IGF 2023 Town Hall #74 Internet fragmentation and the UN Global Digital Compact

The purpose of this town hall is to identify how the technical community can best represent itself in the UN Global Digital Compact process, on the topic of avoiding technical fragmentation. While inputs to the process have been open to all, the process is fundamentally intergovernmental. The UN released an issues paper on the topic in September, in advance of negotiations that will take place at the end of 2023. During the town hall we will present the relevant background to the UN Global Digital Compact and develop ideas to present the multi-stakeholder model for Internet governance and how it should be promoted as the best means to avoid technical fragmentation.

1. Clearly outlined agenda: Begin with what is GDC. Followed by an historical perspective of the role of technical community in Internet governance processes. Open sections for discussions. 2. Interactive content: We will include interactive polls, to encourage participation and gather feedback. 3. Engage with chat and Q&A features: We will address questions, comments, or concerns in real-time. 4. Foster collaboration: We will utilize smaller discussion groups to facilitate collaboration among participants. 5. Utilize social media: We will use social media platforms to extend engagement beyond the remote session itself.