Technology
Can an App Stop a Bullet? Our latest podcast explores how groups are using tech to help build peace around the world. It is framed around a recent discussion (link to http://talkingpeacefestival.org/event/peace-talks-can-an-app-stop-a-bullet/) at Google Campus London (link to site), organised by International Alert (link to their site), one of the largest peacebuilding organisations in the world with over thirty years experience. We talk to some of the leading people in this complex but promising new field, who are bringing innovative approaches to problems old and new, through improved communications, data and networks. Chaired by Helena Puig Larrauri, co-director of Build Up and an International Alert Trustee, the panel included peace builders and technologists with John Ridpath, Head of Product at Decoded, Mariéme Jamme, co-founder of Africa Gathering and Nikki Philline de la Rosa, Deputy Country Manager, International Alert Philippines as well as a specially recorded response from Jimmy Wales, founder of Wikipedia. We hear from them about how tech can be used for good and bad. For example, it can often help create hidden biases, usually towards a privileged few - but used in the right way it can also recreate gender roles and empower women in vulnerable and violent situations. Technology is not inherently violent or peaceful – it can be used for bad or good, depending on who uses it. As some groups are exploiting new technologies for violent ends, we finish by looking at the future - how might we use the same or new tools for a better, more peaceful world?