IGF 2022 WS #467 CyberPeace Corps: a movement to crowdsource CyberPeace

Description:

Cyberspace, once predominantly associated with the concept of increased connectivity, innovation, and development, has now become almost synonymous with insecurity, vulnerability, and risk. Instances of cybercrime, cyberattack, and cyber espionage, have become increasingly common globally, especially since the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic. This shift can be partially attributed to the proliferation of ICT technologies globally, including in areas with negligible cyberspace regulations or laws; the increased integration of OT and IoT surfaces in nearly every aspect of life; inexpensive and readily available resources that can be used to conduct cyberattacks; and the continued absence of binding cybersecurity regulations. These factors, coupled with the 'militarization' of cyberspace by governments and non-state actors, and emerging technologies, have made it clear that cyberspace will continue to remain contentious in the years to come. Given this context, the need for a global cyberpeace corps is imminent to be able to establish cyber peace, reduce cyber insecurity, and build an open, free, and secure digital future for every global citizen.

The CyberPeace Foundation has established a volunteer-driven CyberPeace Corps consisting of digital citizens, academia, members of civil society, subject-matter experts, and organizations, all of whom volunteer their time, interests, and skills to establish peace in cyberspace. With 1,200 volunteers across forty countries, the CyberPeace Corps has successfully leveraged diverse skills, interests, and perspectives to enhance collective technical capacities to mitigate threats to cyber peace. The Corps' success can be attributed to its four-pronged approach to peace in cyberspace: Inclusion & Outreach, Innovation & Outreach, Collaboration & Connection, and Policy & Advocacy. The fact that this approach is actualized through both formal and informal methods of engagement makes it further inclusive, accessible, and effective. These include engagement on social media platforms, webinars, workshops, street theater performances, and meetings with high-level officials [domestic and international].

The work done by the CyberPeace Corps perfectly aligns with the IGF theme: Enabling Safety, Security and Accountability, since CyberPeace Corps volunteers educate and train the participating population on safety and security in cyberspace. Past initiatives have included sessions on device security, web browser security, privacy, and individual responsible behavior in cyberspace. CyberPeace Corps also conducted an anti-disinformation campaign on social media platforms, focusing on tackling fake news related to the COVID-19 vaccination drive in India. Through such nationwide initiatives, the CyberPeace Foundation's CyberPeace Corps has begun the fight against disinformation to strengthen safety, security, and accountability in cyberspace.