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!

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.

In other news..

Norway to host the 2025 Internet Governance Forum

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

Elon Musk and his company SpaceX are facing multiple federal investigations into their compliance with security protocols designed to protect national secrets.

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 [email protected].

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 [email protected].

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 [email protected]!

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 [email protected].

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)

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Have you heard something new during the discussions, but we’ve missed it? Send us your suggestions at [email protected].

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 [email protected]!

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 [email protected].

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

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IGF 2024 – Daily 1

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IGF Daily Summary

for Sunday, 15 December 2024

Dear readers,

Hello! Diplo’s IGF reporting is back with new features providing in-depth analysis of IGF sessions and discussions. In addition to summary reports and knowledge graphs, you can find surveys of agreements, disagreements, takeaways, and much more.

Our first IGF 2024 daily report looks at the intensive debates which took place during Day 0. A comprehensive coverage of yesterday’s discussions can be found on our IGF 2024 dedicated web page, which includes an analysis of discussions, a summary of the day, an Ask IGF AI assistant based on daily discussion, and much more.

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Artificial intelligence: It is not surprising that AI dominated yesterday’s discussions, with the technology and/or its governance being mentioned 1,136 times in transcripts. Most of the debates followed the typical AI narratives of ‘opportunities and risks’, biases, and ethics. However, we did notice a few shifts. Compared to last year, discussions on the concrete impact of AI on development, education, and health overtook the more hypothetical debates on the long-term impact on humanity.

The AI governance debate focused on an interoperable regulatory framework and voluntary industry commitments. Several specific initiatives were mentioned. For instance, The Hamburg Declaration on AI and SDGs (to be signed in 2025) was mentioned as one of the concrete proposals for addressing the nexus between AI and development. In 2025, the Freedom Online Coalition will focus on the impact of AI on marginalised groups.

Access and digital divide: Locally accessible cloud solutions supported by portable Wi-Fi capable batteries and solar-powered micro-data centres have started emerging as a combination of technologies that could boost connectivity for the unconnected 2.6 billion people. Another obstacle to access has been a sharp increase in internet shutdowns by 41% since 2022.

Mis/disinformation: The good news is the impact of AI-generated content on many elections worldwide was not as high as many expected. However, mis/disinformation remains a major issue impacting social fabric, trust, and security in societies worldwide.

Cybersecurity: In addition to regular debates on threats and ways to deal with them, a newer element was a focus on women, still underrepresented in the cybersecurity field.

We invite you to read more on these and many other issues below and chat with our AI assistant based on yesterday’s discussions.

Please let us know your comments and suggestions at [email protected]!

The Digital Watch team, with support from DiploA.

AI roots in the Islamic Golden Age

In his traditional pre-IGF reflection, Jovan Kurbalija traced the roots of key AI concepts—algorithms and probability—to mathematicians and thinkers of the Islamic Golden Age. He also discusses historical views on virtuality, ethics, and privacy protections.

Summary of discussions

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AI governance

The AI governance debate centred around three approaches that could complement each other: interoperable regulatory frameworks, voluntary industry commitments, and international processes such as the G7 Hiroshima AI process.

Yesterday’s discussions looked into the Council of Europe’s recently concluded Convention on AI, human rights, democracy, and the rule of law that could serve as global standards for striking a balance between innovation and protection of human rights.

The Hamburg Declaration on AI and SDGs was presented as an initiative aimed to address the gap between AI and development dynamics by, among others, dealing with the environmental sustainability of AI, access to AI infrastructure in developing countries, and AI governance structures. The Hamburg Declaration is to be presented during the Hamburg Sustainability Conference (2-3 June 2025) and at the IGF 2025.

The Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO) introduced their approach to ethical AI governance, focusing on six key principles: accountability and oversight, transparency and explainability, fairness and non-discrimination, privacy protection, sustainability and environmental impact, and human-centredness. They also presented a prototype AI ethics evaluation tool designed to help developers and deployers assess and mitigate human rights risks associated with AI systems.

The impact of AI on education was a central theme at the IGF Youth Summit, with discussions on ethical considerations, accountability, the digital divide, and equitable access to AI-powered education.

Fastest speakers during Day 0

Data governance and digital sovereignty

Data remains high on the IGF agenda. A call for a fourth way in data governance (in addition to the approaches taken by the USA, the EU, and China) was proposed, in which data would be treated as a strategic asset for developing countries, and used for socio-economic development. This approach, as proposed by Lenovo, will, for example, ensure that personally identifiable information and sensitive data are not inputted into large language models.

Discussions also highlighted the centrality of digital public infrastructure (DPI) as a foundation for inclusive, open, and effective use of data.

Challenges in implementing data governance frameworks were discussed, including the need for international cooperation, the importance of transparency, and the difficulties in standardising approaches across different jurisdictions.

The IGF about the IGF

The future of the IGF, particularly in light of the upcoming WSIS+20 review, was addressed in a few sessions. The importance of multistakeholder collaboration in internet governance was emphasised, with a focus on issues such as stakeholder inputs, facilitating dialogue, and youth integration. Other discussions explored the potential contribution of national, regional, and youth IGF initiatives (NRIs) in shaping the future of the IGF post-2025. Furthermore, several speakers called for strategic thinking about the next 20 years of IGF.

The launch of UNESCO’s updated Internet Universality Indicators framework, now more streamlined and future-ready, provides a valuable tool for countries to assess and improve their digital governance on rights, openness, accessibility, and multistakeholder participation.

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Access and digital inclusion

Locally Accessible Cloud Systems (LACS) were discussed as a solution for bringing internet access to the 1.6 billion unconnected, particularly in rural areas. LACS could be vital in the case of disasters where connections to the wider internet can be broken.

Access for remote communities is improved through the use of community networks, portable Wi-Fi capable batteries, solar-power micro data centres, rural electrification, and cashing local content, among others.

Cybersecurity and online safety

Cybersecurity and online safety continue to be top priorities on the IGF agenda. The increasing prevalence of non-consensual sharing of intimate images, sextortion, and AI-generated deepfakes was highlighted as a trend and growing concern.

A sharp increase in internet shutdowns is another worrisome trend affecting cybersecurity, access, and human rights. Among approximately 270 internet shutdowns across over 40 countries in 2024, seven countries implemented shutdowns for the first time.

Dis-/misinformation

The risk of the negative impact of AI-generated content on elections in 2024 was mitigated. While AI was (mis)used, it did not have a significant impact on elections.

However, misinformation and disinformation continue to hold significant relevance, particularly in divided societies and conflicts where it can have life-threatening consequences.

A multistakeholder approach is needed to combat misinformation, especially through private-public partnerships between tech companies and governments. While there was overall agreement about the need for international cooperation, participants raised nuanced approaches, with some focusing more on global standards and others arguing for more local and context-specific action in combating misinformation.

AI can have a double-edged impact, as it can be used to both generate and combat misinformation.

The key challenge is to balance combating misinformation with ensuring freedom of expression. Some panellists from the industry argued for labelling rather than removing misinformation as a preferable solution.

The echoing message from Day 0 of the IGF was that platforms must be responsible for content moderation within a regulatory framework. However, these calls are not answered in reality as there is a noticeable regression in platform content moderation.Various initiatives for dealing with dis/misinformation are put in place at a regional level, including the European Digital Media Observatory, the Africa Facts Network, and growing debates on this issue in Southeast Asia.

Gender inclusion

Women are the most affected by underdeveloped digital infrastructure. The lack of direct access to the internet impacts social inclusion as, given the growing reliance on electronic identification (e-IDs) for various social and administrative purposes. In Africa, out of 400 million people without any legal form of identity, 60% are women. Challenges for women do not stop with access. They are the most exposed to cybercrime in Africa. In Afghanistan, the restrictions on women’s rights under Taliban rule are mirrored online, including access to education. Culturally and context-sensitive projects and approaches are needed to effectively address such challenges.

Women are also underrepresented in the cybersecurity field. This has to be addressed through a holistic approach combining capacity building, including training, mentorship, role modeling, community building, and real-world exposure.

Read all session reports

Unique metaphors and analogies

Technology sandwich: Describing the layered approach to AI implementation in enterprises.
You can’t bring logic to a feelings fight: Highlighting the emotional aspect of misinformation consumption.
First aid online: Describing the role of safer internet centres in protecting children online.
Troll parenting: Referring to adults setting negative examples online, including sharing embarrassing content about their children.

Interesting statistics and facts

96% of all deepfake content online is non-consensual sexual content targeting women.
Only 30% of women in Africa are connected to the internet compared to 44% of men.
The cost of digital-related fraud and corruption is estimated at 6% of global GDP annually.
80% of fraud within procurement occurs at the specification stage, before data even enters digital systems.

Thought-provoking ideas

The concept of a ‘fourth way’ for data governance beyond the approaches of the USA, EU, and China.
The proposal for a ‘Last Mile Coalition’ within the IGF to focus on remote and underserved communities.
The suggestion to create intergenerational spaces for AI development and deployment.
Digital identity is not a digital service but a fundamental digital infrastructure.

Day 0 in numbers

Diplo/GIP at IGF2024

Diplo and the GIP are actively engaged at IGF2024 organising and participating in various sessions. If you want to learn more about the use of AI in reporting, IGF knowledge ecology, and DiploAI, please join us for the session titled Leveraging AI tools to explore IGF knowledge, on Tuesday, 17 December, between 10:30 and 11:30 (IGF Village stage).

At 14:40, we invite Diplo alumni and friends for a brief get-together where we’ll present our most recent publication, ‘Unpacking Global Digital Compact: Actors, Issues, and Processes’, and continue in an informal manner. We’ll be in the Lightning talks room.

For a more philosophical discussion on the relations between AI, humans, and humanity, join our Intelligent machines and society session, between 16:30 and 17:30 (workshop 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.

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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 [email protected].

DW Weekly #190 – 13 December 2024

Dear readers,

The TikTok legal saga in the United States has reached a turning point after a federal appeals court upheld a law requiring its Chinese parent company, ByteDance, to divest its US operations by 19 January 2024 or face a nationwide ban. With 170 million American users and billions in ad revenue at risk, the conflict highlights concerns over national security, free speech, and economic fallout. While the Biden administration defends the law as necessary to counter China’s potential misuse of TikTok’s vast data troves, critics, including the ACLU, argue the ban infringes on First Amendment rights and suppresses a platform used for creativity and communication.

TikTok plans to appeal the ruling to the Supreme Court, but even a divestiture faces severe obstacles. China’s classification of TikTok’s algorithm as a protected technology export makes it nearly impossible for ByteDance to sell the app without Beijing’s approval. This key component of TikTok’s success, responsible for its highly personalised user experience, has turned the sale into a geopolitical dispute between the USA and China, with ByteDance caught in the middle.

A ban would have far-reaching economic consequences, particularly for advertisers, influencers, and small businesses, and it would also touch on the First Amendment, which means freedom of speech. Brands that have poured billions into TikTok are already developing contingency plans to shift their budgets to rivals like Meta’s Instagram, YouTube, and Snap, all of which stand to gain significant market share. TikTok Shop, which recently generated $100 million in Black Friday sales, has become a vital e-commerce channel for merchants. A ban would sever a critical revenue stream for these businesses, leaving restricted alternatives in the marketplace.

The conflict also reflects a broader US-China tech rivalry. Washington has tightened restrictions on Chinese technology to safeguard national security, while Beijing has retaliated with bans on critical exports, which we examined in detail in the last weekly newsletter. TikTok has become the most visible flashpoint in this struggle, representing China’s technological ambitions and America’s fears of data misuse. Beijing has condemned the forced divestiture, framing it as a ‘commercial robbery’, signalling that any sale would be politically and logistically challenging.

The Biden administration, which has led the charge against TikTok, could extend the 19 January deadline by 90 days if meaningful progress toward a sale is shown. The legal move would push the final decision to President-elect Donald Trump, who has shifted his stance, now opposing the ban out of concern it would benefit rivals like Facebook. However, reversing course would be politically difficult with bipartisan support for the legislation.

As TikTok’s future hangs in the balance, its fate will ultimately shape the global tech landscape, digital commerce, and cyber diplomatic power dynamics in the near future.

Justice Department pushes for TikTok divestment

A legal and political turmoil amidst presidential transition.

In other news..

UN Cybercrime Convention raises human rights concerns in the Arab region

The UN General Assembly is poised to adopt a new convention on cybercrime next month, raising concerns about threats to digital rights, particularly in the Arab region.

International Red Cross sets guidelines for AI use

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has introduced principles for using AI in its operations, aiming to harness the technology’s benefits while protecting vulnerable populations.

Other topics and updates

Visit dig.watch now for more important updates and other topics !

Follow Diplo at IGF 2024! The GIP Digital Watch observatory will provide just-in-time reporting from IGF 2024 in Riyadh.

Marko and the Digital Watch team

Highlights from the week of 06-13 December 2024

OpenAI explores AI tools to transform education

With the education AI market projected to reach $88.2 billion, OpenAI seeks to address adoption hurdles while innovating.

El Salvador profits as global Bitcoin holdings rise

Under President Nayib Bukele, the El Salvadoran government has accumulated 5,900 BTC, generating significant profits from an initial investment, with Bitcoin’s price recently surpassing $100,000.

Russia is considering creating a strategic Bitcoin reserve

The initiative aligns with a global trend, as countries like El Salvador, Brazil, and Poland adopt bitcoin reserves.

Nvidia expands in China amid challenges

New office in Beijing tech hub for the US giant.

ai medicine scanner lung cancer diagnosis

AI tool helps detect lung cancer

After visiting her doctor for a persistent cough, a Farncombe woman became the first patient in her hospital trust to benefit from an AI-powered lung cancer diagnosis system.

Google’s quantum computing leap forward with Willow

Willow’s development is part of the team’s ongoing efforts to harness quantum mechanics for societal benefits.

Pavel Durov faces Paris court over Telegram allegations

Durov, who is currently barred from leaving France until March 2025 after posting a $6 million bail, could face up to 10 years in prison and a €500,000 fine if…

Perplexity partners with global media outlets

Perplexity faces legal challenges from publishers as it tests new advertising features.

US lawmakers weigh ban on Chinese drones

Chinese drones could face new bans under US military legislation.

romania elections tiktok EU Digital Services Act

EU orders TikTok to freeze election-related data in Romania

The EU has ordered TikTok to freeze election data tied to Romania’s contentious polls.

Meta expands clean energy initiatives with major solar projects

Meta’s sustainable energy drive continues with 760 MW solar projects across four US states.

View all updates

Reading corner

www.diplomacy.edu

The dance of certainty, probability, and mystery: Insights from AI and faith – Diplo

In exploring the interplay between certainty, probability, and mystery in AI, the insights from Robert Harris’s film Conclave provoke deep reflection. Certainty, while desirable, can mislead, especially in addressing life’s complex questions.

www.diplomacy.edu

Early origins of AI in Islamic and Arab thinking traditions – Diplo

The upcoming Internet Governance Forum (IGF) in Riyadh will explore AI’s historical connections to Islamic and Arab philosophical traditions. This legacy, rooted in the Islamic Golden Age, emphasized knowledge synthesis and significant advancements in mathematics, statistics, and ethics.

ai brain intelligent ai technology digital graphic design electronics ai machine learning robot human brain science artificial intelligence technology innovation futuristic

dig.watch

Are AI safety institutes shaping the future of trustworthy AI?

The primary functions of AI safety institutes include conducting research, developing standards, and fostering international cooperation. While these institutes have the potential to make significant advancements, they are not without…

youngman hand working with smart phone show visual screen innovation insurance online car travel family life financial health insurance insurance concept

dig.watch

The evolution of the EU consumer protection law: Adapting to new challenges in the digital era

As the digital era progresses, the EU’s consumer protection framework is expected to adapt further, ensuring transparency, fairness, and consumer autonomy remain central in a rapidly changing marketplace.

www.diplomacy.edu

Part 8: ‘Maths doesn’t hallucinate: Harnessing AI for governance and diplomacy’ – Diplo

What are AI ‘hallucinations,’ and why do they matter? Dr Anita Lamprecht breaks down the maths behind this phenomenon and its governance implications.

Upcoming

dig.watch

Internet Governance Forum 2024

The 19th annual Internet Governance Forum will be hosted by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in Riyadh on 15-19 December 2024. Stakeholders are encouraged to submit thematic inputs by Januaryu0026hellip;

www.diplomacy.edu

Diplo at IGF 2024 – Diplo Event

u003cpu003eDiplo will be actively involved in the 2023 Internet Governance Forum (IGF) in Kyoto, Japan, focusing on topics like bottom-up internet governance, knowledge management, enhancing civil society participation, and cyber norms. u003c/pu003e

Numéro 95 de la lettre d’information Digital Watch – décembre 2024

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Clin d’oeil

Coup d’oeil : Les développements qui font des vagues

Gouvernance de l’IA

Le gouverneur de Californie, Gavin Newsom, a signé la loi Assembly Bill 3030 (AB 3030), qui réglementera l’utilisation de l’IA générative (GenAI) dans les soins de santé.

La Commission irlandaise de protection des données (DPC) attend les directives du Conseil européen de protection des données (EDPB) concernant le respect de la vie privée lié à l’IA, dans le cadre du règlement général sur la protection des données (GDPR) de l’Union européenne.

Pour la première fois, le Conseil de l’UE et ses États membres ont adopté une déclaration commune sur ce sujet, définissant une vision unifiée de l’application du droit international au cyberespace.Michael O’Flaherty, nouveau commissaire aux droits de l’Homme du Conseil de l’Europe, a averti que l’absence de soutien à l’Ukraine constituerait une « perte essentielle » pour l’Europe. Il a également souligné la nécessité d’une réglementation plus stricte en matière d’IA, afin de protéger les droits de l’Homme face aux technologies émergentes.

Technologies

Samsung s’est associé à Google et Qualcomm pour développer des lunettes équipée d’une intelligence artificielle, dont la sortie est prévue au troisième trimestre 2025. La production initiale s’élèvera à 500 000 unités, dans le but d’obtenir un avantage concurrentiel par rapport aux modèles existants, dans le but de se démarquer des modèles existants, tels que ceux de Meta et Ray-Ban.

Promise, un nouveau studio, a été lancé pour révolutionner la réalisation de films grâce à l’IA générative. Soutenue par la société de capital-risque Andreessen Horowitz et l’ancien président de News Corp, Peter Chernin, cette startup vise à intégrer l’IA dans la production cinématographique hollywoodienne.

Meta a commencé à déployer des capacités d’IA pour ses lunettes Ray-Ban Meta AR en France, en Italie et en Espagne. Les utilisateurs de ces pays peuvent désormais accéder à Meta AI, vocal de l’entreprise, qui prend en charge le français, l’italien et l’espagnol, en plus de l’anglais.

L’ OpenAI s’éloigne de la philosophie du « plus c’est gros, mieux c’est » pour les modèles de simulation. Elle développe désormais des techniques permettant aux algorithmes de « penser » d’une manière plus humaine. Son nouveau modèle, o1, utilise la technique dite « test-time compute », qui lui permet d’évaluer plusieurs réponses et de choisir la meilleure en cours d’utilisation.

La seule centrale nucléaire encore en activité en Californie, Diablo Canyon, utilise l’IA pour relever les défis complexes liés à son exploitation. Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) s’est associée à Atomic Canyon, une start-up locale, pour déployer un système d’IA appelé Neutron Enterprise.Le président Joe Biden et le président chinois Xi Jinping ont tenu une réunion de deux heures en marge du sommet de l’APEC samedi. Les deux dirigeants sont parvenus à un accord important visant à empêcher l’IA de contrôler les systèmes d’armes nucléaires et ont progressé sur la question de la libération de deux citoyens américains détenus arbitrairement en Chine.

Infrastructure

Le Programme des Nations unies pour le développement (PNUD) s’est associé à cBrain, un fournisseur danois de solutions numériques, pour accélérer la transformation numérique en l’Afrique. Cette collaboration vise à réduire la fracture numérique, à favoriser une croissance inclusive et à renforcer la résilience des communautés à travers le continent.

Le président élu Donald Trump a nommé Brendan Carr à la tête de la Commission fédérale des communications (FCC). Commissaire de la FCC depuis 2017, Carr est une figure familière au sein de l’administration.

Il partage les vues conservatrices de Trump, notamment en matière de liberté d’expression et de déréglementation.

Cybersécurité

Des pirates informatiques prétendument liés à la Chine ont volé des données sensibles auprès d’entreprises de télécommunications américaines, en ciblant des informations destinées aux organismes chargés de l’application de la loi.

Selon un rapport du courtier en assurances Howden, les entreprises britanniques ont perdu environ 44 milliards de livres sterling (55 milliards de dollars) de revenus au cours des cinq dernières années à cause de cyberattaques, plus de la moitié des entreprises du secteur privé ont subi au moins un incident.

Morgan Adamski, directeur exécutif de l’US Cyber Command, a indiqué que des pirates informatiques chinois s’infiltraient dans les réseaux des infrastructures critiques américaines afin de se préparer à un éventuel conflit avec les États-Unis.

Le Bureau des affaires de désarmement des Nations unies (ODA) prévoit d’organiser un exercice de simulation début 2025 pour aider les États membres à s’engager dans le répertoire mondial des points de contact (POC). Ce répertoire est conçu pour permettre une réaction rapide et efficace face aux incidents de cybersécurité, en offrant un canal de communication fiable pour les échanges diplomatiques et techniques entre pays.Par ailleurs, la Convention des Nations unies sur la cybercriminalité est sur le point d’être votée par l’Assemblée générale après son approbation lors d’une récente réunion. Malgré l’opposition marquée du secteur privé, de la société civile et des membres du Congrès américain, les États-Unis et le Royaume-Uni ont défendu leur soutien au traité.

Droits numériques

Une cour d’appel fédérale américaine doit se prononcer d’ici le 6 décembre sur l’obligation pour ByteDance, maison mère chinoise de TikTok, de céder ses activités aux États-Unis ou de faire face à une interdiction complète.

Le ministère américain de la justice (DOJ) reproche à Google, filiale d’Alphabet, de monopoliser injustement des marchés clés, notamment ceux des serveurs publicitaires et des réseaux d’annonceurs, en cherchant à dominer les échanges publicitaires.

Juridique

La Commission japonaise du commerce équitable a ouvert une enquête sur Amazon Japon pour des infractions présumées à la législation anti monopole. Une source gouvernementale a révélé que l’entreprise est soupçonnée d’avoir exercé des pressions sur les vendeurs pour qu’ils réduisent leurs prix en échange d’un meilleur placement des produits sur sa plateforme de commerce électronique.

Google a annoncé de nouvelles modifications de ses résultats de recherche en Europe afin de répondre aux plaintes de ses petits concurrents et aux accusations antitrust de l’UE en vertu de la loi sur les marchés numériques (Digital Markets Act, DMA).

Le ministère américain de la justice (DOJ) intensifie ses efforts pour limiter les pratiques monopolistiques présumées de Google en demandant qu’Alphabet cède son navigateur Chrome.

Économie de l’internet

Jay Clayton, ancien président de la Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), prédit une extension de la législation sur les crypto- monnaies sous la prochaine administration de Donald Trump.

La Blockchain Association a adressé une lettre au président élu Donald Trump et au Congrès, soulignant les réformes prioritaires pour l’industrie de la crypto-monnaie au cours des 100 premiers jours de son mandat.

L’ Australie sollicite l’avis de l’Organisation de coopération et de développement économiques (OCDE) pour définir son approche de la taxation des actifs numériques.

Développement

Le Programme des Nations Unies pour le développement (PNUD) s’est associé à cBrain, un fournisseur danois de solutions numériques, afin d’accélérer la transformation numérique en l’Afrique. Cette collaboration vise à réduire la fracture numérique, à promouvoir une croissance inclusive et à renforcer la résilience des communautés à travers le continent.

Socioculturel

OpenAI, en partenariat avec Common Sense Media, a lancé un cours de formation gratuit destiné à aider les enseignants à mieux comprendre l’intelligence artificielle (IA) et l’ingénierie des invites (prompts).

À Poznan, en Pologne, une nouvelle chapelle combine tradition et technologie de pointe. Créée par le prêtre Radek Rakowski, cette chapelle moderne est équipée d’un système d’IA capable de répondre aux questions des visiteurs sur le catholicisme.

À l’issue d’un débat controversé, l’Australie a approuvé une loi novatrice interdisant aux enfants de moins de 16 ans d’accéder aux réseaux sociaux. Cette nouvelle réglementation cible les grandes entreprises technologiques comme Meta, TikTok et Snapchat, qui s’exposent à des amendes pouvant atteindre 49,5 millions de dollars australiens si elles permettent à des mineurs de se connecter.

Analyse

La victoire de Trump aux élections américaines et l’avenir de la technologie aux États-Unis

Le retour de Donald Trump à la Maison Blanche marque probablement un tournant majeur dans la politique technologique des États-Unis, grâce à son alignement stratégique avec des figures influentes de la Silicon Valley, notamment Elon Musk. Ce dernier, fervent partisan de Trump et l’une des personnes les plus riches au monde, a investi près de 120 millions de dollars dans sa campagne, témoignant de son adhésion à une vision d’une Amérique centrée sur l’innovation technologique et le libre marché. Trump a également annoncé son intention de nommer Musk à la tête d’une commission dédiée à l’efficacité gouvernementale, préfigurant ainsi un partenariat inédit entre l’État et les géants privés de la technologie.

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Les ambitions de Donald Trump dans le domaine des technologies sont considérables. Il a promis de créer un environnement réglementaire destiné à « libérer » les entreprises accablées par l’intervention excessive du gouvernement. En réduisant la réglementation dans des secteurs clés tels que l’intelligence artificielle, les médias sociaux et les crypto-monnaies, M. Trump espère favoriser l’innovation tout en diminuant la surveillance gouvernementale, dans le but de promouvoir un marché plus libéral. Cette position contraste fortement avec l’approche réglementaire de l’administration Biden, notamment en matière d’antitrust et de surveillance de l’IA dans le secteur des grandes technologies, que l’équipe de Trump considère comme un frein à la croissance et à l’innovation.

Un élément clé du programme technologique de Trump est sa vision de la liberté numérique. Il critique régulièrement les plateformes de médias sociaux pour ce qu’il perçoit comme une censure des voix conservatrices, un sentiment partagé par Musk, particulièrement depuis son acquisition de Twitter (aujourd’hui X). Sous la direction de Trump, il est probable que des pressions soient exercées pour réformer l’article 230, une loi qui exempte les plateformes de toute responsabilité liée au contenu généré par les utilisateurs, afin de limiter ce que M. Trump considère comme une « censure biaisée » à l’encontre de ses partisans. Cette approche, alignée sur l’éthique du marché libre prônée par Trump, reflète son désir de remodeler la place publique numérique pour favoriser la liberté d’expression.

Par ailleurs, la Commission sur l’efficacité du gouvernement mènerait un audit complet des finances et des performances du gouvernement fédéral. Trump s’est également engagé à réduire les taux d’imposition des entreprises manufacturières nationales, à créer des zones à faible fiscalité sur les terres fédérales, à inciter les entreprises de construction à bâtir de nouveaux logements et à lancer un fonds d’investissement public. Cette proposition a suscité des critiques de la part d’Everett Kelley, président de l’American Federation of Government Employees, qui a accusé Trump et Musk de vouloir affaiblir la fonction publique non partisane.

Alors que Donald Trump regagne de l’influence sur la politique technologique, son administration semble prête à réévaluer les conflits passés avec la Silicon Valley. Malgré ses précédents affrontements avec des dirigeants tels que Mark Zuckerberg, les récentes déclarations de M. Trump témoignent d’une volonté d’apaisement, en particulier avec les dirigeants qui privilégient les affaires à l’engagement politique. Par exemple, la neutralité actuelle de Zuckerberg a été saluée de Trump, suggérant un potentiel assouplissement des relations qui pourrait ouvrir la voie à une ère de coopération plutôt que de confrontation.

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Dans ce nouveau chapitre, l’alliance entre Trump et Musk et d’autres élites technologiques souligne une ambition de redéfinir la politique technologique américaine. En minimisant le contrôle gouvernemental tout en favorisant l’innovation privée, Trump et Musk incarnent la fusion du populisme et de la technologie. Ce partenariat pourrait remodeler le rôle de l’Amérique dans le paysage technologique mondial, en l’orientant vers un avenir où l’influence des entreprises sur la politique serait plus forte que jamais.

L’influence croissante des entreprises technologiques chinoises

Les multinationales chinoises de la technologie, telles qu’Alibaba, Tencent, Baidu, ByteDance et Huawei, jouent désormais un rôle essentiel dans le paysage technologique mondial. Ces entreprises, devenues incontournables pour l’économie numérique chinoise, rivalisent de plus en plus avec les géants technologiques américains comme Apple et Google sur la scène internationale. Leur essor a été soutenu par des politiques stratégiques chinoises visant à encourager l’innovation technologique, avec un fort accent sur les initiatives étatiques et le protectionnisme.

La concurrence croissante entre la Chine et les États-Unis dans le secteur des technologies constitue l’un des principaux affrontements géopolitiques du 21e siècle. Cette rivalité mêle coopération et confrontation, influençant les politiques réglementaires, les préoccupations de sécurité nationale et les priorités politiques. Si les dynamiques de marché alimentent la compétition entre les deux puissances technologiques, celle-ci est également ancrée dans des tensions géopolitiques plus larges.

Les stratégies réglementaires du gouvernement chinois ont été déterminantes dans le succès de ses entreprises technologiques. Dès les années 2000, le projet « Bouclier d’or », a été lancé pour contrôler les flux de données et bloquer les entreprises étrangères ne respectant pas les règles nationales en matière de données. Ce cadre a permis aux entreprises locales de prospérer sans concurrence significative des acteurs occidentaux, donnant naissance à un écosystème numérique unique dominé par les BATX (Baidu, Alibaba, Tencent, Xiaomi).

Les principales entreprises technologiques chinoises telles que Alibaba, Tencent, Baidu, ByteDance, Huawei, Xiaomi, JD.com, Meituan, Pinduoduo et Didi Chuxing occupent des positions clés sur les marchés nationaux et internationaux. Par exemple, Alibaba domine le commerce électronique avec des plateformes comme Taobao, Tmall et AliExpress, tandis que Tencent règne sur les médias sociaux et les jeux vidéo via WeChat et ses participations dans Riot Games et Activision Blizzard. Baidu, souvent surnommé le Google chinois, s’est imposé dans l’intelligence artificielle et les véhicules autonomes. De son côté, ByteDance, maison mère de TikTok, a révolutionné les contenus vidéo de courte durée, tandis que Huawei reste un leader mondial dans les télécommunications et la 5G malgré les défis géopolitiques.

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La stratégie de la Chine pour stimuler la croissance technologique repose sur d’importants investissements dans les entreprises d’État et les startups privées. Des initiatives gouvernementales comme « Made in China 2025 » et le « Thousand Talents Plan » ont offert un soutien financier massif tout en attirant des talents de premier plan à l’échelle mondiale pour stimuler l’innovation dans des secteurs clés tels que l’IA, la robotique et les semi-conducteurs. Bien que cette stratégie ait donné des résultats impressionnants, elle a aussi ses détracteurs, qui affirment qu’elle crée des conditions de concurrence déloyale en offrant aux entreprises nationales des avantages injustifiés, tels que des subventions et des mesures protectionnistes, inaccessibles aux concurrents étrangers.

Le modèle chinois de réglementation des technologies est caractérisé par une approche pyramidale, où la direction centrale exerce un contrôle strict sur les actions des entreprises technologiques. Le « modèle de pyramide dynamique » d’Angela Zhang décrit ce système comme étant hiérarchique, volatile et fragile. Si les régulateurs permettent parfois aux entreprises de prospérer grâce à une surveillance plus souple, des interventions soudaines et des mesures répressives, comme celles observées en 2020, provoquent souvent une instabilité des marchés et des pertes financières importantes. Ces fluctuations soulignent l’imprévisibilité ddu cadre réglementaire chinois et suscitent des interrogations sur la viabilité à long terme des entreprises opérant dans un tel environnement.

L’évolution de la réglementation, illustrée par les mesures prises par le gouvernement chinois à l’encontre d’entreprises telles qu’Alibaba et Tencent, met en évidence les défis auxquels les entreprises technologiques sont confrontées en Chine. Bien que le gouvernement cherche à résoudre des problèmes tels que les violations de la législation antitrust et la sécurité des données, son approche autoritaire peut étouffer l’innovation et créer de l’incertitude sur le marché. Ces cycles réglementaires, où des mesures de répression intenses succèdent à des périodes de surveillance laxiste, ébranlent souvent la confiance des investisseurs et peuvent freiner la croissance des secteurs que le gouvernement cherche précisément à renforcer.

En réponse à l’essor rapide des entreprises technologiques chinoises, les États-Unis ont adopté une position plus agressive à l’égard de la Chine, en particulier sous l’administration Trump. Ils ont renforcé les contrôles à l’exportation, bloquant des entreprises chinoises comme Huawei et limitant l’accès de la Chine à des technologies essentielles.

Les experts estiment que, sous la direction de Trump, les États-Unis continueront à intensifier leurs pressions sur la Chine en inscrivant davantage d’entreprises chinoises sur la liste des entités américaines, ce qui interdit aux entreprises américaines de commercer avec ces entités. Cette stratégie vise à restreindre l’accès de la Chine aux technologies avancées et à freiner ses progrès dans des secteurs clés comme l’intelligence artificielle et les semi-conducteurs.

Face à ces restrictions, la Chine a riposté en ciblant des entreprises américaines telles que Micron Technology et en limitant l’exportation de matériaux critiques nécessaires à la fabrication de puces et à la production de véhicules électriques. Ces mesures de rétorsion mettent en évidence l’interdépendance entre les deux économies : les États-Unis demeurent dépendants de la Chine pour des ressources essentielles, comme les terres rares. Cette interdépendance, combinée au conflit technologique en cours, a exacerbé les tensions, chaque pays cherchant à protéger ses intérêts nationaux dans les technologies émergentes.

Les tensions croissantes entre la Chine et les États-Unis ne se limitent pas au commerce. Elles reflètent des préoccupations plus profondes liées à la sécurité des données, à la domination militaire et à la course au leadership dans les secteurs de l’intelligence artificielle et des semi-conducteurs. Ces technologies stratégiques, susceptibles de façonner l’avenir du pouvoir mondial, sont au cœur de cette rivalité. L’issue de ce conflit technologique aura des répercussions majeures sur les chaînes d’approvisionnement mondiales, l’innovation et l’équilibre des forces géopolitiques.

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Face à ces défis, les entreprises technologiques chinoises cherchent de plus en plus à se développer à l’international, naviguant dans des contextes réglementaires complexes tout en augmentant leur influence sur les marchés mondiaux. Malgré la résistance des États-Unis et d’autres pays occidentaux, elles capitalisent sur les opportunités offertes par les marchés émergents et exploitent leurs avantages concurrentiels, notamment dans les domaines de l’intelligence artificielle et des télécommunications. Bien que les États-Unis aient tenté de freiner l’ascension technologique de la Chine, ces entreprises continuent de progresser dans des secteurs stratégiques, faisant de cette rivalité technologique l’un des enjeux géopolitiques majeurs du XXIe siècle.

La montée en puissance des entreprises technologiques chinoises a transformé le paysage mondial, stimulant à la fois l’innovation et la concurrence dans des secteurs clés. La rivalité entre la Chine et les États-Unis s’est imposée comme un élément central de la géopolitique internationale, avec pour enjeu la suprématie technologique. Alors que les entreprises chinoises étendent leur portée à l’échelle mondiale et s’adaptent à des environnements réglementaires variés, l’issue de cette confrontation technologique aura des répercussions profondes sur l’avenir de l’innovation et de la technologie dans le monde. L’interdépendance croissante entre les deux économies, couplée aux tensions actuelles, continuera de façonner la dynamique de l’industrie technologique internationale.

Convention des Nations Unies sur la cybercriminalité : Que signifie ce texte et quel sera son impact sur chacun d’entre nous ?

Après des années de négociations menées par la Russie depuis 2017, les Nations Unies sont sur le point d’adopter la première convention mondiale sur la cybercriminalité. Ce traité, qui devrait être officiellement adopté par l’Assemblée générale de l’ONU dans le courant de l’année, vise à établir des cadres juridiques internationaux pour lutter contre la cybercriminalité. Bien qu’il promette une coopération transfrontalière et une assistance juridique mutuelle, il a rencontré une opposition notable de groupes de défense des droits de l’Homme, de la société civile et des entreprises technologiques, en raison de craintes liées à une surveillance accrue et à une possible atteinte aux libertés individuelles.

Text, Nature, Night, Outdoors, Blackboard, Astronomy, Moon

L’un des principaux objectifs de cette Convention est de faciliter la coopération entre les États membres en offrant un cadre juridique pour les demandes d’entraide judiciaire dans les affaires de cybercriminalité. Elle cherche également à harmoniser les dispositions pénales relatives à ce type de crime à travers les nations, créant ainsi une approche unifiée face à une menace mondiale croissante. Cependant, si la convention promet des avancées significatives en matière de coopération internationale, elle n’introduit pas de nouvelles normes en matière de protection des données ni de garanties renforcées concernant les droits de l’Homme.

S’inspirant de la Convention de Budapest, la Convention des Nations Unies ne remplace pas les accords internationaux ou régionaux existants, tels que la Convention de Malabo en Afrique. Les pays signataires peuvent choisir les instruments offrant la base de coopération la plus adaptée. Parmi les nouvelles contributions du traité figure la criminalisation de la diffusion non consensuelle d’images intimes. Toutefois, de nombreux experts estiment que les accords régionaux existants restent essentiels grâce à leurs dispositions détaillées en matière de cybersécurité et de politiques nationales.

L’article 27, qui porte sur la coopération transfrontalière et l’accès aux preuves électroniques, est un élément clé. Il permet aux États de contraindre les individus présents sur leur territoire à fournir des données stockées localement ou à l’étranger, à condition d’y avoir accès. Cependant, des inquiétudes subsistent quant à la possibilité pour les États d’obtenir des données transfrontalières sans le consentement du pays hôte, une question controversée en droit de la cybercriminalité. Tout en insistant sur la souveraineté des États, la convention privilégie les mécanismes d’entraide judiciaire plutôt que les actions unilatérales, bien que certains craignent que cela ne contourne les procédures formelles.

Adult, Female, Person, Woman, Male, Man, Computer Hardware, Electronics, Hardware, Monitor, Screen, Computer, Computer Keyboard, Mouse, Network, Lighting

La convention aborde également les moyens permettant aux individus et aux organisations de contester les demandes de données émanant des forces de l’ordre. Elle inclut des garanties pour le contrôle judiciaire des demandes, exigeant que les services répressifs justifient l’étendue et la durée de leur accès aux données. Ces dispositions visent à prévenir les abus tout en permettant aux enquêtes d’avancer efficacement. Néanmoins, l’efficacité de ces garanties dépendra de leur mise en œuvre au niveau national.

La définition des données électroniques a suscité des débats importants. La convention les définit de manière large, englobant des informations numériques variées telles que des documents, des photos et des messages. Si elle permet l’accès à ces données dans un cadre légal, elle insiste sur la nécessité de cadres nationaux garantissant la protection de la vie privée et le respect des droits de l’Homme. L’inclusion de protections supplémentaires lors des transferts internationaux ajoute une couche de sécurité essentielle pour les individus.

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L’assistance technique et le développement des capacités figurent également parmi les priorités de la Convention. Celle-ci prévoit des mécanismes tels que des protocoles d’accord et des échanges de personnel pour renforcer les compétences policières et judiciaires dans la lutte contre la cybercriminalité. Elle encourage également les accords bilatéraux et multilatéraux pour mettre en œuvre ces dispositions.

Pour garantir sa pertinence à long terme, le texte de la Convention utilise un langage neutre technologiquement, se concentrant sur les comportements et les actions plutôt que sur des technologies spécifiques. Des dispositions sont prévues pour réviser et adapter le traité cinq ans après son adoption, afin de répondre aux nouvelles menaces et évolutions technologiques.

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Malgré le scepticisme initial quant à sa faisabilité, la convention témoigne d’un potentiel réel pour la coopération internationale face à la cybercriminalité. Les experts s’accordent à dire que l’implication de multiples parties prenantes, notamment la société civile, les ONG et le secteur privé, sera essentielle pour garantir une mise en œuvre efficace et complète. Les partenariats public-privé joueront un rôle clé dans la création d’un cyberespace plus sûr, favorisant la confiance et la collaboration.

En définitive, la convention des Nations Unies sur la cybercriminalité représente une avancée majeure dans la lutte mondiale contre ce fléau. Si elle propose des mesures importantes en matière de coopération transfrontalière et de protection des droits de l’Homme, son succès reposera sur la capacité des États à appliquer ses dispositions tout en respectant les libertés civiles. Ce traité marquera probablement le début de discussions et d’améliorations continues, essentielles pour faire face à l’évolution rapide de la cybercriminalité.

DW Weekly #189 – 6 December 2024

Dear readers,

The US-China tech export war is intensifying as both nations continue pushing their antagonistic agendas to curb the other’s technological advancements. As expected, trade tensions between the USA and China are escalating again in the semiconductor sector as four top Chinese industry associations have recently warned against purchasing US chips, claiming they are ‘no longer safe’ and threaten national security principles. The Chinese associations, representing major industries from telecommunications to the digital economy, have opted for a considerable change in the mindset of Chinese businesses. They are now advised to consider non-US suppliers to safeguard their operations and reduce reliance on US technology.

The industry associations’ response follows the latest US crackdown, targeting China’s semiconductor industry. The new restrictions, introduced by the US Department of Commerce, extend to 140 Chinese companies and cover a broad range of products, including critical semiconductor equipment and high-bandwidth memory used in AI chip development. These measures aim to limit China’s access to advanced technologies essential for its military modernisation and AI capabilities, with the Biden administration labelling the restrictions necessary for US national security.

Book, Publication, Baby, Person, Comics, Face, Head, Art

However, Beijing is far from passive in this ‘tech conflict’. Chinese authorities have been ramping up retaliatory measures in response to the curbs. One of the most notable moves came last year when China blocked US chipmaker Micron from some government purchases following a failed security review. Similar scrutiny has been directed at other US tech giants like Intel, with significant revenue from China. Furthermore, China has increasingly turned to its ‘unreliable entity list’ to target US firms, such as PVH Corp, probed for complying with US sanctions on Xinjiang cotton, showing China’s determination to impose economic and market barriers on American companies.

China has also used its control over rare earth materials as leverage, imposing export restrictions on critical elements like gallium, germanium, and antimony. These materials are vital for semiconductor manufacturing and military applications, and their abundance means China’s strategic advantage in global supply chains. In addition to the listed, the recent imposition of new export controls on dual-use technologies to US military users or for military purposes further underscores China’s strategy to regulate products that have both civilian and military applications. The change in course aims to secure China’s rise and dominance in these sectors and limit US access to critical technologies needed for advanced military and AI applications.

Electronics, Hardware, Computer Hardware, Printed Circuit Board

Amid these tensions, the semiconductor sector has become a focal point of a global power struggle. The USA has restricted the sale of advanced chipmaking equipment to China, focusing mainly on equipment from US-based companies such as Lam Research and Applied Materials and European suppliers like ASML. While China has made strides toward becoming more self-sufficient in semiconductor manufacturing, the US curbs continue to impact China’s access to cutting-edge equipment and expertise essential for advancing its chip technology. Despite the setbacks, Chinese companies, such as Empyrean and Nata Opto-Electronic, have been building equipment stockpiles and pushing for greater localisation to mitigate the effects of the sanctions.

The expanding reach of US export controls also affects global partners, including Japan and the Netherlands, which supply critical chipmaking equipment to China. While Japan and the Netherlands have been exempt from some of the curbs, their involvement in the US rules still limits the scope of their exports to China. However, the USA seems quick to monitor and enforce these regulations, further entangling allies in the conflict.

The conclusion is that the escalating tech conflict between the USA and China provokes deepening concerns in the two governments about data security, military supremacy, and leadership in critical areas like AI and semiconductors. With both countries fiercely safeguarding their strategic priorities, this tech rivalry is poised to reshape global supply chains, innovation landscapes, and the overall power dynamics in the tech sector, undoubtedly influencing the world economy for years to come.

China bans key mineral exports to the US

New export restrictions will ignite global trade tensions.

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Chinese industry groups urge ditching US chips, claiming they are ‘no longer safe’

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Oxford names ‘brain rot’ as word of the year, highlighting concerns over digital content’s impact on mental acuity

First penned by Henry David Thoreau in 1854, “brain rot” has reemerged as a digital-age critique, capturing unease over endless scrolling and low-value content.

EU nations push for stronger battery sector

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