IGF 2024

In the rapidly evolving landscape of an intelligent society, driven by artificial intelligence (AI) and other cutting-edge technologies, there is a critical need for innovative governance models to address the profound societal impacts these technologies bring. The initiative of Intelligent Society Governance seeks to explore a governance paradigm that is human-centered and adaptable to the rapid changes of the intelligence era. Nations around the world are responding to these challenges and opportunities by implementing pilot demonstrations and policy experiments in areas like AI. This press conference will primarily announce the release of the Research on Intelligent Society Development and Governance (2024). As a bridging work, this research systematically summarizes the research and practical efforts of the past five years, consolidates the latest findings from the research team in this field, and provides in-depth analysis of the frontier trends and challenges facing the development of smart society in the future.
Key topics covered in the executive summary include: 1. Information Cocooning: Examining how technology exacerbates information isolation and societal fragmentation. 2. Social Polarization: Analyzing the impacts of intelligent technologies on social stratification and polarization. 3. Platform Governance: Assessing the roles and impacts of large tech platforms in public governance. 4. AI for Science: Demonstrating how AI is advancing scientific research and development. 5. Twining Digital and Green Transitions: Discussing the relationship between technological advancement and environmental sustainability. 6. Cyberspace Governance: Outlining strategies for maintaining order and security in digital spaces. 7. Labor Digitalization and Societal Changes: Analyzing how digitalization is fundamentally transforming labor markets and work structures. Additionally, the white paper introduces an innovative assessment index system designed to systematically evaluate the social impacts of intelligent technologies, particularly generative AI, across various sectors of society. The launch event for the white paper will invite governments, research institutions, enterprises, and social organizations to discuss their contributions to Intelligent Society Governance and promote knowledge sharing. This event aims to foster a global consensus and collaborative efforts to enhance the digital contributions to innovation, development, and sustainability. It serves not only as a platform for the exchange of governance knowledge but also as a commitment to developing a more humanistic intelligent society globally.

The session will focus on the importance to close the gender digital divide by empowering women and promoting a digital transformation that works for all. Starting from the challenges women face in accessing and utilizing digital technologies, the session will highlight economic and social benefits of closing the gender digital divide offering example of good practices and stressing the importance of digital skills development, policy reforms, and women's leadership in ICT. It will underscore the EU's commitment through its Gender Action Plan and the EU Global Gateway strategy promoting an inclusive model of digitalization. The session will be organized to ensure a good gender, geographic and multistakeholder balance of speakers. We aim at discussing the challenges and lessons learned in different geographic regions. All panelists will start with their general views on the topic (up to 5 minutes) and then proceed with two rounds of Q/A posed by the moderators (see key questions for panelists). Then we will conclude with questions from the audience. We will have both on-site and online moderators and panelist (hybrid option).
It can be considered to allow for prerecorded video questions submitted online for the panellist to address. Potentially the virtual moderator will not only monitor the chat, but may also relay question to the onsite moderator and/or answer questions to online attendees. The session is envisioned to include the participation of high-level officials with a diverse geographical scope to deliver an insightful and constructive dialogue on the proposed theme. The speakers will display an overview of the context, actions and challenges being addressed. Throughout this session we will have the opportunity to hear the testimonies of those who have benefitted from a multilateral approach to these challenges. It is a session that will be presented in manner to welcome everyone to a conversation that requires all of us to contribute to. Online participants will be provided with clear instructions how to connect and pose questions to the participants while online. We might also use Sli.do or similar platforms. The Online moderator will take care of the smooth process in both platforms and ensure that interaction between the online and onsite audiences.

Description:
 
Multistakeholder conversations around Internet governance often do not adequately include disability related concerns within their ambit. This omission becomes more concerning when discrimination against persons with disabilities is furthered by artificial intelligence and automated decision-making technologies (ADM). These technologies can process personal data in a manner that makes unfair decisions about Persons with Disabilities, preventing them from using the Internet to achieve economic growth and holistic development. This collaborative workshop (classroom format) initiates a multistakeholder conversation to advance human rights by securing digital inclusion through data protection frameworks for persons with disabilities. Using innovative approaches, speakers and participants will collaboratively design best practices to achieve an inclusive Internet for persons with disabilities. This will be accomplished by: 1) exploring the interplay between digital accessibility, data protection and ADM; and 2) examining how data protection frameworks can address technology-facilitated inequalities faced by persons with disabilities, in alignment with SDGs. Relying on the Centre for Communication Governance’s ongoing research on centring disability in India’s Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023, the workshop will be bolstered with insights based on CCG’s continuous engagement with diverse stakeholders from the disability and technology ecosystem. The workshop will collaboratively facilitate the design of ‘Our Shared Vision’: a multistakeholder code of best practices toward digital inclusion for persons with disabilities. These best practices will emerge from the exchange of ideas between the participants and the diverse speakers from various stakeholder groups - across industry, civil society and academia, and inter-governmental organisations. Our diverse panel comprises persons with disabilities. Their experiences and expertise will serve as representation of heterogeneity in persons with disabilities on the Internet. Addressing that disability is not a monolith, and that persons with different disabilities face discrimination through technology differently, is crucial to achieving digital inclusion, autonomy and user choice for persons with disabilities.
 
 

Description:
The session will strive to share perspectives, policy approaches, and best practices to advance digital solidarity – a willingness to work together on shared goals, provide mutual support, and help partners build capacity through the use of emerging technologies in rights-respecting ways. The session aims to answer the question of how digital solidarity is central to multistakeholder Internet governance and policy-shaping processes, and to the IGF theme of “Advancing human rights and inclusion in the digital age”. The session will strive to advance an affirmative, rights-respecting agenda for a more secure, resilient, and prosperous digital future, including through expediting progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through innovation, skills building, and digital literacy. It will include discussion of improving stakeholder collaboration, as well as the use of existing and development of new practical tools to operationalize digital solidarity. It will build on the General Assembly’s historic adoption-by consensus in March of resolution A/RES/78/265, which defined a global consensus on artificial intelligence (AI) to support sustainable development. It will also build on the momentum of the UNESCO Recommendation on the Ethics of AI and its implementation. The session will take into account important recent developments relevant to digital solidarity, including the Global Digital Compact, the NETMundial+10 Multistakeholder Statement on Strengthening Internet Governance and Digital Policy Processes, and the Interim Report of the multistakeholder effort on Digital Public Infrastructure Safeguards Initiative, jointly led by the Office of the Secretary-General’s Envoy on Technology and the United Nations Development Programme. The session will aim to advance best practices and tools for the practical implementation of commitments by stakeholders to advance digital solidarity in the design and implementation of sustainable development-related infrastructure and capacity building efforts that incorporate or involve emerging technologies, including AI, and data collection.
Background document: United States International Cyberspace & Digital Policy Strategy

Description: 
By the time the 2024 IGF convenes, voters will head to the polls in 60+ countries and the European Union, representing about 49% of the world’s population.
Each election will play out in its own unique political, legislative, and technological context. Some countries may rely heavily on public broadcasting, while others rely on social influencers and communities for election information. Some countries may have rules in place to protect voters from harmful election fraud, while others may not, or to a lesser extent. There may be greater press freedoms in one country than in another. All these nuances mean that there is no panacea to combat misinformation during an election.
Election Coalitions are a powerful tool for combating misinformation. By bringing together news organizations, fact checkers, and community groups from within, each Election Coalition can work to serve the voters in a way that meets their specific needs in the run-up to an election. Election coalitions increase public trust and safeguard fundamental democratic rights while enhancing digital contributions to peace, development, and sustainability.
This panel will include experts in this field, including Alex Walden, Global Head of Human Rights at Google, who will set the stage about why Election Coalitions are needed to combat misinformation. Daniel Bramatti from Brazil and David Ajikobi from Nigeria will share insights and identify best practices from some of the most successful election coalitions from the past decade. Mevan Babakar, News and Information Credibility Lead at Google, will discuss a paper she has authored which studies the effectiveness of Elections Coalitions around the globe. 
We want this session to be interactive, so we are planning this as a roundtable and will reserve 45 minutes of our session for Q&A and discussion among our speakers and our audience participants, in person and remote.

Description:
This workshop looks into regulating artificial intelligence (AI) governance for the Global South. The Global North has already carved out a path on AI governance through developing the “AI Ethical Principles” emphasizing transparency, fairness, and accountability and focusing on minimising the harms to human rights. If Global South countries had not been part of the conversations on global AI governance, do they see the current AI principles aligning with their own cultural values and contexts? Global South countries have not established comprehensive regulatory frameworks for AI yet. Developments in the Global North, especially the European Union, will influence how Global South countries develop their AI laws (Brussels effect 2.0). Another alternative is that Global South countries will approach AI regulation from an entirely different angle. In both cases, it is worth exploring the different pathways to AI regulation and whether the chosen regulatory approaches promote Sustainable Development Goals, and is tailored to their economic, societal and legal contexts. The workshop will give insight into the regulatory frameworks to AI in Latin America, Africa, the Middle East and Asia by using concrete examples of regulatory efforts. The workshop will emphasize the need for tailored regulatory frameworks that address the unique challenges and priorities of the Global South. A key theme will be how the Global South can benefit from the unprecedented opportunity to leapfrog traditional stages of development while minimising the apparent risks for human rights violations associated with AI. The workshop will hereby contribute to the second and fourth IGF 2024 themes. The workshop will be set up as panel discussion with recognised AI experts from Latin America, Europe, Africa, the Middle East and Asia. The workshop will ensure diverse gender representation amongst speakers. The panellists represent a diverse range of stakeholders, including academia, Government, Think Tanks and private sector.

Description:
Internet of Bodies (IoB) encompasses a wide range of technologies already in extensive use, including wearable devices, implantable medical devices, ingestible sensors, smart clothing, and biometric scanners, among others. These devices can collect various types of data, such as physiological metrics (heart rate, blood pressure, temperature), activity levels, location, and even biochemical information, so potential misuses can pose significant danger to users. As technology develops, we are moving from bracelets reading physical activity and smart watches to neurocomputer interfaces that would actually merge a person and a computer together. Human evolution is on the edge of a new era and the jury is still out on whether this technology presents more risks or opportunities. The practice of 'biohacking' (by the wearable users and not a third-party) is becoming known - it encompasses various practices aimed at modifying or augmenting biological systems, such as the case of billionaire Bryan Johnson, often recurring to DIY experiments, but mostly recording IoB devices' data and analysing it to find patterns and make informed decisions based on the results. How will the introduction of the third generation of IoB devices affect us and the world around us? Won't some IoB devices will not be used for good (for example, "smart lenses" that record every movement)? And how can a person be offline if the Internet is a physical part of you now?

Description:
In recent years, the dominance of tech giants has raised concerns about the concentration of power in the digital sphere. However, historical precedents suggest that these monopolies can be effectively challenged through the strategic implementation of interoperability and extensibility. This workshop explores the nuanced landscape of interoperability, its taxonomies, and its potential to disrupt established market dynamics and empower new entrants, along with vulnerabilities. We will examine the effectiveness of different legislations such as the European Union's Digital Markets Act (DMA) as a legislative effort to mandate interoperability between dominant tech services and emerging competitors, as well as the ACCESS Act in the United States and China's Cyberspace Regulation. We aim to explore the regulatory frameworks aimed at promoting competition and innovation. It will also look at the social impact of these legislations on users in the developing world, specifically Arabs. Additionally, the workshop will address the legal and contractual barriers that hinder interoperability initiatives, including one-sided contracts and intellectual property disputes. By elucidating diverse tactics—commercial, legal, technological, and social—participants will gain insights into building a more open and competitive digital ecosystem and better governance for the internet we want. Ultimately, the workshop advocates for a paradigm shift in the approach to tech regulation, emphasising the immediate benefits of interoperability in mitigating issues such as manipulation, surveillance, and price-gouging, with a focus on the Arab world. We will explore how communities and individuals can leverage interoperability and extensibility as we dismantle internet monopolies and build a more inclusive and innovative digital landscape.

Description:
In the digital age, ensuring universal access to telecommunications infrastructure remains a significant challenge, particularly in developing countries. Despite significant public and private investments, traditional approaches to telecommunications infrastructure have failed to achieve universal access goals even for basic voice connectivity for over two decades. Community-centered connectivity solutions are emerging as a powerful alternative. Driven by distinct investment priorities, these providers not only connect underserved communities, but they also foster social and economic development. They represent a vital part of the micro, small, and medium business (MSME) ecosystem - the backbone of developing economies - that has been largely overlooked by traditional, large-scale network operators. Yet, they face funding constraints and regulatory challenges that hinder their scalability and impact. Efforts to engage traditional commercial financial institutions that fund communications infrastructure have surfaced three intrinsic difficulties that need to be addressed: their limited scale, their high real and perceived levels of risk, and their lower returns on investment. To address these constraints, there is a strong need to create an enabling and flexible policy, regulatory, and financing environment that encourages the emergence of more innovative local and regional investment models for community-centred connectivity providers, which allows them to expand and operate cost-effectively. In this respect, to improve the balance between profit maximization and reaching universal access, the time has come to fully review where investments are made and how effective they are at addressing digital inclusion. This workshop will showcase innovative approaches to licensing for community-centered connectivity models and its impact by telecom regulators in Africa (Zimbabwe, Uganda, Ethiopia and Kenya) and Latin America (Mexico, Argentina, Colombia and Brazil). Additionally, it will showcase new and innovative financing mechanisms investing in small scale infrastructure that are already supporting emerging and successfully supporting community centred solutions.

The Open Consultation Process (OCP) lays the groundwork for shaping the WSIS Forum’s agenda and program, fostering a participatory and inclusive approach. This process invites contributions from various stakeholders—governments, private sector, civil society, technical community, academia, and international organizations—to ensure broad ownership and continuous improvements. Through consultative meetings and online submissions, the OCP collects input to shape the development of the WSIS Forum. 
The Second Meeting of the Open Consultation Process will build on previous discussions, continuing to gather input from stakeholders to shape the agenda, program, and format of the WSIS Forum 2025, branded as the WSIS+20 High-Level Event, scheduled for 7–11 July 2025 in Geneva, Switzerland. The session will provide an open platform for participants to engage in discussions, share ideas, and contribute to the Event’s preparations. Participants will also have the opportunity to receive updates on the latest activities related to the WSIS Process and its alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 
The WSIS+20 High-Level Event 2025 will be co-hosted by ITU and the Swiss Confederation. It will serve as a platform for discussion of the WSIS+20 review and the WSIS Action Lines and to take stock of the achievements and key trends, challenges and opportunities since the Geneva Plan of Action. The Event will highlight the way forward in preparation for the second review by the UN General Assembly, ensuring the continued relevance of the WSIS framework in digital governance.
During this session, co-hosts and co-organizers will share the latest updates on preparations for the WSIS+20 High-Level Event in 2025. Following the updates, participants are invited to join an open discussion to exchange ideas and insights. 

External funding for projects is substantially easier when there is trust!
Trust that the funds will end up at the right persons and be spent on the intended goals.
By extending the functionallity of money (which basic functionallity is: unit of account, medium of exchange and storage of value) with one extra function: "to incentivise, reward and help people" we created technology to generate this trust. We developed programmable money: (electronic) money with rules inside. The issuer can define: WHO gets how MUCH, WHERE it can be spent, on WHAT and WHEN. Then ONLY pays what was REALLY spent on the defined goal (leaving an exact trail for reporting) directly from their own bankaccount to the bankaccount of the retailers.
(it is even possible to look at real-time-spending from a dashboard)
Combining old with new:
When you take a grandmothers wallet, with compartments for different kinds of (earmarked) money: clothing money, grocery money, rent money, holiday money, etc. and combine it with modern web3 technology: the ability to secure, fast and safe transfer value over the internet by use of a mobile phone. Add a simple and intuitive way to pay (scan a QR-code and press 1 button)... and you have a tool with which you can create opportunities for MANY people and use-cases (money is a big enabler but it has to arrive at the right spot, at the right time for the right thing).
 
- Description of how programmable money works, its spectrum of use cases, how we already implemented it in The Netherlands to distribute relief money from the government, how we used it to drive sustainability, how we can use it for social inclusion - examples deplyoments from several different SDG's - interaction with the audience to "blitz-design" local use-cases (spontaneous) leveraging the advantages of purpose bound money: lower administrative burden, reduce fraud and misuse while stimulating the local economy and being evironmental friendly.
We will accept questions and remarks from online audience and show them the live-demonstrations through smartphone-screen-mirroring, accepting requests for use-cases in the brainstorm/design phase of the presentation.

Background paper link : https://docs.google.com/document/d/10n4N5jz_ukIyAve5dVB848Fna-tM2XoPhvr… In the digital age, access to information is more crucial than ever in shaping sustainable futures. At IGF 2024, the OnePile Foundation introduces its cutting-edge initiative, the OnePile.io SDG Book Club, under the session titled "Digital Libraries for Sustainability: Empowering Global Communities with SDG Knowledge and the SDG Book Club." This session will focus on the transformative role that digital libraries can play in disseminating knowledge about the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to global audiences. The OnePile.io platform revolutionizes how books related to the SDGs are categorized, accessed, and utilized, bridging the gap between digital technology and sustainability education. Through our digital bookcrossing application, we have successfully integrated over 400 books with dedicated SDG labels, enabling users to engage deeply with topics that are crucial for sustainable development. This session will highlight how digital innovations, particularly in the realm of digital book sharing and libraries, can significantly enhance the educational landscape by making sustainability resources accessible worldwide. It will also explore the impact of such platforms in fostering a global community that is well-informed and motivated to take action towards achieving the SDGs. Linking directly to the IGF2024 issue area of "Enhancing the digital contribution to peace, development, and sustainability," this presentation will demonstrate the potential of digital libraries to act as catalysts for educational and societal change. Participants will explore successful strategies for scaling this model across different regions and discuss the role of digital technology in promoting peace and sustainable development through education. For additional information, including detailed project insights and outcomes, please refer to our dedicated resource page: [OnePile.io SDG Book Club Overview](https://www.onepilefoundation.org/sdgs-%E5%8F%AF%E6%8C%81%E7%BA%8C%E7%9…). Join us as we delve into how digital libraries and the SDG Book Club are making strides in empowering communities worldwide through accessible and impactful sustainability education.
 **Target 4.7:** The session utilizes digital libraries to educate global communities on sustainable development, promoting skills and knowledge aligned with sustainable lifestyles and global citizenship. ### SDG 9 - Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure - **Target 9.5:** Showcases the OnePile.io platform, demonstrating innovation in digital technology for educational purposes and supporting the enhancement of technological capabilities in educational sectors. ### SDG 11 - Sustainable Cities and Communities - **Target 11.4:** Provides digital resources that include content on cultural and natural heritage, aiding in the preservation and awareness of cultural identities and natural environments. ### SDG 13 - Climate Action - **Target 13.3:** Uses digital libraries to improve education and awareness on climate change, facilitating community engagement in climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies. ### SDG 17 - Partnerships for the Goals - **Target 17.16:** Involves multiple stakeholders in developing and managing the digital platform, enhancing global partnerships and sharing resources to support the SDGs, especially in developing countries.
Estimated Number of Participants Expected to Attend 50

Saudi Arabia's rapid progress in the ICT sector, driven by the government’s vision to diversify the economy and reduce reliance on oil and gas, sets the stage for this workshop, offering a unique opportunity to delve into the capabilities of local Saudi firms and their impact on enhancing the digital landscape across vital sectors like health, education, and justice; the workshop aims to:
-Discuss the varied applications of E2E solutions in sectors such as telecommunications, healthcare, and logistics
-Explore collaboration opportunities with international partners to boost the development and deployment of E2E solutions
-Analyze the essential infrastructure and resources needed for the successful implementation of E2E solutions in diverse regions

Cyber-resilient digital infrastructure and connectivity play an essential role in fostering sustainable development. The Internet powers critical societal services, from healthcare and education to e-commerce and civic engagement. However, the rise of malicious cyber activities targeting critical infrastructure delivering essential services across borders poses an increasing threat to societies. Such activities can have potential cascading effects across borders and jurisdictions. Such spillover effects can also escalate regional and global tensions. In this context, strengthening collaborative efforts - across governments, civil society, the technical community and the private sector - to protect critical infrastructure at the national, regional, and global level is paramount. While global consensus acknowledges the imperative to bolster cyber resilience of critical infrastructure, it is becoming essential to build capacity and increase collaboration between the diplomatic and technical communities. Such capacity building and cross-sectoral collaboration are crucial to implement the UN framework for responsible state behavior in cyberspace and to protect essential digital services. Recent agreements in the UN - including at the UN Open-ended Working Group on ICT security (OEWG) - call for safeguarding transnational critical infrastructure through increased exchanges on good practices and the establishment of communication channels between states to mitigate ICT incidents and prevent escalation. This open forum aims to bring the IGF diplomatic and technical communities together to share experiences and good practices at regional and international level and to identify actionable steps to safeguard critical infrastructure delivering services across borders. Specifically, this open forum will explore how to engage the multi-stakeholder community, how to break silos between diplomatic and technical expertise, and how to foster greater cooperation among national cybersecurity agencies and computer emergency response teams. Additionally, the co-conveners will address what initiatives exist in this space and how to empower experts, particularly from developing countries, to effectively participate in them. Finally, participants will discuss how a future UN permanent forum on cybersecurity could contribute to a cyber-resilient digital infrastructure for the Internet we want.
To ensure seamless interaction between onsite and online participants, after the interactive panel discussion, the organizers will prioritize questions and interventions from the online audience before turning to onsite participants, ensuring inclusivity and equal engagement across both groups. Utilizing Slido online polling tools, we will collect input and written resources on the subject of critical infrastructure protection from all attendees. This will provide opportunities for all attendees to actively contribute and exchange ideas on this topic. The organizers will also leverage complementary online tools and platforms such as Slido and online polling tools to collect input and encourage engagement during the session. These tools will enable us to collect questions, gather feedback, and facilitate interactive polls in real time, enhancing engagement and fostering a sense of community among participants, regardless of their location. By incorporating these interactive elements and encouraging active participation from both online and onsite attendees, we aim to create a dynamic and inclusive discussion where diverse perspectives are not only valued, heard, and but also recorded to subsequently inform formal UN deliberations within the OEWG and more broadly.

Description:
Over the last decade, use of the term “multistakeholder” has proliferated in the context of diverse projects, initiatives, and organizations related to technology governance. And yet too many processes, initiatives, and proposals that claim to embody “multistakeholderism” have failed to live up to them into practice. In 2024, a myriad of processes and initiatives at the intersection of sustainable development and Internet governance will continue to come to a head and the work of defining and defending the importance of multistakeholder engagement in Internet governance will be critical. The annual IGF is an essential avenue for discussing some of the foremost challenges in a rapidly evolving field, on a consistent and timely basis, which facilitates predictability, transparency, and accountability. This year, in particular, it can play an additional role: it can serve as a venue for examining the outcomes of other key convenings, including the Global Digital Compact (GDC), the WSIS+20 High-Level Event, NETMundial +10, and the Summit of the Future. This session will assess these processes through a multistakeholder lens, examining how effectively they embody this principle. In this session, we’ll hear from speakers representing different stakeholders involved in the various global processes at national, regional, and international levels to review outcomes of internet governance processes, including WSIS+20, GDC, and NetMundial. The discussion will identify gaps, and explore key challenges and opportunities for strengthening multistakeholder engagement through IGF and how it can ensure coordination and synergies in the digital cooperation system.

The digital environment is a crucial aspect of daily life, and it's essential to ensure that all individuals, especially persons with disabilities, can fully participate and benefit from emerging technologies The session will explore the challenges persons with disabilities encounter when engaging with emerging technologies and will present transformative solutions through Open Educational Resources (OER). Discussions will focus on the barriers to accessing and effectively utilizing these technologies, emphasizing the critical need to integrate inclusive design principles in their development to foster truly barrier-free environments. Additionally, this session will highlight policy recommendations, technological innovations, and collaborative efforts aimed at fostering digital inclusion, sparking meaningful conversations, and identifying actionable strategies to ensure emerging technologies are accessible and beneficial for all.
The session will also look at the importance of incorporating inclusive design principles in technology development, adhering to accessibility standards like WCAG, and ensuring seamless integration of assistive technologies. The objectives include accelerating the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through digital inclusion, enhancing accessibility through technology, and promoting global standards for accessible digital content and platforms.
Topics to be covered will cover, but are not limited to, AI-enabled accessible OER, data privacy/protection issues, quality criteria for accessible OER, interoperability standards, and human rights/ in the digital realm. The outcome goals include developing actionable recommendations for stakeholders, fostering collaboration, and raising awareness about accessible and inclusive digital content and technologies.
By embracing accessibility, inclusivity, and the principle of "Nothing About Us Without Us," one  can harness the Internet's transformative potential to create a more equitable and sustainable world for everyone. This session will spark meaningful conversations, identify actionable strategies, and promote collaborative efforts to ensure emerging technologies are accessible and beneficial for all.

How will you facilitate interaction between onsite and online speakers and attendees?

To foster inclusive engagement, we will facilitate interaction through Q&A sessions, ensuring equal opportunities for both onsite and online participants to contribute. The onsite and online moderators will not only field questions but also relay chat comments aloud, acknowledging that individuals with cognitive disabilities may prefer to express themselves in writing rather than verbally. 

How will you design the session to ensure the best possible experience for online and onsite participants?

The session is committed to inclusivity, featuring live captioning for attendees who are deaf or hard of hearing, or whose native language is not English, as well as sign language interpretation by certified interpreters. To encourage audience participation, we will encourage questions from the audience both online and in person. Additionally,  the Q&A pod will be set to allow participants to view all submitted questions and rank them by importance, ensuring that everyone's voice is heard.

Please note any complementary online tools/platforms you plan to use to increase participation and interaction during the session.

To facilitate engagement for remote attendees, we will leverage virtual collaboration platforms and live-streaming tools, enabling immersive online participation and interaction. Additionally,   the Q&A pod will be used to crowdsource questions, configuring the settings to allow participants to view and rank all questions by importance. To further enhance accessibility, live captions will be displayed on a dedicated screen, ensuring that viewers can easily catch up on any missed content. For online viewers, we will also provide stream text links, enabling them to follow along in real-time.
 

Description:
Digital transformation is now an intrinsic part of every country’s development, creating enormous opportunities and enabling everything from distance learning to economic advances in logistics, manufacturing, and agriculture, as well as societal advances such as improvements to health care, education and other public services. However, the rapidly expanding centrality of cyberspace in our everyday lives also increases its potential for risk. These vulnerabilities are even more worrisome in the case of critical infrastructures and essential services, which are crucial for the well-being of societies, for preserving the public order and security of nations. Ensuring trust in the digital economy requires the protection of the availability, integrity, confidentiality of these most essential infrastructures and services to ensure resilience. Furthermore, in an increasingly interconnected world, the significance of critical infrastructure protection extends across borders to a global scale. With shared dependencies and potential cross-border impacts, a breach in one region can impact another. Harmonised efforts to set a baseline to protect critical infrastructure are crucial for fostering international collaboration, resilience against emerging threats, and ensuring the stability of the interconnected systems that underpin the modern world globally. However, divergent global definitions of critical infrastructure and essential services, and contradictory requirements pose challenges for international cooperation, coordination to decrease cyber threats and the development of effective risk mitigating solutions. In this session experts from across stakeholder groups and regions will discuss how efforts can be aligned to set a baseline for the protection of the cybersecurity of critical infrastructures and foster international collaboration, resilience against emerging threats, and ensure the stability of the interconnected systems that underpin the modern world globally. Starting from the premise that cybersecurity is a shared responsibility, discussions will aim to bring recommendations on how all stakeholders could effectively work together to mitigate risks and curb cyber threats.

Connectivity corridors between Europe and the Middle East, as well as Europe and Asia, play a pivotal role in shaping regional and global digital landscapes. The establishment and enhancement of international internet connectivity serve as the backbone of the global digital economy, facilitating cross-border integration of services and fostering regional progress. Moreover, the development of technological hubs within these corridors further amplifies the impact of connectivity on digital transformation. The proposed session aims to delve into the significance of connectivity corridors and technological hubs in driving digital transformation, empowering regional advancement, and promoting global competitiveness focusing on the case of Georgia. The key topics for discussion will include significant subjects such as the role of international internet connectivity as an enabler of global competitiveness in an increasingly digital global economy; the establishment of technological hubs – accelerating digital transformation and innovation; strengthening national and regional global competitiveness by facilitating seamless access to digital services, markets, and talent; development of ecosystems conducive to innovation, research, and development, driving economic growth and job creation. The session " Empowering the region towards sustainable digital growth" provides a platform to explore and discuss the transformative potential of connectivity corridors and technological hubs in shaping regional and global digital landscapes. By enhancing international internet connectivity and fostering technological innovation, countries can unlock new opportunities for economic growth, innovation, and collaboration, ultimately fostering regional progress and global competitiveness in the digital age.
As Lightning Talks are fully in-person sessions, no hybrid interaction is required.

This session, organized by the Government of South Africa as Chair of the ITU Council Working Group on WSIS&SDG and ITU, invites stakeholders to contribute to the Call for Inputs on the WSIS+20 Review​, by sharing their views on the work of the ITU in the WSIS+20 review. Participants will explore key topics, including achievements and challenges since the Geneva Plan of Action, the alignment of the WSIS Process with the 2030 Agenda, and the future direction of WSIS beyond 2025. The session will highlight ITU's significant contributions over the past two decades and emphasize the importance of diverse stakeholder engagement to ensure a comprehensive and inclusive review of the WSIS Process and the vision of WSIS beyond 2025.

Moderator

Ms. Cynthia Lesufi, Chair CWG WSIS&SDG, South Africa
Speakers:

Ms. Mina Seonmin Jun, Vice Chair CWG WSIS&SDG, South Korea
Ms. Gitanjali Sah, Strategy and Policy Coordinator, International Telecommunication Union, (ITU)
Mr. Thomas Schneider, Ambassador and Director of International Affairs, Office Fédéral de la Communication (OFCOM), Switzerland
Mr. Ian Sheldon, Director, Internet Governance, Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts, Australian
Mr. Paul Blaker, Head of ITU and Internet Governance, Department for Science, Innovation & Technology, United Kingdom
Ms. Maria Fernanda Garza, Chair, International Chamber of Commerce (ICC)
Mr. Osama Manzar, Founder-Director, Digital Empowerment Foundation

The DCO advocates that tackling sustainability challenges, especially e-waste management issues, requires collaborative efforts across multiple stakeholders. Consequently, in partnership between DCO Ecosystem (Member States, Observers, and Partners), ICT hardware manufacturing firms, international organizations, and civil society, aimed at offering guidance for the setting up, execution, and enhancement of e-waste management at both national and international (cross-border) levels taking into consideration public private partnership. This session purposes to discuss existing e-waste management programs, identifying successful strategies for e-waste value-chain, including e-waste collection, recycling, and responsible disposal, Discuss the key challenges stakeholders face when dealing with e-waste, and particularly cross-border e-waste flow, and Explore opportunities to standardize e-waste handling procedures across the industry, streamlining the process and encouraging innovation in recycling technologies. Present potential solutions and initial framework.
This session has the potential to adopt a hybrid format, incorporating both online and offline elements, and will be structured to facilitate interactive engagement between domain experts and the community.

The Internet of Things offers many opportunities to make our everyday lives more convenient, safer and more efficient. Due to the advancing use cases, digital applications will be omnipresent in the future and also offer the benefit of being at our side almost unnoticed. However, this can also result in risks, such as unwanted data processing, the provision of information that may be inappropriate or even harmful to individuals or the initiation of processes that are based on false assumptions. These risks can be countered by identifying the users. If the devices in the surroundings know who the user is, the Internet of Things can work adequately according to their needs and with specific measures and serve the user. One area of identification is the verification of age or assignment to an age group. Knowing this, smart speakers would, for example, generate information in child-friendly language for very young users or sensors that check whether older residents have fallen and may be lying helplessly on the floor would not be triggered incorrectly if a child is playing on the carpet in the living room.
According to the DC IoT Internet of Things Good Practice aims at developing loT systems, products, and services taking ethical considerations into account from the outset, in the development, deployment and use phases of the life cycle, thus finding an ethical, sustainable way ahead using loT to help to create a free, secure and rights enabling based environment: a future we want.
DC CRIDE based their understanding on the findings of the Global Age Assurance Standards Summit held with about 700 participants from around the world in Manchester in April 2024. The Summit’s Communiqué sets out the assumption that age assurance is a way to create a safe environment for users of all ages where they can exercise their rights and securely enjoy also the benefits of new and emerging technologies.
In the following we will outline how age assurance contributes to the four IoT subjects as key to tackle in the joint session:

IoT Data governance: IoT especially AI-enhanced is relying heavily on data and at the same time, guarding privacy is a clear priority. One of the questions the session shall address is: How can we ensure the reliable usage of necessary data and safeguarding privacy of users in a world that is full of IoT devices, many of which are connected via a global Internet, and increasingly governed by AI systems? While knowledge of the user’s age or simply to which age cohort they belong can help to shape digital services according to age specific needs of the user. The date of birth of a user counts as sensitive data in the sense of the GDPR and thus needs to be handled carefully. DC CRIDE is exploring how age assurance systems can be designed to ensure both adherence to the principle of data minimization AND privacy protection. When IoT goes hand in hand with such age assurance systems also IoT good practice data governance will benefit.
IoT Labelling and certification: At the level of devices, there need to be robust mechanisms for finding, labelling, authenticating and trusting devices (and classes of devices). Labels provide a powerful tool; many countries have developed and adopted IoT trust marks, and the time has come to start working towards their international harmonization. For all age-related decisions in the use of IoT reliable and trustworthy age assurance mechanisms could be an additional criterion to label IoT devices as good practice.
The impact of AI on IoT systems: The convergence of AI and IoT, often referred to as AIoT (Artificial Intelligence of Things), is driving innovation across various sectors. With AI, IoT systems can make autonomous decisions based on real-time data. This reduces the need for human intervention and can lead to more efficient operations. While such AIoT operations need to be trained by reliable non-biased data the quality and efficiency of autonomous decisions taken by the system will benefit from data provided by reliable age assurance mechanisms, f. e. an AI driven cashier system will be able to decide autonomously whether a client shall be allowed to buy alcoholic beverages or not due to their respective age.
IoT Capacity Development: IoT has been coming up rapidly, and good practice applications can inspire use of IoT systems and services around the world – also in the regions where IoT application is currently lagging. At the same time age assurance has become a rapidly evolving issue and systems are being developed or already in place to ensure users of all ages get the best service appropriate to their age. Thus, a common understanding is beginning to spread that age assurance is not a tool to restrict access to and usage of a service but to improve the appropriateness of services according to the age of the user. Therefore, capacity building for IoT could and should go hand in hand with capacity building for meaningful implementation of age assurance systems.

This session will explore the transformative power of digital skills in fostering peace and stability, particularly in regions facing conflict. Drawing from the example of Ukraine, where a digital literacy initiative has been implemented, the session will give a brief overview of this process and will highlight the importance of enhancing digital literacy and technology proficiency as a pathway to peacebuilding and community resilience. Opportunities for collaboration, continued engagement and resource sharing will also be highlighted via the talk.
We aim to keep the session interactive and leave space for questions during and after the sessions. We would also like to invite the audience to share similar cases, interventions or practices as well as personal recommendations for the promotion of partnerships in this context.

Terrorism remains a global menace and an affront to humanity that knows no border, nationality or religion. The United Nations Security Council and General Assembly resolutions, the 19 International Treaties against terrorism and other international legal acts form the basis for Member States to build a solid response against terrorism. Parliaments are a crucial branch of the State in implementing these international obligations and standards, including those binding in Security Council resolutions. In many Member States, parliaments are also at the forefront of policymaking and legislation related to or relevant to counter-terrorism. The unanimous adoption by the Security Council of Resolution 1373 (2001) marked a defining moment in recognizing the importance of global cooperation to counter the scourge of terrorism. This resolution provides the basis for an international framework that enables Member States to work together in areas such as intelligence-sharing, law enforcement, judicial cooperation and countering the financing of terrorism, while the response and collaboration between Member States must adapt to the development of information and communication technologies (ICT). The UN Security Council Resolution 1373 (2001) imposes binding legal obligations on all Member States, requiring them to adopt appropriate legislative measures, while parliamentarians need to monitor and oversight the actions taken by the executive branch in the implementation of the resolution, ensures accountability when it comes to adherence to the rule of law, fosters mechanisms for international cooperation and allocate necessary financial resources. In recent years, ICT has taken up an increasingly more significant role in the global arena, impacting international and national security. Terrorist groups exploit new information and communication technologies to facilitate their activities, including propaganda, incitement, radicalization, recruitment, planning and preparation of terrorist acts, communication and financing. To address these threats, the United Nations has adopted several resolutions that guide the work of Member States. At the core of the international response, the UN Security Council resolution 1373 (2001) calls on Member States to intensify and accelerate the exchange of operational information concerning the use of new technologies by terrorist groups. Member States must ensure that considerations, prohibitions and measures cited in the resolution are applied to rules and laws governing the use of new technologies by persons under their jurisdiction.
Furthermore, Member States must ensure that their law enforcement agencies have the requisite human and technical capacities to monitor the potential abuse of these technologies by illicit actors and that the country has the capacity and legal framework to enable cross-border cooperation with other Member States on crimes that make use of these technologies. To support parliamentarians in fulfilling their role, the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT) Programme Office on Parliamentary Engagement in Preventing and Countering Terrorism, in close consultation with the Counter-Terrorism Committee Executive Directorate (CTED), recently launched a new Handbook for parliamentarians on the implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1373 (2001). The Handbook highlights the significant role of parliamentarians worldwide in implementing these resolutions through their legislative, budgetary and oversight functions. It introduces parliamentarians to the obligations in relevant Security Council resolutions and provides insights on how best to approach their domestication in national law. The Launch and Award Session aims to facilitate dialogue and raise awareness about the role of parliamentarians in addressing the challenges and opportunities posed by information and communication technologies in preventing and countering terrorism, guided by UN Security Council Resolution 1373 (2001), which provides a comprehensive framework for Member States to ensure that national counterterrorism measures are holistic, inclusive, human rights-compliant, gender-sensitive, and effective.   
The 2024 IGF will be a hybrid event, meaning that people should be able to participate fully, whether onsite or online. The IGF Secretariat and the Host Country will provide the technical tools to support this. It is vital that workshop organizers are aware of this and that providing for hybrid accessibility and interactive engagement is central to all session planning. Organizers should make every effort to ensure that any session speakers or organizers participating online have sufficient connectivity to participate in a hybrid session.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) made it way in almost every possible aspect of human life: from daily routine to complex decision-making processes. And judiciary system is no exception. For example, in 2023 in Columbia ChatGPT was first used in making a court decision: a judge turned to AI when deciding on compensation for insurance payments. The chatbot formulated a decision for the judge, providing him with links to the practice and explanations of the local Supreme Court. In this case, the plaintiff was satisfied and the decision seemed fair, what if it was vice versa?

The jury is still out on the matter. On the one hand, AI can analyze extensive legal datasets swiftly, providing invaluable insights while prompting critical discussions regarding regulatory frameworks to govern these technologies. Proponents of this theory also believe that AI will help with automatization of screening processes and in time a complicated AI model would be able to make unbiased judgment on any case as a judge. For instance, such a thing is widely used in China: ML-based system is connected to the desk of every judge in the country and help them with cases by developing legal arguments and correcting alleged human errors in the judicial act. In case of disagreement with AI, judges are required to submit written objections.

Others disagree stating that there are still risks of algorithmic bias and the potential for perpetuating systemic inequalities. As AI systems are often trained on historical data, which may reflect existing societal biases and inequalities, these beliefs can be inherited and even amplified by AI tools, leading to unjust outcomes in sentencing, case evaluations, and other critical judicial decisions. And the main question arises: will AI be able to ever understand how intertwined are the principles of justice and humanism in sentencing, and the spirit of a law itself?

Apart from ethical concerns, there are also cybersecurity and regulation. AI would require access to vast amounts of sensitive data, raising concerns about how this information is collected, stored, and utilized (especially in court). Ensuring that individuals' rights are protected while leveraging data for AI applications poses a complex challenge both for lawmakers and legal practitioners. Needless to say, that the regulatory framework is still needed to govern this technology.

As the session progresses, participants will engage in a collaborative dialogue focused on developing robust regulatory approaches to ensure ethical AI usage in the judiciary. Experts from diverse backgrounds will share their perspectives on creating standards that prioritize justice and equity in an increasingly digital landscape.

This session promises to be an engaging and thought-provoking exploration of the opportunities and challenges presented by AI in the judicial system. Attendees will leave with a deeper understanding of the responsibilities that accompany technological advancements and a commitment to fostering integrity and foresight in the pursuit of justice.

Main Questions:

What are the ethical dilemmas about usage AI in legal system? What are the possible ways out?
How to regulate this edge-cutting technology?
Can AI be fully unbiased, especially in this sensitive matter?
Should there be any limits to usage of technology: for example, only for screening?
How can AI help and what harm can it make?
Who will benefit from AI on judiciary?
Will the judge as a human profession disappear?

Reflecting the multi-stakeholder nature of IGF, this session is co-organised by the Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) under the research consortium of the Safer Internet Lab (SAIL). Established in 2022 and introduced at IGF 2023 (https://intgovforum.org/en/content/igf-2023-lightning-talk-114-apac-safer-internet-lab-progressing-against-misinformation), SAIL has served as a hub for studying and exploring solutions to address mis- and disinformation in Indonesia. Over the past year, SAIL has fostered tripartite communication between government, civil society, and tech platforms to combat information disorder. This session will reflect on SAIL's achievements, challenges, and lessons learned in its first year of operation. The Safer Internet Lab (SAIL) is a multi-stakeholder effort focusing on the study and exploration of solutions to address the problem of mis- and disinformation as it affects users, economies and societies in Indonesia, and in the wider Asia-Pacific region.
The SAIL partnership was initiated by the Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) and Google and aims to bring together the brightest minds from across stakeholder groups - think-tanks, universities, civil society organisations, governmental bodies and technology platforms - to discuss trends, policy best practices, learnings and to brainstorm sustainable solutions to address information disorder, also referred to as mis- and dis-information. The goal is to create discussions, collaborations and forums for the co-development of solutions that ultimately build a safer web for users in the region. Building upon this foundation, SAIL aims to expand its scope to tackle the information disorder across Southeast Asia. As outlined in SAIL's policy brief "Regional and Cross-Border Responses Towards Disinformation in Southeast Asia," the region faces mounting vulnerabilities amidst escalating geopolitical tensions and the digital divide among ASEAN member states. (https://saferinternetlab.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Policy-Brief-Regional-and-Cross-Border-Responses-Towards-Disinformation-in-Southeast-Asia-.pdf)
This session will explore how SAIL's multi-stakeholder model can be adapted and scaled to address information disorder at a regional level. Panelists will discuss: - SAIL's impact and evolution as a research hub, convention centre, and clearing house in Indonesia - Emerging trends and challenges of information disorder in the Southeast Asian political and information landscape - Opportunities for cross-border collaboration and capacity building to counter disinformation - Policy recommendations to balance digital innovation and resilience in ASEAN's online ecosystem The session aims to catalyze regional dialogue and knowledge sharing to develop collective, multi-stakeholder strategies against information manipulation. By amplifying Southeast Asian perspectives in the global internet governance discourse, SAIL seeks to contribute to a safer and more equitable digital future for the region.
This lightning talk will be conducted in person and guided by an onsite moderator who will ensure that all speakers and participants are actively engaged, with opportunities to raise questions and contribute insights. The session will begin with speaker presentations, followed by policy questions to foster active discussions and exchanges with the audience. A dedicated 10-15 minute Q&A session will provide participants with the opportunity to pose questions and share their perspectives. The moderator will conclude the session by delivering a comprehensive summary of the key findings, recommendations, and proposed future actions.

Description:
Digital gender gap remains relatively unchanged across the Low and Middle Income Countries (LMICs), according to GSMA’s Mobile Gender Gap Report 2023. Almost 900 million women still do not use mobile internet and two-third of such women live in South Asia and sub-Saharan Africa. While there is a statistically proven fact that the internet has a positive impact on the lives of women who use it on daily basis, the world needs to bring 100 million women online every year to close the gender gap by 2030. There are commendable efforts being made on the international and national level to close the digital gender divide, however, there is a dire need to have gender-first policies and strategies, embedded into the governance systems. One such initiative is the Digital Gender Inclusion Strategy developed by Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) in collaboration with UNESCO. The strategy will be presented as a case study to set the context of panel discussion that will follow. In a nutshell, this session will discuss the current state and challenges of digital gender gap and how prioritizing the gender inclusion can bring socioeconomic benefits to the LMICs.

Developing economies face pressing issues of connectivity by hosting the majority of 2.6 billion offline people, with 57% of them in South Asia. Notably, in six of the South Asian economies, over 50% of the population lacks Internet access: Afghanistan (82%), Pakistan (79%), Bangladesh (61%), Sri Lanka (56%), India (54%), Nepal (50.4%). Other regions with significant offline population include Nigeria (54.5%), Indonesia (33.5%) and China (23.6%). Asia alone harbors 1.92b offline people making it the most offline region globally. This session aims to identify innovative solutions to boost Internet access and drive digital progress in underserved regions. The session is bringing together innovators, investors, donors, and others to work together, share ideas, and explore investment and funding options for expanding connectivity projects. Together, the participants will tackle current challenges, discuss policies, and brainstorm ways to bridge the digital gap. Moreover, the session will raise awareness among investors and donors about the digital future of offline communities, while also getting governments, industries, and civil societies engaged. Participants will have the opportunity to discuss ideas, projects, digital infrastructure, and explore investment opportunities and collaboration strategies. By the end of the session, we hope to have showcased some groundbreaking projects, identified investment and collaboration opportunities, shared insights on policy and regulation, and forged new partnerships—all with the goal of making digital inclusion a reality for everyone.
To ensure an engaging hybrid session, we will employ several strategies: - Our main moderator will be participating on site. - We will designate a skilled remote moderator to facilitate seamless interaction between onsite and online speakers and attendees. - The moderator will actively manage discussions, ensuring all voices are heard and questions are addressed. - We will design the session with a balanced focus on both onsite and online participants, utilizing visual aids and clear communication to maintain engagement across both platforms. - We will leverage online tools/platforms such as interactives, chat features, and collaborative document sharing to enhance participation and interaction. - We will prioritize accessibility and interactivity to create a cohesive and inclusive experience for all participants, regardless of their location.

Description:
The Internet’s key proposition - global connectivity - is increasingly at risk as more countries abandon protections for the free flow of information and security online in trade policies about cross border data flows. Countries worldwide have legitimate concerns about what happens when data leaves their ‘borders’. But recent trade policy debates threaten the ability of the Internet to exist, and pose serious threats to privacy, security, and human rights. The threats include: -Leading economies are deprioritizing crucial Internet protections for cross border data flows in trade discussions. -The World Trade Organization set a 2026 end date to a long-standing moratorium on tariffs of electronic transmissions, threatening the ability of Internet traffic to flow freely. -Countries are promoting provisions that would undermine encryption in plurilateral trade initiatives, threatening privacy and security. If we don’t stop trade policy debates from carving up the Internet with digital borders online, we will lose the enormous social, political, and economic benefits that the Internet can offer, and hinder progress on Sustainable Development Goals that depend on the Internet. We cannot allow the Internet - and its billions of users worldwide - to be victims of misguided trade talks. We cannot allow the Internet to be used as a pawn of trade negotiations. Not at the WTO, nor the Joint Statement Initiative on Ecommerce, nor in bilateral trade agreements.  It is vital that the global Internet community find ways to protect the Internet data flows that are under threat, and establish a global norm that people the world over can communicate freely with people in other countries. This workshop will involve a briefing about emerging trade threats to the Internet, a discussion about current and potential impacts around the world, and an interactive brainstorm discussion on how to prevent trade initiatives from fragmenting the Internet.

Designing Tech for Peace: The Power of Prosocial Design Governance.” Discover how we can pivot away from the toxic polarization that fuels real-world violence by adopting prosocial design governance. This isn't just an idea; it's a practical approach that can transform the landscape of digital interactions.
Highlights of the Talk:
Pivoting Tech Design: Learn how current technology design incentivizes divisive and polarizing content, and explore how we can shift this to promote peace and social cohesion.
Prosocial Design Principles: Drawing insights from the "Toward Prosocial Tech Design Governance" article, we will discuss the fundamental changes needed in tech governance to prioritize human well-being and societal health over mere engagement and profit.
Real-World Applications: Understand how prosocial design not only mitigates harm but actively fosters trust and collaboration online, paving the way for a unified approach to tackling global challenges like the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.
Why This Matters:
Technology shapes our perceptions, relationships, and actions. By redesigning tech governance to be more prosocial, we can produce tools that inherently support collaborative and positive interactions.
We will explore case studies, examples of regulations and theoretical models that demonstrate the success of prosocial designs in enhancing social interactions online and reducing conflict.
Your Takeaway:
Gain actionable insights into how tech companies, policymakers, and civil society can collaborate to implement design changes that lead to more ethical and supportive digital environments.
Be part of the movement that champions tech designs that enrich our social fabric, promoting an internet that connects, supports, and uplifts, rather than divides. Reference will be made to this paper about ProSocial Tech Design Governance: https://techandsocialcohesion.substack.com/p/toward-prosocial-tech-desi…Welcome to online participants if they can be able to hear and ask questions (if that is permitted).

Description:
This workshop will focus on the UN Cybercrime treaty, which is due to be adopted in August 2024. The discussion will center on fostering a safe and secure online environment while maintaining trust, data protection, and privacy in the governance of the Internet. At its core, the discussion will promote ensuring that enforcement of the UN Cybercrime treaty respects human rights and prevents cross-border rights abuses. The workshop will discuss the treaty’s potential to facilitate transnational repression as a result of the legal regimes it is likely to create. Specifically, the draft treaty provides for the cross-border sharing of information for any crimes that carry a minimum sentence of three or four years, in a manner that would infringe on international human rights standards, including the requirements for prior judicial authorization and the principles of legality, non discrimination, legitimate purpose, necessity, and proportionality. The workshop will examine the potential for this treaty to permit surveillance on a broad range of crimes, beyond cybercrime, and facilitate transnational repression. The speakers will provide an overview of the UN Cybercrime treaty, explain the international cooperation measures provided for by the treaty and assess the treaty against international human rights norms, provide a case study of how the treaty will facilitate cross border repression, and provide a company perspective.

Description:
In the times when increasing interdependencies span across national borders and, along with hybrid conflicts, in which the line between cyber and physical becomes blurrier and, probably, less relevant, are states and relevant stakeholders sufficiently equipped to protect the most critical assets? How do the relationships between public and various private actors, both during conflict and peace times, transform in protecting critical infrastructure? How do the existing and emerging tech impact critical infrastructure protection (CIP)? Is there a need for an international approach to, and minimum cybersecurity measures for CIP, and what would those include? What role do the agreed UN framework and cyber norms play in CIP? Are the roles and responsibilities clear for non-state stakeholders, and how can they support states in promoting responsible behaviour in cyberspace? The Geneva Dialogue on Responsible Behaviour in Cyberspace (GD) addresses these concerns in a multistakeholder approach, engaging representatives from the private sector, academia, civil society, and technical community for a regular dialogue. Established by Switzerland in 2018 and implemented by DiploFoundation with support of others, the GD maps the roles and responsibilities of various actors in the implementation of agreed cyber norms and thus contributes to stability and security in cyberspace. The outcomes of those dialogues are published in the Geneva Manual, offering a comprehensive guidance on non-state actors’ implementation of the normative framework agreed by states, in the context of the UN GGE/OEWG. The session will bring together actors, including those from the Global South, to discuss the issues identified above, provided also in a format of a scenario-based discussion, i.e. simulation exercise with the cards developed by the GD. The insights gathered during the session will contribute to the forthcoming chapter of the Geneva Manual, focusing on the implementation of CIP related norms and confidence-building measures (CBMs).

Description:
The Africa We Want envisions Africa as a continent on equal footing with the rest of the world, as an information society, and as an integrated e-economy where every government, business, and citizen has access to reliable and affordable digital services by increasing broad penetration and providing venture capital to young entrepreneurs and innovators. The Internet, technology, and digitization offer new opportunities to boost the economy (through e-commerce), cut red tape, reduce trade costs (through e-government and the digitalization of public services), leapfrog, and participate in the 4th industrial revolution. This potential is even greater for landlocked developing countries (LDCs). Despite these opportunities, there are several limitations that African countries continue to face, some of which relate to the current infrastructure and internet, digital and technological and data gaps. For example, ITU Facts and Figures 2022 show that only 28% of Africans have access to the internet. As the world’s population grows to around 10 billion by 2050, the global agriculture system is under pressure to provide sufficient nutritious food to meet the demand. In many places, fertile land is degrading, water resources are drying, and genetic resources are disappearing. Unsustainable agricultural practices and other anthropogenic pressures are driving these processes. Climate change, increased extreme weather events, and the spread (induced by climate change) of pests and diseases make agricultural production even more uncertain. On top of this, price volatility has a disruptive effect on production systems and food security, especially for vulnerable populations. Achieving food security through sustainable agriculture is a global priority for the UN in the next 15 years, as enshrined in the ‘Sustainable Development Goals’ (SDG 2). Achieving this goal is no simple task. It means sustainably increasing agricultural productivity and trade, while creating more resilient food production systems, and shaping more accessible and equitable markets.

During the IGF 2023 in Kyoto, the DC DNS Issues initiated a conversation focused on identifying existing governance gaps in addressing online harms (see our report: https://intgovforum.org/en/content/igf-2023-dc-dnsi-closing-the-governa…). For this IGF, the dynamic coalition intends to pick up the discussion initiated at the last IGF and continue to unpack what it takes to bridge these gaps.
First, what does the DC-DNSI mean by governance gaps? 
When dealing with online harms, each actor in the ecosystem has different roles, responsibilities, and capabilities –whether that is a registrar, a registry, a CDN or an ISP. Now, there are different governance models that guide roles and responsibilities of these various groups. For example the ICANN community and the gTLDs operate governance by contract. The ccTLDs, on the other hand, develop local governance models based on their relationships with local governments and local Internet communities. Hosting companies and providers are subject to the laws of their respective jurisdictions, and operate in response to that regulatory guidance. In the overlap of these various models, there are governance gaps still remaining that affect and shape how the ecosystem is able to effectively respond to online harms. 
Specifically, the DC-DNSI produced two calls to action in Kyoto, which the session proposes to pick up on: one on supporting policymakers and one on industry collaboration.
The workshop will be structured around these two actions:
Segment A:  Supporting policy makers in developing adequate measures for addressing online harms: reflections from the NIS2 Directive
The first call to action from Kyoto focused on how industry, technical community and civil society can best support policy makers. This initial segment will take the recently implemented NIS2 directive as a means to reflect on this call to action. 
The NIS2 Directive is an example of where regulation has been proposed to increase the overall standard of cybersecurity. However, it has complex implications for the Domain Name Industry. The difference in implementation within member states may also cause jurisdictional challenges that could further fragment the governance landscape. There are also different approaches to regulation beyond the European approach. 
Emily Taylor, CEO and founder of the DNS research Federation will begin by addressing the basics: She will introduce: (a) what the NIS2 directive is and its implications for the DNS industry; (b) how the directive is being transposed in the EU and potential fragmentary effects observed to date; and (c) its extraterritoriality effect beyond Europe.
Bruna Martins dos Santos, Non-Commercial Stakeholder Group representative on ICANN’s GNSO Council (invited, awaiting confirmation) will speak to diverging views on how to deal with online harms, and implications on human rights such as the right to provide. She will in addition  discuss possible ways forward to reconcile differences in approaches.
Bertrand de la Chapelle, Director of the Internet & Jurisdiction Network (invited, awaiting confirmation), will address questions of jurisdictional challenges emanating from the directive, and the impact on the broad range of industry stakeholders –from registries and registrars, to hosting providers and online platforms.
The first segment will wrap up with a brief conversation on what additional steps industry can take to support policy makers.
Segment B: Promoting industry collaboration
The second segment of the conversation will pick up on the second call to action from the DC’s Kyoto session on how to encourage greater industry collaboration up and down the Internet stack.
Keith Drazek from Verisign will discuss the importance of working across silos to ensure responses to online harms are proportionate. He will flesh out principles identified by the registry community as important in addressing online harms.
Munir Badr from AE server will bring in a perspective from the Registrar and Hosting communities in the MENA region, addressing global south perspectives on the existing governance gaps and ways for furthering industry collaboration.
Jean Jacques Sahel from Google will introduce a perspective from large platforms in dealing with online safety, and introduce concrete examples on data-sharing practices to curb online abuse.
Chris Buckridge, Internet Governance Specialist and MAG member, will moderate the discussion.
To facilitate interaction between onsite and online speakers and attendees, we have a combination of four speakers on the ground, and two speakers remote, as well as an onsite moderator. 
The onsite moderator will actively manage the flow of discussion, ensuring that both onsite and online participants have equal opportunities to contribute and engage. We will employ interactive tools such as Q&A opportunities integrated with the virtual platform. Presenters will encourage active involvement from all attendees regardless of their location. The comments and questions of online participants will be monitored during the whole session and our seasoned moderators will ensure that there is enough time left for questions at the end of the discussion with panellists. Recognising the importance of social media engagement, we will also use event-specific hashtags on social media platforms to encourage broader engagement and discussion beyond the session itself. Additionally, the designated session chat room will be available for ongoing dialogue and networking among participants, ensuring a rich and dynamic experience for all attendees, whether onsite or online.

The session will present findings from a study conducted to understand digital consent practices of persons with disabilities and the challenges faced by them within the Indian context. The study is undertaken to develop universal user-centric consent frameworks to ensure that persons with disabilities are "not left behind" in the cyberspace. Below is a brief description of the project. Globally, conversations around digital privacy, data protection, data-use transparency, and consent have gained momentum. Several countries have attempted to regulate these new issues that have arisen due to big data sharing to protect citizens' rights. Historically, persons with disabilities (PwDs) have been marginalized and yet again today, conversations around digital data consent and data protection have not taken into consideration this population. India, with it's new Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act, 2023, has consciously included persons with disabilities rights to ensure protection of their rights in the new digital age. However, the law itself lacks clarity on the data sharing consent mechanisms for PwDs and assumes the role of the lawful guardian, wherever present, to act on behalf of the person. Such a framing of the law is limiting and can lead to challenges in implementation given the diverse needs of persons with disabilities. Therefore, Pacta and Saksham Disability, India undertook a study to 1. To understand the difficulties faced by PwDs in navigating the internet. 2. To contour the perceptions, attitudes, and experiences of PwDs in relation to consent for sharing data. 3. To make the ideas of consent, and its legal standing and implications accessible and understandable to PwDs. 4. To address the limitations of the DPDP on provisions related to PwDs. 5. To develop a user-centric consent framework for data pertaining to PwDs that can be adopted by websites and web-based applications. The study is currently underway. Our study results will help 1. understand the unique challenges faced by PwDs in using the internet, 2. what data sharing consent means to them and the challenges around digital consent, as well as 3. provide a universal user-centric consent framework for PwDs in the digital space.
Not applicable since the entire session will be in-person as mentioned in the description of the session. Organizer will facilitate a way for the rapporteur to participate such that note-taking will be enabled at their end.

Description:
In an evolving landscape where journalism intersects with technology, the traditional role of journalists as the primary editors of public interest information has shifted profoundly. With big tech playing an increasingly prominent role in content generation and curation, online platforms’ governance processes significantly impact media freedom and poses challenges to foundational democratic principles. This workshop will explore the complex interplay between technology, journalism, and democracy, aiming to identify concrete steps towards a healthy online information ecosystem. To navigate the impact of digital technologies on democracy, it is imperative to ensure journalism’s democratic role in producing widely accessible, factual and unbiased information while promoting transparency and accountability. While providing an enabling environment for independent quality media is essential, questions regarding accessibility and online exposure to public interest information persist. The workshop aims to discuss both the importance of information integrity and the integrity of online information spaces. It will explore reinforcing the human rights framework with a public interest perspective to uphold media freedom, which is undermined by online platforms and emerging technologies, and weaponized by authoritarian governments and malicious actors. This workshop seeks to explore how technology can be harnessed to serve journalism and democracy, by establishing rules that prioritize public interest, countering monopolized technology threats to media freedom, pluralism, and democratic values. The workshop aims to examining measures by states and other stakeholders to enhance access to reliable, diverse, and public interest information, thereby empowering individuals and societies, and contributing to a resilient, active citizenry and sustained democracies on a global scale. Through these discussions, the workshop aims to contribute to a roadmap for the future of journalism, where technology empowers people and fosters a healthy information ecosystem that is transparent, accountable, and public interest-aligned.

This is a joint session of the Data and AI Governance Coalition (DAIG) and the Dynamic Coalition on Data and Trust (DC-DT) This session will launch the DAIG Annual Report on "AI from the Global Majority", focusing on the rapidly evolving landscape of data and Artificial Intelligence (AI) governance, fostering the inclusion of global majority perspectives. Acknowledging that data and AI governance must encompass a heterogeneous spectrum of viewpoints and experiences, this session will offer a platform for representatives of stakeholder groups to share their insights, concerns, and proposed strategies. From gender to ethnicity, nationality to socioeconomic status, this session strives to amplify the voices often underrepresented in discussions of data and AI governance. Participants will foster a holistic approach to AI governance, exploring a variety of issues which are particularly relevant for the inclusion of global majority perspectives, such as Equitable Development and Access, Data Privacy and Security, Transparency and Accountability, Regulatory Frameworks, and Cultural Implications. The following questions will be used to guide the debate: 1) How can AI governance frameworks ensure equitable access to and promote development of AI technologies for the global majority? 2) How can data privacy and security be effectively safeguarded, including by fostering collective protection of rights as regards personal data processing by AI system?. 3) What regulatory strategies can promote and ensure meaningful transparency in AI decision-making processes and holding stakeholders accountable for their actions? 4) What regulatory frameworks and enforcement mechanisms can be used as examples and inspire policymaking processes in the majority world? 5) What strategies could be used and what good practices exits to foster the inclusion and understanding of cultural sensitivities and promote diversity and respectful engagement with global majority communities, in the development and implementation of AI technologies and AI governance processes? 6) What mechanisms are most effective for ensuring that global majority needs are reflected in technology standards that define industry best-practice?
1) How will you facilitate interaction between onsite and online speakers and attendees? To facilitate interaction between onsite and online speakers and attendees, we will leverage a hybrid event platform that provides real-time communication channels. For the onsite attendees, we will project the virtual attendees and their questions/comments onto the screen to ensure that both groups can engage with each other. Additionally, we will use a moderated chat on Zoom for online participants to interact with onsite speakers and vice versa. 2) How will you design the session to ensure the best possible experience for online and onsite participants? The session will be designed with both online and onsite participants in mind. The session will be structured with interactive segments to engage all attendees, such as Q&As and debates to cater both online and onsite participants. 3) Please note any complementary online tools/platforms you plan to use to increase participation and interaction during the session. To increase participation and interaction, we plan to use an online document to allow participants to contribute their thoughts in a shared digital space. We will also utilize social media platforms for pre-session and post-session engagement, such as Twitter/X for live updates.

In 2023, the Brazilian Internet Steering Committee (CGI.br) held an open consultation on Digital Platforms Regulation, which received more than 1,300 contributions. The results of this wide-ranging consultation were analyzed, generating an important subsidy from a local and bottom-up perspective for the regulation of digital platforms. The document details definitions and criteria for classifications of digital platforms, maps out risks offered by the activities they carry out, presents measures suggested as potentially capable of mitigating the risks and discusses governance models and actors involved needed to implement regulation initiatives. This is an important contribution to future discussions on the governance of digital markets and services. Also, results provide general guidelines to the development of consistent regulatory frameworks, capable of maintaining an adequate balance between opportunities and risks associated with the digital transformation process. The consultation produced a map of perspectives on digital platforms regulation that encourages multistakeholder agreements . Thanks to the massive participation, it was possible to systematize different positions and disputes between the private sector, civil society, the scientific and technological community and government. The open forum aims at presenting and debating the Consultation carried out by CGI.br and its systematization, both a qualified and in-depth subsidy for regulating digital platforms. The results bring in a perspective of the global south on platform regulation and can also ilustrates a policy initiative structured in a bottom-up, participatory and multistakeholder process.
To ensure proper interaction between the online and onsite audience, the session will count with onsite and online moderators. During the session, the onsite moderator will be responsible to oversee the interventions and interacting with the speakers, to ensure that the session’s goals will be sought appropriately. Also, the moderator will care for safeguarding the due balance to meet diversity expectations within the interventions, either by the speakers or the audience. The online moderator will take care of the flow of questions within all the online tools involved in the session. He/she will read, select and guarantee that the onsite moderator will be aware of questions and comments from the remote audience (Zoom Chat and Q&A). Finally, the rapporteur will ensure to capture all the highlights and critical information of the session to list key takeaways for the short report and consolidate a further final report to be delivered to the IGF Secretariat. The organization team will also be alert to help participants with any technical issues and delays they may have to avoid negatively impacting the session dynamics.

In the evolving landscape of global digital governance, the imperative to safeguard human rights within digital platforms is increasingly acknowledged. This panel at the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) focuses on digital rights challenges in East Asia, evaluating how AI-based self-regulation can be customized to regional needs. This session will blend insights from real-life cases, platform norms, and specific instances of digital rights violations in East Asia to discuss how AI technology can bolster human rights protections. Panel Composition: Yongsuk Hwang (Konkuk University): "Typologies of Threats to Human Rights on Digital Platforms in East Asia" Abstract: This presentation will categorize examples of human rights threats in East Asia emerging from digital platforms, utilizing AI technology. It proposes a governance framework for AI to effectively combat hate speech, discrimination, and misinformation such as deepfakes, focusing on minority rights. Jinhwa Ha (Kakao): "AI and Human-Centric Approaches to Digital Rights at Kakao" Abstract: This talk will cover Kakao's policies against hate speech and the construction of harmful speech corpora for youth, showcasing automated methods to safeguard digital rights. Principles for using AI to benefit humanity, based on practical policy examples, will also be discussed. Ock Heo (Meta, Director of Public Policy, Korea): "AI-Based Self-Regulation and Governance in Protecting Digital Rights on Facebook and Instagram in East Asia" Abstract: This presentation will analyze instances of digital rights infringements on Facebook and Instagram in East Asia, introducing Meta's AI-driven self-regulatory techniques and governance models. Panel Discussion: "Collaborative Governance and Human-Centric AI: Creating Respectful and Diverse Digital Spaces" Abstract: The panel discussion will focus on collaborative governance and the utilization of human-centric AI technologies to protect digital rights and respect diversity among minorities. The discussion aims to foster a comprehensive dialogue on integrating these frameworks into broader platform policies, enhancing transparency, accountability, and inclusivity. Additional Insights: As digital ecosystems evolve, the need to protect human rights online remains a crucial issue for stakeholders globally. This session will delve into how AI technology can be adapted by platforms for content moderation, hate speech detection, and privacy protection to meet specific regional challenges in East Asia. By examining effective strategies and potential pitfalls, this session will provide a nuanced view of how digital platforms can use AI to promote public good, with a particular focus on transparency, accountability, and inclusivity in AI implementation. If the panel proposal is accepted, notable platforms from Asia, including ByteDance from China have also expressed their interest in participating. We plan to form a more expansive panel to incorporate a wider range of perspectives and insights.
1) Facilitating Interaction Between Onsite and Online Speakers and Attendees: -Dual-Mode Engagement: Utilize a high-quality video conferencing platform that supports seamless live streaming of the session to ensure both onsite and online participants can view and participate in real-time. - Equip onsite locations with large screens displaying online attendees to create a sense of inclusivity. 2) Designing the Session to Ensure Optimal Experience for All Participants: -Pre-Session Testing and Tech Support: Conduct pre-session connectivity tests for all speakers, regardless of their location, and provide technical support to address potential issues in advance. This ensures that every speaker can present without technical interruptions. 3) Complementary Online Tools/Platforms to Increase Participation: Post-Session Engagement: Provide a recording of the session on the event platform for later viewing and continue the dialogue post-event through dedicated forums or discussion groups to sustain the momentum of the session topics.

This is a collaborative session organized by several national, regional and youth IGF initiatives from different regions.
New and emerging technologies hold immense promise for driving innovation, economic growth, and societal advancement on a global scale. However, the benefits they offer are not uniformly distributed, with developing countries often facing barriers to accessing and effectively utilizing these technologies compared to their developed counterparts. This digital divide exacerbates existing inequalities and hinders the ability of developing nations to fully participate in the digital economy and realize the potential benefits of technological progress.
Addressing this disparity requires not only efforts to expand access to technology infrastructure and resources but also the development of inclusive governance models at regional levels. Such models must prioritize equitable distribution of technological resources, foster collaboration between governments, private sector stakeholders, technical communities, and civil society, and promote regulatory frameworks that balance innovation with ethical considerations and societal values. Cooperation among countries is essential to navigate the complexities of regulating and governing emerging technologies effectively, ensuring that they are deployed responsibly and in ways that promote sustainable development and global welfare.
The discussion will be guided by several policy questions:

What emerging digital technologies are priorities for your region? Is there a gap between developed and developing countries?
How are these technologies governed in different regions?
What strategies can be implemented to ensure equitable access to and responsible governance of new and emerging technologies, particularly in countries with limited resources and infrastructure?
How can we ensure the responsible and user-centric deployment of emerging technologies?
How can regional or international collaboration and multistakeholder engagement enhance the development and implementation of responsible governance frameworks for emerging digital technologies?
What mechanisms can be established to facilitate knowledge exchange and capacity-building initiatives between developed and developing countries?

Engage with the Internet Society Youth and Alumni in a networking session that delves into the paradigm shifts in Internet Governance. This session will spotlight the evolution of multistakeholder models, underscored by discussions from NETmundial+10, WSIS+20 Review, and the Summit of the Future reflecting on how multistakeholder mechanisms complement multilateralism. This is a prime opportunity for all members of the Internet Society to connect, share insights, and influence the future of Internet governance.
Dual Moderation with Active Participation Management: Nicolas Fiumarelli, the onsite moderator, will manage the networking game, assigning onsite participants to two color-coded Green and Red groups with sequential numbers. He will direct participants on when to rotate using a +1 or -1 system to ensure diverse interactions. Athanase Bahizire, the online moderator, will manage a single breakout room, facilitating parallel discussions for online participants. Synchronized Hybrid Interactions: Onsite participants will engage in one-on-one discussions, rotating after each round to discuss topics like NETmundial+10 and WSIS+20. Online participants will have continuous discussions in their breakout room, ensuring they engage with a variety of peers. Round-Robin Microphone Queue for Inclusive Discussion: The concluding open mic segment will employ a round-robin system, alternating between onsite and online participants. This format ensures all attendees, regardless of location, can equally participate and share insights, maintaining a balanced and inclusive dialogue.
For the online participation, you can join the session using the following Zoom link https://isoc.zoom.us/j/87104743643?from=addon.

Here's a compelling roundtable session description, tailored for the IGF 2024, centered on actioning the outcomes of the 2nd SIDS IGF: Full Roundtable Title: From Discussion to Action - Translating the 2nd SIDS IGF Outputs into Tangible Actions Description: The 2nd SIDS IGF held in the margins of the SIDS4 Conference in Antigua & Barbuda from 28-29 May 2024 (see https://sdgs.un.org/conferences/sids2024 and https://ctu.int/event/2nd-small-island-developing-states-internet-gover…), highlighted the unique hurdles and challenges faced by Small Island Developing States in harnessing the full potential of the digital economy. The 2024 Annual UN-IGF DC-SIDS Roundtable delves into concrete strategies that translate the key outcomes of the 2nd SIDS IGF into action. Join policymakers, industry leaders, civil society, and SIDS representatives for a focused dialogue on: + Collaborative Policy Frameworks: How can SIDS work regionally to create enabling policies that foster innovation and investment in the digital economy? + Capacity Building for the Future: What targeted digital skills programs are needed to empower SIDS citizens, entrepreneurs, and governments to become leaders in the digital world? + Resilient Infrastructure Investment: How can public-private partnerships accelerate the development of disaster-proof connectivity solutions essential for SIDS? + Data Sovereignty and Community Empowerment: What models promote data protection and governance while empowering SIDS communities to make informed decisions about their digital futures? Outcomes: - Identification of actionable steps for SIDS and their stakeholders focused on overcoming key internet governance challenges - Sharing of best practices and models that have proven successful in other SIDS contexts - Fostering partnerships and collaboration opportunities for accelerated progress Format: - Brief introduction by the moderator with opening statements from key discussants - Structured discussion with ALL participants focused on the core themes, with examples of real-world solutions - Targeted Q&A session with the audience for enhanced engagement
Kindly note that, as is usual with the Annual DC-SIDS IGF Meeting, our format is not one that uses a "talking heads" approach, rather it utilizes the pioneering "Roundtable" approach we introduced at IGF 2012 whereby the session is led by topic discussants, with full participation and engagement from all meeting participants both online and onsite throughout the meeting.

Description:
The conversation surrounding online child safety in the United States has persisted for nearly three decades, with recent momentum driving proposals to establish standards for implementing provider-enforced safety measures. These measures aim to protect society's most vulnerable members, ensure platform accountability, and empower children with default safety and privacy protections. Critics, however, argue that the pursuit of child safety often undermines the imperative to safeguard individual privacy rights. This challenge is stalemated by the widespread adoption of end-to-end encryption technologies, which both self-blind industry and inhibit law enforcement agencies in detecting and addressing harmful content, such as child sexual abuse material (CSAM). This session seeks to examine the intricate balance between privacy concerns and online child safety measures, exploring ethical, legal, technical, and practical challenges. Additionally, Section 230 of the United States’ Communications Decency Act has significantly shaped the online child safety debate by granting broad immunity to internet platforms for user-generated content. While supporters argue this shield promotes unfettered on-line user dialogue and industry innovation, critics allege that it creates a powerful industry disincentive for implementing effective strategies to mitigate CSAM and other clearly harmful or illegal content. This session will explore whether a balance between these competing equities is achievable even with the promise, proferred by some in industry, of AI’s ability to discern harmful user content despite blinding impenetrable encryption.

Description:
In recent years, many countries in the Middle East and Africa have reformed legislation on cybercrime and electronic communications to keep pace with new challenges posed by digital technologies. In some cases, these reforms have served as positive steps towards protecting individuals from malicious cyber activities within a framework of appropriate safeguards, as established by the Budapest Convention. Yet many governments in the region have also implemented legislation which criminalises forms of online expression which should be permissible under international human rights law and standards, and used these laws to crack down on human rights defenders, political dissidents, journalists, LGBTQ+ individuals and other marginalised groups seeking to express themselves online. This not only poses grave threats to individuals’ rights in the digital age, but also diminishes the effectiveness of other open government reforms, slowing progress towards the SDGs. Recent research by Global Partners Digital and Article 19 delves into the misuse of these online content restrictions in Africa and the Middle East, highlighting how these measures have become tools for censorship and analysing recent trends in government responses to digital regulation issues in both regions. This workshop at the Internet Governance Forum would convene experts in digital regulations, media freedoms, and freedom of expression to discuss key findings, including case studies from countries of particular concern and consideration of how these restrictions impact platforms' moderation strategies in the region. The discussion will also consider the influence of international and regional cyber and digital policy processes on national legislative agendas in the region, as well as successful advocacy strategies employed by civil society organizations, philanthropists, media unions, and human rights defenders to push back against the repressive laws in focus.

Description:
The rapid development of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in warfare, with global military expenditure reaching $2443 billion, has raised serious ethical concerns regarding autonomous weapons systems (AWS). While some argue for increased efficiency and reduced casualties, the potential for civilian harm and the lack of human oversight remains paramount. This workshop explores the paradoxical possibility that AI could also be a force for good, upholding international law and human rights during conflict. We will examine: AI and Adherence to Law: Can AI be programmed to understand and adhere to the complexities of international law governing warfare? AI for Monitoring Violations & War Crime Investigations: Can AI-powered tools be used to monitor potential human rights violations during conflict, identifying patterns and gathering evidence for investigations? This session will bring together diverse stakeholders (governments, military, legal experts, civil society) for a multi-faceted discussion, fostering innovative approaches to: Responsible AI Development: Promote best practices and international collaboration for responsible development and deployment of AI in the military sphere. Ethical Frameworks: Identify legal and ethical frameworks needed to ensure transparency, accountability, and minimize risks associated with AI in warfare. By fostering a solution-oriented dialogue, this workshop aims to pave the way for a future where AI can serve as a tool for upholding IHL and protecting human rights amidst the complexities of autonomous warfare.

Description:
According to data from the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), there were approximately 2.6 billion people worldwide without access to the Internet as of 2023. A significant barrier to Internet access is the unfamiliarity with the English language. Supporting users in accessing the Internet in their native languages is crucial for helping those who are not proficient in English to more conveniently integrate into an information society and the digital process, which holds significant practical importance. In the realm of Internet foundational resources, internationalized domain names (IDNs) provide technical feasibility for accessing the Internet in one's mother tongue. The promotion of IDNs not only benefits the global spread and application of the Internet but also aids in the dissemination of local cultures and brands across different countries and regions. This contributes to the diverse and prosperous development of the Internet.

The Tunis Agenda for the Information Society birthed the Internet Governance Forum at the World Summit on the Information Society in November 2005. Since then, the IGF has been the primary multi-stakeholder platform to discuss internet governance issues in a structured and inclusive manner. Also, in other Internet Governance fora, the multi-stakeholder approach is well established. Despite these successes, we have seen that the multi-stakeholder approach is met with reservations from certain quarters. Indeed, in an ever-changing world, the multi-stakeholder approach must also continue to evolve. Digital policies are becoming increasingly technical and differentiated. A robust multi-stakeholder governance requires sufficient resources and transparent procedures. In this session, we investigate how the multi-stakeholder approach for digital and internet governance can be further developed to address these challenges. We will look at different regions and multi-stakeholder governance models to identify best practices. What formats have been tested and trialed to increase inclusiveness and accountability? How can these formats be further strengthened? How can forums and processes learn from these successful models? Examples of multi-stakeholder formats that serve as a basis for discussion include: • Netmundial+10 – a commemorative event marking the ten-year anniversary of the Netmundial conference. The focus is on assessing progress in implementing internet governance principles and on discussing emerging issues. It is organised by the multi-stakeholder Brazilian Internet Steering Committee cgi.br. • International Digital Dialogues – an instrument of the German government for bilateral digital policy exchange that heavily relies on participation and contributions from stakeholders in business, academia and civil society in Germany and its partner countries. • Kenya Internet Governance Forum – a particularly strong national-level forum contributing to the IGF overall that exemplifies how its multi-stakeholder process remains of key importance at a national and international level. • Indonesia’s Digital Transformation Multi-Stakeholders Partnership – a multi-stakeholder initiative aiming to support Indonesia’s digital transformation to bolster the Sustainable Development Goals. It is conceived by ten UN agencies, the Nationwide University Network of Indonesia (NUNI) and the Indonesian Digital Leaders Association (APDI).
The session will be moderated on site. The moderator will engage both the on-site and online speakers by asking questions and inviting on-site and online attendees to contribute to the discussion by making statements. An additional online moderator will monitor and moderate the chat and will be in direct contact with the on-site moderator to guarantee that the Q&A involves both on-site and online attendees.  Online interaction in this session will be facilitated by incorporating the thoughts and questions of the audience expressed in the chat in real time. The online moderator will encourage the online audience to use the Q&A function of the platform provided for the session.Audiences online and on site will be asked a series of questions to survey their perspectives and involvement in multilateral and multi-stakeholder processes. For this, we plan to utilise Particify or Mentimeter. Responses will be collected at the beginning of the session and can be referred to throughout the discussion.

Description:
The engagement of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) is vital for inclusive and accountable digital policy processes. CSOs not only represent diverse stakeholder interests, including those of marginalised communities, but also bring crucial insights that foster transparency and uphold fundamental rights within digital policy-making. However, despite their importance, CSOs encounter significant barriers such as restricted access to important policy discussions, challenges in navigating complex IG environments, and underrepresentation, especially from the Global South. During this workshop, we will present research findings from a key study conducted under the Civil Society Alliances for Digital Empowerment (CADE) project, funded by the European Union, on the capacity of CSOs to influence digital policy, with a focus on emerging technologies. Our discussion will focus on bridging the current gap between CSO engagement and their potential for profound influence in the IG arena. We will explore robust strategies for enhancing CSO influence in policy-making, and share actionable recommendations for governments and other stakeholders to better integrate CSOs into the IG process. Participants will also engage with innovative approaches and best practices that have demonstrated concrete impacts in strengthening the role of civil society in shaping effective digital governance frameworks. This workshop not only provides CSOs with the tools and insights needed for greater advocacy efficacy but also fosters a collaborative dialogue among all stakeholders, striving for a governance model that truly reflects the needs and rights of all internet users.

The overall objective will be to show how innovation, creativity and a conducive intellectual property ecosystem can enhance gender equality in games and app development. To achieve this, the session will first showcase the creativity and innovation of women in video game and app development. Secondly, it will show how the intellectual property system can further ensure equality and creative attribution. Thirdly, it will present practical IP tools, policies and good practices to be used at the national level. The event will also provide space for a diverse group of stakeholders  from various regions.
The event will be co-moderated onsite and online. Speakers will also attend onsite and online. 

A Technical Community Coalition for Multistakeholderism (TCCM) was formed in April 2024 by auDA, CIRA, InternetNZ and Nominet, with a growing membership that represents a group of aligned members of the technical community with a long history of involvement in multistakeholder Internet governance. The TCCM recognises that the technological success of the Internet is the direct result of the multistakeholder approach to internet governance. This approach enables stakeholders to come together on an equal footing to discuss or make decisions about the Internet and to foster its ongoing evolution and expansion. Multistakeholderism fosters a level of diversity, accountability, and transparency that cannot be replicated in intergovernmental environments alone, and ensures decision-making about the Internet and its governance are not led by individual nation-based political interests.
Protecting the multistakeholder model of Internet governance for the years to come is of crucial importance, particularly in the current period of critical decision-making at the UN across 2024 and 2025. Ensuring the inclusion of the technical community, on an equal footing with other stakeholders, as a key voice in Internet governance, continuing to strengthen the multistakeholder model, and a renewed mandate for the IGF are priorities for us. The TCCM therefore aims to defend, evolve and strengthen multistakeholderism in decision-making and dialogues about the Internet and digital policy processes. This event would look to formally launch the TCCM in the global setting of UN IGF. It would provide an opportunity to reflect on some of the successes to date (for example the TCCM’s contribution to shaping the Global Digital Compact) and the challenges that lie ahead (including the upcoming WSIS+20 review) and ways we can work together to evolve and strengthen the multistakeholder approach.
Broadcasting of the keynote addresses and Q&A will enable those joining virtually to be informed of the work of the TCCM and to have the opportunity to ask questions or share perspectives. A facilitated discussion for virtual participants (moderated by one of the organizers) will enable networking opportunities in an online setting.

Description:
The session offers African Member States a distinctive opportunity to collectively shape a unified agenda for leveraging technology ethically and in line with human rights principles. Rapid technological advancements raise concerns about their potential disruption to governance, and inversely, how global governance changes may impact technology. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and related emerging technologies like nanotechnology and biotechnology are rapidly reshaping the global landscape, bringing complex issues at the intersection of technical, ethical, political, legal, and economic domains. Digitalization's impact on Africa's political systems and economies varies, with new technologies offering growth opportunities but hindered by infrastructure deficiencies, low digital literacy, and socioeconomic challenges. Addressing Africa's vulnerability to data exploitation and limited capacity to influence technical advancements and global legal frameworks, the initiative focuses on assessing technology's implications in political, social, cultural, economic, and ethical aspects within the region. Digital technologies in Africa can worsen existing inequalities while providing inclusive development opportunities. Inequalities span gender, race, geography, and socio-economic factors, extending to education, healthcare, employment, and living conditions. Digital divides further amplify disparities, particularly affecting marginalized groups like informal workers and youth facing high unemployment rates. Some nations strategically leverage AI and innovations for national development, while others risk marginalization due to passive roles in data governance. The meeting aims to address these challenges, fostering equitable technological development and meaningful participation in decision-making processes.
Detailed Agenda

This session will explore the crucial role of progressive digital policy and governance in driving economic growth and development in Nigeria. It will explore the opportunities and challenges of creating an enabling digital environment that fosters innovation, entrepreneurship, and inclusive growth. The session will bring together experts from the government, the private sector, the tech community, civil society and the national legislatures to discuss how progressive digital policy and governance can be and have leveraged in Nigeria to: Promote digital transformation and economic diversification Enhance digital infrastructure and access to digital services Support digital entrepreneurship and innovation Ensure digital inclusion and address the digital divide Content Focus: Progressive digital policy and its impact on economic growth Digital governance and its role in promoting economic development Digital infrastructure and access to digital services Digital entrepreneurship, innovation, and job creation Approach: Panel discussion with experts from the government, private sector, civil society, tech community and national legislatures Case studies and success stories of progressive digital policy and governance in Nigeria showcasing how far we have gone in Nigeria. Interactive discussion with the audience to gather feedback and suggestions as feedback into national policies and directions. Issues, Challenges and Opportunities: How to create an enabling digital environment that fosters innovation and entrepreneurship How to address the challenges of the digital divide and ensure that the benefits of digital technology are inclusive and equitable How to balance the need for digital governance with the need for digital freedom and privacy How to ensure that digital policy and governance are responsive to the needs of all stakeholders, including marginalized communities.
1) How will you facilitate interaction between onsite and online speakers and attendees? To facilitate interaction between onsite and online speakers and attendees, we will: Use a hybrid event platform that allows for seamless interaction between onsite and online participants Provide a live stream of the onsite session to online attendees, with real-time Q&A and chat functionality Use a moderator to facilitate questions and discussions between onsite and online speakers and attendees Encourage online attendees to participate in polls, surveys, and other interactive activities Provide a social media hashtag for attendees to share their thoughts and insights 2) How will you design the session to ensure the best possible experience for online and onsite participants? To design the session for the best possible experience for online and onsite participants, we will: Use a clear and concise format, with short (timed) presentations and interactive discussions Provide a detailed agenda and speaker biographies in advance through our event flyers Use high-quality audio and video equipment to ensure clear sound and visuals as provided by the host in the theatre Provide opportunities for networking and breakout sessions for both onsite and online attendees Use a post-event survey to gather feedback and improve future events Ensure that the online platform is user-friendly and accessible on various devices as listed below Provide technical support for online attendees Use a backup plan in case of technical issues Encourage online attendees to participate in pre-event activities, such as social media discussions and pre-recorded video content 3) Please note any complementary online tools/platforms you plan to use to increase participation and interaction during the session: We plan to use Facebook Live; and YouTube Live and we will engage all participants using Twitter, Linkedin, and Instagram together with the ISOC Live platform to reach a wider audience.

This session will address the ethical and regulatory challenges and policy gaps in the new forms of AI-driven children’s play and entertainment. It sheds light on the interaction of children with algorithms, their immersion into the digital world, and the protections that ought to be in place to ensure their safety, security, and privacy. Since AI has become such an integral aspect of children's lives, especially through interactions and learning, this lightning talk best fits under the IGF 2024's theme of 'Advancing Human Rights and Inclusion in the Digital Age". The session delves into children’s interactions with smart toys, online games and social media; it zooms in on the effects of these digital entertainment platforms on children’s health, development, and social interactions. The session explores the existing policies and regulations and provides recommendations aligned to the existing gaps and potential threats to children. Whilst providing a unique focus on children’s entertainment in the African context, an under explored and often overlooked area in the literature, this session will deeply reflect on the impact of AI on children and the need to develop ethical AI principles that directly apply to them. This session aims to ultimately provide guiding principles and policies to take into consideration in the design, development, and deployment of AI-enabled tools that children interact with.
1) The moderator of the session, Jackline Akello, will facilitate participation between onsite and online participants through prompts such as insightful comments and questions. The speakers will also provide scope for responses to their respective talks by raising thought-provoking questions which should encourage input from participants. 2) The session will be designed in a way that facilitates equal participation from online and onsite participants through the use of online tools to enhance engagement during the session. 3) The session will make use of a menti meter at the beginning of the session to kick-start thoughts and questions, then after the talk from the speakers a Miro board will be used to brainstorm solutions to mitigate risks for African children with regards to AI.

Description:
Global Internet governance requires effective models of multistakeholder cooperation, which requires continued efforts by all stakeholders to aggregate their interests into implementable policy solutions that can address complex digital challenges. The aim of this workshop is to identify ways to strengthen and support the open, transparent, inclusive and bottom-up governance process related to the use and evolution of the Internet. The workshop will consider the outcomes of multistakeholder and multilateral Internet governance and digital processes in 2024, such as NETmundial+10 and the Global Digital Compact, and how these may be applied to achieving the Internet we want.

Description:
In today's digitally driven world, the trajectory of global harmony hinges upon the strategic design and governance of digital technologies. The exponential growth of technology has not only interconnected our world but has also exposed us to unprecedented vulnerabilities. Cyber warfare is no longer a distant threat; it's a present reality. With 13 attacks per second on critical infrastructure in 2023, and an anticipated surge in cybercrime costs to US$9.5 trillion by 2024, the urgency for action has never been clearer. The deliberate design of digital technologies takes on heightened significance, offering both opportunities for promoting cyber peace and addressing emerging challenges in the realm of cyber conflicts. The proposed panel, "Peace by Design," will explore the intricate interplay between technological innovation, cyber threats, and the pursuit of peace in the online world. The session will highlight the critical importance of preserving principles such as openness, interoperability, and user-centricity in the face of escalating cyber threats. Understanding Cyber Conflicts and Threats, Navigating Ethical Considerations in AI and Cyber Warfare, Fostering Collaboration for Cyber Peace, Innovating Towards Cyber Resilience, Policy Implications for Cyber Peace are the major topics that will be covered.

Description:
This collaborative workshop session (roundtable format) will focus on the principle of fairness in AI, emphasising the need for context-specific fairness metrics for ethical governance. We will unpack the multifaceted concept of fairness in AI by discussing key components of the principle of fairness (equality, bias and non-discrimination, inclusivity, and reliability). While these components are relevant globally, their interpretation varies across jurisdictions. For example, unlike western liberal democracies, factors such as caste or religion are key aspects of non-discrimination in India. Understanding these components is essential for developing and deploying AI systems that are safe, secure, and trustworthy. As the concept of fairness in AI has often been developed focusing primarily on the US and Europe, it may be difficult to adopt them in Asian countries which have unique socio-cultural contexts and may interpret fairness differently. We will discuss fairness in India and Singapore to showcase how the concept varies across Asia, and from the broader global concept of fairness. Further, we will discuss case studies like the biassed AI job recommendation system in Indonesia to illustrate the complexities of fairness in AI. We will also conduct a simulation exercise using a hypothetical model to illustrate the potential for bias to manifest through data points such as age, gender, address, etc. Finally, we will conduct an open discussion to gain perspectives from participants on fairness metrics in their own countries and to analyse how fairness as a concept differs based on their socio-cultural contexts. This session will leverage learning from an Asia-level dialogue conducted by SMU and CCG which brought together diverse stakeholders from the APAC region to discuss the multifaceted concept of fairness in AI. We will also have a speaker from UNESCO who has experience with AI norms and can speak to global perspectives on Fairness in AI.

This networking session aims to serve as a hub for sharing ideas and forming partnerships for future collaborations related to digital finance inclusion in the realms of international development and Internet governance. The intersection of digital technologies and financial services presents new uncertainties but also unprecedented opportunities. Digital finance is poised to introduce innovative methods to bolster advancements in key sectors such as economic development, infrastructure, and access to services, while also addressing the digital divide between technologically advanced and developing nations. This session will explore critical questions on how digital financial tools can reduce poverty, enhance economic growth, and support sustainable development in underserved regions. By bringing together a diverse group of experts and practitioners from various fields, the session aims to highlight emerging challenges and discuss potential solutions that can drive inclusive growth and development. The goal is to facilitate a series of lightning rounds to share a variety of ideas and perspectives, focusing on the long-term impacts of digital finance for low and middle income countries. The session will culminate in crafting a set of possible goals and indicators that could shape our future agenda for engaging in the IGF.
Participants, both onsite and online, will engage in vibrant discussions, with the networking event providing a live feed via YouTube and the IGF’s remote participation platform. Online attendees will have the opportunity to participate in live chat rooms moderated by a hybrid moderator, enhancing interaction and enabling the exchange of contact information for future networking and collaborative endeavors.

I. Background:
With the soaring information technology, the digital divide has become one of the major manifestations of imbalanced global development and has received wide attention from the international community. Under the theme of "Deepen Cooperation on Governance, Bridge the Digital Divide", we will invite government officials, researchers, and practitioners to attend the conference for exchanges on subjects of promoting digital infrastructure construction and the innovation and application of emerging technologies, with the view of providing useful ideas and solutions in deepening international cooperation on digital governance and bridging the digital divide, and ultimately engaging all sides in global digital governance and creating a cyber-community of shared destiny to help achieve the sustainable development goals proposed by the United Nations.
This open forum will invite representatives from various sectors, including governments, international organizations, industry organizations, and think tanks worldwide to exchanges on subjects of promoting digital infrastructure construction and the innovation and application of emerging technologies, with the view of providing useful ideas and solutions in deepening international cooperation on digital governance and bridging the digital divide, and ultimately engaging all sides in global digital governance and creating a cyber-community of shared destiny to help achieve the sustainable development goals proposed by the United Nations. Besides, the Open Forum will be held both online and offline, and will facilitate the full participation of all participants.
II. Time:17:00-18:00 on December 18, 2024
III. Venue: Workshop Room 3
VI.Moderator: Liu Yue, Deputy Director of CAICT
V.Agenda:
Opening Remarks
17:00-17:05, Address -Wang Jianchao, Deputy Director General of International Cooperation Bureau of Cyberspace Administration of China
Topic 1: Accelerate the construction of digital infrastructure, promote global digital inclusiveness and development
17:05-17:30 -Theresa Swinehart, SVP, Global Domains & Strategy, ICANN
-Echo Li,Vice President, Cloud Marketing and Solution Sales of Huawei Cloud Saudi Arabia
-Eng. Talal Albakr, CEO, SCCC Alibaba Cloud
Topic 2: Strengthen the innovation and application of emerging technologies, bridge the global digital divide
17:30-17:55 -Dai Wei, Deputy Secretary General of the Internet Society of China
-Saad Haj Bakry, Professor, College of Computer & Information Sciences of King Saud University
-Dai Lina, Deputy Director of the Journalism Institute of Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences
Closing Remarks
17:55-18:00 Closing Remarks by the Host
 

This session is presented by Amazon Web Services (AWS), the world’s most comprehensive and broadly adopted cloud provider. With millions of customers and partners around the world, AWS has a large dynamic community. As AWS is continually accelerating its pace of innovation to deliver unique capabilities and technologies that customers can use to transform their business, AWS works hard to support and empower customer’s to address abusive content or activity that originates from AWS services. Through collaboration and building at scale at AWS, its dedicated Trust & Safety team will talk about its role in tackling abuse, how they support and empower customers to address abuse, and their involvement in global initiatives that seek to overcome policy and technical challenges in tackling abuse.
1) There will be a powerpoint presentation. 2) There will be additional material for both online and onsite participants to reference during and after the presentation 3) To offer the best possible experience, we can suggest to use Webex for an interactive polling, and welcome comments.