Geneva, 8 December 2021 (TDI): The Internet Governance Forum (IGF) promotes a free and digital future for all. It includes more than 7000 innovators, along with the big tech executives. It is making efforts to build an open digital future for all.
The UN Secretary-General, Antonie Guterres, in his video message mentioned that COVID-19 has underlined the forum theme of “Internet United”.
Global cooperation is essential
Antonie Guterres mentioned that the world is facing a global crisis. The internet holds a life-changing power. Digital technology enables millions to work. Moreover, to study and socialize safely online. However, there is a digital divide. Furthermore, there is a dark side to technology. For instance, the spread of misinformation.
The Secretary-General mentioned there is a need for global cooperation to address these challenges. Moreover, it is the need of hour to safeguard human rights and regain control over data. Consequently, hate speech and disinformation can be controlled.
Role of Internet Governance Forum
Antonie Guterres mentioned that IGF plays a critical role in securing digital space. The meeting takes place annually with Secretary-General. It includes objectives such as promoting dialogue around internet governance. Moreover, they also identify emerging issues.
The UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA), which supports the IGF Secretariat, mentioned that “The number of people using the Internet has risen during the pandemic”.
Internet use rises
As per the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), a UN agency, the COVID-19 saw Internet user ranks grow from “4.1 billion in 2019 to 4.9 billion” two years later. However, there is a lack of internet accountability. There is a spread of hate speech, violent extremism. Moreover, the pandemic has reported misinformation. There is cyberbullying. The girls and women also reported online harassment. Furthermore, around three billion people have reported they do not have access to the internet in developing countries.
Digital future for all
UN Under-Secretary-General who heads DESA, Liu Zhenmin, mentioned that IGF is promising to shape ‘A digital future for all’. Moreover, he mentioned that global internet governance is complex, however, together we can succeed.
The IGF 2021 began on 7 December. It is being held both in-person and virtually. In a five-day run, more than 250 sessions will be held. It will examine issues such as economic inclusion, human rights protection online along with universal access, and meaningful connectivity.
The forum outcomes will inform policies in both the public and private sector.
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