The Quiet Rapprochement of Internet Governance and Trade Policy
E-commerce and trade, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsThe impressive growth of Internet traffic has highlighted the need for legal frameworks to facilitate trade and enhance economic growth through Internet access. Efforts are being made to harmonize regulatory environments and develop shared rules to promote electronic trade. There is a push towards incorporating Internet governance issues into trade agreements, but challenges remain regarding transparency and inclusivity in decision-making processes. The integration of procedural principles from Internet governance mechanisms into trade negotiations is seen as essential to ensure a credible and effective discussion of digital policy issues.
[Briefing #28] Internet governance in September 2016
Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsIn September 2016, key Internet governance topics included the final stages of the stewardship transition, e-commerce and trade discussions at the WTO Public Forum, taxation issues like Apple's €13 billion tax ruling, net neutrality, and tackling extremist online content. Regional hubs in Jakarta, Rio, Tunis, and South Eastern Europe also provided updates on various developments. The briefing highlighted upcoming events, discussed issues like the Working Group on Enhanced Cooperation, and observed Internet governance issues influencing global trade agendas. Overall, the month involved diverse discussions and actions in various Internet governance spheres and regions.
Key skills for the next generation of diplomats
Diplomatic reporting, Diplomatic theory and practice BlogsThe text discusses the key skills required for the next generation of diplomats, touching on traditional and modern skills such as negotiations, protocol, and social media use. It emphasizes the importance of networking, discretion in diplomacy, and the evolving nature of diplomatic reporting. The conversation extends to the need for empathy training, adaptability to technological advancements, and the ongoing changes in diplomatic practice. Training adjustments are recommended to encompass a wider range of skills, including etiquette, protocol, and data mining. As the diplomatic landscape evolves, discussions continue on the necessary competencies for future diplomats.
Webinar Digest: Net neutrality in Europe – The BEREC guidelines and beyond
Internet governance and digital policy, Net neutrality and zero-rating BlogsThe webinar discussed the Body of European Regulators for Electronic Communications (BEREC) guidelines on net neutrality in Europe, issued almost nine months after the legal rules were adopted. These guidelines aim to ensure equal and non-discriminatory treatment of traffic, impacting both end-users and operators. Various aspects were covered, including zero-rating practices, specialised services, and traffic management rules for internet access services. The webinar also addressed concerns about the guidelines potentially limiting operators' innovation and the impact of zero-rating on end-users. The importance of balancing interests between all parties was emphasized, with a focus on future implementations by national regulatory authorities.
Internet and Development: A Reality-Check
Capacity development, Development diplomacy, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsThe message emphasizes the importance of creating a more inclusive Internet for global development. It discusses the challenges of ensuring equitable access and the need for empowering users through education and policy frameworks. Stakeholders are urged to collaborate on expanding infrastructure, fostering skills, and developing supportive governance systems to bridge the gap between Internet potential and reality. Discussions in Washington D.C. addressed these issues, highlighting the multifaceted nature of promoting an Internet that truly supports sustainable development.
US Presidential Elections – and the candidates’ stance on digital policy
Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsThe US Presidential Elections showcase differing stances on digital policy. Hillary Clinton supports a multistakeholder approach, the transition of Internet governance functions, and emphasizes cybersecurity. Donald Trump opposes the Internet governance transition, advocates for tough cybersecurity measures, and shows willingness to restore certain surveillance programs. Clinton aims for a balance between privacy and security, while Trump leans towards security over privacy, including advocating boycotts for refusal to cooperate with encryption requests. This summary outlines key digital policy positions of the candidates as analyzed by the Digital Watch observatory.
Five reasons why Guterres’s election as UN Secretary General is VERY good news
Compromise, Diplomatic theory and practice, Gender rights online BlogsAntónio Guterres' election as UN Secretary-General is seen through a positive lens, highlighting his potential to address global challenges. His commitment to peace, reform, and innovation presents an optimistic future for the UN's role in international affairs.
Certificates ceremony for graduates of Capacity Development online course
Capacity development, Online education BlogsA ceremony will be held to award certificates to graduates of an online course on Capacity Development. The course focuses on key concepts and practical skills for designing, planning, and evaluating capacity development initiatives. It emphasizes active involvement and ownership from communities in aid programs, considering broader political, social, and economic contexts. Materials are based on the Learning Network on Capacity Development and were developed with support from various organizations. Graduates have gained a better understanding of this evolving paradigm.
Prospects of decentralised solution in a finance world. The case of blockchain
Blockchain, Cryptocurrencies, E-commerce and trade, Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsBlockchain technology, originating from Bitcoin, decentralizes financial systems and gains traction in the finance world, particularly in the FinTech sector. Banks explore blockchain applications for efficiency gains, acknowledging the shift toward decentralized solutions for security and cost reduction. Collaborations with third-party FinTech firms drive innovation, with a potential blend of centralization and decentralization on the horizon. Despite blockchain's current hype, its practical implementation and evolution remain key focuses for financial institutions in navigating the transition towards a digital economy era.
E-commerce in Europe: consultations, court rulings, and other updates in September
Alumni E-commerce and trade, Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsSeptember brought various updates in European e-commerce. The European Commission examined consumer sales laws, e-commerce inquiries, and proposals for cross-border parcel delivery services. The European Parliament addressed parcel delivery within the Postal Services Directive. Legal rulings on intermediary liability and copyright infringement were notable, affecting websites linking to copyrighted material. A case also clarified that businesses offering free Wi-Fi are not responsible for user copyright infringements. Additionally, the European Holiday Home Association raised concerns about restrictive local regulations impacting collaborative economy platforms. These topics are being discussed at the Public Forum in Geneva.
