Global Diplomacy Lab (GDL)

The Global Diplomacy Lab (GDL) is an innovative platform dedicated to developing a new and more inclusive form of diplomacy. Founded in 2014 under the patronage of former German Foreign Minister Dr. Frank-Walter Steinmeier, the GDL brings together experts from the fields of diplomacy, non-governmental organizations, business, media, and cultural institutions[2][3][5].

The main mission of the GDL is to enrich traditional politics by incorporating new perspectives and methods from various fields. The focus is on developing network-oriented and interdisciplinary solutions for global challenges. The GDL is based on mutual trust-building and common interests to develop and reformulate agendas for collective action at individual, institutional, and political levels[2][3][5].

• Labs and Workshops: The GDL regularly organizes labs and workshops in various locations worldwide that address specific topics such as the impact of misinformation, peacebuilding, climate security, urban design, and water diplomacy. These events are co-designed by the members themselves and provide a platform for exchange and the development of innovative solutions[1][5].
• Networking: The GDL is a member-driven network where participants not only share their knowledge but also actively shape the program and serve as moderators or facilitators[2][3].
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration: By collaborating with experts from various sectors and countries, new approaches and tools for diplomacy are developed to tackle the complex challenges of today[2][3].

The GDL focuses on some of the most pressing global challenges, including:

• Inclusive Diplomacy: The GDL aims to develop diplomacy beyond the traditional boundaries of national governments and international organizations, promoting a more inclusive form of diplomacy[5].
• Sustainable Development: Many of the GDL's labs and initiatives focus on topics such as climate security, water diplomacy, and the role of local communities in global leadership to support the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)[1].
• Youth Engagement: The GDL is also committed to involving youth voices in 21st-century policymaking to ensure that future generations are included in the diplomatic process[1].

The GDL is supported by a strong partnership with the German Federal Foreign Office, the Slovenian Foreign Ministry, the BMW Foundation Herbert Quandt, the German-American Fulbright Commission, and the International Alumni Center (iac Berlin). Until 2020, the Global Leadership Academy and the Mercator Foundation were also leading partners of the GDL[2][3][5].

The Global Diplomacy Lab is a vibrant example of how interdisciplinary collaboration and inclusive diplomacy can work together to address the most urgent global challenges and create a better future for all.

• 1 - https://www.global-diplomacy-lab.org/labs-of-gdl/
• 2 - https://www.iac-berlin.org/what-we-do/global-diplomacy-lab
• 3 - https://www.global-diplomacy-lab.org
• 4 - https://global.utexas.edu/global-initiatives/diplomacy-lab
• 5 - https://www.we-do-change.org/the-action/global-diplomacy-lab