Global Deep Tech Diplomacy: Advancing Diverse and Inclusive Innovation for Humanity

Introduction

The definition of Deep Tech used for this article is offered by MIT REAP (Regional Entrepreneurship Acceleration Program): "technological innovations that are based on scientific breakthroughs and have the potential to create significant impact across various industries." Deep Tech encompasses a broad and evolving spectrum of innovative technologies grounded in innovative engineering and cutting-edge scientific advances – they tend to be capital, time, and R&D intensive. According to global experts Deep Tech has tremendous potential to stimulate economic growth, solve complex problems, and transform societies. However, there is a need for interdisciplinary collaboration among universities, research institutions, and government to support deep tech ecosystems.?Deep Tech could also catalyze UN SDGs, as Singapore's UNDP series outlined. By introducing the responsible deployment of novel infrastructures and technologies, Deep Tech can accelerate the attainment of the United Nations 2030 Agenda.

Global Landscape

The global Deep Tech market revenue totaled?US$ 431.1 Million?in 2021 and is expected to reach US$ 3,733.8 Million by 2032, exhibiting growth at 21.8% CAGR between 2022 and 2032.

According to a Boston Consulting Group (BCG ) report, investments in deep tech companies have increased by 20% in the past decade. Deep Tech refers to companies that are based on scientific or technological breakthroughs. The report highlights the growing interest of venture capitalists in this sector, with investments doubling over the past ten years. This funding surge indicates Deep Tech's potential and importance in driving innovation and economic growth. According to Crunchbase , a quarter of all the 2023 $1B exits are deep tech companies.?

A recent Foreign Diplomacy publication discusses the potential impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on diplomacy and negotiations. It highlights the emergence of AI-powered chatbots, such as ChatGPT, which can simulate human-like conversations and assist in diplomatic talks. These chatbots can analyze vast amounts of data and provide real-time insights, making them valuable tools for diplomats. However, concerns are raised regarding AI's ethical implications and biases. The article also explores the role of quantum computing in enhancing AI capabilities and its potential impact on diplomatic negotiations. The report emphasizes the need for careful consideration and regulation to ensure AI's responsible and unbiased use in diplomacy.

The Diplo Foundation published an article underscoring the "metaverse diplomacy" concept and its potential impact on international relations, exploring the benefits of metaverse diplomacy, such as increased inclusivity and accessibility and privacy and security concerns. The author emphasizes the importance of adapting diplomatic practices to the evolving digital landscape to engage in metaverse diplomacy effectively.

The United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research (UNIDIR ) organized a recent multi-stakeholder dialogue on quantum technology. The event brought together various stakeholders, including governments, academia, industry, and civil society, to discuss the implications of quantum technology for international security and arms control. The dialogue explored quantum technology's potential risks and benefits, its impact on existing arms control regimes, and the need for international cooperation in managing its development.?

Diverse and Inclusive Deep Tech Diplomacy

In today's interconnected and increasingly immersive world, it is imperative to prioritize diverse and inclusive deep-tech diplomacy to address the needs of underserved populations when designing urban ecosystems of the future. By recognizing and understanding the challenges marginalized groups face, we can work towards creating a fair and equitable society. Adopting a diverse approach to diplomacy that addresses the needs of individuals with disabilities, the LGBTQ+ community, indigenous peoples, refugees and asylum seekers, the elderly population, low-income families, women, ethnic and racial minorities, and rural communities is an imperative for humanity in the digital era.

• Deep tech diplomacy should prioritize accessibility and assistive technologies to empower individuals with disabilities, enhancing their participation in society.
• By ensuring elderly inclusion in the digital world, we can combat social isolation and enhance their overall well-being.
• By leveraging technology, we can support war refugee's integration into new societies and facilitate their resettlement.
• By implementing policies that address racial biases and supporting initiatives that promote representation, we can ensure equal opportunities for ethnic and racial minorities.
• An article published by the Pew Research Center also examines the diplomacy and political leadership generation gaps. Their research shows that younger Americans are generally more inclined towards international cooperation, diplomacy, and multilateralism, while older Americans prioritize military strength and unilateral action.?
• A recent report by UN Women underscores the persistent gender gap in political leadership and diplomacy positions. It presents compelling statistics on the low representation of women in executive government positions, national parliaments, and local governments. The publications also discusses the importance of women's leadership in attaining the UN 2030 SDG and UN 2050. It concludes by calling for increased efforts to promote women's political participation and leadership roles. The latest published statistics by S&P Global reveal the percentage of the technology workforce identifying as female at 27.6%, 16.6% of women hold board seats intech companies and 17% of technology companies currently have a woman serving as CEO. According to a report by Silicon Valley Bank, only 15% of tech startup founders are female. The study highlights the gender disparity in the tech industry, with women facing numerous challenges in starting and scaling their businesses. The report suggests that increasing diversity and inclusion in the sector is crucial for innovation and economic growth. It also emphasizes the need for more support and resources for female founders, including access to funding, mentorship, and networking opportunities. Despite the low representation, initiatives, and organizations are working to empower women in Tech and bridge the gender gap.

Conclusion

This article aims to complement global tech diplomacy efforts and serve as a call to action for increased diversity and inclusion in Deep Tech-centric diplomacy initiatives. We urge governments, organizations, and individuals to work together to create a more inclusive and equitable global diplomatic corps dedicated to responsible Deep Tech deployments to pave the way for a sustainable future.