Portfolio: Digital Transition

World map with 40+ project locations marked

The following references reflect a track record of Karsten Weitzenegger built over more than 30 years of consulting and evaluation work across Africa, the Americas, Asia, and Europe. Digital Transition Germany: Delivered online GIZ staff trainings on the onSITE Operations planning and financial management tool as Technical Expert, funded by BMZ via GIZ. Uganda: Evaluated … Read more

AI with a clear position: How NGOs can develop intelligent strategies

Visualisation of AI Policy Making in CSO

As an organizational developer keenly focused on AI integration, I observe that civil society organizations (CSOs) globally are grappling with a complex, urgent task: defining clear, ethical, and practical positions on the use of artificial intelligence. This is not merely an IT challenge; it is a fundamental discussion about organizational values, risk tolerance, and future … Read more

Analysis of the Hamburg Sustainability Conference 2025: Content, Process, Results, and Political Significance

The 2025 Hamburg Sustainability Conference (HSC) emerged as a pivotal forum for advancing global sustainability agendas amid escalating geopolitical fragmentation and economic uncertainty. With 1,600 participants from 110 countries, the conference prioritized actionable outcomes, producing landmark agreements such as the Hamburg Declaration on Responsible AI for the SDGs and the Global Alliance against Inequality[1][2][3]. This … Read more

Responsible AI for the Planet: Charting a Course for a Sustainable Future

As a Policy Advisor, I’ve had the distinct opportunity to reflect on the critical discussions at the Hamburg Sustainability Conference on June 3, 2025. This pivotal session, focusing on “Responsible AI for the Planet,” delved into an urgent question: how can we manage AI’s growing environmental footprint and increasing demand to align it with our … Read more

A matter of choice: People and possibilities in the age of AI – #HDR2025

Publication review: UNDP (United Nations Development Programme). 2025. Human Development Report 2025: A matter of choice: People and possibilities in the age of AI. New York. https://hdr.undp.org/content/human-development-report-2025 The 2025 Human Development Report, “A matter of choice: People and possibilities in the age of AI,” marks a pivotal moment for sustainability consultants. As artificial intelligence accelerates, … Read more

Empowering Global Partnerships: The Role of Consultants in Team Europe Initiatives and the Global Gateway Strategy

EU Global Gateway

The European Union’s vision for sustainable global partnerships is embodied in two key frameworks: Team Europe Initiatives (TEIs) and the Global Gateway (GG) strategy. These frameworks aim to foster coordinated efforts among EU Member States, mobilize investments, and drive transformative impacts in partner countries. However, bringing this vision to life requires the expertise and innovation … Read more

Responsible AI in African Economic Policymaking

Artificial intelligence (AI) is emerging as a powerful tool for economic development and policymaking across Africa. As African nations explore ways to leverage AI, there is a growing focus on ensuring its responsible and ethical implementation. This approach aims to harness AI’s potential while addressing unique challenges and opportunities in the African context. The Promise … Read more

Global Gateway: EU launches Digital Economy Package for Kenya to boost connectivity, skills and inclusive governance

EU Global Gateway

Jutta Urpilainen, European Union Commissioner for International Partnerships, announced the EU’s Digital Economy Package for Kenya during her official visit to Kenya. The package reflects the EU’s strong commitment to Kenya’s technological transition by expanding school connectivity, providing skills training for students, and establishing a green digital innovation hub as part of the Global Gateway … Read more

An inclusive digital economy for people with disabilities?

The digital revolution in the world of work impacts all. How does it impact people with disabilities? Which chances and potential barriers does digitalised work bring for disability inclusion? What are the actions to ensure nobody is left behind and the digital divide is closed? The report “An inclusive digital economy for people with disabilities”, … Read more

The Future is Now: Science for Achieving Sustainable Development

Scientists call for urgent, targeted, action to avoid reversing the development gains of recent decades New relationship between people and nature is needed as climate change and biodiversity loss threaten progress New York, 11 September—Achieving human well-being and eradicating poverty for all of the Earth’s people—expected to number eight and a half billion by 2030—is … Read more

How is phytosanitary knowledge managed globally?

Juice

A recent STDF project evaluation on developing training manuals and kits on IPPC standards scored highly on relevance and efficiency. With 20+ global manuals now published, National Plant Protection Organizations have greater access to technical resources. View the guides online and download the evaluation report.  The World Trade Organization has contracted Karsten Weitzenegger to evaluate a phytosanitary … Read more

Evaluation of Finland’s Aid for Trade

Finland’s Aid for Trade (AFT) projects in the past years have produced results and contributed to impact in specific sectors, in which Finland has competitive advantages and can bring added value. These sectors are water, energy, environment, ICT and innovation, forestry and fisheries.  Evaluation Aid for Trade (PDF, 272 pages, 343 kb) Finnfund’s investment portfolio shows good … Read more