IGF 2024 Day 0 Event #166 Review of IGF2023 Kyoto and road for WSIS+20

At the beginning of the session, as an introduction, Mr. Yoichi Iida, Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, Japan provided a retrospective overview of the IGF held in Kyoto in 2023. Following this, the panelists engaged in a discussion on the achievements and challenges of past IGFs, as well as the progress in promoting an open, global, interoperable, and trustworthy internet.

【Question 1】

The panelists were asked to comment on the main achievements of the IGF for various stakeholders since its establishment and the challenges in internet governance.

• Ms. Melanie Kaplan from the U.S. Department of State stated the following:
  • One of the challenges many stakeholders face in internet governance is the increasingly expansive international landscape addressing these issues.
  • We believe this is a critical time for the IGF, with the overall review of WSIS+20 underway and the adoption of the GDC.
  • We strongly support efforts to encourage the participation of stakeholders, particularly from developing countries, and to amplify their voices. Additionally, we firmly advocate for the continuation of the IGF in the WSIS+20 review process.
• Ms. Timea Suto, International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) stated the following:
  • One of the key achievements of the IGF is its role as a platform that facilitates inclusive discussions among diverse stakeholders. It has established itself as a premier venue for open and constructive dialogues on the internet and its governance, as well as on the various technologies enabled by the internet.
  • A significant contribution to the business community from this initiative is the heightened global awareness of digital issues. Whether it concerns digital access, digital inclusion, cybersecurity, or emerging technologies, the fact that these issues are actively discussed and that a common understanding and cooperation among all stakeholders are promoted is profoundly meaningful. Additionally, outcomes from activities outside of IGF meetings, such as best practice frameworks and dynamic coalitions, should be highlighted. While these outcomes are not binding, they provide valuable insights and practical guidance, which can sometimes be highly beneficial to both policymakers and businesses.
    • Lastly, we must not overlook the network of national and regional connections that has been built over nearly 20 years. This network allows global discussions to be translated into local practices, bridging the gap between the two.
• Ms. Gitanjali Sah, Strategy and Policy Coordinator, ITU stated the following:
  • Addressing the digital divide is a fundamental issue that needs to be tackled. Although the ITU has made significant efforts over the years, disparities in access and connectivity persist despite global progress, and these gaps are rapidly widening. The first step in technological advancement is bridging the connectivity gap. When viewed as data gaps or AI gaps, these issues are, in fact, deepening and expanding. We must address this problem and work together within both multilateral and multi-stakeholder frameworks.
  • Furthermore, the actions taken by some countries in response to the current crisis of multilateralism are viewed as challenges. We are now facing a situation where reaching consensus has become extremely difficult, and trust in global dialogue is exceedingly hard to maintain. A stakeholder-driven approach can play a key role in rebuilding trust, restoring faith in the multilateral system, and fostering trust among various communities.
  • Regarding the implementation of the GDC, it is necessary to bring the elements of the IGF to the forefront. Moreover, to restore trust in global cooperation and multilateral consultations, the cultural energy of the GDC must be infused into the IGF. Despite numerous challenges facing the IGF, such as its secretariat and unstable funding, we must continue to advance its initiatives.
• Ms. Yuliya Morenets, Founder of the Youth IGF stated the following:
  • The IGF has recognized young people as not only the future users of the internet but also as innovators. This is a very important aspect. To ensure that the voices of young people are reflected, a dedicated platform for the Youth Track was created. The primary achievement of this idea lies in the very recognition and presence of the community of young people and future leaders.
  • It all began in 2011 when the first conference for teenagers was held. We called it the "Teenager Conference," and it gradually gained traction, suddenly booming in 2016. Moving forward, it is essential for young people to continue participating in and leading discussions on internet governance and the IGF.

【Question 2】

Panelists were asked to comment on how they are working to promote an open, global, interoperable, and trustworthy internet.

• Ms. Timea Suto, International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) stated the following:
  • The ICC is a global business organization representing approximately 45 million businesses of all sizes, operating in 170 countries worldwide. It strives to understand and collect insights from businesses around the world, discussing and evaluating the most critical internet-related and policy issues.
  • A resilient internet is essential for economic growth, innovation, and social progress. We are committed to doing our part by investing in initiatives that drive business forward. We believe the internet must remain a seamless and inclusive platform for digital participation and quality education.
  • Specifically, we are promoting a framework that focuses on expanding connectivity across all experiences, starting with infrastructure, applications, services, and the skills needed by those who want to connect to the internet. For instance, in the realm of cybersecurity, while we recognize that the private sector has a significant role to play in strengthening the internet ecosystem, relying solely on the private sector's defense capabilities is insufficient. Governments must also protect their citizens and businesses through digital analytics and cyber activities.
  • We prioritize promoting trusted cross-border data flows, which we see as fundamental to addressing infrastructural and operational risks and supporting businesses effectively.
• Ms. Melanie Kaplan from the U.S. Department of State stated the following:
  • We are promoting an open, interoperable, and trustworthy internet. We believe that a multi-stakeholder approach is essential for managing the internet as a global platform for innovation. To support the multi-stakeholder system, we have undertaken various initiatives and aim to encourage the participation of diverse stakeholders in processes and discussions addressing public policy issues related to the internet.
  • Another key initiative in which the U.S. government has been deeply involved is the "Declaration for the Future of the Internet." This declaration, signed by over 60 parties, envisions the internet as an open, free, interoperable, trustworthy, and secure global resource. While we support a global multi-stakeholder approach to internet governance, we are also providing technical assistance, supporting inclusive implementation, and building capacity to achieve a human-centric, sustainable internet.
  • We believe it is essential for all stakeholders to actively and meaningfully participate in our policy-making discussions. Promoting transparency and accountability, as well as strengthening implementation, is crucial. We view the multi-stakeholder model as the best way to interpret, intervene, and support all aspects of the internet ecosystem.
• Ms. Yuliya Morenets, Founder of the Youth IGF stated the following:
  • Young people are one of the most remarkable groups for advancing internet governance, and the mere fact of their participation is already a significant step forward. It is also necessary for their voices to influence pipeline solutions and policy development. We must provide them with ample opportunities to drive these initiatives. Strong engagement in the digital collaboration process and the field of internet governance is something we must truly work on together.
  • First, we need to develop the capacity and capabilities required for an open, sustainable, and trustworthy internet. Priorities include enhancing online safety, improving cybersecurity skills, and fostering digital collaboration. To achieve these goals, it is essential for everyone to work together to empower young people in various regions worldwide and develop frameworks for effective implementation.

Question from the audience ①:

What more can we do to advance internet governance, and how can we better support the IGF? Specifically, what role should we play in its implementation as we approach WSIS+20?

• The panelists provided the following comments:
  • As a first step in the WSIS+20 review, it is essential to ensure that all IGF mandates are firmly secured. Furthermore, we need to ensure that the IGF’s role is recognized not only in internet governance but also in addressing a wide range of issues, from connectivity to other substantive matters. While the IGF faces some institutional challenges, such as understaffing, lack of funding, and uncertainties about the future, more effort can be made to stabilize the IGF and support its operations and potential at the administrative level. During WSIS+20 discussions, we could explore ways to integrate the IGF into a more stable foundation within the UN system.
  • We all intend to work diligently to ensure the extension of the IGF mandate during the overall WSIS+20 review process. While the IGF is truly remarkable, there is always room for improvement to make it more inclusive and participatory. We are also aware of ongoing discussions among stakeholders regarding funding issues, and we expect further dialogue on this topic in the future.
  • Many emphasized the importance of youth participation and their role as a vital part of this model. I strongly urge various stakeholders in government and the public sector to ensure consistent and stable support and resources for the youth community. Young people need the right to exist and develop within this model, and perhaps what we should focus on together is strengthening the structures necessary for them. Strengthening the capabilities of the older models of governance can also stabilize the system and the model itself.

Question from the audience ②:

What are your thoughts on the role of multi-stakeholder engagement in the GDC review process beyond 2025?

• The panelists provided the following comments:
  • It is crucial to emphasize a process that is highly inclusive and transparent, encouraging stakeholder participation in a way that feels meaningful to them. There are valuable lessons to be learned from the GDC process. I believe there is much to consider as we explore ways to make the process as participatory as possible.

Finally, Mr. Yoichi Iida, Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, Japan provided a summary.

• To promote an open and free internet, we need more infrastructure, more skills, enhanced cybersecurity, greater capabilities, and other portable resources. Greater collaboration is also necessary between different communities and across nations. IGF as a platform to share ideas for the future is essential. I hope everyone has gained valuable insights from today’s discussion.