IGF 2024 WS #176 Rights in Bytes: Fostering an Inclusive Web for Everyone

    Organizer 1: Asrat M. Beyene, Internet Society Ethiopia Chapter
    Organizer 2: Gelila Moges, ISOC
    Organizer 3: Henok Sisay, 🔒
    Organizer 4: Abdisa Demissie, Internet Society Ethiopian Chapter

    Speaker 1: Rekik Girmachew , Government, African Group
    Speaker 2: Theorose Elikplim Dzineku, Civil Society, African Group
    Speaker 3: Abebe Bekele Begna, Civil Society, African Group

    Moderator

    Asrat M. Beyene, Civil Society, African Group

    Online Moderator

    Henok Sisay, Civil Society, African Group

    Rapporteur

    Gelila Moges, Civil Society, African Group

    Format

    Classroom
    Duration (minutes): 60
    Format description: As we are planning the workshop to be interactive and engaging a classroom setting would enable us to have lightening talk first and panel discussions in front of the audience followed by Q&A session. We are also planning to have a breakout session into groups to come up with what worked right and what need to be improve in terms of digital rights across the globe so that one learns from the other.

    Policy Question(s)

    A. What specific regulations should be introduced to combat cyber bullying and online hate speech, and how will their effectiveness be evaluated annually? B. How can we ensure that digital platforms are transparent about their algorithms and the impact on user data in the next few years? C. What mechanisms should be implemented to monitor and protect against the misuse of artificial intelligence in violation of digital rights by 2026? D. How will the international community collaborate to address cross-border cybersecurity threats while respecting digital sovereignty?

    What will participants gain from attending this session? • Explore the impact of the digital age on human rights and inclusion, addressing key challenges and opportunities. • Examine the importance of digital rights, such as online privacy and freedom of expression, in upholding and advancing human rights in the digital realm. • Discuss strategies, policies, and practices that can foster inclusion and promote human rights within the digital landscape. • Encourage collaboration and knowledge-sharing among stakeholders to develop actionable solutions and initiatives.

    Description:

    This workshop, “Rights in Bytes: Fostering an Inclusive Web for Everyone,” is not just an event - it’s a beacon for the transformative power of a universally accessible web by: Empowerment through Connectivity: In a world where the digital landscape is as vast as it is varied, we stand at the crossroads of innovation and inclusivity. This workshop is dedicated to unraveling the threads that weave together digital rights and a truly inclusive Internet. It’s here that we’ll forge the keys to unlock a web that embodies openness, accessibility, and empowerment for all of us. A Convergence of Minds: “Rights in Bytes” is more than a conversation - it’s a collaborative symphony of ideas, best practices, and actionable policies. We invite thinkers, leaders, and visionaries to engage in a dialogue that transcends borders and barriers. Together, we’ll craft strategies that ensure privacy, freedom of expression, and digital literacy, among others. Innovation at the Intersection: Our interactive sessions are designed to spark innovation at the intersection of digital rights and Internet governance. Delve into case studies, participate in thought-provoking discussions, and gain insights from experts who are shaping the digital domain. Our voice is crucial in this collective quest to champion a web that is equitable, safe, and empowering. The Web We Want: As we look into the future, we envision an Internet that upholds democratic values, fosters social justice, and provides equal access to information and opportunities. This workshop is a stepping stone towards that vision, a place where all stakeholders contribute to a robust and inclusive digital ecosystem. We recognize that the fabric of an inclusive web is woven by many hands. That’s why “Rights in Bytes” is our platform to inspire and be inspired.

    Expected Outcomes

    1. Increased Awareness and Understanding: Participants will gain a deeper understanding of the importance of digital rights and inclusivity within internet governance. They will be able to articulate the key principles and concepts associated with these topics. 2. Identification of Challenges and Barriers: Participants will be able to identify and discuss the challenges and barriers that hinder an inclusive web, including the digital divide, online discrimination, privacy concerns, and freedom of expression issues. They will recognize the interplay between these challenges and internet governance. 3. Knowledge of Strategies for Enhancing Inclusion: Participants will be exposed to innovative strategies, policies, and best practices for promoting digital inclusion and accessibility. They will have a better understanding of initiatives aimed at reducing the digital divide, promoting digital literacy, and ensuring equal access to technology and internet resources.

    Hybrid Format: Our session is a hybrid one. We have speakers attending online and the conformt of thier homes and offices. The same will for audiences. For this we have an exprienced online moderator working for Internet Society as a tech support prt of our organizing team specifically as a moderator. We are going to use the zoom platform as we are already having a lincense to use.