Digital sovereignty in Brazil: for what and for whom? | IGF 2023 Launch / Award Event #187

Knowledge Graph of Debate

Session report

Audience

The concept of digital sovereignty is being examined from various angles. Brazil, known for its investment in digital sovereignty, has a long tradition of supporting it through the production of technological equipment and open-source code. This highlights their commitment to maintaining control in the digital realm. However, there are concerns regarding the practicality of achieving complete independence in technology, as no country can truly be independent in terms of technology, food, or energy.

Another point of discussion is the need for clarification on how the current project will relate to the research conducted by FGV-CTS, a prominent research institution that has been studying digital sovereignty for a considerable time. This indicates the desire to build upon existing knowledge and ensure consistency in efforts related to digital sovereignty.

The legitimacy of internet governance in a multi-stakeholder environment is considered a complex issue. This is because digital sovereignty and the involvement of various stakeholders in governing the internet raise questions about who should have the authority and power to make decisions and set policies. It requires careful consideration to strike a balance between different interests and ensure fair representation in decision-making processes.

It is important to note that the term sovereignty inherently denotes exclusivity. When people talk about digital sovereignty, they often focus on their own or their community’s interests, without considering the broader implications. This highlights the challenges of defining and implementing digital sovereignty in a globalized and interconnected world.

On a positive note, the removal of ICANN from the sovereign system is seen as advantageous for certain aspects of internet coordination. By separating it from the influence of individual nations, ICANN can operate in a more impartial manner, contributing to more effective and neutral coordination of the internet.

However, there are differing opinions on the feasibility of digital sovereignty. Some argue that it is a fantasy, as sovereignty in a political and legal sense implies exclusivity. They believe that true sovereignty cannot be achieved in the digital realm.

Misunderstood or poorly implemented digital sovereignty may have significant consequences for the fundamental characteristics of the internet. Legislative or regulatory measures imposed under the guise of digital sovereignty could jeopardize the open and decentralized nature of the internet, hindering innovation and limiting access to information.

In contrast, others view sovereignty as a means of reasserting control and empowering individuals in the digital sphere. It is seen as a process term that allows people to assert control over what occurs in the digital realm, enabling them to shape the digital landscape according to their needs and interests.

In summary, discussions around digital sovereignty are multifaceted. While Brazil’s investment in digital sovereignty demonstrates a commitment to control and independence, challenges regarding practicality persist. The relationship between current projects and existing research needs clarification, and the legitimacy of internet governance in a multi-stakeholder environment is a complex matter. The term sovereignty itself carries connotations of exclusivity, and differing perspectives exist regarding the feasibility and implications of digital sovereignty. Ultimately, the aim is to achieve a balanced approach that preserves the fundamental characteristics of the internet while enabling individuals to have control and influence in the digital world.

Flavio Wagner

Brazil, as one of the world’s top 10 largest economies, possesses a robust industry across a variety of sectors, including the digital sphere. this positions brazil as a significant player in the global economy. Brazil has also implemented laws such as the Marco Civil and the privacy law, which are similar to the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in the European Union. These regulations highlight Brazil’s commitment to safeguarding privacy and ensuring justice in the online realm.

However, there are growing concerns about internet fragmentation and digital sovereignty within Brazilian legislative bills and public documents. These concerns indicate a potential risk of unwanted internet fragmentation. Discussions on platform regulation and cybersecurity proposals often emphasise the importance of digital sovereignty as a motivation for proposed bills. The term “digital sovereignty” is increasingly mentioned in Brazilian legislative bills and public documents.

To address these concerns, a project in collaboration with CEPI aims to facilitate academic and public policy debates about sovereignty, connecting the in-depth analysis of the Brazilian context to the regional and global levels. This partnership with CEPI seeks to expand the understanding and knowledge of the academic and public policy discourse on sovereignty issues.

Moreover, the project collaborates with FGV Sao Paolo, a renowned academic institution with numerous groups working in different cities. The collaboration with Flavio Wagner aims to enrich the academic and public policy debates on sovereignty matters.

Despite diverse areas of focus, the project maintains an ongoing dialogue with various groups, including Lucabelli’s team. This continuous engagement enables the exchange of insights and perspectives, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of digital sovereignty within the Brazilian context.

By analysing public documents, bills, and policies, the project aims to comprehend the impact of digital sovereignty on the evolution of the Internet in Brazil. This comprehensive examination is crucial to evaluate potential implications of legislations or regulations tied to digital sovereignty, as there is a concern that they may threaten fundamental characteristics of the Internet.

As a precautionary measure, it is crucial to exercise awareness and discernment in comprehending how sovereignty is utilised and interpreted in relation to the digital economy. The project follows the approach advocated by the Internet Society to ensure a thoughtful and well-informed discussion on digital sovereignty.

Additionally, the project aims to educate and inform individuals about the diverse perspectives on digital sovereignty in Brazil, as well as the social, legal, and technological implications associated with different definitions of sovereignty. This comprehensive understanding will enhance the overall discourse on sovereignty, not only in Brazil but also in other parts of Latin America and globally.

Flavio Wagner recognises the importance of thoughtful evaluation when proposing public policies, regulations, or legislations to address sovereignty issues. This careful consideration is crucial in understanding the potential consequences and impacts they may have.

In conclusion, Brazil’s significant role in the global economy, along with its robust industry and commitment to internet regulation, has sparked discussions on digital sovereignty and its possible implications for the Internet’s evolution in the country. The project, in collaboration with CEPI and FGV Sao Paolo, aims to foster a comprehensive academic and public policy debate that encompasses various perspectives and potential consequences. By analysing the Brazilian context and connecting it to regional and global levels, the project strives to contribute to a more informed and well-rounded discourse on digital sovereignty.

Ana Paula Camelo

The term “digital sovereignty” is frequently mentioned in Brazilian legislative bills and other public documents. However, it lacks a shared definition, creating ambiguity and confusion about its meaning and implications. To address this issue, research has been conducted in partnership with the Brazilian chapter of the Internet Society and the Center for Studies on Freedom of Expression and Access to Information (CEPI).

The research aims to map and discuss the various narratives and stakeholders involved in Brazilian debates surrounding digital sovereignty. This comprehensive analysis, based on desk research, study group discussions, and expert interviews, will contribute to a deeper understanding of the topic.

In addition, an online training course on the issues of digital sovereignty is set to be launched. The course, accessible through the websites of the Brazilian Internet Society and CEPI, will feature recorded lectures, suggested bibliography, and interactive discussion activities. This initiative aims to enhance knowledge and awareness about digital sovereignty among a wide range of individuals.

Digital sovereignty is considered essential for several reasons. It plays a crucial role in self-determination, the regulation of state power, national security, and technological and scientific development. It also intersects with areas such as artificial intelligence, misinformation, and fake news, and serves as a means of protecting the rights of citizens, including those belonging to consumer and minority groups.

Ana Paula Camelo highlights the importance of understanding the Brazilian context in the global discourse on sovereignty. By doing so, it becomes possible to contribute to a more comprehensive and inclusive global narrative. Camelo encourages individuals to engage with the ongoing research, offering feedback and suggestions to facilitate collaboration.

In summary, the term “digital sovereignty” is widely used in Brazilian legislative bills and public documents, but lacks a shared definition. Through research conducted in partnership with the Brazilian Internet Society and CEPI, a comprehensive understanding of the topic is being developed. An upcoming online training course will further promote knowledge and understanding of digital sovereignty. Digital sovereignty is crucial for self-determination, state power regulation, national security, and technological and scientific development. Understanding the Brazilian context is emphasized to contribute to a broader, global narrative on sovereignty.

Raquel Gatto

The concept of digital sovereignty and its connection to internet fragmentation is a major concern for the Internet Society. They have defined fundamental principles and values for the internet and developed a toolkit to assess the impact on these principles. This approach involves continuously evaluating the situation in different regions and countries. They have created impact briefs that provide specific case studies, such as a proposed bill for a law regarding content moderation and fake news in Brazil. This highlights the significance of digital sovereignty in Brazil, where it is a major issue that has led to increased research.

Digital sovereignty encompasses political, technological, and economic aspects, and it is intricately connected to the issue of internet fragmentation. The Internet Society emphasises the importance of understanding different interpretations of sovereignty in the digital sphere. They recognise that capturing these interpretations is essential to safeguarding the fundamental aspects of the internet and ensuring that digital sovereignty does not compromise its core principles.

In their work, the Internet Society also focuses on the broader implications of digital sovereignty, including technological, political, and legal aspects. They highlight the need to consider the potential risks associated with claims of digital sovereignty and the impact they can have on industry, innovation, and infrastructure. By understanding these implications, they aim to contribute to peace, justice, and strong institutions in the digital realm.

Furthermore, researchers like Luca Belli have joined the conversation, bringing their expertise in cybersecurity and a nuanced understanding of digital sovereignty as part of national security protection. This highlights the significance of digital sovereignty in safeguarding nations from potential cyber threats.

Overall, there is a neutral stance towards understanding the implications of digital sovereignty. The Internet Society and other researchers place great importance on gaining a comprehensive understanding of its various dimensions. By doing so, they can contribute to the preservation of a free, open, and secure internet that upholds the fundamental principles and values defined by the Internet Society.

Speakers