IGF 2023 Open Forum #46 IGF to GDC- An Equitable Framework for Developing Countries

While the IGF remains a valuable forum for fostering dialogue, sharing best practices, and raising awareness about internet governance issues, using a multistakeholder approach, power imbalances exist. There are power imbalances among the participating stakeholders which can undermine the inclusivity and effectiveness of the discussions. Developing countries and marginalized communities may have limited resources and representation compared to governments and powerful corporations, which can lead to unequal decision-making processes. The IGF has provided a useful framework for global discussions around internet governance. The session will present and discuss multiple challenges being faced by developing countries within the current global operational framework, offering a unique Caribbean perspective. Topics that will be discussed include the challenges with the monetisation of local content and the impact of the digital economy; OTTs and the impact on investment in regional telecom industry; content regulation, community standards and AI; and the evolving cybersecurity threat landscape of developing countries.

1. Interaction between onsite and online speakers and attendees will be facilitated via an online moderator that will flag questions, comments and other actions of online participants to the onsite moderator 2. A co-moderator role will be created, one online and one on site. The discussion will be framed by both co-moderators. 3. The determination of additional online tools / platforms needed will be made after an assessment of the tools that are being provided by UN IGF (cloud based video conferencing platform that allows interaction discussions and messages)