Session
Dynamic Coalition on Schools of Internet Governance and Dynamic Coalition on Internet Universality Indicators
Roundtable
Duration (minutes): 90
Format description: - The DC SIG is composed of many independent schools, each of which was formed in a bottom up manner. Each of these schools has a perspective, especially given the different environments they exist within. Each has something to say and this works best when they are able to sit around a a round table facing each other. It is not a panel, but rather a discussion. - 90 minutes is about as short as one can do if many are to be allowed to discuss, especially if enough time is given for online participants.
The DC IUI and DC SIG will explore the role of Internet Universality Indicators in Schools for IG and the contribution that inclusion of the IUI in curricula of SIG can make to the Schools and to the necessary capacity building in Internet Governance.
- The Dynamic Coalition on Internet Universality ROAM-X indicators, which was launched at the IGF 2020, has played a critical role in advancing Internet Governance in over 40 countries through the promotion of the ROAM-X principles, which call for an Internet that is human (R )ights-based, (O)pen, (A)ccessible to all, nurtured by (M)ultistakeholder participation and that addresses (X) cross-cutting issues of the Internet such as gender equality and sustainable development. The Coalition has organized meetings and sessions consistently during global IGF and regional IGF conferences in Africa, Asia Pacific and other high-level events where UNESCO is actively engaged.
- Schools on Internet Governance (SIGs) are important initiatives that help with creating and strengthening capacity in Internet Governance. Regional SIGs have been operating in all the regions of the world, while national SIGs exist in many, but not all, countries. The DC-SIGs provide a common platform where SIGs can discuss matters of their interest, share information, share innovations and discuss adaptive mechanisms as they evolve. While the global pandemic did adversely impact many SIGs, most are now back in a fully functional manner.
- The challenge for all schools is to keep on developing and adapting to new realities and to adjust the curriculum constantly.
- The four core principles of the IUI: rights-based, openness, accessibility to all and multi stakeholder participation are present in the capacity building activities organized by the Schools on Internet Governance. Profiting from the presence of SIG in many countries and regions, these capacity building spaces can promote the use of these indicators to evaluate and improve digital policies.
Tatevik Grigoryan, UNESCO, Intergovernmental organization (DC-IUI)
Camila Gonzalez, UNESCO, Intergovernmental organization (DC-IUI)
Avri Doria, Independent Researcher, Technical Community / Civil Society (DC-SIGs)
Olga Cavalli - South School on Internet Governance and Argentina School on Internet Governance (DC-SIGs)
Avri Doria (online)
Tatevik Grigoryan
Anriette Esterhuysen
Olga Cavalli
Ariunzul Liijuu-Ochir (online)
James Kunle Olorundare - Nigerian School on Internet Governance and Tatevik Grigoryan, UNESCO
Avri Doria, DC-SIG and Camila Gonzalez, UNESCO
Muriel ALAPINI Benin IGF, Africa and Camila Gonzalez, UNESCO
Targets: SDGs 4, 16, 17 The link with the SDGs The Schools on Internet Governance (SIGs) initiative stands as a beacon for the future of teaching Internet governance. This innovative program empowers individuals prepared to navigate the complexities of the digital world. The digital future is more complex and the School will be more relevant in the future vis-a-vis the following relevant SDGs: - From Knowledge to Action: SIGs equip individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary for responsible online participation (SDG 16). This translates into a digital space that upholds peace, justice, and the rule of law, fostering a more harmonious online environment. - Partnerships for Progress (SDG 17): SIGs champion SDG 17 by promoting collaboration between governments, civil society, the private sector, and academia. This multi-stakeholder approach is fundamental for effective Internet governance in an interconnected world. - Leveraging Expertise: The session delves into how to further enhance the DC-SIGs (Directional Capacity Building Schools on Internet Governance) to amplify the benefits of the alumni network. This aligns with SDG 17 by promoting and leveraging partnerships to create a more robust and impactful global network of Internet governance experts. - Dynamic Learning: SIGs prioritize continuous curriculum development and adaptation in response to emerging internet governance challenges (SDG 4). This ensures graduates possess the most up-to-date knowledge and skills to navigate the ever-evolving digital landscape. - Leadership Development: Building linkages, relationships, and understanding between people from current and emerging leaders in different sectors and stakeholder groups towards stronger leadership in IG, particularly in the global South.
Report
Schools of governance are the gateways to the ecosystem, The SIGs provide information, trigger discussions and generate commitments.
The new IUI indicators have been reformulated to adapt to developments on the internet and new emerging themes.
Schools on Internet Governance are microcosms of an IGF, while IUIs require a multistakeholder environment, they are a perfect match. Likewise Internet governance schools are forced to adapt to changing contexts and developments in technologies and the IUIs offer a path for doing so..
Curricula need to be developed that include instruction on the IUI. This should include practical exercises in IUI practice.
At IG school level, it is important to have participatory work by all stakeholder. Stakeholders need to read the updated IUI and start using it more widely. SIGs likewise need to pay attention to the state of Internet Governance in their regions and consider teaching to the IUI, at least to some degree.
This discussion brought together representatives from UNESCO, various Schools of Internet Governance (SIGs), and other stakeholders to explore opportunities for integrating UNESCO’s Internet Universality Indicators (IUIs) into SIG curricula. The session aimed to enhance understanding of internet governance issues and promote multi-stakeholder approaches through collaboration between the IUI and SIG communities.
Opening Remarks
Speakers emphasized the vital role of SIGs within the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) ecosystem, underlining their importance in building capacity and fostering multi-stakeholder engagement. Likewise, the IUIs have a critical role in supporting evidence-based policymaking following a multistakeholder model.
Insights from UNESCO
Ms. Tatevik Grigoryan of UNESCO provided an overview of the IUI background, highlighting their implementation in over 40 countries and the comprehensive revision process undertaken in 2024.
- Revision Process: Informed by consultations held during international events and online discussions, culminating in the launch of the second-generation IUIs.
- Collaboration Example: Ms. Grigoryan shared UNESCO’s experience with the African School of Internet Governance, where a class was conducted on the IUIs, their themes, and their role in evidence-based policymaking.
Potential Integration of IUIs into SIG Curricula
Participants broadly agreed on the benefits of incorporating IUIs into SIG programs:
- Anriette Esterhuysen, convener of the African School of Internet Governance, emphasized that SIGs provide a diverse, intergenerational platform conducive to focused discussions. She noted that SIGs are smaller and more specialized than the IGF, making them ideal for promoting and implementing frameworks like the IUIs.
- The ROAM-X Indicators offer SIGs a structured approach to balancing technical topics with social and political challenges posed by digitalization.
Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration in Internet Governance
Multi-stakeholder collaboration emerged as a recurring theme:
- SIGs bring together a diverse range of stakeholders, creating opportunities for meaningful engagement.
- Olga Cavalli highlighted that SIGs foster networking among diverse stakeholders and provide a platform for integrating IUIs to enrich their curricula.
- Cavalli also noted that regional schools, such as the South American SIG, address broad regional issues, while national schools, like Argentina's, focus on specific challenges within their countries. Both types of schools play a complementary role in advancing internet governance.
- Ms. Tatevik Grigoryan noted that national SIGs can mirror the role of the multi-stakeholder advisory boards established during the IUI implementation process. These boards ensure inclusive participation, guide implementation, and help address context-specific challenges.
Challenges and Opportunities in Implementing IUIs
Participants discussed both challenges and opportunities:
- Fabio Senne (Brazil) highlighted that initial IUI assessments can be time-intensive. However, follow-up assessments become more efficient, underscoring the importance of sustained engagement and periodic evaluations.