Session
Organizer 1: Kenneth Harry Msiska, Forus International
Organizer 2: Stephanie Borg Psaila, 🔒DiploFoundation
Speaker 1: Marie L’Hostis, Civil Society, Western European and Others Group (WEOG)
Speaker 2: Grace Githaiga, Civil Society, African Group
Speaker 3: Mohamad Najem, Civil Society, Asia-Pacific Group
|
Name |
Role |
In-person/Online |
|
Rosemary Koech-Kimwatu - KICTANet |
Speaker |
In-person |
|
Stephanie Borg Psaila – Diplo Foundation |
Speaker |
In-person |
|
Kenneth Harry Msiska - Forus |
Moderator |
In-person |
|
Bibbi Abruzzini - Forus |
Online Moderator |
Online |
|
Patricia - CIPESA |
Rapporteur |
In-person |
Stephanie Borg Psaila, Civil Society, Western European and Others Group (WEOG)
Kenneth Harry Msiska, Civil Society, African Group
Stephanie Borg Psaila, Civil Society, Western European and Others Group (WEOG)
Roundtable
Duration (minutes): 60
Format description: The roundtable layout is ideal for this workshop as it promotes open dialogue and equality among participants, facilitating a collaborative environment where each participant, whether representing civil society, government, or other stakeholders, can contribute equally to the conversation. This setup supports the workshop's aim of fostering deep discussions on enhancing the role of CSOs in digital policy, allowing for the sharing of diverse perspectives and best practices. A 60-minute duration provides sufficient time to present the research findings, discuss the challenges CSOs face, and explore actionable recommendations without overwhelming participants. This timeframe strikes a balance between depth and efficiency, ensuring that discussions remain focused and productive, and allows for an engaging exchange of ideas that respects participants' time commitments at the forum.
How can CSOs overcome existing barriers to influence global internet governance policies more effectively? What strategies can be implemented to ensure more substantial participation of CSOs from the Global South in IG policy-making? In what ways can governments and international organisations modify their engagement strategies to facilitate more robust contributions from CSOs in the shaping of digital governance?
What will participants gain from attending this session? Participants will leave the workshop equipped with: A robust set of guidelines and strategies to bolster CSO advocacy and policy engagement. Recommendations for governments and international bodies to support more inclusive and effective governance processes. Enhanced understanding of the crucial role of CSOs in shaping the landscape of internet governance and increasing the efficacy of multistakeholder forums. This workshop also aims to refine the capabilities of CSOs, enabling them to fine-tune their contributions and thereby heighten their impact on global digital policy discussions.
Description:
The engagement of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) is vital for inclusive and accountable digital policy processes. CSOs not only represent diverse stakeholder interests, including those of marginalised communities, but also bring crucial insights that foster transparency and uphold fundamental rights within digital policy-making. However, despite their importance, CSOs encounter significant barriers such as restricted access to important policy discussions, challenges in navigating complex IG environments, and underrepresentation, especially from the Global South. During this workshop, we will present research findings from a key study conducted under the Civil Society Alliances for Digital Empowerment (CADE) project, funded by the European Union, on the capacity of CSOs to influence digital policy, with a focus on emerging technologies. Our discussion will focus on bridging the current gap between CSO engagement and their potential for profound influence in the IG arena. We will explore robust strategies for enhancing CSO influence in policy-making, and share actionable recommendations for governments and other stakeholders to better integrate CSOs into the IG process. Participants will also engage with innovative approaches and best practices that have demonstrated concrete impacts in strengthening the role of civil society in shaping effective digital governance frameworks. This workshop not only provides CSOs with the tools and insights needed for greater advocacy efficacy but also fosters a collaborative dialogue among all stakeholders, striving for a governance model that truly reflects the needs and rights of all internet users.
Enhanced Understanding: Participants will gain insights into the current challenges and opportunities for CSOs in influencing digital policy processes. Practical Strategies: Discussion based on a set of practical strategies that CSOs can implement immediately to improve their advocacy efforts. Actionable Recommendations: Delivery of concise recommendations for governments and other stakeholders to improve the inclusivity of CSOs in policy discussions.
Hybrid Format: To facilitate seamless interaction between onsite and online participants, our session will utilise a dual-moderation system: one moderator onsite and one online. This approach ensures all questions and contributions are equally addressed. We will supplement video conferencing by interactive tools for real-time polling and Q&A sessions, and provide dedicated time slots for online participants to share insights. This will enable direct engagement from all participants, regardless of their location.