The Global Network Initiative publishes reflections on WSIS+20 Outcome Document revisions

The Global Network Initiative has published an in-depth blog examining the recently released Revisions 1 and 2 of the WSIS+20 Outcome Document. The piece outlines GNI’s observations on how the updated drafts address issues such as recognition of the Internet Governance Forum, stakeholder participation, human rights safeguards, data governance, and artificial intelligence. It also highlights points where GNI believes the text could be further strengthened ahead of the WSIS+20 High-level Meeting on 16–17 December 2025.

The blog identifies several improvements in the revised drafts, including stronger references to multistakeholder participation, recognition of the Internet Governance Forum as a permanent forum, clearer links to the Global Digital Compact, and greater emphasis on connectivity, gender equality, and accessibility.

GNI also outlines areas where further refinement may be needed. These include reinstating the principles of necessity, legality, and proportionality in the human-rights section; addressing the impact of internet shutdowns; providing clearer references to risks associated with surveillance; and strengthening human-rights language in sections on data governance and artificial intelligence. The organisation also recommends clarifying private-sector responsibilities in line with the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights.

Because this is an external analysis published on GNI’s Confluence Blog, readers who wish to review the full assessments and recommendations can do so directly at the following link:

Read the full blog: https://globalnetworkinitiative.org/building-a-rights-respecting-digital-future-gni-reflections-on-revisions-1-and-2-of-the-wsis20-outcome-document/