The need for informed Internet governance discussions

No single global entity regulates the Internet. Digital policies are in constant flux as the spread of technology and culture have repercussions around the world. The EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) has caused the rest of the world to re-strategise privacy protections. The USA’s private sector-dominated network neutrality (NN) regulations affect cross-border services – for example, Canada requires that NN be respected by US services provided in Canada. Deadly consequences of the spread of extremist views online sow physical terror around the world.

With advances in the Internet of Things, artificial intelligence, and financial technologies (Fintech), the pace of technological development is not about to slow down. The increasing need for digital policy and regulation in these and other areas such as (mis)information, security, and the global economy make a clear understanding of the underpinnings of the Internet more important than ever before. Complexities for content management and the increasingly permeable border between online and offline experiences change the character of policy needs and require improved cooperation between different stakeholders.

More of us, thus, must acquire the knowledge we need to be involved in substantial discussion of Internet governance issues and the search for solutions.

Digital policy and capacity development

Constant change in technology requires an increasing body of knowledgeable, well-prepared, and updated experts and policymakers in this multifaceted field. These experts will analyse and inform the efforts to address critical policy issues such as appropriate management of fake news and hate speech, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence. This work takes place on local, regional, and global levels, and requires insightful examination of the issues to build pathways to digital cooperation.

Based on decades of continuous research in contemporary diplomacy and digital policy, and rich experience in online learning, DiploFoundation has developed a specialised executive programme that delivers a solid foundation in practical diplomatic knowledge to current and future Internet/digital policymakers. The Advanced Diploma in Internet governance (ADIG) provides an advanced level of knowledge of current affairs in digital policy and Internet governance necessary to engage effectively in international global policy processes.

Expert lecturers guide in-depth discussions among the participants of these online courses offered within the ADIG programme:

• Artificial Intelligence: Technology, Governance, and Policy Frameworks

• Introduction to Internet Governance

• E-Diplomacy

•  Internet Technology and Policy: Challenges and Solutions

•  Cybersecurity 

Professionals who have completed the programme described it as ‘one of the most insightful, dynamic and most interactive’ (Mustafa Yaasin Sheik, Somalia) and as ‘an excellent program for those who wish to understand and help shape the ever-expanding online world’ (Ryan Gener, Philippines). Another participant commented that ‘the programme challenges your ideas and broadens your perspectives on how the Internet is really governed’ (Gregory Mounier, France).

Applications for the Advanced Diploma in Internet governance are open throughout the year, with the next course cycle starting in February 2020.