Internet governance and standards are essential for the smooth functioning and interoperability of the global network. But how are they created and who decides them? In this article, you will learn about the main actors, processes, and challenges involved in the development of new internet governance standards.
Organizations and stakeholders play an important role in the development of internet governance standards. The Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) is responsible for the technical standards of the internet protocols and architecture. The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) manages the domain name system and the allocation of IP addresses. The World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) creates standards for web technologies and applications. The International Telecommunication Union (ITU), a UN agency, deals with global telecommunication issues and standards. Lastly, the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) is a multistakeholder platform for dialogue and policy recommendations on internet governance topics.
International Telecommunication Union (ITU) is a specialized UN agency responsible for Internet and communication technologies, in addition to that it is also a multilateral organization that set standards for radio and telecommunication. Similarly United Nations Internet Governance Forum (IGF) is the outcome of World Summit on Information Society (WSIS) Tunis agenda and it serves as as an open multi-stakeholder platform which brings various people together from various stakeholder groups as equals, in discussions on public policy issues relating to the Internet. Being on the structure of UN IGF there are also Regional and National and youth Initiatives which follow the same principles of IGF and foster the similar discussion.
The processes for creating internet governance standards differ depending on the organization and the type of standard. However, some common features are typically bottom-up, consensus-based, and open to participation from all interested parties. These processes often involve multiple rounds of discussion, review, and feedback from various groups and experts. Furthermore, the standards aim to balance the technical, economic, social, and political aspects of the internet. Additionally, they are often subject to change and adaptation based on the ever-evolving needs and challenges of the internet.
New internet governance systems are created through multi-stakeholder collaboration, involving diverse groups. This includes identifying needs, forming forums, developing policies with public input, creating technical standards, and implementing oversight mechanisms. Adoption, compliance, and periodic reviews ensure adaptability to evolving challenges.
Creating internet governance standards is no easy feat. The internet's complexity and diversity require coordination and cooperation among many actors and sectors, while its rapid pace of innovation and change makes it difficult to keep up with emerging technologies and issues. Conflicting interests and values of different stakeholders can lead to disputes, while the lack of representation and inclusion of some groups, especially from developing countries and marginalized communities, affects the legitimacy and fairness of the standards. On top of that, cyber threats and attacks may compromise the security and reliability of the standards.
Despite the challenges, the creation of internet governance standards has many benefits for the internet and its users. These can include enabling interoperability and compatibility among different devices, networks, and platforms, as well as enhancing the functionality and performance of internet services and applications. Additionally, standards can foster innovation and creativity by providing common frameworks and guidelines, while also promoting the public interest and human rights by addressing social and ethical implications. Finally, standards facilitate the governance and regulation of the internet by establishing norms and principles.
New internet governance standards have the potential to bring about many benefits for various stakeholders involved in the online world, including individuals, businesses, and governments. New standards could improve security and privacy if I focus on the individual user. This could reduce spam or threats like malware or phishing. It could give businesses a framework regarding what data it can collect on users and how that can be used or if they have to be transparent in asking how they use it. Another example, new governances could improve interoperability and efficiency by getting companies to agree on a standard allowing different systems to seamlessly and securely interact with each other.
The future of internet governance standards is dynamic and uncertain, and is influenced by a variety of factors. For instance, new technologies such as AI, blockchain, and the Internet of Things may present new opportunities and challenges. Additionally, the internet governance ecosystem is constantly evolving, with new platforms and initiatives emerging and policies and regulations being developed. Global events and crises like the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, and geopolitical tensions may also shape the priorities and demands of the standards. As a computer networking professional, it's essential to stay informed about internet governance standards and their impact on your work. You should also take part in creating and implementing these standards, as they represent the collective vision of the internet community.
The future of internet governance is evolving in parallel with the technologies, the major focus should be on making internet Open, transparent, inter-operable, inclusive and accessible leaving no one behind so that Internet remains one of the powerful tools to empower communities both economically and socially.
While the internet penetration rate is increasing there are still places, communities and people who are still deprived of access to the internet and in some places there is internet but is not accessible due to different barriers such as language, quality of connection, affordability and other factors.