead on responsible lead the way as democracies seek to find dialogue on new technology and
digitisation and regulation of the tech common ground and set the direction global digital rules and regulations
industry, but to elevate these efforts for global digital rules and regulations. through the annual Tech & Cyber
globally the EU must have a much stronger Denmark will ensure that the protection Retreat.
voice outside the Union’s borders. of human rights online remains a key
Denmark should strive to shape global priority and will contribute to building new
European tech companies have a clear 11. Established a dialogue with 10 relevant
technology governance together with the alliances, including with the tech industry, voice in the international technology and responsible European tech
EU, not simply comply with it. To that end in the struggle to maintain an open, global debate. companies with the aim of developing
we will work towards a clearly defined and free internet. We are determined to a European tech alliance.
foreign and security policy on technology ensure that new technology supports
for the EU that is firmly supported by democratic institutions, contributes to
Member States. We will contribute to closer open public debate, and allows for the free
Human rights Denmark defends the open, global and 12. Established a strategic partnership
transatlantic cooperation on development exchange and expression of opinions. We
online free internet and works to ensure that with NGOs, like-minded countries and
and application of new technologies. We will work to ensure that citizens have the human rights are respected and promoted tech companies to monitor digitally
will insist on strengthening multilateral necessary opportunities and resources to online and in the development of new driven acts of violence, including
cooperation on technology, contribute to lead a healthy digital life and that social technologies. potential genocide.
the UN Secretary-General’s Roadmap for media platforms foster understanding and
Digital Cooperation and collaborate closely discourage division. 13. Contributed specific policy proposals
with the UN Tech Envoy. We intend to help to the Freedom Online Coalition on the
role of the tech industry in protecting
human rights online.
14. Strengthened civil society’s digital
resilience in developing countries.
15. Contributed to putting responsible
technology on the agenda of the UN
Human Rights Council.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark 8STRATEGY FOR DENMARK’S TECH DIPLOMACY
SECURITY Strategic
priority
Impact areas Outcomes Key Performance Indicators
We want technology to support Denmark’s safety and
Security Security policy NATO and the EU have strengthened the 16. Built a structured collaboration with
security.
cooperation ability to manage the security implications the tech industry for NATO and the EU.
of technological developments.
17. Successfully hosted high-level visit
for NATO and allies in Silicon Valley
We will contribute to the EU and NATO to better mitigate cyber threats against with the purpose of establishing
gaining a better understanding of the Denmark. We want a clearer division closer industrial collaboration that
security implications of new technology, of responsibilities between states and will contribute to maintaining the
combined with the ability to address and companies and better information Alliance’s technological lead.
manage these implications. We want NATO basis for potential sanctions against
and the EU to remain at the forefront those responsible for cybercrimes and
Cyber and Better mitigation of cyber-threats through 18. Brought together at least 20 like-
of technological development and will cyber-attacks. We will require social media
disinformation strengthened cooperation and clearer minded countries at a high level for
help cultivate a structured collaboration companies to take greater responsibility division of responsibilities between states security policy discussions with the
with the tech companies, which develop for preventing abuse of their platforms and tech companies. tech industry.
technologies utilised for both civilian for state-sponsored influence campaigns,
and military purposes that have become and will seek a closer cooperation between
Social media companies take greater 19. Contributed to international
vital for our critical infrastructure. We companies and Danish authorities to
responsibility for preventing the misuse cooperation with social media
will strengthen cooperation with like- protect children and youth online.
of their platforms for state-sponsored companies on countering malign
minded countries and the tech industry influence campaigns. influence campaigns.
Children and Major social media companies take greater 20. Contributed to dialogue between
youth online responsibility for ensuring that Danish relevant Danish authorities and the
children and youth are not exposed to five social media platforms used most
harmful and illegal content. by children and youth in Denmark.
Denmark is seen as a pacesetter in the 21. Contributed to international
protection of children and youth online. cooperation on the protection of
children and youth online, based on
Danish experiences.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark 9STRATEGY FOR DENMARK’S TECH DIPLOMACY
copenhagen
Global tech diplomacy with beijing
strong roots in Denmark Silicon valley
The Tech Ambassador has a global mandate and • Contributor of expertise and insight to the Danish In addition, a working group of relevant Danish Citizen Engagement
is supported by a team based in Silicon Valley, public debate on technological development and the authorities will be established to ensure that the Denmark’s tech diplomacy must be embedded in the
Copenhagen and Beijing. The presence in Silicon influence of the tech industry. international effort remains rooted in national Danish population. Therefore:
Valley is particularly important for the purposes priorities. The monitor group will meet once a year
of representing Denmark and building bridges to • Policy developer, who, through collection of and will be kept informed of the results of Denmark’s 1) an annual poll will be conducted to understand
the tech industry. The organisational setup will be knowledge and international perspectives on tech diplomacy. how Danes view technology development. The poll
assessed regularly to ensure optimum implementation technological development, contributes to Danish will serve as both a sounding board for our diplomatic
of the strategy and effective utilisation of resources. solutions to global challenges. Tech Advisory Board efforts as well as the basis for broad public debate on
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark will the challenges and opportunities of new technologies;
Denmark’s tech diplomacy is conducted globally • Global champion, who brings attention to Denmark establish a new Tech Advisory Board that will advise
through six defined roles: as a digital pioneer and contributes to Danish tech and inspire Denmark’s tech diplomacy. The Board 2) public events will be organised in collaboration with
exports and foreign investment in Denmark. will consist of five to eight Danish and international a broad range of partners focusing on the possibilities
• Representative of the Danish Government and experts from relevant companies, research and challenges of technology and;
central administration in relation to the global tech The strategy is implemented in close collaboration institutions, think tanks and NGOs. The Board will
industry, with a focus on accountable and critical with the many other Danish efforts internationally in meet once annually and contribute to the ongoing 3) efforts will be made to engage in collaboration
dialogue. the digital and technological field, including export public debate on Denmark’s tech diplomacy. and dialogue with a wide range of civil society
and investment promotion and the Danish Innovation organisations to ensure the involvement of different
• Adviser who collects and brings home knowledge Centres. In order to create value for all of Denmark, Tech Network for Danish Embassies social groups and perspectives, including an annual
about technological developments, supports the tech diplomacy must be firmly rooted with Danish International technology policy is not only driven roundtable meeting with civil society on the strategy
innovation and ensures technology issues remain authorities, companies, business organisations, by forces based in Silicon Valley. Many other and results.
high on the foreign and security policy agenda. NGOs and citizens. Therefore, the following new countries, cities and organisations are also important
organisational initiatives will help ensure Danish arenas for global technological development and
• Convener and Coalition Builder with global efforts on tech policy at home and abroad are international cooperation on digital rules and
stakeholders, including other countries, companies, innovative, coordinated and anchored in Danish regulations. Therefore, a tech network for relevant
business organisations, multilateral organisations society. Danish embassies and multilateral missions will be
and civil society. established to strengthen Denmark’s global advocacy
in the field of technology.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark 10STRATEGY FOR DENMARK’S TECH DIPLOMACY
Read more online
https://techamb.um.dk/
ministry of foreign affairs of denmark
Asiatisk Plads 2
1448 Copenhagen
Denmark
Tel +45 33 92 00 00
Fax +45 32 54 05 33
um@um.dk
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