IGF 2024 WS #248 Rethinking Global Platform Governance

    Organizer 1: Khadijah El-Usman, 🔒Paradigm Initiative

    Speaker 1: Khadijah El-Usman, Civil Society, African Group
    Speaker 2: Sani Suleiman, Civil Society, African Group
    Speaker 3: Thobekile Adebayo , Civil Society, African Group

    Moderator

    Khadijah El-Usman, Civil Society, African Group

    Online Moderator

    Khadijah El-Usman, Civil Society, African Group

    Rapporteur

    Sani Suleiman, Civil Society, African Group

    Format

    Theater
    Duration (minutes): 60
    Format description: The theatre format where there is a panel discussion encourages interactive discussions and facilitates engagement among participants. With a duration of 60 minutes, the session allows sufficient time for in-depth exploration of the topic while ensuring that key points are covered efficiently.

    Policy Question(s)

    1. How can we ensure that online platforms prioritise public values in their rule-making processes? 2. What strategies can be implemented to enhance the enforcement of online speech rules while safeguarding freedom of expression? 3. Should the responsibility for platform rule-making, enforcement, and appeals lie with national or regional regulators such as human rights institutions, or can these platforms develop effective self-governance models? 4. Are models to be explored in platform governance that can especially be adopted in the global south for example the OHADA uniform Act

    What will participants gain from attending this session? Attendees will gain insights into the complexities of regulating online speech and understanding the importance of establishing normative frameworks to protect public values. They will also listen to bold new strategies for enhancing rule-making, enforcement, and adjudication structures in hybrid communication environments.

    Description:

    Recently, The spread of misleading content created by generative AI presents a new and concerning challenge. While content moderation efforts are crucial, they miss a key point: this information needs platforms for amplification to truly have an impact. We've been so focused on content creation that we've neglected the equally important issue of platform governance, particularly the economic incentives that drive the spread of misinformation, even potentially influencing elections.

    There have always been rules in place for human interaction and now In an age where online platforms play a significant role in shaping global conversations,significant challenges exist in defining normative infrastructure for effective rule-making, enforcement, and adjudication in digital communication spaces. Are the initial ideators of platforms equip to define the values of now global platforms? How does one incorporate the diversity of users and make the governance process democratic. Participants will explore how public values can be safeguarded amidst evolving platform norms and algorithmic practices. Although platforms have gained acceptance, there remains a question as to how they can maintain democracy. While social media councils - the bodies in charge of platform advice and adjudication with content moderation policies - exist, there is still room for a lot more improvement.

    This session aims to explore new ideas toward platform governance, It will answer the questions should platform rule making, adjudication and appeals be vested in coun

    Expected Outcomes

    Participants will gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with regulating online speech. They will also identify new strategies for establishing effective normative infrastructure in hybrid communication spaces.The session will allow participants explore out of the

    Hybrid Format: We will create opportunities for interaction and collaboration between in-person and virtual participants through Q&A sessions to foster dialogue and exchange ideas.
    We will work with the organisers of IGF to ensure that there is technical support and assistance to both in-person and remote participants to ensure a smooth and seamless experience. We will test all technology platforms and equipment in advance to address any potential issues.
    We will ensure that remote participants have equal access to information and participation opportunities as in-person attendees through the use of inclusive language, provide closed captioning or interpretation services as needed, and actively encourage virtual participation.