Highlights of the WSIS forum 2015
Cybersecurity, Digital diplomacy, Diplomatic theory and practice, Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy, Sustainable development BlogsThe WSIS forum 2015 focused on Internet governance for sustainable development, highlighting themes like leveraging opportunities for the sustainable development goals, addressing cybersecurity threats, promoting multistakeholderism, and recognizing the significance of the Internet of Things. The forum fostered dialogue and collaboration among various stakeholders but emphasized the need to translate core concepts into actionable measures, hinting at the importance of continued discussions for future progress. The forum's future relevance will be determined post-2015 based on the progress review during the General Assembly meeting in December.
[Briefing #15] Internet governance in May 2015
Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy, Net neutrality and zero-rating BlogsInternet governance developments in May 2015 highlighted the connection between digital policy and sustainable development, as well as the increasing securitisation of digital policy. Cybersecurity and data protection remained key topics, along with discussions on net neutrality and e-commerce. Fadi Chehadé's upcoming departure sparked speculation, and a focus on human rights and economic development in cybersecurity discussions emerged. June brings a packed schedule of events, with continued attention on sustainable development in digital policy. The future direction of Internet governance is up for debate, as negotiations on various issues continue to unfold.
Normative Scale – Creative Diary 26may2015
Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsDiplo's Creative Lab team recently met in Geneva to develop the Digital Watch for the Geneva Internet Platform. The team created a Normative Scale Visualisation based on expert analysis of digital policy instruments and input from students worldwide. The diary entry from May 26, 2015, discusses the scale and invites feedback on the work in progress. This development aims to create a dynamic observatory incorporating technology, visual design, and expert analysis. To stay updated, individuals can subscribe to the mailing list.
Selection of Fonts | Creative Diary 22may2015
Internet governance and digital policy BlogsThe text discusses the challenges of selecting fonts while designing Digital Watch. It emphasizes the importance of uniformity and following templates to connect visually with the audience, despite the urge for more creativity. The Creative Lab Diary by Diplo's Lab provides updates on the development of Digital Watch, a project combining technology, creative visualization, and knowledge curation. Experts in various fields are involved in creating this observatory, with the Alpha version expected by the end of June. Subscribe to Diplo's mailing list for updates.
Observatory – Monitor – Briefcase – Portal – Watch? | Creative diary 20may2015
Internet governance and digital policy BlogsDiplo's Creative Lab team met in Geneva to work on advancing Digital Watch for its Alpha version launch. They chose the name "Digital Watch" after considering various options. The project includes technology, visualization, knowledge curation, and experience in observatories. The team comprises experts from different fields. The Digital Watch's Alpha version is set for completion by the end of June, with updates available through a mailing list or contacting Tereza Horejsova.
Traditional vs Material Design | Creative Diary 21may2015
Internet governance and digital policy BlogsA debate ensued on the graphical style for website icons between traditionalists favoring hand-drawn illustrations and modernists promoting material design. The modernist perspective prevailed due to easier rendering on various devices. Diplo’s Creative Lab follows a blend of modern design and traditional illustrations for Digital Watch's development. This project integrates technology, visual creativity, and knowledge curation. The upcoming Alpha version is slated for June, with updates available via Diplo’s Creative Lab diary or email subscription.
Understanding United Nations reform. Ten theoretical clues: (9) Constitutional reform?
Diplomatic theory and practice BlogsThe text discusses the idea of a new global constitution and its role in United Nations reform. It emphasizes that while constitutional reform may not be the primary focus, adjustments for better functionality and an organic synthesis of economic, social, and security issues are needed. The message stresses the importance of adapting working methods to evolving realities and suggests harmonizing UN reform with Bretton-Woods institutions.
The Internet as a global public resource: Learning from other policy areas
Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsThe conference panel discussed drawing lessons from other policy areas like climate change and health regarding the Internet as a global public resource. Prof. Bürgenmeier emphasized the efficiency-equity trade-off, the need for property rights justification, and distinguishing between a resource and a good. Other speakers highlighted the importance of sustainable development goals, data access, and jurisdiction issues. Analogy with the Law of the Sea was also explored. The discussions underscored the complex nature of Internet regulation and emphasized the need for a collaborative and inclusive approach for a common future.
Facilitating an integrated approach to digital issues
Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsThe panel discussed ways for Malta to facilitate an integrated approach to digital issues, emphasizing the importance of respecting individual rights in the digital age. Topics included e-democracy, data protection, and the balance between fundamental rights and online service provision. Malta's achievements in e-Government were highlighted, alongside the need for speedy policy implementation, connectivity, and recognizing intangible benefits. Suggestions were made for Malta to further explore its digital identity through domain names, engage in global discussions on Internet governance, and lead in cybersecurity capacity building. The panelists commended Malta for its digital advancements and potential in the global digital economy.
Internet as a global public resource: from conference discussions to research project
Gender rights online, Internet governance and digital policy BlogsDr. Jovan Kurbalija summarized discussions from The Internet as a Global Public Resource conference, emphasizing the need for a positive agenda amidst differing interests. The conference highlighted governments as key players in providing global public goods, with private sector and civil society involvement crucial. Future research will explore concepts like global public goods and common heritage of mankind. The project will engage various stakeholders over 12 months and present findings at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Malta. The project will culminate in presenting research at the World Economic Forum in Davos in January 2016.
