These policy decisions are often made in forums like the United Nations, with limited input from non-government stakeholders.
The Internet should not be regulated or shaped in a top-down manner. Its governance should be determined by processes that are inclusive and driven by consensus. We get better answers to global questions when a range of experts and interested parties can meaningfully participate in the discussion, known as the multistakeholder approach.
Creating a clear and simple way for everyone—regardless of background—to bring their voice to the governance table is critical to preserving the open, accessible Internet we know and love today.
The Internet is open, interconnected, and transnational. The multistakeholder approach is in the Internet’s DNA and allows it to thrive. It is what ensures its borderless nature and provides for open-ended unleashed innovation. Internet standards are a great example of the benefits of diverse participation. They keep the Internet running as smoothly as we expect, especially if agreed openly and collaboratively. Thanks to Internet standards, the Internet works in the same way for everyone, everywhere.
We work to remove barriers to standards adoption and open doors for everyone to have their say regarding how Internet policies and standards are developed.
We will focus on reaffirming the multistakeholder approach and reinforcing the Internet Society as a trusted and expert partner by:
8 March 2024
Contribution to the IGF Leadership Panel Consultation about ‘The Internet We Want’
6 March 2024
Global Digital Compact Written Submission to the Zero Draft
1 March 2024
Contribution to the Global Digital Compact Informal Consultations (II)
15 February 2024
Contribution to the WSIS+20 Forum High-Level Event Open Consultation Process
13 February 2024
Contribution to the Global Digital Compact Informal Consultations (I)
April 2023
Contribution to the Global Digital Compact
Share your thoughts on the threats to the Internet in your country.
Express your interest in training on Internet governance and the multistakeholder model.
Have you spotted an issue that could impact the Internet? Write your own Internet impact brief.
See what Internet governance issues are being debated in local, regional, and global events and meetings in 2024.
Image copyright:
© UN Photo/Joao Araujo Pinto, © Richard Stonehouse, © Nyani Quarmyne, © Gagny Traoré, © Randy Berghout, © Urban Pixel Lebanon
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