High Level Leaders Session 3 | IGF 2023

Report

The World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) was held in 2003 and 2005 and played a pivotal role in shaping global policy on the digital society. It established 10 Action Lines aimed at integrating digital technologies in different sectors. These Action Lines provided a framework for a systemic approach to incorporating digital technologies in various areas.

The success of WSIS and the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) can be attributed to the multi-stakeholder principle, which emphasizes involving various stakeholders in decision-making processes.

The participation of different stakeholder groups has been significant, and greater emphasis has been placed on creating human rights-based policy environments. Partnership and collaboration have been recognized as crucial factors in implementing digital policies effectively.

However, there are concerns and criticisms regarding the application of the multi-stakeholder principle.

Disparities in its implementation exist, and improvements are needed. Issues such as power dynamics, conflicts of interest, and consensus building need to be addressed for the principle to be equally applied.

Inclusive participation is seen as a key factor in successfully implementing digital policies.

Participation should be inclusive at national, regional, and international levels, ensuring that the voices and perspectives of all stakeholders are heard and considered.

Persistent digital inequality and exclusion are major challenges. Despite progress in digital connectivity, 2.6 billion people remain unconnected to the internet, reinforcing existing inequalities and impeding access to opportunities and resources.

Critics argue that digital inclusion solely driven by market logic exacerbates inequality, oppression, and the environmental crisis.

When communities are included in the digital realm purely for market interests, it can further deepen disparities and harm the environment.

The internet is considered a global space that should be open and accessible to all on a non-discriminatory basis.

Advocates state that the internet should be governed as a global public good, ensuring universal and affordable access. The Association for Progressive Communications (APC) has been calling for this since 2005.

Governments are urged to reconsider restrictive regulatory options and avoid criminalization that reinforces their hold on power and harms individual citizens.

Such restrictions have a negative impact on public services and limit freedom of expression and access to information.

The Internet Governance Forum (IGF) plays a crucial role in nurturing thinking and practice related to the WSIS action lines.

Its mandate should be strengthened beyond 2025 to ensure continued effectiveness.

The IGF is seen as a sophisticated, broad process that allows for multi-stakeholder participation at different levels. Dynamic coalitions within the IGF facilitate participation from various stakeholders.

Gender equality is another important aspect that needs to be integrated across all WSIS action lines.

Advocates call for the adoption of feminist principles within the global digital compact, and there has been an evolution in the commitment to gender equality with a shared call for its inclusion.

In conclusion, the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) and the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) have played significant roles in shaping global digital policies.

The multi-stakeholder principle has been instrumental in their success, although there are concerns about its equal application and the need for improvements. Inclusive participation, addressing persistent digital inequality, ensuring non-discriminatory internet access, and integrating gender equality are key factors for effectively implementing digital policies.

Governments need to reconsider restrictive regulatory options and avoid criminalization, and the IGF’s mandate should be strengthened.

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The World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) process, which began in 2003, was considered ahead of its time and was praised for its comprehensive framework that remains valid to this day. The process was inclusive, involving governments, the private sector, civil society, academia, and UN institutions.

This inclusive nature was seen as a key success of the WSIS, with many participants from the WSIS 2003 and 2005 events.

One notable aspect of the WSIS process was its ability to adapt to new developments. It was acknowledged that the WSIS framework was applicable even for new trends and technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI).

This recognition of the evolving nature of technology and the need for ongoing adaptation was seen as an important strength of the WSIS.

However, there were concerns about unexpected advances in technology, particularly the rise of social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

The era of 2003 to 2005, when the WSIS process took place, was pre-social media, and the growing concern over misinformation and disinformation was not predicted. The struggle to keep up with the rapid pace of technological advancements was acknowledged as a challenge for the WSIS.

Cybersecurity concerns, particularly the increase in cyberattacks, were another issue that the WSIS did not anticipate.

There has been a year-on-year growth of 80% in cyberattacks, which has raised significant concerns for the security of information and systems.

The digital divide, the gap between those who have access to digital technologies and those who do not, was another major concern addressed by the WSIS.

While there has been great progress in narrowing the gap, with 3G and 4G coverage reaching most parts of the planet, a third of humanity still remains unconnected. Bridging this digital divide and connecting the unconnected is an ongoing challenge.

Another target that was not achieved was the goal to connect every school on the planet by 2015.

This failure highlighted the need to understand why the set targets were not met and to find ways to address this issue moving forward.

Despite these challenges and failures, there was a call to revisit the failures and double down on efforts for WSIS Plus 20.

The importance of maintaining the inclusive nature of the WSIS process and continuing to build on its robust multi-stakeholder process was emphasized. The WSIS forum and the AI for Good Summit were noted as intentional events placed back-to-back next year, demonstrating the ongoing commitment to these initiatives.

The WSIS framework was hailed as highly relevant, and there was a call to build on its elements such as ethics, security, misinformation, enabling frameworks, and capacity development.

Leveraging digital technologies to accelerate progress on Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) targets was also recognized as a valuable opportunity.

Another important issue highlighted was the digital gender gap, which remains a persistent problem. This gap encompasses unequal access to online communication and digital technologies for women and girls.

Addressing the digital gender gap was emphasized as a crucial goal.

Overall, the analysis of the provided information shows that while the WSIS process has achieved significant milestones, there are ongoing challenges and areas for improvement. It is clear that the inclusive nature of the process, the need for adaptation to new technologies, and the focus on bridging the digital divide and addressing cybersecurity concerns and the digital gender gap are among the key areas that require continued attention and action.

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Upon analysing the arguments put forth by the various speakers, several key points emerge regarding internet access, technology development, and the impact of artificial intelligence (AI). Jun Murai’s argument highlights the remarkable growth in internet access, with the global population’s access increasing from a mere 6% to an astonishing 70%.

This development is viewed as a significant achievement in bridging the digital divide.

Murai further emphasises the importance of involving diverse stakeholders in the process of developing and applying technologies like the internet. Adopting a multi-stakeholder model is deemed crucial to ensuring inclusivity and diversity in decision-making.

By engaging stakeholders from various technical and non-technical backgrounds, a comprehensive and holistic approach can be adopted to shape the future of technology.

The speakers acknowledge the complexity of AI and related technologies, expressing a neutral sentiment. However, they hold a positive stance on the significance of transparency and openness in AI development.

They argue that fostering an open understanding of technology and its processes is vital in preventing “black box situations” and establishing trust. Additionally, the speakers highlight the importance of internationally recognized AI technology standards, which would not only ensure transparency but also promote openness and collaboration in the field.

The invention of the smartphone in 2007 is recognised as a transformative development, greatly impacting how people access the internet.

The speakers note that approximately 70% of the global population now has internet access, underscoring the internet’s critical role in human infrastructure and its influence on various aspects of society.

Digital inclusion and the recognition of the internet as a human right receive positive support from the speakers.

They argue that bridging the remaining 30% gap in internet access is essential for reducing inequalities. Furthermore, they liken the internet to critical infrastructure, such as water and oxygen, highlighting its central role in today’s interconnected world, thereby justifying its recognition as a fundamental human right.

The evolution of internet infrastructure technology is regarded as significant, with the speakers noting its progression from terrestrial to space infrastructure.

Moreover, discussions are being held on how the internet can be utilised to connect the moon and Mars, showcasing its expansive potential.

The societal impact of application technology, including social media and cloud services, is also acknowledged. The speakers recognise the substantial changes brought about by these technologies in communication, information sharing, and social interaction.

They stress the importance of understanding and addressing the implications of these advancements.

Lastly, it is suggested that the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) should remain open to new stakeholders. The IGF is viewed as a vital platform that provides opportunities for new perspectives and voices to be heard.

This inclusivity fosters a multi-stakeholder approach to internet governance, which is crucial for building sustainable partnerships and working towards achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.

In summary, the analysis of the speakers’ arguments underscores the remarkable increase in internet access, the importance of multi-stakeholder involvement in technology development, the complexities and need for transparency in AI, the pivotal role of the internet in human infrastructure, the significance of digital inclusion and recognising the internet as a human right, the evolution of internet infrastructure technology, and the societal impact of application technology.

Notably, the importance of international cooperation, standards, and open discussions is underscored as integral to addressing the challenges and opportunities associated with these technological advancements.

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Maria Fernanda Garza calls for more inclusive internet access, addressing challenges such as access, affordability, lack of skills, and other impediments to connectivity. Approximately 2.6 billion users remain unconnected despite technological advancements. Garza emphasizes the need for a comprehensive approach to tackle these challenges.

Garza advocates for reinforcing the multi-stakeholder model in internet policy and regulation.

However, she notes that this model is not effectively utilized in all levels of governance. The multi-stakeholder approach encourages collaboration between governments, the private sector, civil society, and other stakeholders. It provides a versatile tool to address technological challenges and ensures compatibility and interoperability.

The World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) plays a crucial role in promoting international cooperation and multi-stakeholder collaboration.

It encourages open dialogue, exchange of views, and the sharing of best practices to address technology challenges. However, the WSIS toolbox, created almost 20 years ago, is not universally implemented, indicating the need for further progress in embracing the multi-stakeholder model.

Conversations on AI have contributed to the development of responsible AI standards through private sector involvement and civil society accountability.

The private sector contributes expertise in developing these standards, while civil society ensures accountability and capacity building through grassroots efforts.

Promoting interoperability across different approaches and areas is also a key focus. The International Governance Forum (IGF) promotes interoperability within the internet governance community.

It acts as a bridge between different policy-making bodies, elevating IGF outcomes to higher policy levels. The IGF is invaluable for sharing knowledge and promoting interoperable policy approaches, playing a crucial role in addressing internet and digital challenges.

The private sector plays a vital role in expanding connectivity and providing relevant content in local languages.

Garza acknowledges that governments alone cannot meet the investment required for meaningful connectivity. Therefore, continuing and scaling up business investments and creating an enabling policy environment are essential.

In conclusion, Maria Fernanda Garza’s advocacy for inclusive internet access, proper implementation of the multi-stakeholder model, and international collaboration highlights the importance of addressing challenges to internet connectivity.

The WSIS, AI conversations, IGF, and private sector involvement are significant drivers in creating a more inclusive and connected digital world.

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The analysis of the speakers’ statements reveals several key points regarding Internet governance, the multi-stakeholder approach, and addressing new challenges.

Firstly, it is widely agreed that the multi-stakeholder approach has proven effective for Internet governance and should continue.

During the WSIS (World Summit on the Information Society), stakeholders from multiple sectors and 175 nations gathered for the first time to work on Internet governance. This landmark event paved the way for collaboration and highlighted the importance of involving various actors in decision-making processes.

The multi-stakeholder approach has been successful in addressing challenges related to the Internet, such as artificial intelligence and social media issues. It is believed that solutions can only be found through this inclusive approach.

Secondly, the German government expresses its support for the multi-stakeholder approach for Internet governance and pledges to back it in the future.

Stefan Schnorr, a representative of the German government, confirms this stance, emphasizing the importance of continued support for this approach.

In addition to the multi-stakeholder approach, the proposal of a global digital compact by the United Nations is seen as a valuable solution to tackle new challenges.

This compact could provide a framework to understand and address the emerging issues in the digital realm.

Another noteworthy point is the success of the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) in discussing and addressing challenges related to the Internet.

It is argued that the IGF has proven its worth and should continue its operations without the need for similar parallel structures.

Furthermore, there has been remarkable progress in harnessing the power of the internet and information and communication technologies.

The collaborative spirit initiated the process of utilizing these technologies from 2003 onwards.

In terms of policy, the European Union strongly advocates for the multi-stakeholder model. It emphasizes that this model must evolve and adapt to changing technology and global challenges.

Unity within the European Union is viewed as an influential factor in championing this model.

Despite the progress made, challenges related to digital inclusion, connectivity, and technology for sustainable development persist. These issues require continued efforts to bridge the digital divide and ensure that the benefits of the digital age are accessible to all.

Moreover, there is a belief in a united front in a world without borders, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and cooperation for achieving common goals.

Advocacy for an improved multi-stakeholder model is also present.

It is argued that the model should be more inclusive and effective in involving various stakeholders. The WSIS+20 is seen as an opportunity to enhance the existing model.

Additionally, there is an emphasis on addressing issues such as gender equality and non-discrimination within the multi-stakeholder approach.

It is recognized that these issues are crucial for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Lastly, the analysis highlights a significant digital divide between developed and developing nations in terms of infrastructure, policy, and talent. This divide poses challenges that need to be addressed to ensure equal access to digital opportunities.

To bridge the digital gap, fostering competition and digital literacy, harmonizing global and regional regulations, championing local content, and promoting stakeholder engagement are seen as vital strategies.

In conclusion, the analysis reveals the importance of the multi-stakeholder approach for Internet governance, the need for global cooperation to address new challenges, and the continued efforts required to tackle issues related to digital inclusion and sustainable development.

It highlights the progress made, the support from various stakeholders, and the ongoing initiatives to narrow the digital divide. These insights contribute to the understanding of Internet governance and the pathways towards a more inclusive and equitable digital future.

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The analysis explores multiple perspectives on the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) and its associated topics. One key point discussed is the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to contribute to the UN 2030 Agenda and its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure.

It is argued that AI has the capacity to reshape human interaction with the environment and play a role in achieving the SDGs.

Another topic explored is the issue of digital authoritarianism and the need to prevent it when using AI for the SDGs.

There is a call for the use of AI in line with principles of prevention and ethics, with a focus on SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions. This highlights the importance of considering human rights and creating open and inclusive societies, avoiding policies that restrict individual freedoms and public services.

The analysis highlights the significance of multi-stakeholder collaboration in AI development and use.

Public-private partnerships are seen as essential for effectively managing and controlling AI to ensure its positive impact. Collaboration between different stakeholders is seen as necessary to address the complexities and challenges associated with AI.

The importance of ethics and morality in technology design is emphasized.

The argument is made that technology should be designed with good and moral intentions, as it is not neutral and can have a profound impact on society. This highlights the need for responsible and ethical design practices.

In terms of internet governance, the analysis praises the inclusive consultative process of WSIS that involved various stakeholders such as governments, the private sector, civil society, academia, and UN institutions.

The framework established by WSIS is seen as still relevant today, despite advancements in AI and technology. The commitment and engagement of people and institutions are recognized as vital to the success of WSIS.

The analysis also acknowledges the central role of the internet in the digital era and the challenges it brings.

Issues such as internet accessibility, internet governance, and bridging the digital divide are mentioned. The importance of the multi-stakeholder approach in internet governance is stressed, as it ensures inclusivity and prevents the suppression of diverse voices.

Other topics addressed include digital inclusion, the digital gender gap, cybersecurity, misinformation, and the environmental impact of digital technologies.

The need for transparency, openness, and standardization in AI technology is highlighted, along with the importance of fostering competition and promoting local content and services.

Overall, the analysis provides a comprehensive overview of various perspectives on WSIS and its related topics.

It emphasizes the potential of AI and digital technologies while addressing concerns and highlighting the importance of multi-stakeholder collaboration, ethics, and inclusivity in the digital age.

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The World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) is widely recognized for its significant contributions in establishing a human-centric, digitally connected global society. WSIS focuses on utilizing Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) to support development objectives. It is considered the first ever clear statement of political will in this domain.

WSIS has played a crucial role in developing policy frameworks and guidelines for the responsible and inclusive use of ICTs.

This has been achieved through the creation of a strong and committed multi-stakeholder community via the WSIS forum. By leveraging technology, WSIS aims to achieve its goals while increasing the focus on developing sustainable and inclusive solutions. The United Nations (UN) system has also utilized the WSIS Foundation to establish a collaborative network with key stakeholders, such as the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), and United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD).

This collaboration works towards strengthening synergy and coordination.

Furthermore, WSIS emphasizes the need for a human-centric approach in the implementation and development of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and related technologies. The summit advocates that these technologies should not limit human rights but rather amplify them.

WSIS also highlights the importance of increasing AI literacy and developing relevant skills to effectively utilize these technologies.

Technical experts and researchers are seen as valuable contributors to the WSIS agenda, as their expertise can provide valuable insights and guidance on AI and related technologies.

There are calls for WSIS to further incorporate AI and related topics into its agenda, and the summit has already engaged in dialogues and workshops to manage artificial intelligence.

The Internet Governance Forum (IGF) is recognized as an essential platform for multi-stakeholder collaboration.

It allows governments, civil society, the academic sector, the technical community, and the private sector to come together and collaborate. The IGF operates informally, without producing binding decisions or regulations, which facilitates open discussions and promotes flexibility.

WSIS plus 20 provides an opportunity to reflect on the digital achievements made so far and set new goals for a more inclusive and equitable digital future.

It serves as a moment to re-evaluate strategies, address challenges, and identify evolving needs in the digital landscape.

There is a growing recognition of the importance of the multi-stakeholder process in decision-making. To navigate this rapidly changing terrain, it is crucial to include a diverse range of voices, including startups, youth, local leaders, and experts from different fields.

This inclusive approach ensures that decisions are well-rounded and representative of various perspectives.

Moreover, as AI and other technologies reshape society, it is vital to uphold the highest ethical standards and safeguard human rights. WSIS emphasizes the need to ensure that multistakeholder collaboration adheres to ethical principles and prioritizes privacy and security.

Norway has demonstrated its commitment to contributing to the development of the Internet Governance Forum by bidding to host it in 2025.

Their bid highlights their intention to support and enhance the IGF as a vital and inclusive format.

Finally, sustainability is an important consideration. WSIS acknowledges the need to reduce the environmental footprint of digital endeavors and work towards a greener and more responsible digital future.

Overall, WSIS has made significant progress in establishing a human-centric, digitally connected global society through the use of ICTs.

The summit continues to evolve and adapt to address emerging challenges and opportunities in the digital space. The inclusion of AI, the promotion of a multi-stakeholder process, and the emphasis on ethical standards and sustainability are key factors in shaping the future agenda of WSIS.

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The Internet has become an essential part of our daily lives, especially for younger generations who have grown up with it. The principles established in the first World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) in 2003 are still relevant today and emphasize the importance of a multi-stakeholder approach to internet governance.

The Internet Governance Forum (IGF) plays a crucial role in facilitating discussions and collaboration among various stakeholders.

Digital inclusion is vital in the development of the internet, ensuring equal access for all. The governance structure should promote equitable access to resources and opportunities, while also supporting the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The benefits of digital technology in sectors like education and healthcare demonstrate its potential for positive impact.

Connectivity in primary schools improves education access, while online healthcare benefits remote areas. It is important to align digital action plans with the SDGs to maximize the internet’s potential for global development.

Challenges such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, cybercrime, disinformation, and hate speech must be addressed to protect human rights and fundamental freedoms.

Effective governance mechanisms are necessary for a safe and inclusive internet environment.

In summary, the internet is essential in today’s world, and its development requires the involvement of various stakeholders. The principles established in WSIS are still relevant, and the multi-stakeholder approach is crucial for effective internet governance.

Digital inclusion, connectivity in schools, and healthcare benefits are important aspects of internet development. By aligning with the SDGs and addressing challenges, we can ensure responsible and sustainable internet growth.

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In this analysis, the speakers discuss crucial aspects of internet development, governance, and inclusiveness. They highlight the positive impact of internet development on a global scale, emphasizing the increase in internet usage, which has reached up to 5 billion people. This growth is attributed to the rise of consumer technologies, particularly the widespread adoption of smartphones.

The effectiveness of the multi-stakeholder community in bringing about successful development in the information society is a prevalent theme.

The speakers firmly believe in the power of collaboration among various stakeholders in driving progress in this field. They cite the development of artificial intelligence (AI) as a breakthrough that resulted from the efforts of the multi-stakeholder community, underscoring the importance of their involvement in shaping technological advancements.

However, challenges related to internet governance are also discussed.

The conflation and misunderstanding of internet layers are seen as significant hurdles in the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) process. The speakers argue that regulations and legislation often target the wrong layer of the internet when addressing problems that occur at the application layer.

They suggest addressing these issues by focusing on the technical infrastructure that underpins the internet.

The importance of considering the internet’s technical infrastructure as a common good, rather than a political tool, is stressed. The speakers advocate for its continued operation in an apolitical manner, recognizing its vital role in global connectivity and innovation.

The multi-stakeholderism model is deemed essential for inclusive internet governance.

The speakers assert that this model brings together diverse voices and sectors of society, ensuring a comprehensive and inclusive approach. They express concern that relying solely on multilateralism may exclude many voices, further emphasizing the necessity of a multi-stakeholder approach.

The speakers also emphasize the need to balance internet growth with attention to governance.

They suggest stimulating internet growth by leveraging various innovations in the field. They believe this approach will foster positive developments and advancements.

The International Governance Forum (IGF) is highlighted as a prime example of a platform that promotes the multi-stakeholder approach.

The speakers commend the IGF for allowing diverse stakeholders to collaborate and produce beneficial outcomes. They also mention ICANN’s participation in the IGF, seeing it as a demonstration of commitment to the multi-stakeholder model.

The analysis also underscores the importance of technology, policies, and society working together.

The speakers argue that technologies should be designed with people in mind and should be wrapped within policies that ensure their effective functioning for the betterment of society.

Additionally, the voices of the youth are seen as crucial in shaping the future.

The speakers advocate for considering and addressing their interests when formulating policies and strategies.

The multi-stakeholder model is identified as a vital tool in bridging the digital divide and empowering the entire world. By promoting inclusive digital futures and ensuring fair access to the internet, this approach can contribute to reducing inequalities and achieving sustainable development goals.

Lastly, the potential revolution of AI and digital integration in the digital experience is discussed.

The speakers highlight that technological progress in the past 20 years has significantly shaped digital experiences, and they anticipate further transformation in the coming years.

In conclusion, the speakers stress the importance of upholding a multi-stakeholder approach to internet governance.

This approach is seen as adaptable, inclusive, and effective in overcoming challenges and achieving global development goals. The analysis provides a comprehensive examination of various themes related to internet development, governance, and inclusiveness, offering valuable insights for policymakers, stakeholders, and society as a whole.