The Internet is evolving at a rapid pace, and with this evolution comes the need for a new approach to governance. This year’s theme at the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) was “Building Our Multistakeholder Digital Future,” highlighting the importance of collaboration among all stakeholders to ensure that the Internet benefits everyone, everywhere, every day. The focus was on fostering dialogue and knowledge exchange to harness the potential of digital innovation while addressing the challenges of rapid transformation.
Internet governance and policies affect all businesses, regardless of sector, size, or location. These policies are developed to ensure the stable functioning and sustainable growth of our digital world for both businesses and individuals. It is crucial for businesses to stay informed and engaged in the development of these policies to ensure that they align with their needs and goals.
At #IGF2024, global businesses, represented by the Business Action to Support the Information Society (ICC BASIS) and ICC national committees, played a significant role in shaping Internet policy decisions. They provided recommendations on pressing digital policy issues, organized public-facing sessions, and presented papers on topics such as digital cooperation, data free flow with trust, AI governance, and protecting critical infrastructure.
One of the key takeaways from this year’s IGF was the importance of a safe and inclusive Internet that prioritizes the rights and well-being of individuals. Business engagement at the IGF is crucial in demonstrating the value of multistakeholder cooperation in maintaining an open, trusted, and secure Internet. The insights gained from the IGF discussions will guide ICC’s work in advocating for clear, actionable policies that promote global cooperation and address key digital challenges.
Looking ahead to the Internet Governance Forum 2025, it is clear that the multistakeholder approach remains essential in shaping the future of the digital economy. The IGF will mark its 20th anniversary in Norway in June 2025, and global businesses will continue to advocate for an open, secure, stable, and inclusive Internet. The challenges and opportunities in digital policy are complex and require a collaborative effort from all stakeholders to address effectively.
In conclusion, the Internet is constantly evolving, and so must the way we govern it. Collaboration among all stakeholders is key to ensuring that the Internet benefits everyone, everywhere, every day. Businesses play a crucial role in shaping Internet governance policies and must stay engaged in the process to ensure that their needs are met. The IGF provides a platform for global dialogue and cooperation on digital policy matters, and businesses must continue to be actively involved in shaping the future of the digital economy.
