Countries

Internet governance in Georgia encompasses a range of policies and regulatory frameworks aimed at managing and facilitating the growth of digital technologies and online communications. Here are some key aspects of internet governance in Georgia:

Regulatory Framework: The Georgian National Communications Commission (GNCC) is responsible for regulating telecommunications and broadcasting sectors. It plays a crucial role in ensuring fair competition, managing spectrum allocations, and enforcing regulations that impact internet service providers (ISPs) and digital media.

Freedom of Expression: Internet freedom is generally respected in Georgia. There are no significant restrictions on access to content, and the internet is not heavily censored. However, issues related to privacy and data protection are ongoing concerns, especially with the advent of new technologies and the collection of personal data.

E-Governance: Georgia has made significant strides in e-governance, offering various administrative services online through the ‘MyGov.ge‘ portal. This effort not only enhances accessibility and efficiency but also transparency in governmental procedures.

Georgian stakeholders are active participants in various internet governance forums and initiatives at the regional and global levels. Georgian stakeholders participate in the annual South Eastern European Dialogue on Internet Governance (SEE+), Central Asian IGF and Dialogue on Internet Governance (EuroDIG) events, which bring together stakeholders from the region to discuss digital policy-related issues and challenges. At the global level, Georgian is a member of the Internet Governance Forum (IGF).

Georgian also has a national internet governance initiative called GeoIGF, which was established as a bottom-up, multistakeholder platform for discussing internet-related public policy issues in Georgian.

Georgia has been actively pursuing digital transformation. The ‘Georgia 2020‘ strategy, for example, was aimed at strengthening the information society, improving governmental digital services, and enhancing the IT infrastructure. More recent initiatives continue to focus on digitizing government services, which is part of a broader effort to improve efficiency and transparency.

Another important initiative is the State Program on Broadband Infrastructure Development in Georgia. The program is a government initiative designed to expand high-speed internet across the country, focusing particularly on underserved and rural areas. This program is essential for promoting economic growth and enhancing the quality of life by ensuring universal access to affordable and reliable broadband services.

A key aspect of the program is the development of physical infrastructure, including the installation of fibre-optic cables and broadband towers, especially in rural regions where connectivity is limited. To accomplish its goals, the Georgian government collaborates with private sector companies through public-private partnerships, leveraging private expertise and resources while pursuing public objectives.

The program is supported by regulatory measures from the Georgian National Communications Commission (GNCC), which facilitates the deployment of broadband services by ensuring fair competition and removing barriers. Funding for these initiatives often comes from state budgets, international loans, and grants, with additional incentives to attract private investment in less profitable areas.

The country has developed a legal and policy framework aimed at bolstering national cybersecurity. This includes the creation of the Georgia Cyber Security Strategy and its accompanying action plan, orchestrated by the Data Exchange Agency under the Ministry of Justice.

The Organized Crime Action Plan, covering sections 20 to 30, outlines specific goals to be achieved by 2020. These focus on raising public awareness about cybersecurity, developing laws that address cyber issues, and enhancing the capabilities of state agencies that combat cybercrime. The plan also emphasizes the importance of forming public-private partnerships and strengthening international cooperation.

Furthering its commitment to international standards, Georgia has ratified the Council of Europe’s Convention on Cybercrime, known as the Budapest Convention.

CERT.GOV.GE, operating under the Ministry of Justice, is tasked with managing cybersecurity incidents within Georgian governmental networks and critical infrastructure. This unit is responsible for the detection, registration, and analysis of critical computer incidents, issuing recommendations, and responding quickly to mitigate such events.

Georgia has been making significant strides in developing its artificial intelligence (AI) landscape, with universities leading the way. The state is particularly interested in AI for manufacturing, with top institutions like Georgia Tech investing heavily in the field.

In 2021, the National Science Foundation (NSF) announced a $20 million investment in a collaborative effort by Georgia Tech, the Georgia Research Alliance (GRA), and other partners to establish the NSF AI Institute for Adult Learning and Online Education (ALOE). The same year, Georgia Tech received a grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) to develop the Georgia Artificial Intelligence Manufacturing Corridor (GA-AIM). The Georgia Emerging Technology Summit: AI 2023 was a significant event that brought together state, regional, and local public sector leaders to explore the transformative potential of AI in government service delivery. The summit highlighted the need for a cautious and responsible approach to AI adoption, emphasizing the importance of ethical and security frameworks.

Jordan has established a comprehensive legal and regulatory framework to govern the internet. This includes laws and regulations related to cybersecurity, data protection, and electronic transactions. The Telecommunications Regulatory Commission (TRC) is the primary body responsible for regulating and monitoring the telecommunications and information technology sectors in Jordan. It ensures compliance with international standards and facilitates the growth of these sectors.

Jordan’s approach to data protection is currently embedded within various laws and regulations rather than a single, comprehensive data protection law. Key aspects of data protection are covered under:

1. Electronic Transactions Law: This law (Law No. 15 of 2015) includes provisions for the protection of personal data processed electronically. It mandates certain protections regarding the collection, processing, and sharing of electronic data.
2. Cybercrime Law: While primarily focused on cybercrime, this law also touches on aspects related to unauthorized access to data and information systems.
3. Telecommunications Law: Includes regulations that protect user privacy and personal data handled by telecommunications service providers.

A significant aspect of the discussion around internet governance in Jordan is the issue of censorship. The Jordanian government has occasionally (according to Freedom House – FREEDOM ON THE NET 2023) blocked access to websites and filtered online content for reasons including political dissent, security concerns, and moral objections. These actions have sparked a broader debate about freedom of expression online and the transparency of the methods used to implement content restrictions.

Jordan has been proactive in developing and implementing digital strategies to enhance its technological infrastructure, stimulate economic growth, and improve public services through digital transformation. These strategies are part of a broader vision to establish Jordan as a regional tech hub. Here’s an overview of the major digital strategies in Jordan:

1. Jordan’s National Digital Transformation Strategy (REACH 2025)

REACH 2025 is a national digital strategy aimed at accelerating the country’s digital transformation and development of the digital economy over the next five years. It focuses on several key areas:

• ICT Talent Development: Strengthening education and training in the ICT sector to prepare a skilled workforce.
• Supporting Startups: Providing resources, funding, and support systems to encourage the growth of tech startups.
• Regulatory Frameworks: Modernizing laws and regulations to create a favorable business environment for tech companies.

2. E-Government Program

This program aims to digitize government services to make them more accessible to the public. Key components include:

• Online Services: Launching platforms where citizens can access various government services online, reducing the need for physical visits to government offices.
• Interoperability Framework: Developing standards and systems that allow different government databases and applications to work together seamlessly.
• Cybersecurity Measures: Ensuring the security and privacy of data handled by government platforms.

3. National Broadband Network Programm

The initiative aims to expand broadband access across Jordan, particularly in underserved and rural areas, to ensure equitable access to digital services. This includes:

• Infrastructure Development: Laying down fiber optic cables and enhancing mobile network coverage.
• Affordable Access: Working with service providers to offer affordable internet services to boost adoption rates.

4. Digital Skills and Literacy

To ensure that the wider population can participate in the digital economy, Jordan has invested in:

• Digital Literacy Campaigns: Programs aimed (such as Digital Skills for a Better Future Programme with support from UNICEF Jordan) at improving basic digital skills across all segments of society.
• Advanced ICT Training: Offering specialised training in areas such as AI, machine learning, and data analysis.

Jordan’s National Cyber Security Strategy for 2018-2023 outlines a structured approach to cybersecurity, aiming to protect cyberspace across various layers—international, national, sectoral, organizational, and individual. This comprehensive plan is designed to defend against a diverse array of cyber threats.

Strategic Protection Measures

The strategy emphasizes establishing systematic security measures that encompass all aspects of society and governance. By implementing robust protections across different levels, the goal is to shield Jordan’s digital infrastructure from the increasing threats that challenge cybersecurity globally.

Education and Public Awareness

A significant portion of the strategy is dedicated to education and raising public awareness about cybersecurity risks. It underscores the critical role of academia in providing the necessary skills and knowledge to citizens, equipping them to navigate and secure their digital environments effectively.

Legislation and Regulatory Framework

The Cybercrime Law, noted for its stringent controls over online content, exemplifies the legal measures being taken to combat cyber threats. This law penalizes online posts that are considered harmful to public morals, religious respect, or national unity with fines and even imprisonment. The law was criticised for its strict provision.

Institutional Support

Established in 2017 as part of the National Cybersecurity Center, JoCERT plays a vital role in responding to cybersecurity incidents. This entity is tasked with building a responsive and capable system for managing cyber operations, enhancing Jordan’s ability to react to and mitigate the impacts of cyber incidents.

Jordan is advancing in the field of Artificial Intelligence (AI), leveraging its capabilities across various industries and solidifying its status as a regional hub for this cutting-edge technology. The Jordanian government is actively fostering AI growth through various initiatives that support research, development, and integration, thereby nurturing an ecosystem conducive to AI-driven entrepreneurship.

The IT sector in Jordan represents a significant portion of the economy, contributing 3.8% to the national GDP, with total revenues surpassing US$2.3 billion annually. The country’s AI landscape is burgeoning, supported by over 900 active IT companies and providing employment to approximately 26,000 individuals. Ranked 49th on the Global Entrepreneurship Index (GEI), Jordan is home to more than 25 business incubators, accelerators, and innovation centers.

Government efforts are also geared towards promoting the adoption of AI in public governance and services, as well as in sectors that have wide-reaching social impacts. AI is increasingly applied in vital sectors such as healthcare, finance, e-commerce, agriculture, and tourism, where it is driving efficiency and spearheading innovative solutions.

Jordan’s commitment to building AI capabilities continues with significant investments in education and research. Academic programs are increasingly incorporating AI disciplines, and research institutions are actively engaged in exploring the frontiers of AI technology.