Internet governance in March 2018
Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsIn March 2018, significant digital policy developments included the Cambridge Analytica case putting Facebook under scrutiny, taxation proposals from the European Commission, and safety concerns raised by an autonomous car accident. The month's internet governance briefing covered these events, along with discussions on encryption, digital humanitarian efforts, and other emerging technologies. Regional highlights included Malaysia's laws on fake news, Singapore's considerations, and initiatives in Latin America and the Caribbean for technology against corruption and legislative measures on fake news. Additionally, updates from Africa included legal judgments on freedom of expression and the signing of the African Continental Free Trade Area agreement.
The future of work: preparing for automation and the gig economy
Artificial Intelligence, Data and diplomacy, Data governance, Digital diplomacy, Internet governance and digital policy, Telecommunications infrastructure BlogsThe text discusses the impact of digitalization, automation, and the gig economy on the future of work. It addresses concerns about job automation, the need for legislative adaptations for the gig economy, and employer and employee perceptions of these changes. The message also highlights reports suggesting waves of automation and emphasizes the importance of education, retraining, and workforce protection. Studies show varying perspectives on automation impact, underscoring the necessity for transparent communication from employers. The Global Commission on the Future of Work is mentioned as a platform for exploring related issues.
[WebDebate #20 summary] Strategies for African States in Multilateral Diplomacy
Diplomatic theory and practice BlogsAfrican states must enhance their multilateral diplomacy by being critical, strategic, and flexible in forming alliances. They need to be well-prepared for negotiations and work together to maximize their resources. African diplomats should also recognize the complexities of multilateralism and the need to bridge capacity gaps to defend their interests effectively. The Ezulwini Consensus on Security Council reform should be revisited for flexibility. Capacity building through regional diplomatic academies and united messaging is crucial for the future of African diplomacy.
US Cloud Act: implications and reactions
Cloud Computing, Internet governance and digital policy, Privacy and data protection BlogsThe US Cloud Act proposes new rules for cross-border data access, impacting authorities, tech companies, and individuals. The Act aims to improve law enforcement access to data globally but has faced mixed reactions. While tech companies support it, human rights groups like the Electronic Frontier Foundation oppose it. The Act could lead to conflicts with current legal frameworks, like the GDPR. The Act's implications are underscored by the Microsoft Ireland case. It reflects the evolving nature of privacy and data regulation internationally, highlighting the complexities of governing data in the digital age.
When trade meets security: the potential dangers of military rhetoric in trade talks
Cybersecurity, E-commerce and trade, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsRising protectionism challenges liberal trade; Trump's steel tariffs invoke national security justification, potentially destabilizing global trade system. Linking trade with security risks securitization, weakening norms-based trading, and fostering power-based approaches. Cybersecurity also intertwines with trade, impacting e-commerce growth and national regulations. Caution urged in associating trade with security to prevent zero-sum games and maintain stability.
State behaviour in cyberspace: moving away from a military discourse
Cybercrime, Diplomatic theory and practice, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsMicrosoft has proposed a Digital Geneva Convention to establish rules governing behavior in cyberspace during peacetime. The Convention's focus on tech companies as first responders is distinct from armed conflicts, requiring a new system for cybersecurity regulation separate from existing legal regimes. The proposal's call to move away from a military discourse aims to address the unique challenges of state-led cyber operations. Framing cybersecurity within a military context presents difficulties, as principles like distinction may not apply outside of armed conflict. The need to update regulations for cyberspace acknowledges the evolving nature of technology and the inadequacy of current international laws.
State behaviour in cyberspace: a new challenge for the international community
Diplomatic theory and practice, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsStates are increasingly involved in cyber activities, yet discussions on regulating their behavior in cyberspace lack momentum. Microsoft's proposal for a Digital Geneva Convention was a step towards governance, but states have been hesitant to commit to binding rules. Despite established norms and rules, states exhibit non-responsible behavior in cyberspace with no accountability. Case studies demonstrate gaps in the legal framework, highlighting the need for clearer rules. A proposed way forward includes enhanced cooperation between states and the private sector, potentially through a Tech Accord. The international community's response to cyber incidents remains lacking, emphasizing the need for more responsible state behavior in cyberspace.
Multistakeholderism and Internet governance in Cameroon
Alumni Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy, Multistakeholder diplomacy BlogsThe text discusses the importance of multistakeholderism and Internet governance in Cameroon. It emphasizes the need for institutional coordination to achieve successful outcomes. Cameroon participates in relevant fora and has taken steps to enhance its national cybersecurity framework. The message highlights the importance of integrating a multistakeholder model in Cameroon's existing policies to optimize outcomes. Recommendations include the creation of a national multistakeholder steering committee to promote cohesion and trust among different stakeholders involved in Internet governance. Capacity building and awareness at the highest levels are also deemed crucial for the country's evolving digital landscape.
[WebDebate #19 summary] What is the potential of big data for diplomacy?
Data and diplomacy, Data governance, Diplomatic theory and practice BlogsThe text discusses the potential of big data for diplomacy, focusing on how data is generated, its use in foreign affairs, and the need for adapting diplomacy to the Big Data Era. It highlights the challenges and opportunities of using big data in diplomacy, the importance of capacity building, and the benefits it can bring to information gathering, communication, service delivery, and accountability. The report suggests establishing data units combining diplomats and data scientists, emphasizing the need for awareness and skills in utilizing big data effectively for diplomatic purposes.
Internet governance in January 2018
Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsInternet governance in January 2018 saw increased scrutiny on internet companies' behavior, governments pressuring companies to remove illegal content, and plans for new legal measures against fake news. Key events and trends were covered in briefings and updates throughout the month, including taxation concerns for internet companies and predictions for the digital policy year ahead. Regional perspectives were also highlighted, with updates from Africa, the Caribbean, Asia, and the Middle East and North Africa regions provided. Next Internet governance briefing was scheduled for 27 February, with various issues discussed interactively.
