2021 Overarching Theme: Towards an Inclusive, Sustainable and Trusted Internet

Apr 27, 2021 | News

Thematic Tracks

Inclusion

Inclusion is about deliberate actions to facilitate access and equity, not only in Internet connectivity, but also on its skilful use. Inclusion is also about engaging diverse stakeholders to ensure that all voices are treated equally in the multistakeholder decision-making processes. The inherent diversity and sheer geography of the Asia-Pacific region presents a daunting challenge to ensure digital connectivity to all. 

How can stakeholders work together to ensure that no one is left behind and to support access to reliable and affordable Internet?

The APrIGF welcomes proposals to encourage a multi-disciplinary discussion on the key issues such as, but not limited to: 

 

Accessibility Digital rights / Human rights Internet infrastructure
Affordability Diversity Multilingual Internet
Capacity building Empowerment Multistakeholder model
Communication Equal opportunities Universal access
Digital economy Equitable access  
Digital education Hate speech  

Sustainability

The evolution of the Internet and its applications has facilitated the development of the digital economy and substantial advancement in science, agriculture, health and education. Sustainability draws attention towards careful consideration of the global effects and outcomes of technology and its innovations. 

What is the Internet’s impact on the environment? How resilient is it? How can Internet related technologies help to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals?  

The APrIGF will encourage different perspectives related to sustainable development including the Internet’s socio-economic impact, such as:

 

eHealth Innovation and technology Risk mitigation
Environment Internet fragmentation SMART
Future of work Internet Of Things Socio-economic impact of the Internet
Green technologies Internet resilience Sustainable development
ICT4Development & ICT4SDGs Opportunity  

Trust

Trust calls for striking a good balance between security and people’s fundamental freedoms and rights. The security, stability, and resiliency of the Internet are critical to ensuring users can benefit from a healthy digital environment. Collectively, the stakeholders must work towards a safe, reliable and trustworthy cyberspace that enables the fair use of the Internet without compromising on user safety, personal data and mutual respect.

What are the roles and responsibilities of governments, industry, civil society, and other stakeholders to maintain trust in Internet governance? 

APrIGF welcomes cross-sector perspectives that explore balancing the needs and rights of users with appropriate security considerations, on topics such as:

 

Algorithms and AI
Cyber crime
Digital cooperation
Big data
Cyber norms
Digital rights
Big tech anti-trust
Cybersecurity
Freedom of expression
Content moderation & censorship
Data accuracy
Internet standards
Cyber bullying & harassment Data governance  

Should you have any queries, please contact the secretariat at [email protected].

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