Standards

Why standards matter

Standards define how technologies work and interact. From ensuring that AI systems are safe and trustworthy to enabling the global internet to function seamlessly, standards are the building blocks of our digital world. They are also vital governance tools, especially in areas where formal regulation lags behind.

For civil society, engaging in standards development offers a unique opportunity to embed public interest values – such as human rights, inclusivity, and accessibility – into the very fabric of emerging technologies.

Standards on the rise

The world is seeing an acceleration in the development of digital standards, particularly in areas like artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing, and next-generation mobile networks (6G). The implications for society are immense

Human rights in standards

As debates around digital governance evolve, there’s growing recognition of the need to integrate human rights considerations into technical standards. Civil society participation is essential to ensure these discussions reflect diverse voices and uphold fundamental rights.

AI standards

Over 300 AI standards are already in progress worldwide. These cover critical areas such as safety, transparency, and accountability. They are increasingly referenced in policy instruments like the EU AI Act, bridging the gap between technology and regulation. Standards provide a pathway to ensure that AI development aligns with public interest goals.

Emerging technologies

Quantum computing, brain-computer interfaces, and advanced mobile networks are evolving rapidly. Standards for these technologies will determine not only their interoperability but also their societal impact, from data privacy to equitable access.

Explore how digital standards power the internet, connect devices, and shape our digital future, on the Digital Watch Observatory.

The policy dimensions of standards

Technical standards might seem far removed from the typical focus of civil society. But they have profound social, economic, and political consequences.

Social and governance impact

Standards influence how digital platforms operate and how technologies are embedded into daily life. For instance, standards for digital identities can either foster inclusion or deepen social divides.

Human rights

Accessibility standards ensure inclusivity, while poorly considered surveillance standards could infringe on privacy and human rights. Civil society plays a role in pushing for standards that actively safeguard these rights.

Economic and developmental impact

By supporting interoperability and innovation, standards facilitate economic growth. However, they also shape who benefits from technological advances. Civil society must ensure standards do not perpetuate inequalities, especially for communities in the Global South.

Sustainability and inclusion

Standards such as those promoting circular economies or energy-efficient technologies are increasingly linked to sustainability. Civil society can champion standards that align with sustainable development goals, ensuring inclusivity in their design and implementation.

Forums where standards are shaped

Standards are developed across a variety of settings, from global multilateral institutions to industry-led consortia. Key organisations shaping digital standards include:

The International Telecommunication Union (ITU), which is central to global telecommunications standards, including mobile networks (5G/6G), AI, and quantum communications
The Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF), which develops internet protocols and security mechanisms like TCP/IP, HTTP, and TLS
The ISO/IEC (International Organization for Standardization/International Electrotechnical Commission) Joint Technical Committee 1 (ISO/IEC JTC 1), which focuses on standards for IT, including AI, cybersecurity, and IoT
The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Standards Association (IEEE SA), which creates standards for smart cities, AI, and electronic systems
The 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP), which defines mobile network standards, including 5G and upcoming 6G technologies
The World Wide Web Consortium (W3C), which develops web standards like HTML, CSS, and Web Accessibility Initiative (WAI)

What can civil society do?

Learn and engage: Understand the basics of standardisation and how different bodies – like ITU (International Telecommunication Union) or IETF (Internet Engineering Task Force) – operate. Civil society can be an observer, contributor, or advocate.

Advocate for inclusion: Push for greater transparency and inclusion of public interest groups in standards development processes. Standards should not just serve industry or government interests but also reflect societal needs.

Focus on emerging topics: Keep an eye on technologies like AI and quantum computing, where the standards being written today will shape their societal impact for decades to come.

Collaborate: Partner with like-minded organisations, including academia and other advocacy groups, to build coalitions that can effectively influence standards.

The stakes have never been higher. From the rapid development of AI to the geopolitical tug-of-war over digital governance, standards are shaping the technologies that underpin our lives. Civil society can help ensure that these standards reflect shared values and contribute to a fair and equitable digital future.