Advancing the GDC Principles and WSIS Action Lines | WSIS+20
The session reinforced the the Internet Governance Forum’s (IGF) substantial role in global digital policy discourse and the necessity for its continued evolution and influence.
The panel discussion titled ‘Advancing the GDC Principles and WSIS Action Lines,’ held at WSIS+20, featured representatives from the European Telecommunications Network Operators Association (ETNO), Orestia, the International Chamber of Commerce, and government officials from France and the UK, and highlighted the IGF pivotal role in shaping the digital governance agenda for the next decade.
The ‘Internet We Want’ initiative
The IGF Leadership Panel’s ‘Internet We Want’ initiative was spotlighted as a significant undertaking. This initiative aims to establish a collective vision for the internet, reflecting two decades of IGF discussions. It aligns with the Global Digital Compact (GDC) and World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) processes to foster an open, secure, and rights-respecting internet globally.
UK’s support for the IGF
The UK’s steadfast support for the IGF was underscored, emphasizing the forum’s unique ability to convene a wide array of stakeholders for open dialogue. The UK views the IGF as an essential institution that has evolved and must continue to adapt in response to societal and technological shifts.
France’s experience with the IGF
France shared insights from hosting the IGF, highlighting the event’s role in strengthening ties with civil society and testing new ideas. The IGF was portrayed as a dynamic community crucial for driving discussions on digital issues, including the rise of AI and blockchain technologies.
Evolution of the IGF
The panel acknowledged the IGF’s evolution, noting its expanded scope to cover AI, digital inclusion, cybersecurity, and data governance. The IGF’s bottom-up model and convening role were identified as distinguishing features that should be harnessed in future digital policy processes, including the WSIS+20 and the GDC.
The future role of the IGF
Looking ahead, the panel envisaged the IGF playing a role in the post-GDC process, potentially serving as a platform for monitoring and implementing GDC outcomes. The necessity for extending the IGF’s mandate and stabilizing its resources was stressed to ensure it can continue its pivotal work effectively.
Audience Concerns and Secretariat Response
Audience questions highlighted concerns such as the adequacy of the GDC text in supporting the IGF, the IGF’s potential role in the post-GDC process, and the inclusion of Global South voices. Additional issues included the recognition of the IGF within the UN system at the national level and the engagement of youth and National and Regional Initiatives (NRIs) in the IGF and the summit of the future.
The IGF Secretariat acknowledged the need for improvements, particularly regarding visa accessibility for Global South participants, and highlighted the NRIs as a pathway for individuals to impact GDC negotiations.
Read the full session report here:
