Countries

Internet governance in Georgia encompasses a range of policies and regulatory frameworks aimed at managing and facilitating the growth of digital technologies and online communications. Here are some key aspects of internet governance in Georgia:

Regulatory Framework: The Georgian National Communications Commission (GNCC) is responsible for regulating telecommunications and broadcasting sectors. It plays a crucial role in ensuring fair competition, managing spectrum allocations, and enforcing regulations that impact internet service providers (ISPs) and digital media.

Freedom of Expression: Internet freedom is generally respected in Georgia. There are no significant restrictions on access to content, and the internet is not heavily censored. However, issues related to privacy and data protection are ongoing concerns, especially with the advent of new technologies and the collection of personal data.

E-Governance: Georgia has made significant strides in e-governance, offering various administrative services online through the ‘MyGov.ge‘ portal. This effort not only enhances accessibility and efficiency but also transparency in governmental procedures.

Georgian stakeholders are active participants in various internet governance forums and initiatives at the regional and global levels. Georgian stakeholders participate in the annual South Eastern European Dialogue on Internet Governance (SEE+), Central Asian IGF and Dialogue on Internet Governance (EuroDIG) events, which bring together stakeholders from the region to discuss digital policy-related issues and challenges. At the global level, Georgian is a member of the Internet Governance Forum (IGF).

Georgian also has a national internet governance initiative called GeoIGF, which was established as a bottom-up, multistakeholder platform for discussing internet-related public policy issues in Georgian.

Georgia has been actively pursuing digital transformation. The ‘Georgia 2020‘ strategy, for example, was aimed at strengthening the information society, improving governmental digital services, and enhancing the IT infrastructure. More recent initiatives continue to focus on digitizing government services, which is part of a broader effort to improve efficiency and transparency.

Another important initiative is the State Program on Broadband Infrastructure Development in Georgia. The program is a government initiative designed to expand high-speed internet across the country, focusing particularly on underserved and rural areas. This program is essential for promoting economic growth and enhancing the quality of life by ensuring universal access to affordable and reliable broadband services.

A key aspect of the program is the development of physical infrastructure, including the installation of fibre-optic cables and broadband towers, especially in rural regions where connectivity is limited. To accomplish its goals, the Georgian government collaborates with private sector companies through public-private partnerships, leveraging private expertise and resources while pursuing public objectives.

The program is supported by regulatory measures from the Georgian National Communications Commission (GNCC), which facilitates the deployment of broadband services by ensuring fair competition and removing barriers. Funding for these initiatives often comes from state budgets, international loans, and grants, with additional incentives to attract private investment in less profitable areas.

The country has developed a legal and policy framework aimed at bolstering national cybersecurity. This includes the creation of the Georgia Cyber Security Strategy and its accompanying action plan, orchestrated by the Data Exchange Agency under the Ministry of Justice.

The Organized Crime Action Plan, covering sections 20 to 30, outlines specific goals to be achieved by 2020. These focus on raising public awareness about cybersecurity, developing laws that address cyber issues, and enhancing the capabilities of state agencies that combat cybercrime. The plan also emphasizes the importance of forming public-private partnerships and strengthening international cooperation.

Furthering its commitment to international standards, Georgia has ratified the Council of Europe’s Convention on Cybercrime, known as the Budapest Convention.

CERT.GOV.GE, operating under the Ministry of Justice, is tasked with managing cybersecurity incidents within Georgian governmental networks and critical infrastructure. This unit is responsible for the detection, registration, and analysis of critical computer incidents, issuing recommendations, and responding quickly to mitigate such events.

Georgia has been making significant strides in developing its artificial intelligence (AI) landscape, with universities leading the way. The state is particularly interested in AI for manufacturing, with top institutions like Georgia Tech investing heavily in the field.

In 2021, the National Science Foundation (NSF) announced a $20 million investment in a collaborative effort by Georgia Tech, the Georgia Research Alliance (GRA), and other partners to establish the NSF AI Institute for Adult Learning and Online Education (ALOE). The same year, Georgia Tech received a grant from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) to develop the Georgia Artificial Intelligence Manufacturing Corridor (GA-AIM). The Georgia Emerging Technology Summit: AI 2023 was a significant event that brought together state, regional, and local public sector leaders to explore the transformative potential of AI in government service delivery. The summit highlighted the need for a cautious and responsible approach to AI adoption, emphasizing the importance of ethical and security frameworks.

Jordan has established a comprehensive legal and regulatory framework to govern the internet. This includes laws and regulations related to cybersecurity, data protection, and electronic transactions. The Telecommunications Regulatory Commission (TRC) is the primary body responsible for regulating and monitoring the telecommunications and information technology sectors in Jordan. It ensures compliance with international standards and facilitates the growth of these sectors.

Jordan’s approach to data protection is currently embedded within various laws and regulations rather than a single, comprehensive data protection law. Key aspects of data protection are covered under:

1. Electronic Transactions Law: This law (Law No. 15 of 2015) includes provisions for the protection of personal data processed electronically. It mandates certain protections regarding the collection, processing, and sharing of electronic data.
2. Cybercrime Law: While primarily focused on cybercrime, this law also touches on aspects related to unauthorized access to data and information systems.
3. Telecommunications Law: Includes regulations that protect user privacy and personal data handled by telecommunications service providers.

A significant aspect of the discussion around internet governance in Jordan is the issue of censorship. The Jordanian government has occasionally (according to Freedom House – FREEDOM ON THE NET 2023) blocked access to websites and filtered online content for reasons including political dissent, security concerns, and moral objections. These actions have sparked a broader debate about freedom of expression online and the transparency of the methods used to implement content restrictions.

Jordan has been proactive in developing and implementing digital strategies to enhance its technological infrastructure, stimulate economic growth, and improve public services through digital transformation. These strategies are part of a broader vision to establish Jordan as a regional tech hub. Here’s an overview of the major digital strategies in Jordan:

1. Jordan’s National Digital Transformation Strategy (REACH 2025)

REACH 2025 is a national digital strategy aimed at accelerating the country’s digital transformation and development of the digital economy over the next five years. It focuses on several key areas:

• ICT Talent Development: Strengthening education and training in the ICT sector to prepare a skilled workforce.
• Supporting Startups: Providing resources, funding, and support systems to encourage the growth of tech startups.
• Regulatory Frameworks: Modernizing laws and regulations to create a favorable business environment for tech companies.

2. E-Government Program

This program aims to digitize government services to make them more accessible to the public. Key components include:

• Online Services: Launching platforms where citizens can access various government services online, reducing the need for physical visits to government offices.
• Interoperability Framework: Developing standards and systems that allow different government databases and applications to work together seamlessly.
• Cybersecurity Measures: Ensuring the security and privacy of data handled by government platforms.

3. National Broadband Network Programm

The initiative aims to expand broadband access across Jordan, particularly in underserved and rural areas, to ensure equitable access to digital services. This includes:

• Infrastructure Development: Laying down fiber optic cables and enhancing mobile network coverage.
• Affordable Access: Working with service providers to offer affordable internet services to boost adoption rates.

4. Digital Skills and Literacy

To ensure that the wider population can participate in the digital economy, Jordan has invested in:

• Digital Literacy Campaigns: Programs aimed (such as Digital Skills for a Better Future Programme with support from UNICEF Jordan) at improving basic digital skills across all segments of society.
• Advanced ICT Training: Offering specialised training in areas such as AI, machine learning, and data analysis.

Jordan’s National Cyber Security Strategy for 2018-2023 outlines a structured approach to cybersecurity, aiming to protect cyberspace across various layers—international, national, sectoral, organizational, and individual. This comprehensive plan is designed to defend against a diverse array of cyber threats.

Strategic Protection Measures

The strategy emphasizes establishing systematic security measures that encompass all aspects of society and governance. By implementing robust protections across different levels, the goal is to shield Jordan’s digital infrastructure from the increasing threats that challenge cybersecurity globally.

Education and Public Awareness

A significant portion of the strategy is dedicated to education and raising public awareness about cybersecurity risks. It underscores the critical role of academia in providing the necessary skills and knowledge to citizens, equipping them to navigate and secure their digital environments effectively.

Legislation and Regulatory Framework

The Cybercrime Law, noted for its stringent controls over online content, exemplifies the legal measures being taken to combat cyber threats. This law penalizes online posts that are considered harmful to public morals, religious respect, or national unity with fines and even imprisonment. The law was criticised for its strict provision.

Institutional Support

Established in 2017 as part of the National Cybersecurity Center, JoCERT plays a vital role in responding to cybersecurity incidents. This entity is tasked with building a responsive and capable system for managing cyber operations, enhancing Jordan’s ability to react to and mitigate the impacts of cyber incidents.

Jordan is advancing in the field of Artificial Intelligence (AI), leveraging its capabilities across various industries and solidifying its status as a regional hub for this cutting-edge technology. The Jordanian government is actively fostering AI growth through various initiatives that support research, development, and integration, thereby nurturing an ecosystem conducive to AI-driven entrepreneurship.

The IT sector in Jordan represents a significant portion of the economy, contributing 3.8% to the national GDP, with total revenues surpassing US$2.3 billion annually. The country’s AI landscape is burgeoning, supported by over 900 active IT companies and providing employment to approximately 26,000 individuals. Ranked 49th on the Global Entrepreneurship Index (GEI), Jordan is home to more than 25 business incubators, accelerators, and innovation centers.

Government efforts are also geared towards promoting the adoption of AI in public governance and services, as well as in sectors that have wide-reaching social impacts. AI is increasingly applied in vital sectors such as healthcare, finance, e-commerce, agriculture, and tourism, where it is driving efficiency and spearheading innovative solutions.

Jordan’s commitment to building AI capabilities continues with significant investments in education and research. Academic programs are increasingly incorporating AI disciplines, and research institutions are actively engaged in exploring the frontiers of AI technology.

Internet governance in Jamaica adopts a multi-stakeholder approach, involving government bodies, private sector companies, civil society organisations, and the technical community. The main goal is to ensure equitable, secure, and sustainable development of the internet, which promotes innovation, economic growth, and social inclusion.

Key Institutions and Stakeholders:

The Ministry of Science, Energy and Technology (MSET) is responsible for formulating and implementing national policies related to science, technology, and energy, including internet governance. This ministry drives the National ICT Policy and other strategic plans aimed at advancing Jamaica’s digital transformation.

The Office of Utilities Regulation (OUR) plays a critical role in regulating the telecommunications sector. It ensures that service providers deliver efficient, reliable, and affordable services to the public by granting licenses, overseeing service quality, and handling consumer complaints.

The Spectrum Management Authority (SMA) manages Jamaica’s radio frequency spectrum, which is essential for all forms of wireless communication. The SMA is responsible for the allocation and monitoring of frequency bands to prevent interference and ensure the optimal use of the spectrum.

The Caribbean Telecommunications Union (CTU) is a regional body that influences ICT policy and regulation across the Caribbean. The CTU provides a platform for regional cooperation and policy alignment, which impacts Jamaica’s internet governance framework.

Regional Collaboration

Jamaica is also actively participating in regional discussions on internet governance, particularly through the Caribbean Internet Governance Forum (CIGF). This forum aims to address internet governance policies and foster regional consensus on critical issues affecting the digital landscape in the Caribbean. The focus is on creating a collaborative environment that supports the digital future of the region

Jamaica’s National ICT Policy

Jamaica’s National ICT Policy is a cornerstone of the country’s digital strategy, designed to guide the development and integration of information and communication technologies (ICT) across all sectors of the economy. The policy focuses on enhancing digital infrastructure, promoting digital literacy, fostering innovation, and improving public services through e-governance.

Key Components of the National ICT Policy

Infrastructure Development: The Jamaican government is committed to building a robust digital infrastructure that includes high-speed broadband networks, data centers, and modern telecommunication systems. Initiatives under this component include expanding fiber optic networks to rural and underserved areas, enhancing mobile network coverage, and investing in 5G technology.

Digital Literacy and Skills Development: Digital literacy is a critical focus area, with efforts to equip citizens with the skills necessary to participate in the digital economy. Programs are designed for all age groups, from primary education to adult training. Key initiatives include integrating ICT into school curricula, offering coding and digital skills workshops, and providing online learning platforms.

E-Governance and Public Services: E-governance initiatives aim to improve the efficiency and accessibility of public services through digital means. The government has launched several projects to digitise public records, streamline administrative processes, and provide online services. The National Identification System (NIDS) is a flagship project that provides a unique identification number to each citizen, facilitating easier access to public services.

Major Initiatives

Digital Jamaica

The European Union, through its Global Gateway initiative, has launched ‘Digital Jamaica,’ a comprehensive program aimed at enhancing Jamaica’s digital infrastructure. This initiative focuses on providing high-speed internet connectivity to schools, universities, and homes across the island. Additionally, it emphasises digital training to equip citizens with necessary skills for the digital age. By fostering greater internet access and digital literacy, the EU aims to support Jamaica’s socio-economic development, ensuring that education and other critical services are accessible and efficient, ultimately bridging the digital divide.

Jamaica Eye

Jamaica Eye is a national CCTV surveillance program aimed at improving public safety and security through technology. It integrates footage from both public and private cameras into a centralised system, enabling better monitoring and response to incidents.

Regulatory and Policy Framework

Data Protection Act (2020): The Data Protection Act is a crucial component of Jamaica’s digital strategy, aimed at protecting personal data and ensuring privacy. The act aligns with international standards like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and establishes guidelines for data collection, processing, and storage. It also provides mechanisms for data breach notifications and outlines the rights of data subjects.

The Jamaican government has established a comprehensive cybersecurity framework to address these challenges and create a secure digital environment for businesses and individuals.

Cybersecurity Policy Framework:

National Cybersecurity Strategy

Jamaica’s National Cybersecurity Strategy outlines the government’s approach to securing the country’s digital landscape. The strategy focuses on building resilience against cyber threats, enhancing the capacity to respond to cyber incidents, and fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness among citizens and organisations.

Key objectives of the strategy include:

• Protecting Critical Infrastructure: Ensuring the security and resilience of critical infrastructures, such as telecommunications, financial services, energy, and transportation.
• Enhancing Cyber Incident Response: Establishing robust mechanisms for detecting, responding to, and recovering from cyber incidents.
• Promoting Cybersecurity Awareness: Educating the public and private sectors about the importance of cybersecurity and best practices for protecting digital assets.

Key Institutions and Stakeholders:

Jamaica Cyber Incident Response Team (JaCIRT): JaCIRT is the primary entity responsible for coordinating responses to cyber incidents in Jamaica. It plays a crucial role in detecting, analysing, and mitigating cyber threats. JaCIRT also provides support to public and private sector organisations in managing cybersecurity incidents.

Ministry of Science, Energy and Technology (MSET): MSET oversees the implementation of national cybersecurity policies and strategies. The ministry works closely with other government agencies, private sector partners, and international organisations to enhance Jamaica’s cybersecurity posture.

Office of Utilities Regulation (OUR): OUR regulates the telecommunications sector and ensures that service providers adhere to cybersecurity standards and practices. The office collaborates with other regulatory bodies to address cybersecurity issues in the utilities sector.

Although the country does not yet have a dedicated AI policy, the Jamaican government has shown considerable interest in developing regulatory frameworks and guidelines that promote ethical AI use, data privacy, and security. Initiatives are currently underway to ensure that AI technologies are used responsibly and inclusively, addressing both the opportunities and challenges that come with AI adoption. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to integrate AI into various sectors while safeguarding the interests of the public and ensuring that the benefits of AI are widely distributed.

Academic and Research Contributions:

University Programs

Jamaican universities are taking significant steps to incorporate AI into their educational offerings. Leading institutions like the University of the West Indies (UWI) and the Caribbean Maritime University (CMU) have begun offering programs and courses focused on AI and related fields. These programs aim to cultivate a new generation of AI researchers and practitioners equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to drive AI innovation. Courses cover a range of AI-related subjects, including machine learning, data science, and robotics, providing students with a solid foundation in AI technologies.

Research Projects

In addition to expanding their curricula, academic institutions in Jamaica are actively engaged in AI research projects. These projects often involve collaborations with international partners and focus on a variety of AI applications. For instance, research efforts are exploring natural language processing, which can significantly improve communication technologies, and computer vision, which has applications in areas such as security and healthcare. AI applications in healthcare and agriculture are particularly noteworthy, as they aim to address local and regional challenges, improving outcomes in these critical sectors.

Private Sector and Startups

Tech Startups

Jamaica’s tech startup ecosystem is experiencing significant growth, with a number of startups focusing on AI-driven solutions. These startups are developing innovative applications across various domains, including fintech, healthcare, and logistics. For example, in the fintech sector, AI is being used to enhance fraud detection and customer service automation. In healthcare, AI technologies are helping to improve diagnostics and patient care, while in logistics, AI is optimizing supply chain management and delivery services. These startups are not only addressing local challenges but also positioning Jamaica as a competitive player in the global tech landscape.

The growth of tech startups is supported by a favorable business environment and increasing investment in digital infrastructure. Public-private partnerships are also playing a crucial role in fostering innovation and providing startups with the resources they need to succeed.