IGF 2024 WS #154 Data and AI Policy for Protecting Science on the Internet

    Organizer 1: Francis P. Crawley, International Science Council (ISC), Committee on Data (CODATA), International Data Policy Committee (IDPC)

    Speaker 1: Francis P. Crawley, Technical Community, Western European and Others Group (WEOG)
    Speaker 2: Perihan Elif Ekmekci, Civil Society, Western European and Others Group (WEOG)
    Speaker 3: Vivi Stavrou, Civil Society, Western European and Others Group (WEOG)
    Speaker 4: Lili Zhang, Government, Asia-Pacific Group
    Speaker 5: Nidhi Nagabhatla, Intergovernmental Organization, Intergovernmental Organization

    Moderator

    Francis P. Crawley, Technical Community, Western European and Others Group (WEOG)

    Online Moderator

    Perihan Elif Ekmekci, Civil Society, Western European and Others Group (WEOG)

    Rapporteur

    Perihan Elif Ekmekci, Civil Society, Western European and Others Group (WEOG)

    Format

    Roundtable
    Duration (minutes): 90
    Format description: A roundtable room layout is most appropriate for this IGF MAG session on 'Data and AI Policy for Protecting Science on the Internet' because it fosters an environment of equality, collaboration, and open dialogue among participants. This setup encourages each attendee to participate actively, making it ideal for in-depth discussions and policy deliberations where multiple perspectives are crucial. The duration of 90 minutes is optimal as it provides ample time to delve into complex issues without causing fatigue. This length allows for a thorough exploration of topics, sufficient time for all voices to be heard, and the development of actionable insights, making it conducive to achieving a productive and meaningful exchange.

    Policy Question(s)

    1. How can international Internet policy frameworks be designed to ensure equitable access to AI technologies and scientific data, particularly in less developed regions, while maintaining data privacy and security?
    2. What ethical guidelines and accountability mechanisms should be established to govern the development and application of AI on the Internet use for developing or reporting scientific research to prevent biases and ensure transparency?
    3. In what ways can policymakers, academia, and the private sector collaborate to develop resilient Internet infrastructures that support continuous and open sharing of scientific data during crises?

    What will participants gain from attending this session? Participants attending workshop can expect to gain a comprehensive understanding of the current landscape and future potential of data and AI in supporting and safeguarding scientific endeavors online. They will explore ethical, legal, and technological challenges associated with data and AI, sharing insights on creating resilient infrastructures and effective policy frameworks that foster open science and international cooperation in the Internet ecosystem. The session will also provide valuable networking opportunities, enabling attendees to engage on topics that include the impact of 5G and 6G for science, the focus on privacy and security, the potential for science of the Internet of Things (IoT), and the optimal use of big data and analytics. Participants will contribute to actionable strategies that ensure the ethical use of AI and data, promoting inclusive and equitable Internet access to scientific research and technology, thereby aligning with global development goals and advancing international online scientific cooperation.

    Description:

    This workshop will bring together a diverse group of stakeholders including experts, policymakers, academics, and members of civil society to address the development and enforcement of robust data and AI policies that ensure the protection and facilitation of scientific activities online, including in crisis situations threatening the realization of the SDGs. This initiative directly supports UN SDGs, including SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), with a focus on enhancing scientific research capabilities and fostering international cooperation in technology and innovation.
    Echoing concerns from the International Science Council's 2024 report on ‘Protecting Science in Times of Crisis’, this workshop will delve into the challenges and opportunities in safeguarding scientific data integrity, accessibility, and transparency on the Internet during crises. The workshop will address the necessity of resilient Internet infrastructures and ethical frameworks that can withstand socio-political fluctuations and support open science, particularly in times of crisis.
    The discussion will focus on the role of the global scientific community in ensuring that there is a systematic approach and collaborative strategies for the development of the Internet to support science and scientists, particularly in addressing crises that affect the realization of the SDGs.
    Key topics will include the ethical implications of AI in research, strategies to combat misinformation, and the role of AI in enhancing the resilience of scientific infrastructures. Special emphasis will be placed on SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 5 (Gender Equality) to integrate educational strategies and gender perspectives into the policy-making process, ensuring equitable access to scientific information and technology.
    The workshop aims to generate actionable recommendations for a global policy framework promoting the sustainability of scientific endeavors on the Internet, contributing to a resilient, inclusive, and equitable global scientific community.

    Expected Outcomes

    The workshop is expected to produce several key outcomes, including a comprehensive set of policy recommendations aimed at enhancing data integrity and AI application in the use of the Internet for scientific research and science communication. These recommendations will be compiled into a white paper, which will be distributed among international policymakers, academic institutions, and industry stakeholders to guide future data and AI governance in online scientific contexts. Additionally, the workshop is anticipated to lay the groundwork for a series of follow-up events, including regional seminars and subsequent webinars, to continue the dialogue among the participants’ networks and refine strategies as technologies evolve and the Internet develops. These activities are designed to foster ongoing collaboration and ensure the integration of workshop insights into broader policy frameworks and international standards for online data ethics and AI.

    Hybrid Format: ISC CODATA has extensive experience in developing hybrid events at the international level that ensures smooth facilitation between onsite and online speakers and attendees. This session is designed such that the moderator and first speaker will be onsite. Other speakers may join onsite as well. We will ensure an onsite facilitator designated to interacting with the online participants and maintaining communication with the moderator and onsite speakers to ensure balanced and equal inclusion between onsite and online participants. We will also consider incorporating tools like Slido for live polling, chat functions, Miro for collaborative brainstorming, and the dedicated Whova platform to ensure seamless discussions and interactions. We will also develop an agenda with pre-arranged questions during an open discussion period open to all participants.