The rise of e-commerce initiatives: From expanding access to taxation
Alumni E-commerce and trade, Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsE-commerce initiatives are expanding globally, impacting sectors such as taxation. Countries like India and Indonesia are addressing tax issues with digital multinationals like Google. To bridge the digital divide, measures include providing connectivity and training in rural areas. Collaboration efforts in e-commerce between countries like China and South Africa, the EU and India, and within the Asia-Pacific region are evident. However, varied approaches raise questions about regulation's role in promoting digital growth while safeguarding developing countries' interests. A focus on win-win solutions for inclusive trade and digital innovation will be emphasized at the upcoming 15th annual Public Forum in Geneva.
Just-in-time reporting from WTO Public Forum 2016
E-commerce and trade, Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsThe WTO Public Forum 2016 will focus on Inclusive Trade, featuring discussions on the impact of new technologies on commerce and trade growth. E-commerce, innovation for start-ups and SMEs, bridging the digital gap, and empowering women will be key topics. Just-in-time reporting by DiploFoundation and the Geneva Internet Platform will cover digital technology and e-commerce sessions. A special session on Inclusive Digital Trade and Sustainable Development will be held on September 29th. Discussions will center on involving stakeholders and taking action for inclusive digital trade. The forum will take place from September 27th to 29th in Geneva.
E-commerce in the WTO: the next arena of Internet policy discussions?
E-commerce and trade, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsE-commerce has been a longstanding topic at the WTO, with a key focus now on Internet policy discussions, including network neutrality, data localization, and more. The recent emphasis on e-commerce stems from its role in economic growth and achieving sustainable development goals. Developing countries are highlighting the need for infrastructure and skills to support e-commerce. Non-papers circulated in 2016 show varying positions on trade-related aspects, such as regulatory frameworks and technical standards. E-commerce's importance is increasingly recognized, setting the stage for substantial discussions at the WTO Ministerial Meeting in 2017.
Webinar Digest: Digital policy in the age of augmented reality
Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsThe webinar discussed Pokémon Go's rapid success due to augmented reality, its impact on digital policy, and future implications. Key points included privacy concerns, educational potential, and the intertwining of offline and online worlds. The session emphasized the significant influence of augmented and virtual reality on various aspects of society, offering both possibilities and challenges for the future.
The IANA stewardship transition: what is happening? (Part II)
Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsThe text discusses the various arguments surrounding the IANA stewardship transition, including concerns about increased government control, risks to Internet freedom, and potential implications of the transition. It also highlights the debate surrounding the transition's impact on the multistakeholder model of Internet governance and the possibility of Internet fragmentation. While some advocate for a gradual transition, others express concerns about legal implications and the timeline of the transition. The likelihood of the transition occurring on October 1st remains uncertain, with potential legislative obstacles discussed.
The IANA stewardship transition: what is happening? (Part I)
Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsThe global Internet community is focused on the IANA stewardship transition process, set for 1 October. ICANN coordinates Internet identifiers under a U.S. government contract expiring soon. Proposals aim to enhance accountability and separate technical and policy functions. An 'empowered community' would oversee ICANN decisions, increasing community engagement. Legal preparations are advancing, despite debates and opposition from some U.S. lawmakers. Tech companies support the transition, while hearings and editorials address concerns. The process aims to ensure continued Internet openness and stability.
EU-US Privacy Shield’s seven principles
Alumni Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy, Privacy and data protection BlogsThe EU-US Privacy Shield has been established following the invalidation of the Safe Harbour Agreement, aiming to enhance privacy protection for citizens. Self-certified companies must adhere to seven principles, including notice, choice, accountability, security, data integrity, access, and enforcement. Individuals can raise complaints through various channels, with reassurances regarding US government access to personal data. Annual reviews and an Ombudsperson mechanism are part of the agreement. The EU will evaluate the Privacy Shield's effectiveness after the General Data Protection Regulation in 2018. Compliance measures are in place for companies, with a guide available for citizens to report non-compliance.
Introducing the Geneva Gender Map
Diplomatic service, Diplomatic theory and practice, Gender rights online, Geneva diplomacy BlogsA new tool, the Geneva Gender Map, highlights disparities in gender representation within diplomatic circles. Despite global commitments, the imbalance persists, with men holding the majority of diplomatic positions and ambassador roles. The map allows for a detailed examination of gender ratios in each country's missions in Geneva, providing a means to track progress and compare gender equality efforts across regions.
The art and science of negotiation training
Diplomatic theory and practice, Negotiations BlogsProfessors Saner and Meerts emphasize the teachability of negotiation skills, vital in various cultural contexts. Training includes theoretical knowledge and personalized learning components. Balancing excitement and procedures in negotiation training is necessary. Identifying common ground is key for successful negotiations. Customized programs for specific negotiation types are advised. Negotiators must understand the process beyond procedures. The ideal outcome involves reaching a common ground where interests converge. Children's negotiation tactics are highlighted. Emotions, especially in political negotiations, are a challenge. Competency in negotiation can prevent conflicts.
[Briefing #27] Internet governance in July and August 2016
Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsThe briefing highlights key trends in Internet governance during July and August 2016, including cyber as the fourth military domain, state responsibility in cyberspace, digital policy and e-commerce growth, and the approval of the EU-US Privacy Shield. Regional perspectives from Rio de Janeiro and Tunis hubs were also discussed. The session concluded with an invitation to the next briefing on 27 September.
