DC3 Community Networks: Digital Sovereignty and Sustainability | IGF 2023

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The Internet Society is actively involved in expanding community networks worldwide, with a particular focus on areas in Africa, Asia, and the Himalayas in Nepal. Their initiatives aim to support and enhance over 100 complementary connectivity solutions, while also providing training to over 10,000 individuals to maintain their own internet infrastructure.

This commitment to expanding community networks reflects the Internet Society’s dedication to bridging the digital divide and promoting equal access to the internet for all.

A crucial aspect considered by the Internet Society is digital sovereignty. They recognise the importance of ensuring that countries have control over their own digital infrastructure and are not overly dependent on external entities.

By supporting community networks, the Internet Society helps empower communities to establish their own internet connectivity, creating a sense of ownership and independence.

Furthermore, the Internet Society also places emphasis on environmental sustainability. In several African countries, issues concerning electricity access and affordability persist.

To address these challenges, the Internet Society actively works towards reducing the costs of accessing equipment required for off-grid community networks. This approach promotes the use of renewable energy sources in these networks, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals of affordable and clean energy and climate action.

In addition to addressing digital sovereignty and environmental sustainability, the Internet Society also advocates for the importance of maintaining local content and connectivity.

They promote connectivity to local infrastructure, such as Internet exchange points, which facilitates the exchange of data within local communities. Additionally, community networks have started hosting their own services, such as local caches or video conferencing, particularly during the ongoing pandemic.

These efforts not only enhance connectivity, but also contribute to responsible consumption and production, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals of sustainable cities and communities.

Overall, the Internet Society’s involvement in expanding community networks demonstrates their dedication to promoting access to the internet and bridging the digital divide.

By empowering communities, supporting digital sovereignty, striving for environmental sustainability, and maintaining local content and connectivity, the Internet Society plays a significant role in creating a more inclusive and connected digital world.

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Connecting the unconnected remains a pressing global issue, with approximately 2.6 billion people still lacking access to the internet. However, there have been notable advancements in internet connectivity. For instance, the Asia-Pacific region has made significant progress, with 4G mobile networks now covering more than 96% of the population.

Furthermore, the introduction of approximately 265 commercial 5G networks worldwide signifies the ongoing efforts to improve connectivity and bridge the digital divide.

Addressing this challenge requires a holistic approach involving multiple stakeholders. By adopting a whole-of-society approach, meaningful partnerships can be forged, and silos can be overcome.

This approach has shown promise, as evidenced by the successful implementation of the International Telecommunication Union’s (ITU) Smart Villages initiative. The initiative serves as a prime example of how a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach can contribute to enhancing connectivity.

Moreover, community networks, such as telecenters, play a crucial role in achieving both digital and environmental sustainability.

A recent joint study by the ITU and the Internet Society (ISOC) highlighted the significance of telecenters and community networks in promoting sustainability. The study identified six dimensions of sustainability, including environmental sustainability, emphasizing the critical role that community networks play in expanding access to information and communication technology and contributing to broader sustainable development goals.

In conclusion, while connecting the unconnected remains a global challenge, progress is being made in improving internet connectivity.

The widespread deployment of 4G and the launch of 5G networks demonstrate significant advancements in this regard. Additionally, a whole-of-society approach has proven effective, as seen in the successful implementation of ITU’s Smart Villages initiative. Furthermore, community networks, such as telecenters, are instrumental in achieving both digital and environmental sustainability.

These insights highlight the importance of continued collaboration and innovative approaches to address the global challenge of connecting the unconnected.

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In marginalized and conflict-ridden areas like favelas in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, telecom operators do not provide internet or telephony services due to security concerns. This lack of connectivity has become even more pronounced during the pandemic, making it increasingly challenging for residents to access vital resources and opportunities.

However, community networks present a potential solution to connect these marginalized communities and offer alternatives.

Building antennas for community networks was initially considered as a viable option for providing internet access in favelas. Nevertheless, due to security risks and potential threats to life, it was decided not to proceed with this approach.

This reflects the complex challenges and constraints faced in these areas.

Digital inclusion goes beyond simply implementing community networks. It also involves educating communities about the numerous opportunities that connectivity provides and how it can empower them to change their realities.

This comprehensive approach aims to bridge the digital divide and ensure that everyone has access to the benefits brought by the internet.

Concerns about digital sovereignty have also been raised in the context of community networks. While community networks can foster independence and self-determination, some worry that emphasizing digital sovereignty may hinder cooperation and collaboration between different stakeholders.

Striking a balance between digital sovereignty and collaboration is crucial for the success of community network initiatives.

Another important consideration is the lack of clarity regarding the definition and representation of the “community” in community networks. Understanding who constitutes the community and their role is essential for effective and inclusive decision-making and resource allocation.

This issue highlights the need for greater transparency and inclusivity when implementing community network projects.

Moreover, there is concern about the reliance on mainstream platforms like Zoom and YouTube, which can contradict the ideals of digital sovereignty. While these platforms provide connectivity, their centralization compromises autonomy and control over digital infrastructure.

Community networks, while not a complete solution, can complement other initiatives and bring culture and communication to marginalized communities.

They have the potential to act as intranets, providing connectivity and safeguarding those already connected.

Community networks can also be seen as an expression of digital sovereignty and self-determination. By allowing local communities to master their own digital destinies, community networks enable them to shape their digital experiences and use technology as per their preferences and needs.

The Internet Governance Forum (IGF) and the IOMEC coalition on community connectivity provide valuable platforms for discussing community connectivity issues and finding solutions.

These initiatives facilitate collaboration and knowledge sharing among stakeholders interested in bridging the digital divide and promoting community networks.

In Nigeria, community networks have been successfully used for citizen science projects. Through community networks, internet connectivity was provided to monitor air pollution and oil spills.

This example showcases the potential of community networks in addressing community issues and delivering value-added services.

In conclusion, connectivity remains a significant challenge in marginalized communities, especially in conflict-ridden areas. Community networks offer a potential solution to address this issue and provide alternatives to traditional telecom operators.

However, building and sustaining community networks requires addressing security concerns, promoting digital inclusion, balancing digital sovereignty with cooperation, ensuring representation, and expanding partnerships and collaborations.

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The analysis reveals several important points made by the speakers regarding the relationship between capacity building, sustainability, and community networks. Firstly, it is highlighted that national schools of community networks have been established in several countries to teach, implement, and support community networks.

One of the key focuses of these schools is to educate communities about sustainability and e-waste management. Through these capacity-building processes, communities can develop a critical understanding of technology and strategies for sustainability. As a result of participating in these initiatives, sustainable strategies have been developed, such as the creation of bamboo towers in Indonesia and the use of AI for efficient fishing and farming practices.

These examples demonstrate how capacity building can lead to innovative and sustainable solutions.

Secondly, the speakers emphasize the significance of peer-to-peer learning and technical know-how in contributing to environmental sustainability within community networks. The analysis highlights community networks in Kenya and South Africa that have effectively transmitted technical knowledge among community members.

This knowledge exchange has resulted in improved equipment usage and reduced waste. By harnessing the power of peer-to-peer learning, the need for external technical assistance is reduced, leading to decreased travel and waste. This indicates that empowering communities with technical skills and knowledge can lead to more sustainable practices and self-sufficiency.

Furthermore, the analysis underlines the transformative power of travelling and visiting other territories in inspiring communities to reevaluate their own territories.

Notably, participants in South Africa who had never left their communities began to rethink their own territories after observing different ways of living in other areas. This insight suggests that exposing communities to diverse perspectives and experiences through travel and learning can foster the development of sustainable cities and communities.

The analysis also highlights the importance of local content and production in the context of community networks.

It is asserted that local content production is integral to the development and sustainability of community networks. By promoting local content and production, community networks can enhance local ownership, creativity, and cultural preservation. This observation underscores the significance of involving local communities as active participants in the design and operation of community networks to achieve sustainable outcomes.

In addition, the analysis addresses the concept of digital sovereignty and argues that it should not be viewed as a black and white concept.

Rather, it should be understood as a process that involves understanding risks and making informed decisions. The speakers highlight the need for communities using platforms such as Zoom or Facebook to understand the implications of their use and make autonomous decisions.

This argument suggests that digital sovereignty is contingent upon communities’ independent and informed choices regarding the use of digital tools and platforms.

Furthermore, the analysis delves into the complex and necessary element of negotiation with violent elements in rural areas.

In particular, the involvement of Narcos in Mexico is acknowledged as they assist in developing infrastructure due to personal benefits. The speakers convey that while negotiating with violent elements is challenging, it is an essential aspect of working in rural areas, particularly when seeking to establish community connectivity in these regions.

Lastly, the analysis highlights the essential role of capacity building in achieving digital sovereignty.

It is emphasized that autonomy in digital decision-making requires communities to have access to sufficient information and understanding of associated risks. With capacity building, communities can develop the skills and knowledge necessary to make informed decisions and navigate digital realms effectively.

This observation underscores the importance of quality education and increasing access to digital infrastructure to empower communities in the pursuit of digital sovereignty.

In conclusion, the extended analysis sheds light on the interconnections between capacity building, sustainability, and community networks.

It highlights the transformative impact of capacity-building processes on community networks, resulting in the development of sustainable strategies. Peer-to-peer learning and technical know-how within community networks are shown to contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing waste and promoting self-sufficiency. Additionally, the importance of travel and exposure to different perspectives in promoting sustainable cities and communities is highlighted.

The significance of local content and production, autonomous decision-making in digital realms, negotiating with violent elements in rural areas, and the indispensable role of capacity building in achieving digital sovereignty are also explored. Overall, the analysis provides valuable insights into the critical elements required for the success and sustainability of community networks.

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Community networks play a crucial role in building digital sovereignty and environmental sustainability. These networks are driven by communities themselves and provide a model of digital sovereignty that is not defined by states, but driven by the communities themselves. They enable self-determination and self-governance, allowing communities to understand and regulate technology effectively.

Notably, community networks have successfully been doing this for the past 20 years.

Moreover, community networks manage their connectivity infrastructure as a commons, which supports environmental sustainability. They understand and mitigate the potential negative environmental impacts of technology, ensuring that their actions align with environmental goals.

This demonstrates their commitment to building sustainable communities.

Additionally, a multi-stakeholder model is suggested as an effective approach for building and implementing connectivity networks. This approach involves different stakeholders coming together to not only discuss but also actively create and execute plans.

By involving various stakeholders, including community members, organisations, and government bodies, this model ensures a diverse range of perspectives and expertise. This can lead to more comprehensive and inclusive connectivity networks.

Community networks also create an entire ecosystem of content and services that are developed by and for the community.

This empowers local communities and fosters a sense of ownership and pride. It allows communities to determine their own digital destiny and use technology for their specific needs, contributing to digital sovereignty.

While community networks are not a solution to all the world’s problems, they do bring significant benefits to underserved areas.

They can provide access to culture, communication, and education, bridging the digital divide and empowering those who were previously left behind.

It is worth noting that successful community networks can perform like large telecommunication companies but with lower costs and community governance.

Some community networks have been successful in creating self-sufficient intranets, allowing information and services to be shared within the community. This demonstrates the potential of community networks to rival traditional internet service providers and bring connectivity to underserved areas in a sustainable and cost-effective manner.

In conclusion, community networks are a powerful tool in building digital sovereignty and environmental sustainability.

They empower communities, enabling self-determination and fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility. By adopting a multi-stakeholder model, community networks can create comprehensive and inclusive connectivity networks. They bring culture, communication, and education to underserved areas, bridging the digital divide.

Although community networks have their limitations, their positive impact on communities and their ability to change lives is undeniable.

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In a recent publication titled “Can Environmental Practices Foster Community Network Sustainability?”, the challenges, benefits, and future prospects of community networks were discussed. The publication highlighted the difficulties that community networks face in managing the various technologies involved and ensuring the successful transmission of signals for local networks.

These challenges emphasize the need for effective management and technical expertise within community networks.

However, the publication also noted that community networks can operate in a complementary or alternative manner to standard internet providers. This suggests that community networks have the potential to offer unique advantages and fill gaps in connectivity that traditional providers may not address.

It is important, however, to consider the potential for external providers with different business models to undermine the efforts of community networks.

Another noteworthy point raised in the publication is the potential use of bamboo as a sustainable resource for building infrastructure in community networks.

An example was given of a successful project in India, where bamboo was used for construction purposes. This highlights the potential for bamboo to provide both an eco-friendly and cost-effective solution for building and expanding community networks.

Moreover, the publication stressed the significance of solar energy as a critical resource for network functioning.

This is because without energy, there can be no networking, including digital networking. The publication showcased an example from Brazil, where a community set up online courses to promote knowledge and understanding of photovoltaic systems. This initiative aimed to improve energy efficiency and promote the use of solar energy within community networks.

Furthermore, the publication emphasized the importance of providing local servers as a means to promote ownership of data and infrastructure in community networks.

Local servers not only make services more sustainable to organize but also reduce environmental impact. It was also noted that capacity building efforts are necessary to support the implementation and management of local servers within community networks.

Lastly, the publication highlighted that the future of community networks extends beyond simply providing connectivity and access.

The importance of local services, such as agriculture, education, and content creation, was stressed. These services can cater to the specific needs of different communities, both rural and urban, and contribute to their overall development and well-being.

In conclusion, the publication provided insights into the challenges faced by community networks but also highlighted their potential benefits and future prospects.

By addressing the challenges of managing technologies, exploring alternative resources like bamboo, harnessing solar energy, promoting ownership of data and infrastructure, and focusing on local services, community networks can make significant contributions to sustainable and inclusive development.

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In the first argument, the speaker proposes a solution to reduce e-waste by making users responsible for the way Wi-Fi routers are used and allowing these devices to enter the circular economy. The argument is made in light of the fact that Wi-Fi routers are typically designed for a limited purpose and timeframe, leading to a significant amount of e-waste.

The suggestion is to allow Wi-Fi routers to be modified and reused, similar to computers, which would prolong their lifespan and reduce the overall waste generated.

Moving on to the second argument, the speaker highlights the importance of community networks in Europe for maintaining telecommunications infrastructure and meeting societal needs.

It is noted that both the public and private sectors are facing challenges in maintaining the telecommunications infrastructure efficiently. The speaker emphasizes that community networks can serve as a common resource model, enabling participation from both sectors. This approach can alleviate the burden on individual entities while ensuring the smooth operation of the infrastructure.

Furthermore, the speaker highlights that community networks go beyond just delivering internet access; they also foster mutual aid and knowledge sharing within communities.

This aspect further strengthens the case for community networks as they not only provide essential services but also promote collaboration and community development.

To support the effectiveness of community networks, the example of GrifiNet is presented. It is mentioned that GrifiNet, an ISP spin-off, managed to earn 30 million Euros in 2022.

This success serves as evidence of the efficacy of community networks and their potential to thrive in the telecommunications industry.

In conclusion, the first argument focuses on reducing e-waste by making users responsible for the proper use of Wi-Fi routers and integrating them into the circular economy.

The second argument highlights the significance of community networks in Europe for maintaining telecommunications infrastructure and meeting societal needs. The evidence presented demonstrates the positive outcomes and potential benefits of embracing community networks. Overall, both arguments provide valuable insights into sustainable practices and innovative approaches in the technology and telecommunications sectors.

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This comprehensive summary explores the state and challenges of community networks in Brazil, emphasising the importance of an evidence-based approach to understanding these networks. The analysis highlights that long-term sustainability is a significant concern, with half of the community networks failing to survive beyond the first year of operation.

Additionally, the regulatory environment poses challenges for community networks.

To address these issues, a policy brief was created by APCZ (Association for Progressive Communications) and Anatel (Brazil’s National Telecommunications Agency). This brief not only identifies gaps in telecommunications for community networks but also resulted in the development of a technical toolkit for establishing these networks.

Notably, the policy brief includes several recommendations for Anatel and the Ministry of Communication to tackle the challenges faced by community networks.

Recognising the importance of collaboration, a Community Networks Working Group has been formed in conjunction with Anatel.

This working group comprises community network leaders and organisations dedicated to fostering the development of these networks. Its aim is to provide a common goal and vision, as well as maintain continuous interaction with government actors.

In terms of Brazil’s global agenda, as the host of the G20 in 2024, the country demonstrates a strong focus on the digital pillar, specifically emphasising the importance of achieving universal and meaningful connectivity.

This indicates Brazil’s commitment to promoting digital inclusion and ensuring that all individuals have access to the benefits of the digital world.

The analysis also underscores that meaningful access extends beyond mere internet connectivity. It stresses the significance of considering the entire connected environment and the skills necessary to navigate it effectively.

This insight highlights the importance of addressing the digital divide comprehensively, focusing not only on infrastructure but also on empowering individuals with the relevant digital skills.

Furthermore, the analysis emphasises the need to recognise and acknowledge the voices and concerns of local communities, both in rural and urban areas.

It dispels the notion that only remote and rural areas face connectivity challenges and underscores the importance of listening to and considering the unique needs of different communities.

The analysis also identifies concerns regarding the trade-offs in collaborative arrangements and the awareness of what is relinquished in the process.

This insight serves as a reminder that careful consideration should be given to the potential consequences and compromises involved in collaborative initiatives.

Regarding community networks, caution is advised in the consolidation of services and connectivity within these networks.

The analysis suggests that community networks should not be conflated with traditional internet service providers. This cautionary note aims to ensure clarity and prevent misunderstandings regarding the role and scope of community networks.

In conclusion, the analysis underscores the need for an evidence-based approach to understand and address the challenges faced by community networks in Brazil.

The efforts made by APCZ, Anatel, and the creation of the Community Networks Working Group signify positive steps towards overcoming these challenges. Brazil’s focus on universal and meaningful connectivity in its G20 agenda further underscores the country’s commitment to digital inclusion.

However, it is crucial to consider the entire connected environment and the skills necessary for meaningful access. Local voices and concerns should be acknowledged, and careful consideration must be given to the trade-offs involved in collaborative arrangements. Moreover, community networks must be clearly distinguished from traditional internet service providers to avoid confusion.

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During the session, the speakers focused on community networks and their role in digital sovereignty. The first speaker, an Internet measurement and data expert from the Internet Society, provided an overview of ISOC’s work on community networks and the significance of digital sovereignty.

ISOC’s work in community networks highlights the importance of empowering local communities to take control of their own digital infrastructure and services.

By building and managing their own networks, communities can enhance their connectivity, bridging the digital divide and ensuring reliable and affordable internet access for all. This approach promotes digital inclusivity and helps overcome dependence on centralised telecommunications providers, fostering a sense of ownership and autonomy within the community.

Moreover, the first speaker emphasised the role of community networks in promoting digital sovereignty.

Digital sovereignty refers to a nation’s ability to exercise control and maintain authority over its digital infrastructure, policies, and data. Community networks play a crucial role in achieving digital sovereignty by placing control of the network infrastructure in the hands of the community rather than relying on external companies or service providers.

This shift gives communities the power to shape their own digital ecosystems, enabling them to protect their data, privacy, and interests.

The second speaker, Pedro Vilches from GrifiNet in Catalonia, focused on their flagship community network, which has been operational for almost 20 years and boasts over 37,000 active nodes.

GrifiNet not only provides connectivity but also actively promotes circular economy principles and the reduction of e-waste.

GrifiNet’s emphasis on the circular economy involves encouraging the community to reuse and recycle electronic devices and reduce electronic waste.

By doing so, GrifiNet aims to minimise the environmental impact associated with e-waste and create a more sustainable and environmentally friendly approach to technology.

Overall, the session highlighted the multiple benefits of community networks in achieving digital sovereignty.

By empowering communities to build and manage their own networks, individuals gain access to reliable and affordable internet connectivity while also fostering a sense of ownership and control over their digital infrastructure. Additionally, the emphasis on circular economy principles by networks like GrifiNet showcases the potential for community networks to drive sustainability in the digital realm.