The Virtual Worlds we want: Governance of the future web | IGF 2023 Open Forum #45

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The concept of the metaverse is gaining momentum as the next step in the evolution of the internet. It is described as a more immersive and embodied internet experience, where users can interact in virtual worlds using advanced technologies. Alexandra Kozik, a prominent figure in the field, believes that the metaverse will be built by different stakeholders using a constellation of technologies and platforms.

To ensure the success of the metaverse, the development of common technical standards is crucial.

Kozik emphasizes that without these standards, the metaverse risks becoming fragmented, with each platform operating on its own terms. To prevent this, industry, governments, and experts must work together to establish these standards. By doing so, interoperability can be achieved, allowing users to seamlessly navigate between different platform destinations and experiences.

This not only promotes economic benefits, competition, and consumer choice but also creates a cohesive and connected metaverse.

Moreover, Kozik advocates for active multi-stakeholder participation in setting rules and standards for the metaverse. She highlights the importance of multi-stakeholder cooperation in developing both technical and governance standards.

This approach encourages participation from European industries and fosters collaboration between various stakeholders. Kozik mentions notable initiatives such as the European Metaverse Research Network, which researches the risks, opportunities, and governance of the metaverse. By involving different perspectives and expertise, the metaverse can be shaped in a way that benefits all stakeholders.

Additionally, there is support for lowering barriers to entry and promoting inclusivity in the metaverse.

This includes ensuring that small businesses and developers have equal opportunities to participate and contribute to the metaverse. The aim is to create an inclusive space that facilitates access for all individuals, regardless of their size or resources. This aligns with the sustainable development goals of decent work and economic growth, industry innovation and infrastructure, and reduced inequalities.

Furthermore, immersive technology has shown potential applications in various sectors, including healthcare training and education.

Kozik mentions engaging in discussions with surgeons who are already using the technology to enhance their skills. The immersive nature of the technology enables a more realistic and interactive training experience, benefiting aspiring healthcare professionals. Additionally, there is an exploration of using immersive technology in education, allowing students to learn subjects like physics and history in a more immersive and engaging way.

The potential of immersive technology extends beyond these sectors, with possibilities being explored in manufacturing as well.

In conclusion, the metaverse is seen as the next evolution of the internet, offering a more immersive and embodied experience. To ensure its success, the development of common technical standards, active multi-stakeholder participation, inclusivity, and the exploration of immersive technology in various sectors are essential.

These efforts will shape the metaverse into a connected, cohesive, and inclusive space for users worldwide.

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During the discussions on the impact of the metaverse, several key points were highlighted. Firstly, there was a consensus on the need for governance and a review of existing instruments to fully comprehend the complexities and impact of the metaverse on human rights, the rule of law, and democracy.

The Council of Europe is even currently working on a report specifically focusing on this matter. It was acknowledged that the current instruments in place may not adequately cover the various complexities of the metaverse, such as its impact on the brain and mental autonomy.

The evolving nature of the metaverse was also emphasized.

As the metaverse is still in its early stages of development and constantly evolving, it is challenging to anticipate all its implications. This raises questions about the sufficiency of existing instruments and the need for more dedicated frameworks, such as the proposed new AI treaty, to address the unique challenges posed by the metaverse.

Additionally, discussions highlighted the crucial role of certain bottleneck technologies in the development of the metaverse.

Janne Hirvonen particularly emphasized the importance of enabling technologies and technology standardization in realizing the full potential of the metaverse.

Another important aspect discussed was the effective handling of data accumulation and access. It was recognized that the construction of the metaverse heavily relies on data handling.

To ensure the development of artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual worlds within the metaverse, it is crucial to effectively manage the accumulation and access of data by both individuals and companies.

Furthermore, the role of regulation in the technology industry was emphasized.

Regulation was seen as a driver for digital innovation and ethical behavior. It was suggested that economic tools could promote responsible innovation, and businesses could benefit from behaving ethically. Notably, implementing ethical behaviors was seen as a way for businesses to financially benefit.

In conclusion, the discussions on the impact of the metaverse highlighted the need for governance and a review of existing instruments to address the complexities and impact on various aspects of society.

The crucial role of bottleneck technologies, data handling, and regulation in the development of the metaverse were also emphasized. It is evident that further exploration and collaboration are needed to fully understand and navigate the challenges and opportunities posed by the metaverse.

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The analysis explores the importance of accessibility and inclusivity in infrastructure and education, highlighting their role in promoting equal opportunities and reducing inequalities. It argues that considering accessibility and inclusivity from the beginning, especially in terms of who builds the infrastructure, is crucial.

Government-led initiatives in creating road infrastructure ensure equal usage and minimize access issues and competition problems that may arise from private infrastructure creation. Successful examples of countries that have built infrastructure serving everyone further demonstrate the positive impact of such efforts.

In the realm of education, the analysis discusses the evolution of learning, from ancient philosophies to the concept of connectivism with the rise of the internet.

It emphasizes the growing use of virtual reality technology, particularly in Africa, and the potential benefits it can offer if accessible to all. The adoption of virtual immersive learning is seen as a significant step towards creating inclusive educational experiences, as it fosters better understanding of the content.

Throughout the analysis, a positive sentiment towards accessibility in infrastructure and inclusive education is evident.

The involvement of governments in constructing accessible infrastructure is highlighted as essential to ensure equal access for all individuals. Likewise, the argument is made for education systems to embrace technological advancements, such as virtual reality and the metaverse, to provide improved and inclusive learning experiences.

In summary, the analysis underscores the significance of accessibility and inclusivity in infrastructure and education as means to reduce inequalities and promote equal opportunities.

Government-led efforts in constructing accessible infrastructure are crucial, while incorporating technological advancements into education, like virtual reality, can enhance inclusivity. By considering and implementing these factors, societies can strive towards a more equitable future.

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The analysis highlights the crucial importance of international collaboration for the successful establishment of the metaverse. Currently, there are prohibitions or limitations in place in 62 countries regarding the flow of data across their borders. This presents a significant challenge for the development and functioning of the metaverse, as data is an essential element in its operation.

To overcome these barriers, new governance solutions are needed that can facilitate the free flow of data across jurisdictions, ensuring the smooth operation of the metaverse globally.

The World Economic Forum (WEF) has been actively involved in addressing the challenges and opportunities presented by the metaverse.

Prior to October 2021, the WEF has been covering the topic of the metaverse and Web 4.0. The organization has initiated efforts to ensure the responsible deployment of technology in the metaverse. It has convened a community of more than 300 experts with the aim of generating a socially useful, inclusive, equitable, and responsible virtual world.

The WEF’s engagement in this area demonstrates its commitment to mitigating risks and harnessing the benefits of the metaverse for the betterment of society.

A comprehensive governance framework and new regulations and policies are essential to address the advancements and complexities of technologies such as the internet, AI, and the metaverse.

Current laws and regulations may not suffice to adequately govern and regulate these rapidly evolving technologies. There is a pressing need to establish a comprehensive governance framework that takes into account the diverse aspects of the metaverse, including consumer metaverse, industrial metaverse, and the implications for identity, privacy, security, and interoperability.

Interoperability is not just a technical issue but also influenced by market factors and economic incentives.

Standards bodies often have multiple competing standards, and the one that aligns best with market economics usually prevails. Therefore, fostering interoperability requires considering the economic incentives and market dynamics in addition to technical requirements.

Technical interoperability involves addressing various infrastructural requirements, such as data privacy, security, identity, asset ownership, and payments.

These aspects must be carefully worked out through a standard-setting process that takes into account market signals. Achieving technical interoperability will be crucial to ensure seamless integration and interaction within the metaverse.

Usage and jurisdictional interoperability are also important considerations.

Usage interoperability should take into account global design and collaboration from the onset, ensuring that different regional access and demographic usage patterns are accommodated. Different regions across the globe may have varying levels of access to compute and networks, and the usage patterns of different user groups, such as children, may differ from those of adults.

Jurisdictional interoperability involves addressing issues related to data compliance, transacting, accountability, and the establishment of an identity framework. The importance of jurisdictional interoperability is emphasized by the Japanese government’s long-standing advocacy for data free flow, highlighting the significance of ensuring seamless data flow across jurisdictions.

The topic of data ownership is subject to debate.

Some argue that data ownership should not be determined solely by market power or regulations and policy. Instead, a balanced approach involving both policy and business innovation is advocated. This approach entails businesses innovating and coming up with convenient, user-friendly business models and use cases that facilitate data ownership.

Data ownership is considered key to the development of generative AI and can contribute to the overall advancement of the metaverse.

In conclusion, the analysis underscores the critical need for international collaboration, comprehensive governance frameworks, and new regulations and policies to successfully establish and govern the metaverse.

Key considerations include the free flow of data across borders, responsible technology deployment, interoperability (both technical, usage, and jurisdictional), and a balanced approach to data ownership. By addressing these aspects, stakeholders can harness the immense potential of the metaverse while mitigating risks and ensuring inclusivity, security, and sustainability in this emerging virtual realm.

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ICANN, the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers, is responsible for coordinating the global internet and its unique identifiers, such as domain names, IP addresses, and protocols. Without ICANN’s coordination, the internet would not function as seamlessly as it does.

One of ICANN’s key strengths lies in its multistakeholder governance model. This model ensures that decisions and policies regarding the internet involve the participation of various stakeholders, including governments, businesses, and civil society. This inclusivity and collaboration have been crucial in protecting and enabling the global internet.

The integration of virtual worlds with the real world presents governance challenges that need to be addressed. As virtual worlds become more interconnected with the physical world and with each other, effective governance mechanisms are required. It is proposed that a multi-stakeholder approach, involving all relevant stakeholders, be adopted to find solutions that accommodate the integration of virtual and real worlds on a global scale.

While standards in virtual worlds are elective rather than normative, some level of standardization is necessary to ensure interoperability and a seamless experience across different virtual worlds. The multi-stakeholder model can play a vital role in setting these standards, as it allows for a collaborative and consensus-based approach.

This approach avoids premature imposition of heavy-handed normative standards, promoting flexibility and adaptability in standardization.

ICANN recognizes the potential of immersive meetings as the next application of its work. Immersive meetings aim to enhance communication and collaboration by creating virtual environments where colleagues from around the world can interact as if they were in the same physical space.

This vision aligns with ICANN’s global outlook and its commitment to promoting an interconnected and inclusive internet.

The emphasis on interoperability in the metaverse by Elena Plexida highlights the importance of seamless communication and connectivity across virtual worlds.

ICANN’s motto, “One world, one internet,” reflects their goal of achieving a unified and cohesive experience in the digital realm. Elena Plexida’s perspective sheds light on ICANN’s broader vision and its dedication to shaping a cohesive and inclusive digital landscape.

In summary, ICANN’s coordination of unique identifiers and its multistakeholder governance model are pivotal in ensuring the smooth functioning of the global internet. The integration of virtual and real worlds requires a multi-stakeholder approach to address governance challenges effectively.

While standards in virtual worlds are elective, collaboration and consensus play a vital role in achieving interoperability. ICANN recognizes the potential of immersive meetings and supports interoperability in the metaverse. Overall, ICANN’s work and the perspectives of Elena Plexida contribute to the ongoing efforts to shape an inclusive and interconnected digital landscape.

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The analysis reveals several key points regarding challenges and potential developments in technology for the future internet. One major challenge identified is the enforcement of data privacy and AI governance policies. The current internet cannot guarantee that transported data is not fake, raising concerns among users who want assurance that their data is protected.

To address this challenge, there is a need for standardization to ensure that data privacy and AI governance policies are effectively implemented.

Another major challenge highlighted is network latency in the context of virtual reality (VR) and extended reality (XR) technologies.

For VR and XR, a high capacity and low latency network is needed, with network latency for interactive virtual rendering services being less than 10 to 20 milliseconds. This challenge emphasizes the importance of robust and reliable networks to support these emerging technologies.

Regarding communication infrastructure, the analysis points out the instability of the high frequency radio band used for achieving high capacity and low latency communication.

The instability of radio links operating in this high frequency band makes it unsuitable for supporting industrial use cases. This poses further challenges for industries that rely on high capacity, low latency communication.

On a positive note, there is a suggestion for closer integration of radio and optical communication to enhance radio communication.

This integration is believed to enable high bandwidth and low latency radio communication. A mention is made of Nokia being on the board of directors of Eye on Global Forum, supporting the credibility of this suggestion.

Additionally, the analysis highlights the promising potential of training and education in the virtual world.

VR and XR technologies offer new opportunities for immersive and interactive learning experiences, aligning with the goal of achieving quality education (SDG 4). The positive sentiment towards training and education in the virtual world suggests that it can be a valuable tool in enhancing educational approaches and outcomes.

Lastly, the analysis briefly mentions the emotional benefits of meeting late family members in the virtual world.

While no supporting facts are provided, this observation highlights a concept that could have personal significance for individuals.

In conclusion, the analysis emphasizes the need for standardization to enforce data privacy and AI governance policies in the future internet.

It also identifies challenges related to network latency and high frequency radio communication and suggests potential solutions such as integrating radio and optical communication for better quality communication. The analysis recognizes the promising role of VR and XR technologies in training, education, and potentially emotional connections.

These insights provide valuable considerations for future advancements in technology and infrastructure.

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The concept of virtual worlds and the metaverse becoming a tangible reality is rapidly approaching, thanks to advancements in technology. These virtual environments hold tremendous potential and can bring numerous benefits to various sectors such as healthcare, education, design, logistics, and engineering.

However, alongside this optimism, concerns have been raised regarding the division between the real world and the virtual world.

There are worries about the internet becoming fragmented, as our existence becomes split between these two realms, rather than enjoying a unified online space.

Another challenge lies in the feasibility of taxation and financing within virtual worlds, raising questions about how governments will adapt to these new digital economies.

Additionally, the adaptation of laws and justice systems to virtual worlds is a significant consideration. This includes determining how criminal activities will be tracked and judged within these environments.

To ensure the success and inclusivity of virtual worlds, it is crucial to advocate for an open, stable, and globally interoperable virtual world.

Creating an environment that allows for seamless communication and interaction between users regardless of their location or technological infrastructure will be essential.

The reliability and security of the technological infrastructure supporting virtual worlds are paramount. Efforts must be made to establish robust systems that safeguard user data and ensure a safe online experience.

One challenging aspect that arises in virtual worlds is the behavior of avatars and the legal and ethical questions it raises.

The actions of avatars within virtual worlds can have real-world implications, particularly concerning the interaction between adult avatars and minor avatars. These scenarios require careful consideration and appropriate regulations.

Furthermore, data accumulation and its impact on the development of virtual worlds and artificial intelligence (AI) should not be overlooked.

The concentration of vast amounts of data in the hands of a few can influence the direction and progress of AI and virtual worlds. Managing personal and organizational data is a crucial issue that needs to be addressed to mitigate potential risks.

Building the metaverse, the ultimate embodiment of virtual worlds, presents a significant puzzle, with data management being a key challenge.

The proper handling of user and company data is of utmost importance, and issues related to data management will continue to be significant in the formation of the metaverse.

In conclusion, while virtual worlds hold great promise and offer exciting possibilities, navigating the challenges they present is essential for their successful implementation.

Promoting open and inclusive virtual worlds, ensuring a reliable and secure technological environment, addressing legal and ethical concerns, and managing data effectively will be crucial in shaping the future of virtual worlds and the metaverse. Despite these challenges, efforts are being made towards a better future through digital transformation, paving the way for a new era of virtual experiences.

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Paul Fehlinger, the Director of Policy Governance Innovation Impact of Project Liberty, is a strong advocate for responsible innovation and ethical governance of technology. He believes that this can be achieved through an inclusive, multi-stakeholder approach. Fehlinger emphasizes the importance of taking a comprehensive view of the innovation cycle.

He suggests that responsible innovation should be assessed from various stages including design and development, funding, commercial deployment, and regulation. By considering the entire cycle, Fehlinger believes that a more holistic and effective approach to responsible innovation can be achieved.

In addition, Fehlinger points out that economic incentives play a crucial role in making responsible innovation practical and viable.

He argues that responsible innovation should not only align with ethical principles but should also make good business sense and offer economic benefits. Striking a balance between responsibility and competitiveness at a global level is essential.

Ethics by design is another key aspect highlighted by Fehlinger.

He believes that ethical principles should be embedded in the design of technology itself. This includes considerations such as the necessary public interest digital infrastructure, the balance between centralization and decentralization, and the importance of interoperability and user data control.

Fehlinger asserts that the technological dimension is of paramount importance, and that ethics need to be ingrained from the outset.

Furthermore, Fehlinger calls for a shift in mindset regarding user participation. He argues that users should be viewed as more than just consumers in virtual worlds.

He believes that the societal aspect of virtual worlds should be factored in from the beginning, empowering users and involving them in a more meaningful and active role.

Fehlinger expresses concern about the rapid pace of technological development and the urgency in understanding its implications.

He believes that there is still much to be learned and that it is crucial to get it right. Engaging with different communities early in the innovation cycle, despite uncertainties, is essential. Fehlinger suggests making early attempts to regulate technology and updating approaches as necessary.

It is worth noting that Fehlinger has been involved in various initiatives and consultations globally.

He is working towards developing ethical principles for responsible technology in an inclusive, multi-stakeholder manner. His expertise and experience shape his stance on responsible innovation and ethical governance.

In conclusion, Paul Fehlinger advocates for an inclusive, multi-stakeholder approach to responsible innovation and ethical governance of technology.

He highlights the importance of considering the entire innovation cycle, incorporating economic incentives, embedding ethics in technology design, and rethinking user roles. Fehlinger’s insights underscore the need for a holistic and proactive approach to ensure responsible and ethical use of emerging technologies.

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The European Union (EU) has set out its vision and strategy for the future of virtual worlds, emphasizing the importance of aligning them with EU values and principles while respecting existing legislation. The aim is to establish a technological transition that allows for a seamless connection between people and machines.

In July, the EU released its strategy, which highlights the need for virtual worlds to mirror EU values and adhere to EU legislation.

This ensures that the digital landscape remains in line with EU principles and regulations. The EU envisions a future where virtual worlds serve as a reflection of its values and operate within the existing legal frameworks.

The EU’s strategy also focuses on the broader transition towards web 4.0 and virtual worlds.

This transition aims to create an environment that supports the growth and development of businesses. The EU aims to foster world-leading applications and provide businesses with certainty regarding the principles they must follow. By doing so, the EU aims to prevent virtual worlds from being dominated by a small number of major players, ensuring a more diverse and competitive market.

Additionally, the EU recognizes the importance of global governance in shaping the future development and use of virtual worlds.

The EU plans to establish an expert group that brings together member states and other stakeholders to share a common approach and exchange best practices. By relying on recognized instruments such as the European Declaration on Digital Rights and Principles and a Declaration for the Future of the Internet, the EU aims to create a framework that promotes effective governance of virtual worlds on a global level.

One prominent advocate for empowering individuals and promoting diverse participation in virtual worlds is Pearse O’Donohue.

O’Donohue supports the EU’s efforts to create an environment where the European industry can develop world-leading applications. The goal is to ensure that people and businesses have control over the transfer of their data, virtual assets, and identities.

By prioritizing individual empowerment and diverse participation, the EU seeks to foster a more inclusive and user-centric virtual world environment.

In conclusion, the EU’s strategy for the future of virtual worlds focuses on aligning them with EU values and legislation, promoting open and interoperable development, establishing global governance frameworks, and empowering individuals.

By embracing these principles, the EU aims to shape virtual worlds that reflect its values, foster innovation and competition, and empower users in an evolving digital landscape.

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The current state of Metaverse-related standards is characterized by fragmentation and a lack of a unified approach. There is no single standard organization, similar to the 3GPP for wireless communication, that is leading the way in driving innovation in this field.

This disunity hampers progress and poses challenges for the development of a fully functional Metaverse.

However, proponents of a better governance model argue that establishing a single organization, such as the Metaverse Standard Forum, could pave the way for interoperable Metaverse standards.

Nokia, for instance, is actively involved in the Metaverse Standard Forum and is optimistic about its potential. Such a unified approach, with shared standards and guidelines, could foster collaboration and lead to a more streamlined and efficient Metaverse ecosystem.

Networks play a crucial role in elevating the performance of Extended Reality (XR) devices.

Currently, XR devices carry the heavy load of intensive computing processes. However, networks can alleviate this burden by offloading some of the processing to the edge. By distributing computational tasks, networks make XR devices lighter and more energy efficient, ultimately enhancing the user experience.

Furthermore, XR devices are predicted to surpass smartphones as the dominant user-end device by 2030.

As technology continues to evolve, XR devices are anticipated to become more advanced and accessible, attracting a wider audience. This shift in dominance has far-reaching implications for various industries, including entertainment, gaming, education, and communication.

Traffic analysis indicates that the rapid growth of mobile broadband traffic, along with the increasing volume of XR device-generated traffic, may exceed the capabilities of existing 5G networks.

This prompts the need for 6G-like technology to handle the aggregate traffic effectively. It is anticipated that by 2028, the demand for a more advanced and capable network infrastructure will emerge, requiring the implementation of next-generation technologies.

Looking ahead, future generations of network technology, such as 6G, hold great promise for enhancing virtual conferences and telepresence experiences.

The aim is to create a more immersive and realistic virtual environment where participants can feel as if they are physically present in the same room. This can be achieved by capturing users’ surroundings in high resolution and accurately representing the lighting conditions within the virtual environment.

These advancements have the potential to revolutionize communication, collaboration, and remote work, leading to multiple innovations, particularly in the field of telepresence.

In conclusion, the current state of Metaverse-related standards is fragmented, lacking a unified approach and hindering innovation.

However, there is a growing advocacy for better governance, represented by organizations like the Metaverse Standard Forum. Additionally, networks play a vital role in improving the performance of XR devices by processing at the edge. XR devices are predicted to become the dominant user-end device by 2030, necessitating the development of more advanced network technologies like 6G.

Future advancements in 6G technology hold the potential to enhance virtual conferences and telepresence experiences, ultimately transforming the way we communicate and interact in the virtual realm.