(Re)-Building Trust Online: A Call to Action | IGF 2023 Launch / Award Event #144

Knowledge Graph of Debate

Session report

Audience

The analysis explored various topics related to the global information ecosystem and its challenges. One key concern highlighted was the negative impact of disinformation, which extends beyond a Western-centric approach. The speakers emphasized the need to consider the effects of disinformation in different languages, as it can affect people’s offline lives. It was recognized that addressing disinformation globally is crucial, rather than focusing on specific regions.

The work of Wikimedia and Global Voices in creating a trustworthy global information ecosystem was appreciated. These organizations were praised for their contributions, involving individuals from different parts of the world. Collaboration and a multi-stakeholder approach were deemed essential in building a reliable information ecosystem.

A speaker, Nick Beniquista, argued for major system-level interventions to address the challenges faced by the information ecosystem. Initiatives such as Pluralis in Europe, trust initiatives for quality online information, and policy interventions like bargaining codes were mentioned. This indicates the need for a comprehensive approach and the involvement of various stakeholders to tackle the complex issues within the information ecosystem.

However, some concerns were raised about the proposed principles discussed during the analysis. These principles were deemed somewhat understated in dealing with the complexity of the challenges. Although they may be widely accepted, there are doubts about their sufficiency in addressing the depth and breadth of the issues. Therefore, comprehensive strategies and solutions are needed.

Furthermore, questions were raised about the effectiveness of a participatory, citizen-driven approach in addressing the systemic challenges of the information ecosystem. One speaker described this approach as “quaint,” suggesting doubts about its effectiveness given the scale of the challenges. This highlights the need to consider alternative strategies alongside participatory approaches.

Regulation and the differentiation between large and small online platforms were emphasized as crucial factors in addressing the challenges of the information ecosystem. It was argued that large platforms bear a special responsibility for content management and accessibility. Efforts by the Danish government and the European Union (EU) were highlighted, including partnerships with organizations like Access Now and the development of regulations that consider different local contexts outside the EU. This underscores the importance of globally applicable regulatory frameworks that also respect regional variations.

The analysis also mentioned concerns about the operationalization of the discussed principles and the potential consequences of the proposed internet safety bill in Sri Lanka. The bill, which has passed its first reading in parliament, raised concerns about censorship and the potential fragmentation of the internet. An audience member expressed opposition to the bill and sought help in collective action, emphasizing the need for collaboration and partnerships in addressing internet governance and legislation.

In summary, the analysis delved into various aspects of the global information ecosystem and its challenges. It highlighted the negative impacts of disinformation, the significance of a trustworthy information ecosystem, the need for major system-level interventions, as well as concerns about certain approaches and proposed bills. Collaborative efforts and collective action are crucial in establishing a reliable and inclusive global information ecosystem.

Moderator

The session focused on the work of a task force dedicated to promoting trustworthy information online, as well as the launch of a set of principles by this task force. The task force is a newly established multi-stakeholder entity within the Freedom Online Coalition. Its main goal is to offer policy recommendations to government institutions and lawmakers to ensure a healthy and reliable online information ecosystem.

The United States is actively promoting trustworthy information online and is committed to addressing the global issue of disinformation. They are implementing initiatives such as fact-checking and media literacy programs to combat the spread of false information. Efforts are also being made to protect and promote open and resilient information ecosystems and support the long-term sustainability of independent media outlets.

While promoting trustworthy information online, the US government emphasizes the importance of not undermining fundamental democratic freedoms. They caution against using regulatory measures to suppress peaceful dissent and silence independent media, civil society activists, human rights defenders, and marginalized groups.

The session also highlighted the importance of platforms like the Freedom Online Coalition and the International Governance Forum (IGF) in countering disinformation and addressing global threats. These platforms are crucial spaces for bringing together stakeholders to tackle the challenges posed by the spread of misinformation and to ensure a secure and open internet.

One significant issue discussed during the session was the consolidation of power over online speech, which negatively impacts platforms advocating for freedom of expression. The session also addressed the exclusion of participation, which can lead to the spread of misinformation. It was noted that depriving half the world’s population of involvement in knowledge spaces contributes to the spread of false information, particularly in the age of generative artificial intelligence.

The session stressed the importance of diversity in media and information, acknowledging that news framing bias is a pervasive problem, and that news organizations alone are insufficient for meeting the need for diverse and reliable information. It was also emphasized that building reliable information structures requires the involvement of civil society and the private sector through partnerships.

Governments were encouraged to play an active role in regulating the online space to promote engagement, free debates, and protect human rights. Striking a balance between regulation and trustworthiness is crucial in ensuring the effectiveness and fairness of online platforms.

The session also addressed the need for educating policy-makers and governments about platforms like Wikipedia and how they operate. This knowledge is important for understanding the value and significance of protecting and promoting such platforms.

The launch of the task force and its principles were seen as an opportunity to pave a strategic path forward and to coordinate with other international initiatives. Participants expressed the need for dialogue and engagement with stakeholders, as well as with counterparts in the ecosystem, to ensure well-informed policies and effective regulations.

The session ended with participants being encouraged to learn more about the task force and get involved. The importance of their role in contributing to the development and implementation of strategies to address the challenges related to trustworthy information online was highlighted.

In conclusion, the session covered various aspects related to the task force’s work on promoting trustworthy information online. It underlined the importance of balancing regulation and trustworthiness, the need for diversity in media and information, and the significance of multi-stakeholder engagement to address global threats and challenges. The session also highlighted the ongoing efforts by the United States and other countries to counter disinformation and promote reliable information online. Overall, the discussion emphasized the key role of collaboration between different stakeholders in building a more trustworthy and inclusive online information ecosystem.

Klara Therese Christensen

This analysis provides a detailed exploration of key points surrounding the role of the internet in relation to marginalized voices, information distortion, and the need for reliable information structures. One argument put forth is that while the internet presents opportunities for marginalized voices to be heard, it also brings about the potential for distortion and muddled reliability of information. This highlights the challenge of navigating and discerning credible information in the digital age.

Partnerships with civil society and the private sector are emphasised as vital in building reliable information structures. By collaborating with these sectors, it is believed that information can be better managed and disseminated. These partnerships can contribute to the development of robust platforms and frameworks that promote the availability and accessibility of accurate information.

Governments are seen as having a responsibility to create human rights-based ecosystems of information. This implies that governments should prioritize the protection of individuals’ rights to access and share reliable information. By ensuring the existence of a conducive environment for the free flow of information, governments can help to counteract the negative effects of misinformation and disinformation.

The analysis also discusses the need for sound regulation in managing online spaces. While it is recognized that regulation is necessary to curb harmful content and maintain order, it is crucial to strike a balance with the preservation of freedom of debate and active engagement. Finding this equilibrium ensures that online spaces remain open and democratic while effectively managing potentially harmful content.

Furthermore, community engagement is considered pivotal in determining and implementing appropriate regulatory measures. By involving and empowering communities, there is a higher likelihood of generating regulations that reflect the needs and perspectives of those affected by them. This participatory approach can foster more effective and inclusive governance of the internet.

The responsibility of large online platforms in content regulation is also highlighted. These platforms are seen as having a unique role in determining what content is published and how it is accessed. Given their influence and reach, the analysis suggests that these platforms should bear a responsibility to uphold ethical standards and prioritize reliable and reputable content.

The analysis touches upon the importance of government funding for the Global South and majority voices. Recognising the existing inequalities, it is argued that governments should allocate resources to support marginalised regions and communities, enabling them to actively participate and have their voices heard.

Noteworthy observations include the excitement surrounding the European Union’s efforts to regulate big tech. The EU is viewed as a potential model for global implementation due to the progress it has made in developing regulations that could serve as a reference for other jurisdictions.

The analysis also emphasises the necessity of collaboration with various organisations to engage in meaningful dialogue and foster improvement. By partnering with diverse stakeholders, there is a greater opportunity to address the challenges associated with information access and dissemination effectively.

In conclusion, this extended analysis highlights the multifaceted issues surrounding the internet’s impact on information reliability and the inclusion of marginalised voices. It underscores the importance of partnerships, government responsibility, sound regulation, community engagement, and the role of large online platforms. Moreover, it reflects the growing recognition that a collaborative and multi-stakeholder approach is essential for building reliable information structures and ensuring the availability and accessibility of trustworthy information online.

Alisson Peters

The United States actively promotes trustworthy information online and combats disinformation on a global scale. They support initiatives to address disinformation and emphasize the importance of digital media and information literacy in enabling individuals to freely express themselves and evaluate information. Additionally, the United States focuses on media resilience by bolstering the resilience of media outlets against legal and regulatory challenges. They support fact-checking and independent media initiatives, aiming to ensure citizens have access to accurate and reliable information.

However, there is concern about the misuse of power by governments to ban certain forms of expression. Governments around the globe claim broad powers to restrict freedom of expression, silencing peaceful dissent. Stakeholder platforms like the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) play a critical role in addressing threats to freedom of expression. These platforms are essential for finding solutions to challenges in the digital world.

The Freedom Online Coalition is a global platform working towards promoting trustworthy online information. It is important to strike a balance between promoting reliable information and upholding democratic principles. The task force’s efforts must not compromise democratic values.

In conclusion, the United States actively promotes trustworthy information online, supports initiatives to combat disinformation, and emphasizes the importance of digital media and information literacy. They also focus on media resilience and support fact-checking and independent media. However, there is concern about the misuse of power by governments to censor expression. Stakeholder platforms like the IGF are critical in addressing threats to freedom of expression. The Freedom Online Coalition promotes trustworthy information while upholding democratic principles.

Ivan Sigal

In the analysis of the given text, several key points are highlighted. Firstly, it is emphasised that online spaces should be open and interoperable, and that user agency is crucial. This means that individuals should have the freedom to access and engage with online platforms and content and have control over their online experiences. The argument is made that the healthy promotion of a wide range of participation is critical in the internet space.

Promoting voice and expression is identified as another important aspect of online spaces. It is suggested that critical thinking about how institutions and media are built is necessary to achieve this goal. Historical facts and friction in the internet context indicate that creating spaces where people can participate more or less equally requires a proactive effort and careful consideration of the diversity of media sources, their funding, and sustenance.

Ivan Sigal, along with organizations like Wikipedia, Global Voices, and Witness, values citizen-generated participatory internet as the core of trustworthy online information. These organizations are seen as starting from an open knowledge perspective and working with communities for whom being online is not easy. However, the break in trust around large social media platforms is identified as a significant challenge.

The potential impact of internet regulations on small and medium-sized non-profit initiatives is a concern. It is argued that regulations being implemented in many global north countries could make it either impossible or expensive for civic-oriented initiatives to create new platforms.

The need for trustworthiness and authenticity in information sharing is emphasized. Global Voices and Wikipedia are highlighted as examples of initiatives that aim to create and share trustworthy information. It is stated that these initiatives are seen as a civic act by many.

Furthermore, the analysis acknowledges the pervasive and complicated bias in news framing. It suggests that news organisations alone are not sufficient to provide all the different kinds of information required in the world. Therefore, alternatives that allow easy entry into an information space and enable the addition of a diversity of voices are needed.

The importance of including a participatory side in regulatory processes is emphasized. It is argued that previous principles have not adequately emphasized this aspect. The analysis suggests that reestablishing the participatory side is crucial to make effective regulations.

The issue of disinformation is also discussed, highlighting its intentional misleading of people and groups. It is noted that disinformation affects many communities in multiple languages. Additionally, the distinction between misinformation and disinformation is highlighted, with the former being seen as ignorance in another language and the latter as deliberate lying.

The analysis also touches upon the need for better information in other languages, particularly for marginalized groups. Initiatives such as Rising Voices, which work with indigenous and marginalized groups to identify languages and support the creation of their own trustworthy information sources, are valued.

The importance of including community voices in conversations is stressed, particularly those from communities that traditionally have less power and resources. The analysis suggests that these communities should not be ignored, and their voices should be included in discussions.

Overall, the analysis advocates for open and interoperable online spaces that prioritize user agency and promote voice and expression. It underscores the importance of proactive efforts to build equitable spaces, address the challenges related to trust on social media platforms, and consider the impact of regulations on non-profit initiatives. It highlights the need for trustworthy information, alternative news sources, and multilingual support. The analysis also underscores the significance of including a participatory side in regulatory processes, distinguishing between misinformation and disinformation, and valuing community voices.

Jan Gerlach

The discussion revolves around the topic of internet regulation and its impact on online spaces. Several key arguments are presented, highlighting the potential negative consequences of centralizing power over online speech and content trustworthiness in the hands of platforms. The Wikimedia Foundation argues that regulation is pushing the decision-making authority on online content to platforms, which raises concerns about the consolidation of power and the potential for biases.

Another argument raised is that excluding people from participating in online knowledge spaces can promote misinformation. It is suggested that when individuals are prevented from engaging in these spaces, the void left behind is often filled with inaccurate and misleading information. The discussion emphasizes the importance of a participatory approach in knowledge spaces as it is seen as essential for promoting peace, security, and combating misinformation.

In contrast to the centralized approach, the conversation encourages regulations that empower communities to make decisions about online content. Jan Gerlach argues for a decentralized approach to internet governance, advocating for regulations that distribute decision-making power among various stakeholders rather than concentrating it solely in the hands of platforms. This approach seeks to ensure a more inclusive and diverse representation in shaping the online environment.

Other noteworthy points include the concerns about laws that make knowledge more expensive, which are viewed as potentially limiting access to information. Furthermore, the discussion highlights the negative impact of regulations that primarily benefit big media houses at the expense of independent journalism and individuals in conflict zones.

The significance of collaboration and sharing best practices is emphasized to safeguard people’s ability to contribute to online spaces and tell their stories. The engagement of governments in conversations about online spaces and freedom of expression is also welcomed, showcasing the importance of multi-stakeholder involvement in shaping internet policies.

The role of Wikipedia is highlighted as an “honest broker” in supporting journalism and promoting information integrity. Moreover, the organization serves to educate policymakers about the mechanisms and functioning of Wikipedia and the potential effects of different regulations on global online spaces. This education aims to increase awareness and ensure more informed decision-making processes.

The establishment of a task force and the associated principles is considered essential for coordinating responses to challenges related to information integrity. This initiative brings together governments, civil society, and proactive private actors to strategize and coordinate processes that promote information integrity in online spaces.

Finally, the conversation encourages individuals to actively engage and join communities like Wikimedia, contributing to their development and understanding how systems like Wikipedia and citizen journalism work. It emphasizes that organizations like Wikimedia exist to support these communities, underscoring the collective responsibility in creating and maintaining diverse and accessible online spaces.

In conclusion, the discussion on internet regulation and online spaces highlights the potential negative consequences of centralization and exclusion. It calls for a participatory approach in knowledge spaces and regulations that empower communities. The conversation also raises concerns about laws that make knowledge more expensive and regulations that benefit big media houses. Collaboration, government engagement, and the role of organizations like Wikimedia are seen as critical components in safeguarding people’s ability to contribute to online spaces, promoting information integrity, and supporting diverse and accessible online environments.

Speakers