Session
Subtheme
Organizer 1: Technical Community, Eastern European Group
Organizer 2: Private Sector, Western European and Others Group (WEOG)
Organizer 3: Civil Society, Eastern European Group
Organizer 2: Private Sector, Western European and Others Group (WEOG)
Organizer 3: Civil Society, Eastern European Group
Speaker 1: Sultangereyeva Aigerim, Technical Community, Asia-Pacific Group
Speaker 2: Panin Lev, Intergovernmental Organization, Intergovernmental Organization
Speaker 3: David Otujor Okpatuma, Intergovernmental Organization, African Group
Speaker 4: Nicole McNeil-Zelinska, Technical Community, Western European and Others Group (WEOG)
Speaker 5: Pranav Bhaskar Tiwari, Civil Society, Asia-Pacific Group
Speaker 2: Panin Lev, Intergovernmental Organization, Intergovernmental Organization
Speaker 3: David Otujor Okpatuma, Intergovernmental Organization, African Group
Speaker 4: Nicole McNeil-Zelinska, Technical Community, Western European and Others Group (WEOG)
Speaker 5: Pranav Bhaskar Tiwari, Civil Society, Asia-Pacific Group
Format
Roundtable
Duration (minutes): 60
Format description: The chosen layout and 60-minute duration are suited for this sort of activity for several reasons. At first unlike the Classroom or Theater formats the Roundtable layout encourages a less formal debate, it brings everyone into the same conversational space, the onsite audience feels itself less in the role of listener but as a part of the activity. Moreover that way speakers can clearly see each other and exchange ideas and opinions in a free flowing conversation. A 60-minute duration allows for more time to cover broad areas without overwhelming both speakers and participants. And exactly half of the time will be provided for the Q&A session between participants and speakers.
Duration (minutes): 60
Format description: The chosen layout and 60-minute duration are suited for this sort of activity for several reasons. At first unlike the Classroom or Theater formats the Roundtable layout encourages a less formal debate, it brings everyone into the same conversational space, the onsite audience feels itself less in the role of listener but as a part of the activity. Moreover that way speakers can clearly see each other and exchange ideas and opinions in a free flowing conversation. A 60-minute duration allows for more time to cover broad areas without overwhelming both speakers and participants. And exactly half of the time will be provided for the Q&A session between participants and speakers.
Policy Question(s)
How can BRICS nations harmoniыe their diverse regulatory environments to create a unified front on digital sovereignty and data localisation, while addressing the needs of the Global South?
In what ways can BRICS state-centric approach to Internet governance coexist or integrate with existing multistakeholder models to ensure inclusivity and accountability in global digital policy-making?
What mechanisms can civil society and academia employ to ensure transparency and accountability within BRICS state-driven frameworks for Internet governance?
What will participants gain from attending this session? As the organisers we aim to facilitate a dynamic and insightful session that will leave a lasting impact on participants. This workshop will serve as a platform for stakeholders from BRICS nations and beyond to engage in dialogue and share diverse perspectives on Internet governance and digital sovereignty.
Attendees can expect to gain a deeper understanding of the geopolitical dynamics shaping global Internet governance, as well as the challenges and opportunities faced by the Global South. The interactive format will encourage post-workshop discussions and foster connections among participants with varied backgrounds and expertise.
SDGs
Description:
As geopolitical interests increasingly divide the real world, similar divisions are emerging in the digital one. New alliances and approaches to digital governance are being formed, with the BRICS association leading the charge for a fresh perspective on global Internet governance. Unlike traditional models, such as the multistakeholder approach advocated by the IGF, which emphasize collaboration among governments, civil society, and the private sector, BRICS promotes a state-centric agenda. This agenda prioritises digital sovereignty, data localisation, and equitable access, addressing the unique challenges and opportunities of the digital age. This raises important questions: Can BRICS create a unified strategy to challenge Western tech dominance while addressing the needs of the Global South? And how will their vision align with existing Internet governance structures? The rise of BRICS coincides with growing skepticism of multistakeholder models, as states tighten control over digital ecosystems. BRICS aims for technological sovereignty, giving nations control over digital infrastructure, data flows, and cybersecurity. This approach promises developing economies greater autonomy and helps bridge the digital divide. Critics worry that BRICS focus on state authority could fragment the Internet, while proponents see it as a way to democratize governance. How can BRICS balance intergovernmental cooperation with the IGF's inclusive ethos? What role can civil society and academia play in ensuring accountability? The workshop will explore these tensions, examining whether BRICS can develop hybrid models that balance national priorities with global interoperability.
As geopolitical interests increasingly divide the real world, similar divisions are emerging in the digital one. New alliances and approaches to digital governance are being formed, with the BRICS association leading the charge for a fresh perspective on global Internet governance. Unlike traditional models, such as the multistakeholder approach advocated by the IGF, which emphasize collaboration among governments, civil society, and the private sector, BRICS promotes a state-centric agenda. This agenda prioritises digital sovereignty, data localisation, and equitable access, addressing the unique challenges and opportunities of the digital age. This raises important questions: Can BRICS create a unified strategy to challenge Western tech dominance while addressing the needs of the Global South? And how will their vision align with existing Internet governance structures? The rise of BRICS coincides with growing skepticism of multistakeholder models, as states tighten control over digital ecosystems. BRICS aims for technological sovereignty, giving nations control over digital infrastructure, data flows, and cybersecurity. This approach promises developing economies greater autonomy and helps bridge the digital divide. Critics worry that BRICS focus on state authority could fragment the Internet, while proponents see it as a way to democratize governance. How can BRICS balance intergovernmental cooperation with the IGF's inclusive ethos? What role can civil society and academia play in ensuring accountability? The workshop will explore these tensions, examining whether BRICS can develop hybrid models that balance national priorities with global interoperability.
Expected Outcomes
Following the workshop, organisers intend to conduct interviews with speakers and active participants to capture their perspectives on the future of digital governance and the role of BRICS in IG. These interviews will be compiled into a video that will be uploaded to YouTube, making the discussions accessible to a broader audience.
Press release will also be drafted and promoted on the websites and social media of the organisers to highlight the key outcomes and recommendations from the session. This will ensure that the insights gained do not go unnoticed and will help amplify the session's impact within the broader Internet governance community.
Hybrid Format: The moderator will actively facilitate the conversation, ensuring that all speakers and participants have the opportunity to contribute during the Q&A session, regardless of whether they are participating in person or remotely. The online moderator will mirror these efforts, managing the participation of virtual speakers and encouraging online attendees to engage in the discussion and keep the virtual chat active.
Both moderators will work in tandem to ensure a seamless and effective dialogue among participants, utilizing instant messaging platforms to relay audience comments and questions. This collaborative moderation approach will cultivate a unified and productive environment, thereby elevating the quality of the discussion and fostering meaningful interactions among all attendees.