LEADERSHIP PANEL The Internet We Want

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This comprehensive analysis commences by underscoring the fundamental essence of upholding human rights in both online and offline spheres. This perspective arises from a longstanding global consensus that has spanned over the past 75 years, with human dignity remaining central to our experiences and expectations.

Simultaneously, the overview presents a balanced viewpoint on the Internet.

Acknowledging it as a practical tool providing solutions to numerous issues, it also cautions against harmful behaviours that may stem from its misuse. This equilibrium highlights the Internet’s potential for both beneficial and detrimental impact, particularly in connection to the widespread challenge of misinformation, which can jeopardise societal well-being.

An essential recommendation advocates for the implementation of a human rights-based approach to Internet governance.

This innovative viewpoint inherently promotes the upholding of digital rights by all stakeholders partaking in the regulation of the online landscape. It suggests that framing online regulation in respect of human rights can ultimately unlock the full benefits, and manage the pitfalls, of the Internet.

Furthermore, the methodical analysis recognises the pivotal role of the Internet in facilitating rights tied to education, public participation, and access to information.

The recent Covid-19 pandemic illustrated the criticality of online access for the continuity of education of school-going children. Moreover, the widespread reach of the Internet enhances civic involvement in public and cultural life, thereby evidencing the expansive ambit of Internet rights.

Lastly, the analysis accentuates the necessity to safeguard the rights of businesses of all sizes operating on the Internet.

Particularly, small businesses which may grapple for attention, thereby leading to the overemphasis on protecting their rights. In turn, this necessitates a concerted response from all stakeholders to establish and defend these rights.

The sentiment imbued in the summary is chiefly positive, whilst a neutral stance is maintained in terms of the Internet’s potential for harm.

This aligns with the realistic understanding that albeit the Internet hosts numerous opportunities, it also bears certain risks requiring proactive and collaborative governance. The text adheres to UK spelling and contains keywords including human rights, Internet governance, digital rights, education, public participation, misinformation and business rights.

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The Internet Governance Forum (IGF), globally recognised as a distinct multi-stakeholder forum, has been identified as a pivotal player in implementing the Global Digital Compact (GDC). Created by the United Nations, the IGF has gained substantial credibility due to its diverse participation and significant depth of expertise.

Additionally, it’s uniquely positioned as the only forum where the public policy aspects of the internet can be comprehensively discussed.

The Global Digital Compact is emerging as a universal framework, providing a vital roadmap for shaping our digital future.

The Global Digital Compact is in alignment with the vision of the UN Secretary General that emphasises the need to periodically revisit and revitalise our approach towards the digital future, taking the rapidly evolving nature of the internet into account.

A key takeaway from the discourse is the significance of the multi-stakeholder approach.

This collaborative way of working is critical, not just leading up to the Global Digital Compact, but equally important in maintaining it post-implementation. The multi-stakeholder approach is crucial in ensuring a balanced, inclusive, and democratic digital future.

In conclusion, the Global Digital Compact is seen as a unique, once-in-a-generation opportunity.

As we navigate a swiftly transforming digital era, the role of authoritative forums like the IGF becomes increasingly relevant. Coupled with multi-stakeholder collaboration and a shared global framework like the Global Digital Compact, we are better equipped to navigate and reshape the trajectory of our digital future.

Therefore, any steps towards the development and execution of the Global Digital Compact should be supported, as they constitute valuable contributions towards achieving Sustainable Development Goals, specifically SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities).

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In August of the previous year, the Secretary General of the United Nations instigated the formation of a Leadership Panel, aiming to deliver strategic advice and insights into Internet Governance, thereby significantly contributing to Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals. Chaired by Vint Cerf and Maria Ressa, the panel is composed of ten esteemed members.

Among the panel, five ex-officio members – the Secretary General’s Envoy on Technology, the presiding chair of the Multi-Stakeholder Advisory Group (MAG), and the hosts of the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) – lend considerable authority and expertise.

The inclusion of these individuals conveys a positive sentiment regarding the panel’s constitution and function.

The Panel’s key goal aligns with Goal 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure by actively promoting the IGF and its outputs. Insinuated is that through encouraging high-level and broad-ranging stakeholder engagement, there could be the emergence of innovative ideas and advancements within the industry.

Amongst the critical functions of the panel, it acts as a bridge between the IGF and other global fora. As such, the panel ensures the distribution of the IGF’s outputs to various forums and reciprocally garners their insights and knowledge.

This symbiotic exchange allows for a more globally inclusive perspective when tackling Internet Governance.

To summarise, the UN’s Leadership Panel plays a crucial advisory role in Internet Governance. It aims to enhance IGF’s influence, encourage widespread stakeholder engagement, and facilitate global knowledge exchange.

These endeavours highlight its central part in promoting the objectives of industry innovation and infrastructural development whilst nurturing significant international partnerships. Thus, its inception fosters positive developments within the realm of Internet Governance.

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The advancement of the internet is largely attributed to its open and free network system, indicative of the technology’s human-centred approach. This ethos has nurtured the continued development and multi-faceted utility of the internet as we know it today.

Importantly, it has also initiated a rise in attention to the Internet Governance Forum (IGF), a platform representing this philosophy. Advocating a multi-stakeholder stance, the IGF has become an attractive destination for innovators, policy makers, and other stakeholders, emphasising its importance in preserving the internet’s openness and accessibility.

Alongside the influence of the IGF, global dialogues around internet governance have developed, unveiling intriguing concepts that could sculpt the digital environment.

A notable instance is the notion of ‘data-free trust’, which was introduced by Japan at the G20 Osaka Summit in 2019. This idea argues for a substantial, operational establishment of trust in the digital domain, moving beyond theoretical discussions to become a practical aspect of internet usage.

Such advancement is crucial to promoting online safety, security, and user confidence.

Simultaneously, the terrain of internet technology continues to evolve with unprecedent speed with the advent of new infrastructures such as non-terrestrial systems and the High-Frequency Active Auroral Research Programme’s high-altitude platform system.

This swift pace of technology is also reflected in the rise of generative AI applications. While these innovations signal a new epoch for the digital industry, they introduce a unique set of challenges. These difficulties demand prompt and comprehensive mitigation strategies to ensure the industry can effectively take advantage of these new technological developments without hampering user experience or compromising security.

In conclusion, there is a sustained call to ensure that the internet’s foundational tenets of being open, free, and human-centred are maintained.

Key to this goal is an ongoing commitment to a multi-stakeholder model of internet management. This approach ensures that interests and contributions from multiple parties are considered, promoting a balanced and democratic framework that preserves freedoms while fostering innovation.

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The encompassing analysis under scrutiny advocates bolstering digital connectivity and inclusion, with a particular emphasis on the nation of Ethiopia. It includes distinctive, albeit interconnected, methodologies such as the enhancement of essential infrastructure for improved Internet accessibility, initiatives promoting digital literacy and the implementation of strategies to provide affordable digital services.

Cumulatively, these strategies contribute towards several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) including Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure as well as Sustainable Cities and Communities.

Primarily, the necessity for Internet connectivity and its potential to revolutionise Ethiopia’s interface with the global community is highlighted.

This notion is tethered to SDGs 9 and 11, ardently advocating the construction of communal infrastructure to reinforce accessibility.

Subsequently, the emphasis is placed on digital inclusion, underscoring the need for comprehensive Internet access at affordable rates for all. This assertion emanates from the conviction that everyone should be granted equal opportunities to benefit from the digital era.

Implementing this is vital to achieving SDG 9, aiming to narrow the digital divide and ensure that no one is left behind in the technological surge.

Further to this, an importance is placed on the promotion of digital literacy and skill development.

This initiative aligns with SDGs 4 and 8, representing Quality Education and Decent Work and Economic Growth respectively. The analysis suggests that individuals well-versed in digital literacy can not only become proficient learners through technology but can also evolve into creators of innovative tech solutions.

The main focus lies in executing a people-centric approach that underscores skill enhancement.

In addition, the ‘Digital Ethiopia 2025’ strategy is deemed a critical platform for driving this digital transformation. The plan entails the liberalisation of the telecom sector, an improvement in service quality, whilst also aiming to make both digital services and devices economically viable.

This strategy aligns further with SDG 9, demonstrating the role of industry, innovation and infrastructure in achieving digital evolution.

Finally, the imperative for cooperative global efforts and the harmonisation of policies is strongly emphasised. The standpoint is rooted in the belief that a better world can only be shaped through global collaboration.

Constructive steps being taken include efforts to fortify financial sectors and nurture young innovators at a national level. This vision aligns coherently with SDG 17, dedicated towards strengthening global partnerships.

In essence, the examination carries a positive sway, reflecting an optimistic approach towards achieving digital advancement.

The analysis outlines an insightful route on how digital inclusion, education and global cooperation could create sustainable development and transform societies. The summary embodies accurately the primary text, all the time ensuring UK grammar and spelling are observed and encapsulating as many long-tail keywords as possible whilst maintaining summary quality.

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The detailed summary unveils a deep focus on numerous intertwined topics, notably the importance and necessity of internet governance, the crucial role of regulations, and the ongoing demand for innovation within the broader internet environment.

The discussion kicked off with the recognition of the internet’s significance in our daily lives, drawing attention to virtual meetings as a critical component of contemporary collaboration.

The dialogue commenced online, with the majority of the group collaborating virtually from Vienna. The sentiment expressed was distinctively positive, underlining the value of familiarising and effectively cooperating together despite geographical constraints invoked by remote engagements.

Internet governance arose as a primary theme, addressing the interplay of legal and ethical considerations.

The conversation presented a compelling argument for a rights-oriented approach to internet regulations, particularly in relation to human rights. The received sentiment was also overwhelmingly positive, indicating that the incorporation of human rights considerations within the regulatory development process is viewed as vital.

Meanwhile, a balanced discourse encompassed the need for persistent innovation alongside regulations.

The debate emphasised the necessity for rules that don’t stifle creativity and progress. This argument was met with positive sentiment, accentuating the concept that innovation significantly contributes to practical applications that benefit society at large.

Artificial intelligence (AI) was another significant topic of discussion, with notable instances of AI technologies, like chat-bots, being utilised as evidence of their widespread usage and their profound learning capabilities.

Recognising such examples signified an appreciation for AI’s ubiquitous nature and stressed the requirement for users to continually adapt and learn from these technologies.

A key ongoing project, referred to as ‘the internet we want’, was highlighted and noted to be on track for completion by next year.

The group’s commitment to developing a blueprint for governance that aligns with user expectations and regulatory requirements underscored this project’s significance.

Ultimately, the group’s openness and willingness to welcome new suggestions and ideas were emphasised, championing the cross-cutting Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of partnership for the achievement of these objectives.

This was met with positive sentiment, signifying the group’s eagerness to motivate dialogue and participation, which are critical components for the creation of people-centric internet governance and regulations.

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The Director General of the European Telecommunications Network Operators, possessing a vast wealth of experience in the area of security, voiced significant concern regarding the burgeoning implications of cybersecurity in relation to our society’s accelerating digitalisation. The sentiment conveyed was neutral-to-positive, revolving around the premise that the Internet and the wider digital society have become deeply entrenched in our daily existences, underlining the critical importance of these systems’ security.

The Director fervently advocates for a future where technology development adheres to a twofold approach.

Firstly, it must guarantee safety and security, and secondly, it must bring tangible value to its end-users. This principle mirrors the widespread belief that our increasing reliance on digital technology should not jeopardise its primary integrity nor infringe upon users’ wellbeing.

Moreover, in the quest for robust cybersecurity, a collaborative modus operandi was promoted.

In line with this philosophy, every component of the internet ecosystem, from solitary individuals to multinational tech conglomerates, has an indispensable part to play in strengthening the online realm. This extends well beyond merely applying rigorous cybersecurity protocols, encapsulating the requirement for well-defined objectives, sturdy legal frameworks, and heightened cross-border cooperation to buttress these practices.

These proposed topics and measures are in concert with the ambitions of SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, underscoring the emphasis on nurturing a resilient infrastructure and promoting innovation.

The approach also mirrors the aims of SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, emphasising the imperative for global partnerships to fulfil these targets.

In synthesising these perspectives, a consensus is emerging favouring a neutral-to-positive sentiment towards enhancing the security of our rapidly digitalising society.

This sentiment goes hand-in-hand with the understanding that accomplishing this calls for not only the creation of secure and valuable technologies but also the cultivation of a cooperative, multi-stakeholder approach to cybersecurity. Key points underscored in these discussions include the expanding role of technology in our lives, our collective responsibility for its security, and the resulting demand for collaboration and innovation.

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The focal point of the discussion revolves around the significant role of the internet, underpinning various sectors including agriculture, energy, healthcare, manufacturing, and education. It is viewed as an essential tool that catalyses growth and promotes innovation. There is a strong argument for the internet to be universal and all-inclusive, serving everyone regardless of their geographical location or socio-economic status.

Despite the vast potential and pervasion of the internet, it’s distressing that approximately 2.6 billion individuals globally remain unconnected. This digital divide demands urgent attention, standing in stark contradiction to the pursuit of internet universality and inclusivity, and excluding a significant portion of the global population from reaping the benefits of technological progress and the digital economy.

The discourse accentuates the necessity for collaborative endeavours from diverse stakeholders – governments, businesses and civil society.

These actors possess the requisite influence and resources capable of fuelling change and bridging the existing digital gap. There is a clear emphasis on promoting digital literacy, considering some individuals struggle with digital technologies due to a lack of requisite skills.

Moreover, to make the internet universally appealing, it must provide diverse and compelling content.

Some people may stay offline not because of lacking access, but due to a lack of relevant or engaging content available in their native language. These points reiterate the need for an internet that is both captivating and linguistically inclusive.

These views made in the discourse have concrete alignments with various Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.

They underscore the necessity of technological advancements and collective efforts in addressing the global digital divide and promoting equality of opportunity. There is a palpable positive sentiment, emphasising the immense potential for improvement in internet accessibility, inclusivity, and utility.

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Data has emerged as the heartbeat of the Internet in the contemporary world, with its unfettered flow enabling an array of essential functions such as the provision of public services, the seamless operation of daily business tasks, and the promotion of global collaboration.

Central to this is trust, a constituent deemed essential for resilient and sustainable economic advancement. This argument is underpinned by ‘SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure’ and ‘SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions’.

Conversely, acknowledgment must be given to the potential adverse impacts of data misuse.

The manipulation of data, for instance, can disunite and cause societal ruptures. This summons grave concerns about social harm, thus projecting uncertainties over the merits of unrestricted information flow and trust previously noted. Nonetheless, this aspect correlates with ‘SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions’, emphasising the steep price the world may face if data is misapplied.

Within this context, the imperative role of governments comes to the fore.

As the primary protectors of citizen rights and freedoms, they are duty-bound to uphold and safeguard these entitlements, especially privacy rights. Public trust in institutions and the system as a whole is inevitably solidified when governments exhibit staunch commitments to guarding the rights and freedoms of individuals.

Such commitments not only facilitate a balanced narrative in the data-focused realm but also symbolise governmental preparedness to shield individuals from potential dangers of data exploitation.

In conclusion, the dialogue surrounding data flow and trust on the Internet is far from monochrome.

It requires precise attention and judicious management to ensure that while data persists as the backbone of operations in the digital sphere, the rights and freedoms of individuals are neither compromised nor sacrificed, thus striking a delicate yet indispensable equilibrium.

This balance could carve the pathway towards attaining ‘SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure’ and ‘SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions’.

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In an exploration of discussions centring on the Internet Governance Forum (IGF), several key themes and points of interest were unearthed, with a specific accent on the adaptability and latent capacity of this platform. Paul Mitchell, as the chair of the MAG with two years of distinguished experience, expressed a favourable sentiment towards the IGF.

He emphasised its malleable nature, elaborating on its potential to adapt and meet a broad spectrum of objectives.

Mitchell’s enthusiasm for the IGF’s proficiencies was reinforced through examples of spirited engagement and passion displayed within the forum.

The palpable evidence, including the compelling statistic of more than 8,000 registered participants, strongly insinuated the considerable potential that the IGF possesses. Mitchell attested to this potential, stating how it could be harnessed to an even greater extent given suitable managerial supervision.

Nevertheless, Mitchell candidly recognised the dual nature of any platform such as the IGF.

Reflecting sentiments relating to potential use and misuse, he emphasised that these platforms could result in outcomes that are less optimal. This awareness directly pertains to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), specifically to Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure (SDG 9).

In synopsis, the dialogue served to highlight the inherent versatility and potential housed by the IGF.

It was contended that the IGF’s flexibility was contingent on aspects such as creativity, cooperation, diligent work ethic, and strategic initiatives, and that realising its potential would necessitate principles aligning with SDG 9. Conversely, it was clarified that platforms of this ilk also pose risks related to misuse, thus underlining the need for prudence and responsibility to counter any potential adverse impacts.

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The principal points of the analysed material revolve around essential aspects of internet governance, its connectivity, the necessity for safety and trust, the enforcement of human rights within the digital domain, and the critical need for evolution in parallel with technological advancements.

The document primarily supports the indispensability of an unrestricted and open internet, promoting not just the free progression of information but also embodying a fundamental connection among computer-based systems. This promotes innovation, reduces disparities and fosters quality education, hence aligning with the objectives set by Global Goals Nine and Ten.

Nevertheless, a darker dimension of this increased connectivity has been brought to light, encompassing the misuse of such technologies for undesirable activities, forming the basis for the negative sentiment in the discussion.

The need for a system where trust is a pivotal component in the successful exchange of data and business transactions is emphasised, especially as safety and security do not entirely eradicate the risk of misinformation, disinformation or instances of hate speech.

Venturing into the realm of human rights, ‘Gbenga Sesan underscores the critical need to ensure these rights in the digital sphere, such as the right to education, participation in public and cultural life, and access to information.

Echoing this stance, Vinton Cerf recognises the importance of a human rights-based approach to internet governance and calls for ongoing corrective measures in its implementation.

A neutral sentiment present in the document acknowledges ‘The Internet We Want’ paper’s inclination towards evolution, reflecting the continual and inescapable advancements of the internet.

The paper, far from being static, develops congruently with the internet, a reality made visible in its transition from being initially used for the American Defense Department to its current role as a more intricate entity.

Supporting the concept of the internet as a diverse ecosystem operating predominantly via software is also a salient point.

The collection of devices, systems and software which collectively form the Internet, are artefacts created by human beings. Therefore, this underlines the ecosystem’s inherent diversity and its associated challenges in management. It is acknowledged that while safety and security are necessary, they are not adequate in designing the kind of internet everyone desires.

A point of significance is the appreciation expressed for a meeting venue in Japan, described as ‘spectacular’ and ‘beautiful’.

Moreover, the analysis highlights the positive role that the functioning Internet Governance Forum (IGF) has played over the past 18 years, as well as its potential contribution to shaping and evolving the Global Digital Compact. The anticipation for ongoing engagement with the facilitators of the Global Digital Compact is a testament to the optimistic outlook on the role of IGF in this crucial project.

In conclusion, the report emphasises the vast opportunities proffered by the internet and related technologies while outlining the challenges that have emerged in its wake. It suggests a need for continuous adaptation, governance, and a human rights-based approach to harness fully the potential of the digital revolution.