DW Newsletter # 195 – Will TikTok get banned or divested in the USA?

Dear readers,

TikTok is facing a pivotal moment in its turbulent journey this January. With the US Supreme Court leaning toward upholding a law requiring its owner ByteDance to sell TikTok’s US assets by 19 January 2025, the app stands on the brink of a nationwide ban. ByteDance, backed by the Chinese government, has fiercely resisted divestment, citing constitutional protections under the First Amendment. Adding to the complexity is Beijing’s ‘golden share’ in ByteDance; this control, paired with export regulations on software algorithms like TikTok’s recommendation engine, underscores China’s role in the negotiations and complicates the app’s future.

Amid these disputes, reports of Elon Musk, owner of X (formerly Twitter), have emerged as a potential buyer for TikTok’s US operations. Musk’s ties to US and Chinese markets via Tesla’s Shanghai production hub position him as a unique figure in this debate. If Musk were to acquire TikTok, it could bolster X’s advertising reach and data capabilities, aligning with his broader ambitions in AI and technology. However, such a sale would involve overcoming numerous hurdles, including ByteDance’s valuation of TikTok at US$40–50 billion and securing regulatory approvals from both Washington and Beijing. On the other hand, ByteDance, backed by Beijing, is resisting the sale, arguing that the conditioning violates free speech and poses significant logistical hurdles.

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TikTok has attempted to safeguard its US user base of 170 million by planning to allow users to download their data in case the ban takes effect. It has also reassured its 7,000 US employees that their jobs and benefits are secure, even if operations are halted. While new downloads would be prohibited under the ban, existing users could retain access temporarily, although the platform’s functionality would degrade over time.

The looming deadline has sparked a surge in alternative platforms, such as RedNote (known in China as Xiaohongshu), which has seen a significant influx of US users in anticipation of TikTok’s potential exit. These developments underscore the broader implications of TikTok’s struggles, including the reshaping of the social media landscape and the role of government intervention in regulating digital platforms.

What’s next?

The fate of TikTok in the US hangs in the balance as President-elect Donald Trump considers an executive order to delay the enforcement of the ‘ban or divest’ law by up to 90 days. The potential extension, supported by figures from both political sides, including Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Trump’s incoming national security adviser Mike Waltz, aims to provide ByteDance, TikTok’s Chinese owner, additional time to divest its US operations and avoid a nationwide ban. With over 170 million American users and substantial ad revenue at risk, lawmakers are increasingly wary of the disruption a ban could cause, signalling bipartisan support to keep the app operational while addressing national security concerns. TikTok CEO Shou Zi Chew’s attendance at Trump’s inauguration further hints at a shift in relations between the platform and the new administration. Meanwhile, the uncertainty has already driven US users to explore alternatives like RedNote as the clock ticks down to the Sunday deadline.

Thus, TikTok’s journey has become a defining chapter in the intersection of technology, politics, and global economics, serving as a case study for the challenges of navigating success in a hyper-connected world fraught with geopolitical tensions.

Related news:

Trump may delay TikTok ban enforcement with executive order

Trump’s stance on TikTok appears more lenient than previous policies, raising questions about future US-China tech regulations.

In other news..

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US dismantles China-backed malware infecting thousands of computers

The US Justice Department has removed malware from over 4,200 computers worldwide in an operation targeting a hacking group linked to the Chinese government.

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Visit dig.watch now for the latest updates and other topics!

Marko and the Digital Watch team

Highlights from the week of 10-17 January 2025

EU may expand probe into Elon Musk’s social network X

The EU is considering expanding its investigation into Elon Musk’s X over potential content rule violations.

TikTok’s future in Elon Musk’s hands?

According to a Bloomberg report, one potential scenario would see Musk’s platform, X, taking over TikTok’s US operations and running them jointly.

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US TikTok ‘refugees’ find a new platform on RedNote

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US officials push for more time to save TikTok

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Germany weighs exit from X over algorithm concerns

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The US clock strikes ‘ban or divest TikTok’

Bytedance, TikTok’s parent company, will divest its US operations by 19 January 2025 or face a ban in the country.

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DW Newsletter # 194 – The rise of OpenAI and Sam Altman’s role in the AI and AGI revolution

Dear readers,

In November 2022, OpenAI launched ChatGPT, a product redefining AI and catapulting its CEO, Sam Altman, into global prominence. The once-quiet startup suddenly became a sensation, drawing over 100 million visitors within two months. Altman, a long-time advocate of artificial general intelligence (AGI), saw his vision materialise despite early scepticism and the challenges in establishing OpenAI. Today, OpenAI stands at the forefront of the AI industry, shaping the future of technology and society.

Altman’s journey with OpenAI began with bold ambitions to build AGI—a concept dismissed as fringe in 2014. By assembling a team of young, unconventional thinkers, OpenAI distinguished itself from other Silicon Valley ventures. Over the years, the company evolved from a nonprofit to a for-profit hybrid, adapting to secure resources for its ambitious goals. The launch of ChatGPT marked a turning point, rapidly scaling OpenAI’s user base and solidifying its status as a leader in AI innovation. Altman’s decisive leadership and relentless focus on scaling and improving its technology have positioned OpenAI as a trailblazer in the global AI race.

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However, in late 2023, OpenAI’s board abruptly dismissed Altman as CEO, only to reinstate him days after internal pushback and public outcry. The episode underscored the challenges of managing a mission-driven company operating at the cutting edge of technology. Despite the turmoil, Altman emerged stronger, steering OpenAI through regulatory challenges and rapid growth while grappling with the societal implications of AGI.

The intersections of technology and politics became increasingly evident, with Altman playing a strategic role in fostering AI’s development under the Trump administration. Despite ideological differences, Altman donated to Trump’s inaugural fund, emphasising the importance of bipartisan cooperation in navigating the profound societal shifts AI will bring. Despite his often unpredictable behaviour, Altman also expressed optimism that Elon Musk would not misuse his growing political influence to undermine competitors like OpenAI.

Altman’s focus remains on ensuring the US leads in AI development, advocating for a streamlined regulatory framework to enable the construction of critical infrastructure such as data centres and power plants. OpenAI’s success, Altman argues, hinges not only on technological breakthroughs but also on policy and leadership that enable the country to maintain its edge in the AI race. As the Trump administration takes the reins, the stakes for balancing innovation, ethics, and governance have never been higher.

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Highlights from the week of 03-10 January 2025

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TikTok faces new allegations of child exploitation

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US Supreme Court to decide TikTok’s fate amid ban fears

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White House introduces Cyber Trust Mark for smart devices

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Trump and tech: More of the same, but with a twist – Diplo

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DW Newsletter # 193 – The decline of literacy in the digital age

Dear readers,

In the late 1980s, cultural critic Neil Postman warned of society sliding into ‘stupidity’ not by book burnings but by distraction. His prophecy feels unnervingly relevant today as evidence mounts of a global literacy decline. Recent findings from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) highlight a troubling trend: literacy skills stagnate or decline among 160,000 adults surveyed across 31 countries, even among university graduates. In the US, 30% of adults read at the level of a 10-year-old, a statistic that underpins growing concerns about a ‘post-literate’ world.

Technological change plays a pivotal role. Social media and digital platforms increasingly encourage the consumption of fragmented, simplified content over in-depth, analytical reading. According to Andreas Schleicher of the OECD, these habits hinder critical literacy skills, such as distinguishing fact from opinion and navigating complex ideas. Instead, we gravitate toward echo chambers, where our existing views are affirmed rather than challenged, with significant implications for public debate and democratic discourse.

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Historical comparisons with oral cultures offer striking parallels. Writer Caleb Crain observed that oral societies prioritise clichés, stereotypes, and conflict as memorable tools for communication. As our digital habits mirror these traits, the depth and nuance of literate cultures risk erosion. This shift does not just impact individual capabilities—it shapes the fabric of our politics, media, and social cohesion.

Yet, decline is not inevitable. Finland’s robust education system demonstrates how societal norms and policies can sustain high literacy rates even in the digital age. Similarly, England’s targeted school reforms have significantly improved literacy among young people over the past decade. These examples suggest that interventions, from education policy to promoting diverse and critical reading habits, can counteract the pull of post-literacy.

The rise of AI offers both risks and opportunities. AI tools like ChatGPT can enhance workplace productivity, helping lower-skilled workers perform at higher levels. However, as economist David Autor points out, such tools can only amplify existing skills—they cannot replace foundational literacy. Without strong literacy skills, individuals risk becoming passive consumers of AI-generated content, dependent on machines rather than empowered by them.

The question now is whether society can recognise the urgency of this literacy crisis. Reversing the trend requires policy changes and a cultural reawakening of the value of reading, critical thinking, and diverse perspectives. In a world dominated by screens and soundbites, literacy is not just a skill but the cornerstone of democracy and human agency.

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Diplo and dig.watch wish you a prosperous and joyful 2025!

Marko and the Digital Watch team

Highlights from the week of 27-03 January 2025

asian woman using tiktok application her iphone14 while relaxing coffee shop

Albania’s TikTok ban: Balancing youth protection with free speech and economic impact

Critics fear the ban reflects a broader governmental strategy to control dissent amid ongoing political unrest in Albania.

US weighs new restrictions on Chinese drones amid security concerns

The administration of US President-elect Donald Trump will ultimately decide on implementing the new restrictions.

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European nations debate school smartphone bans

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How teens are falling victim to digital scams

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Major US telecom firms confirm cyberattacks by Chinese group ‘Salt Typhoon’, sparking national security concerns

AT&T and Verizon confirm breaches by hackers, sparking cybersecurity concerns.

El Salvador surpasses 6,000 Bitcoin milestone

Since becoming the first nation to recognise Bitcoin as legal tender in September 2021, El Salvador has positioned itself as the sixth-largest Bitcoin holder globally.

Trump urges Supreme Court to postpone TikTok law

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Micro and macro philosophy – Diplo

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AI & Nuclear Weapons: Is Armageddon Closer Than We Think? – Diplo

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AI Apprenticeship: 10 lessons from building and learning alongside AI – Diplo

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2025 Forecast: AI and Digital Developments – Diplo Event

2025 Forecast: AI and Digital Developments 🗓️ 8 January 2025 ⏰ 13:00–14:00 (UTC) | 14:00–15:00 (CET) 📍 Online Webinar

DW Newsletter # 192 -The dark side of TikTok

Dear readers,

In this digital age, where children spend time on social media platforms continuously, the story of TikTok’s impact on youth has taken a dark turn in Albania. On Saturday, 21 December, the Albanian government announced a drastic measure: a one-year nationwide ban on TikTok, caused by the tragic death of a 14-year-old boy. The incident, involving a fatal stabbing linked to online arguments between two boys, has once again placed TikTok under interrogator’s legal and regulatory spotlight, not for its viral dance challenges but for its potential to endanger children’s rights and human safety.

The event unfolded in November, when the dispute, initially being fuelled on the platform by the two boys and other minors via videos inciting violence and aggression, spilt over into reality, ultimately ending with the loss of a young life.

Prime Minister Edi Rama, addressing the nation, highlighted the incident as the worst example of how social media can transform from a cyberspace of entertainment to a tragedy. He described TikTok as a platform that holds children ‘hostage’ to its addictive algorithms, potentially fuelling aggression and violence among youth.

The narrative above reflects a broader societal concern about the intersection of technology and human behaviour, particularly in vulnerable developmental stages of childhood. The bad is that this is not an isolated incident or reaction. Across Europe, nations like France and Germany have already placed restrictions on social media use among children, concerned about such lethal consequences, children’s safety, privacy, exposure to inappropriate content, and mental health.

Albania’s decision to enact a complete ban on TikTok for a year is another sign of a growing global trend where governments struggle with the implications of digital platforms on youth. Australia, for instance, has gone further by legislating a complete ban on social media for users under 16, signalling a strong stance on protecting minors from the possible negative effects of these platforms.

The Albanian ban, while extreme, certainly underscores another landmark in digital governance. It is not just about the immediate reaction to a tragic event but part of a broader strategy to enhance school safety, as PM Rama mentioned after consultations with parents and teachers. The approach suggests a shift from reactive to proactive measures in digital policymaking. However, TikTok’s response adds another layer to this narrative. The company sought clarification from the Albanian government, asserting no direct evidence linking the tragic incident to their platform, hinting at the complexities of attributing blame in the digital space where content can easily cross platforms.

TikTok has launched Symphony Creative Studios globally, helping advertisers create customised, high-quality content through advanced AI tools.

The Albanian scenario is a microcosm of a worldwide debate on digital rights, responsibility, and cyberspace governance. The ban shows the delicate balance between freedom of expression, technological innovation, and safeguarding human rights, particularly children’s. It raises questions about how far governments should go in regulating internet spaces, especially as platforms struggle with content moderation and the unintended consequences of their algorithms.

In a broader context, the ban reflects a global awakening to the potential harms of social media, particularly platforms like TikTok, which have been criticised for everything from promoting harmful content to exacerbating mental health issues among young users.

While the immediate impact of the Albanian ban is to curb one avenue of potential harm, the long-term implications might include a push for more robust digital literacy, better parental controls, and perhaps even a rethinking of how social media companies operate to prevent such tragedies in the future.

Related news:

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Diplo and dig.watch wish you a prosperous and joyful 2025!

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Highlights from the week of 20-27 December 2024

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IGF 2024: Highlights by DiploAI and experts

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Dear readers,

Since 2015, we’ve been bringing you comprehensive coverage of the Internet Governance Forum (IGF). This year, we’ve raised the bar. Our IGF 2024 reportig offers the most comprehensive overview yet—pairing expert insights with cutting-edge AI tools to help you navigate the discussions shaping the digital future.

Explore everything through our interactive webpage, featuring an AI assistant powered by DiploAI, detailed session reports, visual summaries, and dynamic knowledge graphs. Whether you’re looking for quick insights or deep dives, our coverage has you covered.

Our AI assistant has been trained on all the transcripts from IGF 2024, allowing it to answer any questions you have about the forum’s discussions.

Our team of experts, supported by DiploAI, provided daily updates that captured the key points of each day’s discussions.

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Additionally, we created visual summaries featuring expert insights and answers to questions about digital policy.

In our Daily 4 from the IGF, we raised several thought-provoking questions designed to spark discussion and reflection on key issues. Now, we’re bringing you the answers. While they may not offer definitive solutions, they provide valuable insights and perspectives that invite further exploration. These responses aim to deepen understanding, inspire dialogue, and serve as a foundation for future conversations and actions in the digital policy space.

Beyond daily updates, our team has revisited the discussions and, with the support of AI, summarised all five days of discussions thematically. This additional layer of analysis offers you a zoomed-out perspective of the conversations. Additionally, highlighted key recommendations for future actions and steps that emerged during the discussions.

Our event statistics feature gives you insight into numbers that matter…

…and our session reports provide you with nuanced AI analysis of each session. Each report includes a session summary, detailed sections on speakers involved, as well as areas where they agree and differ. Our knowledge graphs offer a visual representation of the connections between topics and participants. Additionally, we outline follow-up questions to guide further discussion.

You can also navigate the complex web of discussions with our interactive visual summary of the event. This dynamic tool allows you to visually navigate the connections between key themes and participants, making it easier to understand how different issues and conversations are interlinked throughout the event. Whether you’re looking for specific speakers, topics of interest, or overarching trends, our visual summary provides a clear and engaging way to uncover insights from the forum.

Visit the IGF 2024 page

Copy of UNGA79: AI-powered insights and human-curated analysis

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UNGA79: AI-powered insights and human-curated analysis

New York, 24 – 30 September 2024

This year marks Diplo’s 8th consecutive year reporting from the UN General Assembly (UNGA), and we’re excited to share our most comprehensive coverage yet. Combining human expertise and AI-driven tools, we’re offering our readers unparalleled access to insights, analysis, and real-time information on every session and speaker at UNGA79.

On our dedicated 79th Session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA 79) webpage, you will find a comprehensive overview of the General Debate.

You can access the UNGA79 knowledge through two main channels: interact with an AI assistant or navigate a structured data organisation.

The AI assistant

The AI assistant, powered by DiploAI models, is designed to offer you a deeper understanding of the General Debate. You’ll be able to explore a trove of information through a dynamic, conversation-based interface.

Expert analysis

Our team of experts produced daily updates focused on AI and digital issues—topics that are increasingly central to global governance.

Beyond daily updates, our team has gone back and thoroughly reviewed all the materials from the event, carefully extracting and synthesising highlights on AI and digital issues. This additional layer of analysis zeroes in on the most significant developments in AI and technology policy, offering you an overview of what is shaping the conversation.

Session reports, knowledge graphs, event statistics and more

You can also get more structured access to the General Debate knowledge via delivering session reports that go beyond simple summaries. Our reports provide a nuanced AI analysis of each session, each report includes detailed sections on speakers involved, and our knowledge graphs offer a visual representation of the connections between topics and participants. Additionally, we outline follow-up questions to guide further discussion.

You can also navigate the complex web of discussions, topics, and speakers with our interactive knowledge graph of the event. Finally, our event statistics feature gives you insight into numbers that matter.

Visit the UNGA79 page

IGF 2024 and the future of AI, digital divides, and internet governance

Dear readers,

It has been a busy week as the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) 2024 has been at the centre of Diplo’s attention and that of the entire digital governance realm, addressing the most pressing digital issues of our time: the rapid evolution of AI, the digital divide, and the delicate balance of governance framework processes revolutionising the world. On 15 – 19 December, Diplo was closely involved in IGF 2024, this time in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, reporting and contributing its knowledge to shape a human-centred digital future.

The forum brought together experts, policymakers, and stakeholders from around the globe, and discussions highlighted three dominant themes: AI governance, bridging the digital divide, and enhancing cybersecurity, underscoring the need for inclusive solutions and forward-thinking strategies.

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AI governance

AI took centre stage, as expected, with debates on governance, ethics, and its societal impact. Discussions explored a multifaceted approach, combining international regulatory frameworks, voluntary industry commitments, and bottom-up governance models sensitive to local contexts. The Council of Europe’s Framework Convention on AI and the G7 Hiroshima AI Process were spotlighted as global initiatives striving to balance innovation and the protection of human rights.

The potential of AI to deepen inequalities was another focal point, with calls to address AI divides between developed and developing nations. Discussions stressed the importance of building local AI ecosystems, promoting capacity development in the Global South, and ensuring equitable access to AI infrastructure. As concerns about AI transparency and accountability grew, frameworks like the ethical principles of the Digital Cooperation Organisation (DCO) offered pathways to mitigate AI’s societal risks.

Diplo’s contribution to IGF 2024

Dr Jovan Kurbalija, Director of Diplo, approached the IGF in Riyadh with a historical perspective on AI’s roots in the Islamic Golden Age. He underscored the contribution of the Islamic mathematicians and the Islamic culture, which is at the foundation of the digital world.

In the ‘Intelligent machines and society: An open-ended conversation’ session led by Diplo experts, attendees had the opportunity to explore AI’s profound philosophical, ethical, and practical implications, focusing on its impact on human identity, agency, and communication. Kurbalija introduced the concept of the ‘right to human imperfection’, urging the preservation of human flaws and agency amid AI-driven optimisation.

Another leading expert and Director of Knowledge at Diplo, Sorina Teleanu, warned against the anthropomorphisation of AI and highlighted the risks surrounding brain data processing and questions of AI personhood, particularly with the emergence of artificial general intelligence (AGI).

Diplo ‘Unpacking the Global Digital Compact’

Sorina’s recent publication, Unpacking the Global Digital Compact: Actors, Issues and Processes, presented at the IGF, provides a detailed account of the GDC negotiations over an 18-month process, tracking and analysing changes across different versions of GDC drafts. The publication presents a unique interplay between zooming in on specific provisions, sometimes on the edge of linguistic pedantry, and zooming out to provide a broader perspective on digital governance and cooperation. The publication also places the GDC in the broader context of global digital governance and cooperation mechanisms. It offers a set of questions to reflect on as stakeholders explore the interplay between the processes, implementation, and follow-up of the GDC, WSIS, and Agenda 2030.

The panel also addressed AI governance, with Kurbalija advocating for decentralised development to prevent power centralisation, while Henri-Jean Pollet from ISPA Belgium stressed open-source models to ensure reliability. The evolving human-AI dynamic was discussed, including changes in communication and the need for AI ethics education, as raised by Mohammad Abdul Haque Anu. Kurbalija underscored Diplo’s focus on AI tools that augment human knowledge without replacing decision-making, ending the session with a call for continued exploration of the role of AI’ in shaping the future of humanity.

Digital divides: meaningful connectivity and inclusion

The persistent digital divide remained a complex challenge, with one-third of the global population still offline. IGF discussions moved beyond simple access, championing the concept of ‘meaningful connectivity’, which ensures a safe, productive, and enriching online experience. Targeted investments in rural infrastructure, unlicensed spectrum use, and satellite technology like low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites were proposed as solutions to connect underserved communities.

Gender disparities also took the spotlight. Statistics revealed stark inequalities, with women representing just 10% of executive roles in tech. Speakers called for mentorship programmes, cultural sensitivity, and capacity development to increase women’s participation in digital spaces. Examples like India’s Unified Payments Interface and Brazil’s PIX system showcased how the digital public infrastructure (DPI) can bridge economic gaps, provided they include robust consumer protections and digital literacy programmes.

IGF 2024 explores empowering Africa through digital legislation

Cybersecurity: resilience in a complex landscape

Cybersecurity sessions underscored the growing sophistication of cyber threats and the need for resilient digital infrastructure. Discussions called for universal cybersecurity standards flexible enough to adapt to diverse local contexts, while AI was recognised as both a solution and a risk for cybersecurity. AI enhances threat detection and automates responses, yet its vulnerabilities—like adversarial attacks and data poisoning—pose significant challenges.

Developing countries’ struggles to build cyber resilience were a recurring concern. Panellists emphasised capacity development, existing framework implementation, and tailored strategies. Cyber diplomacy emerged as a crucial tool, particularly in regions like Africa and the Middle East, where greater participation in global negotiations is needed to shape cyber norms and ensure equitable protections.

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Content governance and environmental sustainability

The complexities of content moderation in diverse cultural contexts raised critical questions. While AI offers potential solutions for content moderation, its ethical implications and biases remain unresolved. Disinformation was another urgent issue, with experts advocating for digital literacy, fact-checking initiatives, and multistakeholder collaborations to preserve democratic integrity.

Sustainability intertwined with digital policy discussions, as the environmental impact of AI, e-waste, and data infrastructure came into focus. The digital sector’s 4% contribution to global emissions sparked calls for sustainable IT procurement, circular economy strategies, and greener AI standards. Harnessing AI to achieve sustainable development goals (SDGs) was also discussed, with its potential to accelerate progress through real-time data analysis and climate prediction.

Looking ahead: local realities and global cooperation

IGF expertise offered some advice for the future with discussions that stressed the importance of multistakeholder cooperation in translating global frameworks like the WSIS+20 and the Global Digital Compact into actionable local policies. In Riyadh, IGF 2024 reinforced that tackling digital challenges—from AI ethics to digital divides—requires a nuanced, multifaceted, holistic, and inclusive approach. The forum served as a sounding board for innovative ideas and a call to action: to build an equitable, sustainable, secure digital future for all.

See you in Norway for the IGF 2025!

Related news:

Diplo Foundation explores AI’s ethical and philosophical challenges at IGF 2024

Jovan Kurbalija, Director of Diplo, stressed the importance of understanding fundamental AI concepts to facilitate deeper conversations beyond the usual concerns about bias and ethics.

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Norway has been selected by the UN to host the 2025 Internet Governance Forum (IGF), marking a significant milestone as the largest UN meeting ever held in the country.

Musk faces scrutiny over national security concerns

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Other topics and updates

Visit dig.watch now for more detailed info on IGF 2024 sessions, related updates, and other topics!

Marko and the Digital Watch team

Highlights from the week of 13-20 December 2024

Saudi Arabia hosts 19th annual Internet Governance Forum in Riyadh

The forum, under the theme ‘Building our multistakeholder digital future’, will explore four key areas: harnessing innovation while managing risks, enhancing digital contributions to peace and development, advancing human rights…

Experts at the IGF address the growing threat of misinformation in the digital age

Experts from government, international bodies, and the private sector highlighted social media platforms as primary sources of rapidly spreading misinformation…

Ethical AI governance highlighted at the IGF: Developing tools for human rights-focused solutions

The session included interactive exercises and highlighted the necessity of a multistakeholder approach to address global disparities in AI technology distribution…

IGF 2024 panel tackles global digital identity challenges

Digital identity systems were deemed essential infrastructure for economic inclusion.

TikTok’s request to temporarily halt the US ban rejected by US court

TikTok and ByteDance sought more time from the US Court of Appeals to argue their case at the Supreme Court, but this request was denied.

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UN discusses ethical tech and inclusion at IGF 2024

UN leaders at IGF 2024 explored digital transformation, showcasing refugee-focused apps, child data rights frameworks, and blockchain security systems. Panellists stressed collaboration, inclusion, and ethical technology use for sustainable progress.

Protecting journalists online with global solutions from IGF 2024

Gender-based harassment and marginalisation were key themes at IGF 2024’s forum on journalist safety online.

Democratising AI: the promise and pitfalls of open-source LLMs

The session focused on the potential of open-source large language models (LLMs) to democratise access to AI, particularly in fostering innovation and empowering smaller economies and the Global South.

Human rights concerns over UN Cybercrime Treaty raised at IGF 2024

Experts at IGF 2024 raised concerns over vague provisions in the UN Cybercrime Treaty threatening freedoms worldwide.

Protecting critical infrastructure in a fragile cyberspace

The discussion highlighted the importance of baseline cybersecurity measures, such as asset inventory and vulnerability management, and emphasised employee training and awareness.

Election integrity in the digital age: insights from IGF 2024

Panelists from diverse sectors and regions discussed the significant challenges of misinformation, disinformation, and emerging technologies such as AI and deepfakes, which threaten democratic processes.

View all updates

Reading corner

dig.watch

The US clock is ticking (for) TikTok

Bytedance, the TikTok’s parent company, is going to divest its US operations by 19 January 2025 or face a ban in the country.

IGF 2024 – Daily 4

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IGF Daily Summary

for Wednesday, 18 December 2024

Judge a man by his questions rather than his answers.
Voltaire

Dear readers,

Welcome to our fourth and final daily newsletter from IGF 2024! After providing descriptive summaries of IGF discussions over the past three days, today we’re taking a different approach. We will not be highlighting the main messages but focusing on the main questions.

As IGF 2024 comes to an end, we think it is important to reflect on questions that don’t have straightforward answers but necessitate multifaceted thought and action. If you’ve heard these questions before, it’s because they bear repeating: We have not solved these concerns.

Good questions initiate meaningful conversations. They break barriers, encourage empathy, and facilitate a better understanding of others’ perspectives.

We invite you to reflect on these questions. And if any of them draw your attention in particular, send us your thoughts. Or perhaps your additional questions. You can reach us at digitalwatch@diplomacy.edu.

The Digital Watch team, with support from DiploAI

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Questions for reflection

AI and AI governance

Why do humans tend to be obsessed with building AI that matches human intelligence and has human attributes?
In a world driven by economic growth and efficiency, can humans compete with machines? Should they? Is there space to advocate for a right to be humanly imperfect?
What unintended consequences might arise from the rush to come up with new regulations for AI, and how can we proactively address them?
Could the push for global AI governance standards inadvertently stifle innovation in developing countries?
What are the implications of treating algorithms as ‘black boxes’ beyond human comprehension? How might this opacity erode public trust in AI?
How can we address the potential conflict between calls for data minimisation and the data-hungry nature of AI development?
How can we address the potential conflict between calls for algorithmic transparency and the protection of trade secrets?
How do we reconcile the need for global AI governance with the vastly different cultural and ethical perspectives on AI across regions?
What are the potential unintended consequences of the push for ‘ethical AI’ in perpetuating certain cultural or philosophical worldviews?
What concrete actions need to be taken to address the long-term societal implications of the increasing use of AI in judicial systems, immigration and border control, and government decision-making?
How can synthetic data be leveraged to improve machine learning models while addressing concerns around data privacy, bias, and representativeness? What governance frameworks are needed to regulate the use of synthetic data?
How can international law obligations be effectively translated into technical requirements for AI systems in military applications? And how can liability be determined when AI systems are involved in military actions that violate international law?

Internet governance, digital governance, and digital cooperation

Are multilateral and multistakeholder approaches to internet and digital governance in opposition to each other? How to move away from this dichotomy and see the two as complementary, rather than competing?
Given the upcoming WSIS+20 review process, where a renewal of the IGF mandate will be up for discussion, what does the IGF we want look like? What lessons have we learned from 19 years of the forum, and how can we build on them moving forward?
What are the risks and challenges of having two parallel processes for the implementation, review, and follow-up of GDC and WSIS outcomes?
How can we ensure the GDC doesn’t become another set of
well-intentioned but poorly implemented framework for digital cooperation?
Who needs to do what to ensure that the commitments and calls outlined in the Global Digital Compact have a meaningful and impactful reflection into local and regional realities? Are there lessons learnt from the implementation of WSIS action lines that could be put to good use?
How can we address the tension between the drive for digital sovereignty and the need for a globally interoperable internet?
What could be the potential long-term impacts of the differing approaches to tech regulation adopted by China, EU, and USA?
How do we balance the need for global coordination on tech governance with the importance of context-specific, localised approaches?
How can we create more effective mechanisms for civil society participation in tech policy-making that go beyond token consultations?
What are the implications of developed countries exporting their digital governance models to the Global South through development aid and capacity building programmes?

Digital inclusion and capacity development

What is missing in our current approaches to addressing digital divides and why are we not there yet?
Given the slow progress in addressing digital divides despite years of effort, what fundamental assumptions about digital inclusion might we need to challenge or rethink to make meaningful progress in the coming decade?
What are the risks of over-emphasising quantitative metrics in measuring digital inclusion, potentially overlooking qualitative aspects of meaningful connectivity like empowerment, digital literacy, etc.?
How do we balance the growing emphasis on AI divides and governance with the need to address broader issues of digital inequality and infrastructure gaps, ensuring that the focus on AI does not overshadow other critical areas of digital policy that require attention?
What are the implications of the growing role of satellite internet providers in shaping global internet access?
How can we ensure that efforts to promote digital financial inclusion don’t expose vulnerable populations to new forms of exploitation?
What are the risks of over-emphasising STEM education at the expense of humanities and social sciences in preparing for the digital future? And how can we address them?
How can we better coordinate capacity building efforts among development agencies and partners to avoid duplication and maximise impact?

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Data governance

Who can do what to achieve the desired interoperability of data systems and data governance arrangements, considering the fact that there are different interests and priorities among and between countries, companies, and other stakeholders?
How can we move away from the rather false dichotomy between data localisation and cross-border data flows, and focus on different approaches that combine localisation and free flows depending on the types of data?
What are the implications of framing digital sovereignty primarily in terms of data control, while paying less attention to arguments related to technological capacity building?

Digital infrastructures and services

To what extent does the current approach to promoting certain digital public infrastructure initiatives risk creating new forms of digital colonialism?
Could the push for digital identity systems exacerbate existing forms of discrimination and exclusion?
What are the risks of relying too heavily on public-private partnerships in developing digital infrastructure, particularly in terms of accountability and public interest?

Content governance

When tackling dis/misinformation and other types of harmful content, how do we move away from over-emphasising technical solutions, and focus more on addressing underlying societal issues fueling the spread of such content?
What are the risks of over-relying on AI-powered content moderation systems in diverse cultural contexts? And how can they be addressed?
What are the long-term implications of the growing role of private digital platforms in shaping public discourse and democratic processes?
How can we create more effective mechanisms for addressing cross-border content moderation issues without creating global content standards?
What frameworks can be developed – and by whom – to ensure the well-being of content moderators, addressing their mental health, ethical challenges, and the need for continuous support in working for a healthier digital environment?

Sustainable development and environment

What are the implications of over-emphasising the role of technology in achieving the sustainable development goals? How to ensure that the broader systemic challenges (social and cultural) are not neglected in the pursuit of technological advancements?
What is missing in our approaches to addressing the environmental impact of digital technologies?
What innovative strategies (e.g. viral social media campaigns, influencer collaborations, etc.) could be used to raise public awareness about the environmental and health impacts of e-waste and encourage more responsible disposal practices?

Human rights

How can we ensure that efforts to create safe online spaces for children don’t infringe on their rights to privacy and free expression?
How can we design and enforce gender-responsive laws and legal frameworks that effectively protect women from online harm while promoting their digital rights and participation?
What are the potential negative consequences of framing digital rights primarily in terms of individual liberties, potentially overlooking other rights and responsibilities?
How can we move beyond the binary framing of ‘digital rights vs. security’ in discussions about encryption and lawful access?
How can we create comprehensive and effective governance frameworks for brain-computer interfaces and neurotechnology that adequately address ethical and privacy concerns? And how ensure that such frameworks are diligently implemented?
How can we enhance data collection efforts to better capture the diversity among persons with disabilities, ensuring the development of more accurate and inclusive policies and interventions?

Digital economy

Could a middle-ground solution be found between the efforts to advance global digital trade agreements and the call to address more immediate challenges, such as bridging digital divides and promoting data fairness?
How can we create meaningful accountability mechanisms for big tech companies that go beyond fines and actually drive changes in corporate behaviour?
Can digital trade provisions in international agreements be designed in a way that facilitates international trade while also preserving domestic policy space for regulating the digital economy?
How do we ensure that efforts to regulate the digital economy don’t inadvertently entrench the market power of dominant platforms?
Are there risks associated with relying too heavily on self-regulation and corporate social responsibility in addressing tech-related societal challenges? If so, how do we address them?

Cybersecurity and cybercrime

What are the implications of the growing role of military and national security interests in shaping global cybersecurity norms?
What can be done to improve communication and coordination between technical and diplomatic communities in the cybersecurity domain?
Given the increasing use of AI in cybersecurity, how can we ensure that AI-driven security measures don’t inadvertently create or exacerbate vulnerabilities?
As end-to-end encryption becomes more widespread, how can we balance the need for privacy and security with the challenges it poses for combating child exploitation online? Are current proposals for ‘client-side scanning’ a viable solution or a dangerous precedent?
With the increasing complexity of supply chains in technology manufacturing, how can we effectively implement ‘security by design’ principles when multiple actors across various jurisdictions are involved in the production process?
How can we operationalise international norms on cybersecurity and critical infrastructure protection?
How can we responsibly deploy emerging technologies like AI and quantum computing in critical infrastructure while addressing potential vulnerabilities?
How to establish universal baseline or minimum cybersecurity requirements for critical infrastructure protection across jurisdictions?
How can we ensure that provisions of the UN cybercrime convention are not misused for political prosecution? And how can future protocol negotiations be used to strengthen human rights safeguards while maintaining core provisions for addressing cybercrime?

Read all session reports

Diplo and GIP at IGF2024

Yesterday, Diplo organised two sessions at the IGF.

Securing critical infrastructure in cyber: Who and how?

Through a highly interactive format, including a scenario exercise and groupwork, participants explored the roles and responsibilities of critical infrastructure operators (ICT service providers, cloud, software, etc.) for protecting critical infrastructure from cyberattacks. Discussions reflected on how governments and cybersecurity researchers can enable those efforts to protect critical infrastructure from cyberattacks. The findings will contribute to shaping the next edition of the Geneva Manual, developed in the context of the Geneva Dialogue on Responsible Behaviour in Cyberspace, a project implemented by Diplo.

Empowering Civil Society: Bridging Gaps in Policy Influence

During this workshop, we presented findings from a key study on the capacity of civil society organisations (CSOs) to influence digital policy and governance. The discussions then focused on bridging the gap between CSO engagement and their potential influence in several key internet governance processes. We explored strategies to enhance CSO impact, shared recommendations for integrating them into policy-making, and highlighted best practices that could strengthen civil society’s role in shaping digital governance. The workshop was organised by partners in the EU-funded Civil Society Alliances for Digital Empowerment (CADE) consortium, led by Diplo.

If you’re joining the meeting online, check out our space in the virtual village.

If you’re attending the IGF in Riyadh, make sure to drop by our Diplo and GIP booth, numbered U-21.

Do you like what you’re reading? Bookmark us at https://dig.watch/event/internet-governance-forum-2024 and tweet us @DigWatchWorld

Have you heard something new during the discussions, but we’ve missed it? Send us your suggestions at digitalwatch@diplomacy.edu.

IGF 2024 – Daily 3

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IGF Daily Summary

for Tuesday, 17 December 2024

Dear readers,

Welcome to our third daily summary of IGF 2024 discussions! Among the 60 sessions we reported from yesterday, we identified several overarching trends. First is the diversity of topics covered, from frontiers of space technology to using AI for agriculture and disaster management, and the need for a truly multilingual internet, to name just a few. This reflects the profound impact of digitalisation and AI on society.

Second, many discussions were framed around the opportunities and risks associated with AI and digital developments. These dilemmas are becoming increasingly tangible, and initiatives such as the EU AI Act try to contain AI risks while fostering technological innovation.

Third, a recurring theme was a dichotomy between national and global approaches to AI and digital governance, frequently mentioned in the context of tech sovereignty and data localisation.

Diplo’s three events held yesterday reflected our commitment to ‘walking the talk’ on AI and digital governance. In the morning, we demonstrated the practical use of AI for IGF reporting and introduced a ‘knowledge ecology’ project aimed at leveraging AI to activate knowledge generated at the IGF over the past 19 years. In the afternoon, we discussed the philosophy of AI, exploring questions of human identity, agency, and consciousness. A session on our publication dedicated to unpacking the Global Digital Compact (GDC) exemplified Diplo’s way of addressing pressing policy issues quickly, comprehensively, and thoroughly.

Below, you’ll find a more detailed summary of the discussions to help you prepare for the final two days of IGF 2024.

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Please let us know your comments and suggestions at digitalwatch@diplomacy.edu!

The Digital Watch team, with support from DiploAI

Summary of discussions

Digital divide and meaningful connectivity

The persistent digital divide remained at the forefront of discussions. The main session of the Policy Network on Meaningful Access highlighted the importance of not just access, but meaningful connectivity, defined as ‘the possibility for everyone to enjoy a safe, satisfying, enriching, productive online experience at an affordable cost’. The session explored various strategies for improving access and digital inclusion, including public-private partnerships and innovative technologies for rural connectivity. Speakers highlighted the need for robust data collection to measure progress, with ITU statistics showing 67% global internet usage but persistent affordability issues in many countries.

In a related discussion on digital technologies for inclusive development, questions were raised about how digital technologies can benefit everyone equally and inclusively. Diverse perspectives were brought up on leveraging digital tools for sustainable development and addressing inequalities, with a particular emphasis on applications in agriculture, education, and cultural preservation.

One size does not fit all when it comes to addressing digital divides and advancing digital development. Local realities, challenges, and needs have to be carefully considered in any policy and technical interventions; tailored solutions and approaches are needed, in particular for developing and least-developed economies.

A key focus was on expanding connectivity to underserved areas. Speakers emphasised the need for infrastructure investment in rural regions. Innovative solutions like unlicensed spectrum and non-terrestrial networks were proposed to connect remote communities. The session on low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites explored how this technology could provide internet access to areas lacking terrestrial infrastructure, though challenges around regulation and environmental impact were noted.

Discussions also underscored the critical need to protect internet access and infrastructure as essential resources for civilian populations, especially during conflicts and crises. The good news is, that there are already international frameworks for protecting internet infrastructure in place, for instance, the UN GGE norm 6 (do not damage critical infrastructure), that can be applied. However, effectively implementing such international norms remains challenging. Another open issue is how to balance legitimate security concerns with maintaining internet access.

Gender disparities in internet access received significant attention. Statistics show that women represent only 19% of entry-level and 10% of executive-level positions in tech, and speakers called for targeted initiatives to increase women’s participation, including mentorship programs and addressing cultural barriers. Capacity development and digital skills development were emphasised across sessions as crucial for meaningful access.

AI governance and interoperability

Using AI to make IGF knowledge accessible

Over the past 19 IGF iterations, a wealth of knowledge has been generated through countless panel discussions and exchanges among policymakers, NGOs, private actors, academics, researchers, and others. Until now, much of this knowledge has existed only in participants’ memories or stored in transcripts, reports, and video files. Diplo has been working to unlock this rich repository of knowledge through the effective use of AI.

The IGF knowledge ecology project uses a range of AI technologies, including large language models, retrieval-augmented generation (RAGs), knowledge graphs, and relational databases. As discussed during the session, the main challenge has been ensuring data quality in the transcripts generated during previous IGG meetings. Addressing this required a substantial data-cleaning effort, through a combination of automated AI tools and human analysis.

Diplo also provided an update on the project’s next phase, which will focus on completing data analysis, developing AI models, and combining various AI technologies into an operational system.

The governance of AI remained a central topic, with discussions focusing on the need for interoperable and inclusive approaches. A workshop on interoperability of AI governance explored the scope and potential mechanisms for creating more aligned and coordinated approaches to governing AI internationally. Speakers emphasised the importance of a broad understanding of AI interoperability, encompassing technical, legal, semantic, and policy dimensions.

The main session on the Policy Network on Artificial Intelligence further delved into the challenges of AI governance, highlighting issues such as liability, environmental sustainability, and labour implications. The discussion underscored the need for global cooperation and inclusive governance frameworks that consider diverse cultural contexts and address the potential risks associated with AI deployment.

A gift from Diplo: An AI assistant to explore the report developed by the IGF’s Policy Network on AI

Yesterday, Diplo’s Sorina Teleanu moderated the main session of the IGF Policy Network on AI (PNAI). Over the past year, the PNAI worked on a policy report providing insights and recommendations on four AI-governance-related issues: liability, environmental sustainability, AI-related labour issues, and legal, technical, and data interoperability. To facilitate the exploration of the report, Diplo has developed a dedicated AI assistant. We invite you to interact with the assistant and consider how its recommendations could be taken further. We are confident that colleagues at PNAI would welcome your reflections.

The session on AI governance for children’s global citizenship education highlighted the need for child-centred approaches in AI development, emphasising safety, privacy, and educational benefits. A safety by the design approach to developing AI platforms came into focus during a parliamentary debate. Balancing national sovereignty concerns with the need for global approaches is a key tension in addressing AI problems, such as harmonising risk categorisation and liability frameworks across jurisdictions.

The EU AI Act came into focus as the first comprehensive regulation of AI. In a poll conducted during a session, a slight majority (55%) of participants thought that the EU AI Act would become a new global regulatory standard (similar to how the GDPR influenced data regulations worldwide). As the act moves into implementation, the underlying question will be whether it manages to strike the right balance between enabling innovation and containing risks.

What does it mean to be human in the AI era? And other questions to reflect on …

During the past few days at the IGF, the most frequent term used across the sessions we have reported from was – you guessed it – AI. Discussions have revolved around topics such as AI governance, AI divides and inequalities, transparency, ethics, responsibility, safety, testing and evaluation, and many, many more. At Diplo, we wanted to go a bit beyond these issues and look at some broader, perhaps more philosophical questions about AI that we may want to spend a little more time on in our debates on AI. And so we hosted a session which was mostly about asking questions. We’d like to repeat some of these questions here and invite you, our readers, to take your time and reflect on them:

What do we talk about when we talk about AI ‘understanding’, ‘reasoning’, etc.? How accurate and useful is it to assign human attributes to machines?
More and more content is AI-generated. What happens when AI is trained on AI-generated data?
How will human-machine co-generated language evolve, now depending less on contexts but on tokens associated with probabilities? Five or ten years from now, will we all sound like ChatGPT?
What do we want from AI?
How do we interact with AI? To what extent are we aware of these interactions? How much of these interactions involve informed choices? How much of our agency do we preserve in interactions with AI?
Is AI having an impact on how we interact with / relate to each other?
Is AI making choices for us? Should it?
In a world driven by economic growth and efficiency, can humans compete with machines? Should they? Should we advocate for a right to be humanly imperfect?
And what does it mean to be human in the AI era?

‘What would it mean to build artificial intelligences and other machines that are more like octopuses, more like fungi, or more like forests?’(James Bridle, Ways of being)

Are there any other questions you would like to see explored more carefully in AI policy and governance debates? Send us your suggestions and reflections at digwatch@diplomacy.edu.

Data governance and cross-border data flows

Getting the right interplay between data localisation and cross-border flow of data came in the focus of discussion on data governance in Africa as well as in the debate on US international data policy. A debate on the concept of digital sovereignty brought into focus the question of achieving a delicate balance between accounting for national security considerations, fostering the growth of local data economies, and enabling cross-border data flows as a key component of a global digital economy. The challenges of ‘digital colonialism’ were also addressed, with calls for empowering local digital ecosystems and promoting data sovereignty.

Cybersecurity and online safety

Cybersecurity discussions focused on both national and individual-level protections. The session on challenges of cyberdefense in developing economies highlighted the unique challenges faced by developing countries in building cyber resilience, including resource constraints, and skill gaps. Panelists recommended the importance of enforcing existing laws and building capacity, rather than hastily creating new policies. The panel also recognised the need for tailored approaches that consider the specific contexts and needs of developing nations.

Moving forward, the focus should be on implementing existing frameworks, building human capacity, and fostering sustainable, locally-driven cybersecurity strategies that prioritise preparation, skill development, and practical, incremental improvements.

In resource-constrained environments, AI can bring immense opportunities for improving cybersecurity and critical infrastructure security. AI enhances threat detection, automates data analysis, and addresses language barriers, making solutions more accessible. A unique advantage that AI has is in overcoming language barriers, as AI could make cybersecurity solutions available in multiple languages, thereby increasing accessibility for developing countries. However, AI systems also face risks such as adversarial attacks, data poisoning, and privacy vulnerabilities. Additionally, AI-driven security must balance technical advancements with ethical considerations.

The idea of building universal standards for digital infrastructure resilience was also explored, with speakers agreeing that such universal standards should be flexible enough to be adapted to different contexts. Several issues remained unresolved, including how to develop standards that remain current given rapid technological changes, how to address economic and technological disparities between countries in implementing standards, and how to establish common definitions and language around digital infrastructure resilience.

The importance of cyber diplomacy for the Middle East and African regions was also discussed. The Middle East’s engagement in cyber diplomacy was initially minimal, particularly within the context of UN cybersecurity governance. However, significant change occurred with the advent of the UN Cybercrime Convention, which resonated more with Middle Eastern countries due to their history of regional cybercrime laws. This shift led to more active participation in global cyber diplomacy, especially in the later stages of negotiations. Looking ahead, there is an expectation that Middle Eastern states will continue to use cyber diplomacy as a form of soft power, integrating cybersecurity discussions into major geopolitical forums such as the Doha Forum in Qatar and the Manama Dialogues in Bahrain.

The participation of African countries in international cyber negotiations is quite low. However, participation can be a small investment – processes have made an effort for teleconferencing to be a standard part of engaging. Opportunities for Africa in cyber diplomacy include leveraging emerging technologies, strengthening regional cooperation, and developing norms and standards for cybersecurity. Recommendations for advancing cyber diplomacy in Africa include investing in national cybersecurity strategies, fostering international collaboration, and improving public-private partnerships.

We tend to overprotect children in the offline world, and we underprotect them in the virtual world, it was underlined. Speakers advocated for a multistakeholder approach to child safety online involving governments, tech companies, educators, parents, and children themselves. The inclusion of children’s perspectives in the development of safety features and policies was identified as a vital component. Education emerged as a central theme, with experts calling for media literacy programs in schools.

However, there should be a balance between the protection of children and their privacy online. Another challenge is addressing online safety for children from different socioeconomic backgrounds, who have varying levels of vulnerability to online risks. Some of the solutions suggested include implementing safety by design – embedding safety measures into products from the outset, updating laws to address online violence, and strengthening social services for at-risk children.

Content moderation

The complexities of content moderation at a global scale were explored in sessions like Strengthening content moderation through expert input. Speakers discussed the challenges of developing culturally sensitive moderation policies and the role of external experts in shaping platform governance.

The challenges of moderating online content across different languages and cultures were emphasised, with speakers acknowledging the difficulties in addressing context-specific issues on a global scale. The discussion also touched on the potential role of AI in content moderation, while recognising the ethical implications and potential biases of such systems.

Disinformation remained a pressing concern, with speakers in various sessions highlighting its potential to undermine democratic processes and social cohesion. The need for digital literacy programmes and critical thinking skills was emphasised as a crucial component in combating disinformation, alongside technological solutions and policy interventions.

Questions remain open, however, on how to effectively regulate smaller platforms, address challenges of end-to-end encryption for content moderation, and harmonise content regulation approaches globally given differing laws across jurisdictions.

Internet governance and digital cooperation

Debates on the implementation and follow-up activities related to the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) outcomes and the GDC continued during Day 2. On the GDC front, some of the raised issues included the importance of stakeholder partnerships and collaboration when it comes to transposing GDC commitments and calls into real action, the need to allocate sufficient resources to follow-up activities, the complementarity between the GDC and existing frameworks like WSIS and the need to ensure alignment between them were among the issues raised.

WSIS-related debates underscored both achievements and challenges in the implementation of WSIS action lines and in the broader internet governance space. A message we have heard in previous days was reiterated: The multistakeholder model of governance promoted during WSIS has proved successful and it needs to be preserved and strengthened. There were also voices arguing for a balanced approach to digital governance, combining multistakeholder engagement with more active government participation in digital governance.

Some of the challenges highlighted during the discussions included internet fragmentation, the persistent digital divide, cybersecurity threats, and misinformation; addressing these and similar issues remains essential if we are to have a truly inclusive, open, and secure internet and digital space for all. There were also concerns about the influence and power of large tech companies and the need for more effective international collaboration to hold them accountable.

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The IGF itself was also talked about yesterday. Key takeaways from these discussions include a call to strengthen the IGF’s role and impact, an emphasis on the need to improve its financial sustainability, and suggestions that the forum could (and should) serve as a vehicle for facilitating the implementation of the GDC.

The need to better understand the local and regional digital realities and challenges and take them into account in global digital governance and cooperation processes was highlighted several times. There were also calls for promoting cross-regional collaboration and alignment in addressing digital challenges, strengthening regional coordination and representation in global debates, and addressing capacity constraints in developing countries.

Multiple discussions underscored the complex and interconnected nature of digital issues, highlighting the need for continued dialogue, collaboration, and innovative governance and cooperation approaches to address the challenges and opportunities presented by the rapidly evolving digital landscape.es, aiding disaster response, and helping with climate prediction and resource mobilisation.

Unpacking the Global Digital Compact

Yesterday was a busy day for our team in Riyadh. But we could not have missed the opportunity to get together with Diplo friends and alumni on-site, so it was our pleasure to welcome them to a mixed formal-informal gathering, where we also presented our most recent publication: Unpacking the Global Digital Compact: Actors, Issues and Processes, by Sorina Teleanu.

The publication provides a detailed account of the GDC negotiations over the 18-month-long process, tracking and analysing changes across different versions of GDC drafts. It presents a unique interplay between zooming in on specific provisions, sometimes on the edge of linguistic pedantry, and zooming out to provide a broader perspective on digital governance and cooperation. The publication also places the GDC in the broader context of global digital governance and cooperation mechanisms, and offers a set of questions to reflect on as stakeholders explore the interplay between GDC, WSIS, and Agenda 2030 processes, implementation, and follow-up.

Digital economy, sustainable development, and environment

The topic of digital transformation continues to be a central focus of discussions at IGF 2024, with a key theme being the need for digital transformation processes to be inclusive and bring benefits to all segments of society. Digital technologies can promote inclusive development across various sectors, from agriculture to cultural preservation, but this can only happen if the proper infrastructure is in place. Addressing infrastructure gaps, particularly in rural and marginalised areas, is required to ensure equitable access to digital opportunities.

The role of data in driving economic growth was also explored. A discussion on data governance and sharing in Africa emphasised the need to harmonise data policies across the continent to facilitate economic growth and innovation. Also highlighted was the importance of cross-border data flows, particularly in the context of implementing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

The concept of ‘citizen data’ was looked at in a dedicated session, where participants highlighted how citizen-generated data can help identify and address systemic biases and inequalities in the digital space, particularly for marginalised groups.

Sustainability and environmental considerations in the digital realm were prominent themes in several discussions. The application of digital technologies to environmental monitoring and sustainable resource management was highlighted, and examples were presented of how Geographic Information System (GIS) technology and big data can support sustainable agriculture and environmental monitoring, contributing to the implementation of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The energy demands of AI systems and data centres were also discussed as a growing environmental concern. There was a call for an interoperable global approach to AI sustainability, stressing the importance of measuring, tracking, and incentivising better energy and water use in data centres, chips, and algorithms.

In a session on satellite technology, environmental impacts and space sustainability emerged as significant concerns in the context of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite technology. Participants also raised issues around space debris, satellite de-orbiting, and the impact of LEO satellites on astronomy. And speaking of outer space and sustainability, a point was raised in the PNAI main session about the growing attention given to the exploitation of space resources such as minerals used in the development of certain digital technologies: Which actors stand to benefit the most from such possibilities, and how about the notion of equitable access to outer space resources?

Read all session reports

Thought-provoking ideas

Suggestions for future work to be carried out within the IGF: Consider the launch of an IGF best practice forum to explore options and next steps in the implementation of GDC commitments related to internet shutdowns.
Protection of submarine cables: Create a UN cable-laying fleet to assist in infrastructure rebuilding efforts.
Regulation and innovation: Nothing will stifle innovation more than a patchwork of onerous and sometimes conflicting regulatory requirements across jurisdictions.
Regulation and enforcement: The solution to digital challenges is not more legislation. What hasn’t worked is effective enforcement of the laws in place and that’s where we have actually failed. So essentially what we need is more effective enforcement of the laws by regulators and other mechanisms whereby laws can be enforced rather than thinking about more legislation.
Technology as a solution: If you think technology will solve all your problems, then you do not understand technology and you do not understand your problem.

Numbers and statistics

79% of teenagers are concerned about AI’s impact on job prospects, according to research presented by UNICEF.
50 features and tools have been implemented by Meta to address risks for young users.
10% increase in internet penetration could yield up to an 8.2% increase in GDP per capita, higlighting the economic importance of connectivity.
67% of the world’s population uses the internet and 96% is covered by mobile broadband networks, according to ITU statistics.
2/3 of African countries have data protection legislation in place, with the Malabo Convention serving as a key continental instrument for data protection.
21% more men are likely to be online than women, highlighting the persistent gender digital divide.

Join us today!

A kind reminder to join Diplo’s and GIP’s sessions and gatherings today:

WS #190 Securing critical infrastructure in cyber: Who and how? | 13:35-15:15 (Workshop Room 4)
WS #266 Empowering Civil Society: Bridging Gaps in Policy Influence | 15:30 – 16:30 (Workshop Room 4)

If you’re joining the meeting online, check out our space in the virtual village.

If you’re attending the IGF in Riyadh, make sure to drop by our Diplo and GIP booth, numbered U-21.

Do you like what you’re reading? Bookmark us at https://dig.watch/event/internet-governance-forum-2024 and tweet us @DigWatchWorld

Have you heard something new during the discussions, but we’ve missed it? Send us your suggestions at digitalwatch@diplomacy.edu.

IGF 2024 – Daily 2

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IGF Daily Summary

for Monday, 16 December 2024

Dear readers,

Welcome to our daily report from Day 1 at IGF 2024! Yesterday’s discussions were very diverse, touching on topics that shape the very fabric of our digital world, from the complexities of AI governance to the frontiers of the interplanetary internet, highlighting both challenges and opportunities lying ahead.

A key theme emerging from the sessions was the urgent need to accelerate progress in bridging digital divides – in its multiple dimensions – across the globe. As the Secretary-General of the International Telecommunication Union pointed out, a third of humanity remains offline, and so there is a need for more targeted interventions and investments in affordable digital infrastructure. This reality serves as a reminder that IGF discussions have real-world implications for billions of people.

The rapid advancement of AI technologies has been another hot topic, with debates ranging from ethical considerations in AI development to its impact on journalism and media. These discussions highlight the delicate balance we must strike between innovation and responsible governance.

Speakers emphasised the importance of preserving a multistakeholder approach to internet and digital governance. The CEO of ICANN affirmed the proven success of the multistakeholder model. The UN Secretary-General highlighted the role of the IGF as the primary multistakeholder platform for discussions on internet governance issues and noted that the ‘work and the voice’ of the forum will be critical as the implementation of the recently adopted Global Digital Compact (GDC) starts.

The discussion also touched on challenges such as online hate speech, the potential misuse of AI, and the threats posed by deepfakes. Protecting human rights in the digital space was a recurring concern, with speakers stressing the importance of ensuring that technology serves humanity while balancing innovation with privacy concerns. Other debates touched on the role of regulatory sandboxes in fostering innovation or the challenges of creating a greener internet.

In the summary below, you will find insights on these and other topics. We invite you to explore these topics in depth and consider how they intersect with your own work and interests.

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Please let us know your comments and suggestions at digitalwatch@diplomacy.edu!

The Digital Watch team, with support from DiploAI

Summary of discussions

Digital inclusion and bridging divides

The persistent challenge of digital divides, including access, gender, and AI capabilities, was a recurring theme across multiple sessions. In the opening session, speakers emphasised the need to address various aspects of the digital divide to ensure equitable development and protect democratic principles. It was also stressed that a third of humanity remains offline, requiring targeted interventions.

The session on global digital adoption further explored this theme, with speakers noting that only 40% of Africans are connected to the internet due to infrastructure and affordability challenges. The importance of connectivity for economic development was also underscored: Digital technologies are driving economic growth, helping in the fight against poverty, and making information more accessible. There was a call for a holistic approach to digital inclusion, addressing not only infrastructure but also digital literacy, capacity building, and the development of locally relevant content and services.

The potential of digital public infrastructure (DPI) to promote financial inclusion was explored, with examples from Brazil’s PIX system and India’s Unified Payments Interface demonstrating how DPI can enable widespread digital transactions and financial services. However, speakers also emphasised the need for robust consumer protection measures and digital literacy programmes to ensure equitable access and use of these technologies. Ensuring that DPI systems are truly consumer-centric and inclusive remains key.

The session on global digital adoption highlighted the importance of connectivity for economic development: digital technologies are driving economic growth, helping in the fight against poverty, and making information more accessible. However, with one-third of humanity still offline, there is a need for more targeted interventions and investment in affordable digital infrastructure and services to bridge the persistent gap.

Gender equality in digital spaces took centre stage at IGF 2024, with discussions on closing the global digital gender divide.

AI governance and ethics

AI featured high during the kick-off day of the IGF. In the keynote address, the UN Secretary-General frequently referred to AI while introducing the Global Digital Compact as a blueprint for humanity’s digital future and emphasising that ‘digital technology must serve humanity, not the other way around’.

Most of the discussions on AI followed established narratives, including: dealing with opportunities and challenges, balancing innovation and regulation, the need for a holistic and comprehensive AI governance, trustworthy AI, transparency and explainability, etc.

Novelty emerged in new angles and emphasis, including the development of bottom-up AI based on local knowledge, balancing global standards with specificities of local contexts, and cultural diversity and multilingualism.

There was also a focus on AI divides and the importance of building local AI ecosystems and capacity, particularly in the Global South. Addressing compute, data, and algorithmic divides to ensure equitable participation in the AI-driven economy was suggested as a way forward.

The relevance of data for AI was discussed from various perspectives: data localisation and AI, creating a universal platform for data sharing for AI, and the use of synthetic data. There were also focused debates on specific impacts of AI on wide strata of society including journalism, education, and security.

In a typical AI governance dilemma between strict regulations and no oversight, there is the emergence of a possible middle ground centred around a mix of voluntary reporting frameworks and codes of conduct.

Cybersecurity and digital resilience

The importance of cybersecurity and digital resilience was emphasised across several sessions. In the opening session, speakers underscored the need to address challenges posed by sophisticated cyberattacks. The value of international cooperation, including initiatives like the Counter Ransomware Initiative (CRI) was highlighted. The importance of designing systems that are resilient to cyber threats was also stressed. The need for capacity building, especially in developing countries, was emphasised to ensure global digital resilience.

The session on countering the use of ICT for terrorist purposes explored the evolving nature of terrorist threats in the digital space. Terrorists are becoming increasingly entrepreneurial and imaginative in their use of technology. Speakers noted that terrorist groups increasingly exploit social media, video games, and emerging technologies. The discussion emphasised the need for international cooperation, capacity development, and a multistakeholder approach to address these complex challenges effectively.

The protection of children’s rights and safety in digital environments was also discussed. A central theme was the need to balance protection with children’s rights to access, participation, and information online. Age-appropriate safeguards, digital literacy programs, and robust reporting mechanisms were identified as critical tools for creating safer virtual environments. However, unresolved challenges remain, such as addressing harmful content, cyberbullying, and the complexities of age verification without excessive data collection.

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Digital cooperation and governance

The IGF itself was created as a multistakeholder platform for internet governance, and the value of the multistakeholder approaches to governance has been reiterated over the years in forum discussions. So it is no surprise that this topic is addressed extensively this time too. On Day 1 we saw it referenced in multiple sessions, from the very opening session which reiterated the importance of the IGF, to a high-level session which called for multistakeholder involvement in the implementation of the Global Digital Compact, and a discussion on the internet governance landscape in the Arab world, where speakers emphasised the need for dialogue and collaboration among all stakeholders in shaping internet policies and governance frameworks.

The interplay between GDC and WSIS processes came up in several discussions. In the parliamentary track, for instance, there were reflections on how the GDC builds on the WSIS legacy, while a dedicated workshop noted the need for meaningful synergies between the GDC and WSIS, with calls for the IGF to serve as a flexible and ongoing mechanism for stakeholder engagement in addressing critical digital issues. There were also suggestions to explore the possibility of integrating GDC objectives into the existing WSIS framework, and to integrate GDC follow-up in the WSIS follow-up and review process.

A strong message coming out from several discussions was the need to translate global digital governance frameworks, like the WSIS outcome documents and the GDC, into actionable policies at the national and local levels. The adoption of such documents at the UN level – while an achievement in itself – needs to be followed up by concrete measures and actions if we are to achieve the vision for a ‘people-centred, inclusive and development-oriented information society’ (agreed at WSIS) and an ‘inclusive, open, sustainable, fair, safe and secure digital future for all’ (outlined in the GDC).

The discussion on interplanetary networks took the governance debates to outer space, highlighting the need for multistakeholder models in developing governance frameworks for interplanetary communication.

Content policy

The workshop on tackling disinformation in electoral contexts emphasised the need for multistakeholder collaboration in addressing this challenge. Speakers highlighted the importance of digital literacy programs, fact-checking initiatives, and transparent platform policies to combat disinformation online. The discussion also touched on the role of AI in both spreading and combating disinformation, underscoring the need for responsible AI development and deployment.

The rise of AI-generated journalism poses a threat to traditional news websites by potentially cannibalizing traffic. Speakers discussed various regulatory approaches to ensure the sustainability of quality journalism in the digital age, while also addressing the challenges posed by AI-generated content and the evolving nature of content distribution.

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Sustainability and environment

Sustainability and environmental concerns were woven throughout various discussions, reflecting growing awareness of the intersection between digital technologies and environmental challenges.

A significant focus was placed on the environmental impact of the digital sector, which currently contributes approximately 4% of global greenhouse gas emissions. There was also an emphasis on the urgent need to leverage technology, particularly AI, to mitigate these emissions, with the potential to reduce overall emissions by 10% if green digital standards are developed and implemented effectively.

Other key themes included the challenges posed by e-waste, as projections indicated that without intervention, global e-waste could reach 82 billion tons by 2030. The discussions highlighted the importance of establishing comprehensive e-waste management policies, as only a fraction of countries currently have effective strategies in place. The need for a circular economy in digital resource management was underscored, advocating for practices that minimise waste and promote sustainability.

Moreover, the role of digital platforms and emerging technologies in contributing to both environmental challenges and solutions was a recurring topic. The discussions called for a balanced approach that recognises the dual nature of technology’s impact on the environment – while it can drive efficiencies, it also poses risks that need to be managed through robust governance frameworks. There was agreement that collaborative efforts across various stakeholders are essential to address these pressing issues and to integrate environmental considerations into digital policy and governance moving forward.

In a dedicated workshop exploring ways to make the internet greener and more sustainable, there was a call for stronger collaboration across different stakeholder groups to develop a greener internet.

The environmental impact of digital infrastructure was a recurring theme. In a session on ESG enhancement, it was noted that 80% of IT’s environmental footprint comes from hardware production. Speakers emphasised the importance of sustainable IT procurement and the development of frameworks to minimize energy needs and emissions.

The potential of AI to accelerate progress on sustainable development goals (SDGs) was highlighted as well, with estimates being presented that AI could accelerate progress on SDGs by 70%, enabling real-time data analysis for policymaking, addressing structural inequalities, aiding disaster response, and helping with climate prediction and resource mobilisation.

Read all session reports

Concepts and statistics

Space technology for earthly problems: Delay-tolerant networking (DTN) used for deep space communication has potential applications for connecting remote terrestrial areas.

Digital Public Infrastructure: Brazil’s PIX system processes over 2 billion transactions per month, while India’s Unified Payments Interface processes over 10 billion monthly transactions.

Metaverse: 51% of metaverse users are under 16; this calls for child-centric policies and safeguards in virtual environments.

Tech environmental footprint: 80% of the footprint of IT is in the production of hardware. So we need to find ways to produce and sell less hardware.

AI for SDGs: AI could accelerate progress on SDGs by 70%, enabling real-time data analysis for policymaking, addressing structural inequalities, aiding disaster response, and helping with climate prediction and resource mobilisation.

Metaphor of the day

The analogy between AI and water: Just as water sort of nourishes us and helps us to grow our crops, AI also helps us to be more efficient and digest significant amounts of information.

Thought-provoking ideas and questions

Digital technology must serve humanity, not the other way around.
Are we sure that the digital revolution will be progress? Not just innovation, not just power, but progress for humankind?
The two worlds of intergovernmentalism and multistakeholderism, they can live together very smoothly. They are two sides of a coin. No side can work without the other.
There is a need to devise an AI governance model that can tackle three main divides: the compute divide, the data divide, and the algorithmic divide.

Do you like what you’re reading? Bookmark us at https://dig.watch/event/internet-governance-forum-2024 and tweet us @DigWatchWorld

Have you heard something new during the discussions, but we’ve missed it? Send us your suggestions at digitalwatch@diplomacy.edu.

Join us today!

A kind reminder to join Diplo’s and GIP’s sessions and gatherings today:

Leveraging AI tools to explore IGF knowledge | 10:30 – 11:30 (IGF Village stage)
Informal get-together for Diplo alumni and friends, where we’ll present our most recent publication, ‘Unpacking Global Digital Compact: Actors, Issues, and Processes’ | 14:40 –15:10, Lightning talks room
Intelligent machines and society | 16:30 – 17:30, Workshop room 7

If you’re joining the meeting online, check out our space in the virtual village.

If you’re attending the IGF in Riyadh, make sure to drop by our Diplo and GIP booth, numbered U-21.

Do you like what you’re reading? Bookmark us at https://dig.watch/event/internet-governance-forum-2024 and tweet us @DigWatchWorld

Have you heard something new during the discussions, but we’ve missed it? Send us your suggestions at digitalwatch@diplomacy.edu.

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