WSIS at 20: successes, failures and future expectations | IGF 2023 Open Forum #100

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The World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) has received high praise for its impactful process in facilitating participation and producing unique outcome documents. These documents are notable for incorporating the perspectives and involvement of non-state actors, reflecting a comprehensive and inclusive approach.

The WSIS documents strike a balance between broad overarching principles and specific subject areas, providing a holistic yet detailed framework.

There is a strong call to continue building upon the WSIS process, advocating for inclusivity and increased civil society involvement at various levels.

Enabling civil society to shape debates at the grassroots level is seen as crucial in bringing about significant change. It is proposed that WSIS provides space for civil society involvement, and collaboration within the U.N. system is needed to facilitate greater engagement.

Lessons from WSIS are valuable in addressing macro issues such as public financing and digital public infrastructure.

The issue of insufficient public financing is identified, and considering digital public infrastructure in the light of WSIS lessons can provide innovative solutions. By drawing upon WSIS experiences, these issues can be effectively tackled.

The WSIS documents stand out by focusing on people-centered development.

They emphasize human rights, open innovation, and open source as important factors in creating an enabling environment. This approach is demonstrated in efforts to bring education to remote areas and promote trade justice and small-scale agriculture. Emphasizing the needs and rights of individuals and communities, rather than solely focusing on technological advancements, is crucial for achieving fair and inclusive development.

In conclusion, the WSIS process is praised for facilitating participation and generating unique outcome documents that incorporate the views of various stakeholders.

Continuing to build on the process with a focus on inclusivity and civil society involvement is recommended. WSIS lessons are also valuable in addressing macro challenges such as public financing and digital public infrastructure. The people-centered approach advocated by WSIS is essential for promoting fair and inclusive development.

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The extended summary provides a comprehensive overview of the main points discussed in the given text. It highlights the importance of the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) process and the role of youth in it. The youth voice was emphasised, with advocates calling for greater representation and inclusion in the WSIS process.

They also stressed the need for initiatives that improve access to education and empower young people. This underlines the importance of involving youth in shaping policies and decisions related to the digital world.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) was recognised for its potential in advancing human development and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

It was noted that AI can enhance education and healthcare access, help address global challenges like climate change and poverty, and improve accessibility for persons with disabilities through assistive technologies. However, concerns were raised about potential threats to data privacy, the creation of surveillance systems, and the emergence of new forms of discrimination and exclusion.

It was argued that AI should be developed and employed in a manner that upholds human rights and follows ethical guidelines.

The alignment of the WSIS with various UN processes was discussed, highlighting the importance of digital cooperation.

The WSIS was seen as setting the foundation for digital cooperation and being aligned with different UN processes, including the WSIS Forum, special initiatives, and prizes. This emphasises the collaborative efforts needed between stakeholders to achieve common goals in the digital realm.

The impact of digital transformation was examined, noting its success in terms of technological advancements but also its shortcomings in terms of knowledge dissemination.

Issues such as disinformation, misinformation, hate speech, and fake news were identified as challenges of digital transformation. The monopolisation of digital platforms in the media landscape was also highlighted, with significant effects on community publishing and media diversity.

The need for periodic reviews of the WSIS process was stressed, as well as the importance of acknowledging progress and evolution in Internet governance.

It was argued that the presence of 176 indicators in the SDGs serves as Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and distinguishes them from the Millennium Development Goals. The inclusion of low-literate individuals in the digital space was advocated, highlighting the current lack of internet tools and platforms designed for those who do not know how to read or write.

Overall, the speakers expressed a mix of positive and negative sentiments, advocating for responsible development and utilisation of AI, digital inclusion, and closer alignment with the SDGs.

Collaboration, periodic reviews, and a multi-stakeholder and human-centric approach were seen as crucial in achieving sustainable digital development. The text provides valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities associated with the WSIS process and the role of digital technologies in advancing societal and development goals.

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The analysis highlights several key points made by the speakers regarding various aspects of internet governance. Firstly, inclusive, transparent, and multi-stakeholder processes are deemed to be of utmost importance in effectively addressing the digital governance challenges at hand. The past Internet Governance Forums (IGFs) have successfully applied such processes, demonstrating their effectiveness in fostering collaboration and achieving meaningful outcomes.

Furthermore, trust-building between stakeholders is acknowledged as a crucial element in realizing the vision of the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS).

It is widely believed that establishing and nurturing trust among different actors involved in internet governance is essential for creating an environment of cooperation, enabling collective efforts towards achieving common goals.

The analysis also emphasizes the need to empower individuals and centre the governance of emerging technologies.

The speakers argue that putting individuals at the forefront and ensuring their equal participation in shaping the governance of emerging technologies is vital. This approach aims to maximize the societal benefits of these technologies while mitigating potential risks and ensuring that they serve the needs and interests of all.

Furthermore, it is asserted that participation in IGFs must exhibit consistency, inclusivity, and representation from all regions of the world.

This will contribute to a diverse range of perspectives and ensure that the global internet governance dialogue reflects the varied needs and challenges faced by different regions. The analysis suggests that the Committee on Science and Technology for Development (CSCD) could seek synergies with national and regional IGF initiatives to enhance inclusivity and improve regional representation in the overall IGF process.

In addition, the analysis highlights the importance of expanding internet access to the remaining 2.6 billion individuals who are currently not connected.

It is noted that while significant progress has been made over the past two decades, with internet access increasing from 6% to approximately 70% of the global population, concerted efforts are still required to bridge the digital divide and ensure universal connectivity.

Lastly, gender inclusion in artificial intelligence (AI) and its governance is recognized as a critical aspect.

The analysis suggests adopting a gender lens and valuing women’s perspectives in all aspects of internet governance and decision-making related to AI. This approach aims to address existing gender disparities and biases, ensuring that AI technologies and policies are developed in a way that promotes gender equality and inclusivity.

In conclusion, the analysis underscores the significance of inclusive, transparent, and multi-stakeholder processes in addressing digital governance issues.

Trust-building, empowering individuals, regional representation, universal internet access, and gender inclusion in AI governance are key focus areas identified by the speakers. These points highlight the collective efforts required to ensure that internet governance initiatives are equitable, efficient, and responsive to the evolving needs and challenges of the digital age.

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The analysis of the speakers’ discussions highlighted several important points regarding internet governance and the role of international institutions. Firstly, it was noted that, despite significant technological advancements since the Tunis Agenda and Outcomes in 2005, these agreements continue to hold relevance in promoting an open, resilient, unfragmented, and inclusive internet.

The Tunis Agenda endorses the importance of human rights and cultural diversity in the digital space. The speakers pointed out that while platforms like social media, artificial intelligence, clouds, and blockchains have emerged since the Tunis Agenda, its recommendations have maintained their importance and applicability.

Furthermore, the analysis identified improvements in institutions like the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) with regards to transparency, accountability, and support for international domain names.

However, it was suggested that further improvements could be made, particularly in increasing the government’s participation in ICANN beyond an advisory level.

Another significant point raised during the discussions was the need to reconsider the framework of enhanced cooperation.

The analysis highlighted that developing countries often struggle to engage with major platform providers on an equal-to-equal basis, especially in areas such as taxation and local rules for personal data protection. Additionally, emerging issues such as cyber threats, misuse of the internet for money laundering, and human trafficking require cooperative efforts among nations.

The speakers proposed that a reconsideration of the framework of enhanced cooperation is necessary to effectively address these challenges.

The analysis also emphasized the importance of monitoring the potential digital gap between regions and social groups within each country.

It was suggested that local digital problems should be addressed locally, and each country should actively monitor and work towards minimizing disparities in internet access and usage.

Lastly, the analysis highlighted the significance of supporting institutions involved in internet governance, such as ICANN, ITU, World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), World Trade Organization (WTO), and United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

These institutions play a crucial role in ensuring a stable internet and should be supported to foster a stable and inclusive digital environment for all nations.

In conclusion, the analysis of the speakers’ discussions identified the continued relevance of the Tunis Agenda and Outcomes, improvements in institutions like ICANN and ITU, the need for reconsideration of the framework of enhanced cooperation, the importance of monitoring the digital gap, and the necessity of supporting institutions involved in internet governance.

These observations provide insights into the ongoing efforts and challenges in shaping an open, inclusive, and secure internet.

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The WSIS Plus 20 review at CSTD takes a progressive and forward-thinking approach, focusing not only on the present but also on planning for the future. This review is in alignment with SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure. The General Assembly adopted a resolution for a high-level meeting to be held in 2025, known as the WSIS Plus 20 review.

To facilitate this process, the ECOSOC adopted a resolution requesting the CSTD to organize substantive discussions on the progress made in the implementation of the outcomes of the WSIS over the past 20 years. Furthermore, CSTD members have adopted a roadmap to guide their work on the WSIS Plus 20 review.

Stakeholder engagement with open consultations and a survey questionnaire is a vital part of the WSIS Plus 20 review.

The CSTD’s Secretariat plans to conduct a survey questionnaire from late 2023 until late 2024. Additionally, open consultations will be held at national, regional, and international levels, involving various stakeholders such as multilateral agencies, the private sector, the technical community, national governments, civil society, and academia.

This inclusive approach ensures that the review takes into account a wide range of perspectives and experiences in shaping the future of the WSIS.

The Internet Governance Forum (IGF) plays a significant role in the WSIS process and is an outcome of it.

The CSTD is grateful to the IGF for providing a platform to launch its open multi-stakeholder consultation at the 18th IGF. This collaboration allows for meaningful discussions and engagement with different stakeholders to inform the WSIS Plus 20 review.

The WSIS forum not only aligns with several UN processes but also highlights the role of digital transformation in achieving sustainable development goals.

There are examples of the alignment of the WSIS forum, special initiatives, and WSIS prizes with various UN processes. Additionally, the UN promotes the role of digital technology in healthy ageing, further emphasising the importance of digital transformation for overall development.

Given the positive progress made in the WSIS process, Cedric Vashvalt should continue the discussion on digital policies and transformation.

Although no specific supporting facts or arguments are provided in the data, it suggests that Cedric Vashvalt possesses valuable insights and perspectives in this area.

In conclusion, the WSIS Plus 20 review at CSTD takes a forward-thinking approach by focusing on future planning.

Stakeholder engagement through open consultations and a survey questionnaire plays a crucial role in shaping the review’s outcomes. The IGF provides a platform for open multi-stakeholder consultation, and the WSIS forum aligns with various UN processes, emphasising the role of digital transformation in achieving sustainable development goals.

Cedric Vashvalt should continue the discussion on digital policies and transformation as he is seen as an important contributor in this domain.

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The analysis of the discussions reveals several key points from the different speakers. Firstly, the multi-stakeholder model is viewed positively as an effective instrument for internet governance. The speakers acknowledge that the model and the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) have played a vital role in the unprecedented success of the internet.

They highlight the importance of a cooperative approach, as demonstrated by the Internet Governance Forum (IGF), in making effective decisions for the governance of the internet.

Secondly, human rights are seen as crucial to maintaining an open, free, and secure online space.

The EU strongly supports a proactive approach towards human-centric digitalization, emphasizing the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. They advocate for human rights to be the foundation of an open and secure online environment. The EU AI Act is highlighted as a significant step towards placing the impact of AI technologies at the centre of digitalization efforts.

Furthermore, the importance of bridging digital divides and creating a more inclusive digital future is emphasized.

The EU and its member states are committed to deploying digital networks and infrastructures worldwide, focusing on underserved regions, countries, and populations. This commitment aligns with SDG 9, which aims to promote industry, innovation, and infrastructure. The EU’s efforts aim to ensure that everyone has equal access to the benefits of the digital world.

Additionally, the analysis reveals opposition to the centralization of control over the internet.

One speaker explicitly stated their stance against the centralization of control, but no further supporting facts were provided for this argument.

Lastly, strengthening the role of the IGF is seen as crucial in fostering an inclusive, open, and sustainable digital environment.

The EU believes that it is critical for the IGF to evolve into an even more impactful and inclusive model. This aligns with the goal of creating a digital environment that encompasses diverse perspectives and promotes cooperation among stakeholders.

In conclusion, the analysis highlights the significance of the multi-stakeholder model for effective internet governance.

Human rights are deemed essential for an open and secure online space, and the EU is committed to bridging digital divides and creating a more inclusive digital future. Strengthening the role of the IGF is seen as crucial in fostering an inclusive, open, and sustainable digital environment.

Opposition to the centralization of control over the internet is also stated.

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UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, plays a crucial role in addressing digital challenges through the principles of multistakeholderism and cooperation. They co-facilitate action lines, demonstrating their commitment to involving multiple stakeholders in finding effective solutions to digital challenges.

This approach is essential in promoting partnerships and collaborations to achieve sustainable development goals, particularly SDG 17: Partnership for the goals.

Furthermore, UNESCO actively works towards assessing internet environments in about 45 countries. Their approach is based on a rights-based, open, accessible, and multistakeholder approach.

This demonstrates their dedication to ensuring that internet access is not only available but also respects human rights and fosters an inclusive digital society. However, despite UNESCO’s efforts, there have been approximately 1,200 internet shutdowns globally between 2016 and 2023. This highlights the ongoing challenges faced in ensuring universal access to the internet and the need for continued efforts to address these issues.

In addition to addressing connectivity challenges, UNESCO promotes open access to information.

They celebrate Access to Information Day on the 28th of September, emphasizing the importance of transparency and access to information in fostering sustainable development. This commitment aligns with SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions, which emphasizes the importance of promoting accountable and inclusive societies.

Another significant challenge in the digital age is the prevalence of disinformation and misinformation.

UNESCO recognizes this and has developed programs to support the upscaling of civil society organizations and fact-checking mechanisms. This effort aims to enhance media and information literacy, which is crucial in combating the spread of false information. By supporting these initiatives, UNESCO contributes to achieving SDG 16 and building resilient societies.

Moreover, UNESCO implements standard-setting instruments to facilitate open science and ethical considerations regarding artificial intelligence.

They have various standards in place, including recommendations on open science, the ethics of AI, and open educational resources. This commitment to setting global standards promotes the responsible use of technology and ensures that scientific and educational resources are freely available to all.

In conclusion, UNESCO plays a significant role in addressing digital challenges through multistakeholderism, cooperation, and various initiatives.

Despite the persistent challenges, such as internet shutdowns and disinformation, UNESCO’s efforts to assess internet environments, promote open access to information, enhance media literacy, and implement standard-setting instruments demonstrate their commitment to building a more inclusive and sustainable digital society.

Their work aligns with the UN’s sustainable development goals, emphasizing the importance of partnerships, transparency, and ethical considerations in harnessing the potential of digital technologies for the benefit of all.

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According to one speaker, ICT (Information and Communication Technology) is considered an absolute mega trend and plays a crucial role in driving global changes. It is seen as a super mega trend that has a positive impact on various aspects of society.

The speaker highlights the significant role of ICT in shaping industries, innovation, and infrastructure, aligning with SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.

On the other hand, another speaker raises concerns about the urgency of addressing ICT-related issues. They emphasize that the pace of global changes is accelerating, necessitating immediate action.

Undoubtedly, ICT advancements have brought about rapid changes in various domains, such as technology and communication. However, the negative sentiment expressed by this speaker suggests that there are potential challenges and risks associated with these changes. They stress the need to address these issues promptly, emphasizing the importance of SDG 13: Climate Action.

Both speakers agree on the critical role of UN partnerships and multi-stakeholder groups.

They acknowledge that the collaborative efforts of these entities are essential in tackling the complex challenges posed by ICT-related issues. These partnerships and groups provide a platform for various stakeholders to come together, share expertise, and develop effective strategies. The positive sentiment expressed towards these partnerships highlights their significance in addressing not only ICT-related concerns but also broader sustainable development goals.

SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals is particularly relevant in this context.

The analysis reveals that despite the positive outlook towards ICT’s contributions to global changes, there is an underlying sense of urgency and a recognition of potential risks.

It is essential to strike a balance between harnessing the benefits of ICT while mitigating any negative implications. The importance of collaboration, as indicated by the positive sentiment towards UN partnerships and multi-stakeholder groups, further underscores the need for collective action in navigating the challenges presented by ICT advancements.

Overall, the extended summary highlights the key points made by the speakers, explores their arguments and supporting evidence, and emphasizes the significance of UN partnerships and multi-stakeholder groups.

It reflects the contrasting perspectives surrounding ICT as a mega trend and emphasizes the urgency in addressing associated issues.

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The World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) aims to create a people-centred, inclusive, and development-oriented information society. However, this vision remains unfulfilled, as evidenced by the stark disparities in connectivity across different regions and countries. While 95% of the world’s population has access to mobile broadband networks, only 36% of people in Least Developed Countries (LDCs) are connected.

This disparity highlights the existence of a digital divide, where disadvantaged populations are left behind in the global information society.

Furthermore, the digital divide is not only limited to LDCs but also extends to rural areas within developed countries.

Massive rural-urban divides in connectivity exist, creating further barriers to accessing information and participating in the digital economy. This divide has become a serious development issue, as those who lack access to digital technologies struggle to reap the benefits of innovation and technological advancements.

The WSIS process and digital transformation are described as a massive technological revolution of our time.

This transformation poses both opportunities and challenges for individuals, governments, and societies as a whole. Navigating the emerging world of digital technologies can be daunting, as it is largely uncharted territory. While advancements in technology have the potential to drive economic growth and foster innovation, they also bring risks, such as cyber threats and privacy concerns.

Recognising the complexity of the digital sphere, the need for multistakeholder cooperation and a One UN approach is emphasised.

The WSIS highlights the importance of enhancing partnerships and collaboration among different stakeholders, including governments, private sector entities, civil society organisations, and international institutions. It is through this multilateral cooperation that the challenges and opportunities of the digital age can be effectively addressed.

Additionally, data collection is seen as crucial for fact-based reporting and decision-making.

The importance of accurately collecting data through questionnaires is emphasised, as it allows for evidence-based analysis and monitoring progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By capturing and reporting relevant data, policymakers and stakeholders can make informed decisions and take targeted actions to bridge the digital divide and promote an inclusive information society.

In conclusion, the WSIS vision of an inclusive and development-oriented information society remains relevant and unfulfilled.

The digital divide persists, with significant disparities in connectivity between different regions and populations. Navigating the digital transformation brings both opportunities and challenges, necessitating multistakeholder cooperation and a One UN approach. The collection of accurate and comprehensive data is essential for effective decision-making and monitoring progress towards achieving the SDGs.

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The Government of Japan has reiterated its commitment to the multistakeholder approach in internet governance during the International Governance Forum (IGF) held in Kyoto in 2023. This event saw a remarkable registration of over 8,000 participants, indicating widespread interest in global internet governance issues.

Mr. Yasunori Ueno delivered a speech on behalf of Mr. Yoshi Ida, affirming Japan’s dedication to the multistakeholder approach, which involves collaborating with various stakeholders, including governments, civil society, and the private sector, to shape internet policies.

The principle of a people-centred, inclusive, and development-oriented internet society has remained unchanged since 2005.

Despite the immense changes and advancements in the internet landscape over the years, the focus on placing people at the centre of internet policies, ensuring inclusivity, and fostering development, continues to be paramount.

The significance of a free, open, and global internet was emphasised.

It was highlighted that such an internet is vital for socio-economic development, as it provides opportunities for innovation, entrepreneurship, and knowledge-sharing. Additionally, it helps in debunking misinformation by promoting the free flow of accurate and reliable information. It also enhances cybersecurity, ensuring that individuals and organizations can conduct activities online with confidence and trust.

As the G7 presidency, Japan is playing a leading role in discussions on AI governance through the Hiroshima AI process.

This initiative recognizes the importance of establishing principles and guidelines to govern the ethical and responsible use of artificial intelligence, considering its potential impact on various sectors of society.

Japan views the IGF Kyoto as a crucial opportunity, especially in anticipation of the upcoming WSIS plus 20 review in 2025.

The WSIS plus 20 review refers to the United Nations’ World Summit on the Information Society, a series of gatherings since 2003 aimed at bridging the digital divide and harnessing the potential of information and communication technologies for sustainable development. By participating in the IGF Kyoto, Japan seeks to contribute to the discussions and preparations for the WSIS plus 20 review, ensuring that the outcomes align with the goals and principles of the multistakeholder approach and advance partnerships for global development.

In conclusion, the Government of Japan’s reaffirmation of commitment to the multistakeholder approach in internet governance, the enduring principles of a people-centred internet society, the importance of a free and global internet, and its active involvement in AI governance discussions demonstrate Japan’s dedication to promoting inclusive, secure, and responsible internet governance practices.

Through its participation in the IGF Kyoto and its leadership role in the Hiroshima AI process, Japan aims to play a significant role in shaping the future of internet governance and contributing to global partnerships for sustainable development.

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The analysis provides a comprehensive overview of digital cooperation and the challenges posed by the data and AI economies. The first argument highlights that the promise of collective digital potential has not been realised. It notes that algorithms today are largely opaque and indiscernible to the public.

This lack of transparency creates concerns about accountability and the power wielded by AI systems. Furthermore, the analysis suggests that this algorithmic society is also a society of fragmentation, as AI systems often lead to polarisation and echo chambers, hindering the creation of a cohesive and inclusive digital space.

The second argument focuses on the neocolonial dynamics embedded within the data and AI economy.

The analysis points out how trade forums are being misused for discussions on data flows, with potential negative consequences for privacy and data protection. Additionally, it highlights how data for development initiatives are frequently extractive, benefiting powerful global entities at the expense of local communities and economies.

Moreover, the weaponization of intellectual property regimes by big tech companies further exacerbates the imbalance of power, rendering the situation even more concerning.

In response to these challenges, the analysis proposes a four-pronged strategy for digital cooperation. The first prong advocates for initiating a consensus for a global digital human rights constitutionalism.

This would entail establishing a set of principles and standards that safeguard individuals’ rights in the digital sphere, addressing issues such as privacy, freedom of expression, and equitable access to technology.

The second prong focuses on better governance of global data public goods.

The analysis argues for the need to develop robust frameworks and mechanisms that ensure responsible data management, protection, and sharing. This would involve addressing issues of data ownership, control, and fairness to promote more equitable data ecosystems.

The third prong of the proposed strategy calls for the mobilisation of public financing to galvanise digital innovation ecosystems.

The analysis recognises that public investment is vital to foster innovation, particularly in areas where the private sector may not prioritise development due to market limitations or social impact considerations. By channelling public funding strategically, the aim is to nurture digital entrepreneurship and create a conducive environment for sustainable technological advancements.

Finally, the fourth prong suggests the internationalisation of internet governance.

The analysis argues that internet governance should be a collective effort involving multiple stakeholders on a global scale. This would facilitate a more inclusive decision-making process and ensure that diverse perspectives are represented. By internationalising internet governance, the aim is to create a more balanced and democratic digital ecosystem that respects the interests of all nations and individuals.

In conclusion, the analysis highlights the complexity and urgency of addressing the challenges posed by the data and AI economies.

It emphasises the need for greater transparency, accountability, and collaboration in digital cooperation. The proposed four-pronged strategy provides a comprehensive framework to navigate these challenges, with recommendations ranging from the protection of digital human rights to the internationalisation of internet governance.

By implementing such strategies, it is hoped that the potential of the digital era can be harnessed for the benefit of all, fostering innovation, inclusivity, and equitable development.