I had the privilege of hosting an enlightening session on *Internet Governance 101* during the APIGA Nepal event. The goal of the session was simple yet profound: to raise awareness among young people about the critical role they can play in shaping Nepal's internet ecosystem. As digital technologies evolve, youth are becoming increasingly important stakeholders in defining the governance of the internet, and this session aimed to inspire them to seize the many opportunities that lie ahead.
What is Internet Governance?
Internet governance refers to the development and application of shared principles, norms, rules, decision-making procedures, and programs that shape the evolution and use of the internet. It involves a wide array of stakeholders, including governments, the private sector, civil society, academia, and technical communities. For Nepal, a country on the cusp of a digital revolution, engaging young people in this dialogue is essential for ensuring that the future of the internet is inclusive, secure, and beneficial to all.
Why Youth Engagement Matters ?
The internet has rapidly become a fundamental part of daily life, and with it, the role of young people has grown in importance. In Nepal, more than half of the population is under the age of 30, making the youth demographic critical for shaping the country’s digital future. During the session, I emphasized how youth have a unique perspective, creativity, and adaptability, which are crucial in the dynamic and fast-evolving internet space. They are not just users of digital technologies but can also be leaders in developing frameworks for how these technologies are governed.
Youth engagement in internet governance is essential for:
1. Inclusive Policymaking: Young people are the largest group of internet users. Including their voices in policymaking ensures that the internet remains accessible, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of all demographics.
2. Promoting Digital Literacy: Youth have the potential to serve as digital ambassadors, promoting digital literacy in their communities and ensuring that all citizens can benefit from the digital transformation.
3. Innovation and Entrepreneurship: The internet provides a platform for young entrepreneurs to innovate, create jobs, and contribute to economic development. By engaging in governance, they can influence policies that encourage innovation and protect intellectual property.
4.Addressing Cybersecurity Challenges: As digital threats evolve, young people have the skills and knowledge to contribute to building a secure online environment. Their involvement in internet governance is critical for tackling cybersecurity issues.
The Session at APIGA Nepal
Presentation:
https://www.slideshare.net/slideshow/apiga-nepal-2024-by-shreedeep-rayamajhi-pdf/271581808
During the APIGA Nepal session, I guided the participants through an interactive journey of understanding internet governance, starting with the basics and moving towards the practical implications of it in Nepal’s context. We discussed:
- Key Stakeholders in Internet Governance: Who makes decisions, who implements them, and who is affected by those decisions?
- Multi-stakeholderism: Why it’s important to have governments, businesses, civil society, and young people at the table when internet policies are being shaped.
- Challenges in Nepal: From issues of access and infrastructure to the growing need for policies that protect user data and privacy.
The discussion wasn’t just theoretical. I also shared real-world opportunities available for young people to actively engage in internet governance, including internships, fellowships, and participation in global forums like ICANN, the Internet Governance Forum (IGF), and regional initiatives.
Opportunities for Youth in Nepal's Internet Ecosystem
Nepal's internet ecosystem is still developing, which presents immense opportunities for youth. I highlighted several key avenues for engagement:
- Youth IGF Nepal: A platform where young leaders can contribute their ideas and influence the national digital agenda.
- ISOC Nepal: Internet Society’s Nepal chapter frequently engages youth in activities related to internet standards and policies.
- Fellowships and Internships: Programs like ICANN's Fellowship, APNIC’s internship, and ISOC’s youth programs are great ways for young people to gain exposure and contribute to global internet governance discussions.
- Entrepreneurial Ventures: Young tech entrepreneurs in Nepal are increasingly at the forefront of digital innovation, building apps, digital services, and even contributing to Nepal’s digital economy.
The session ended with a call to action: The future of the internet in Nepal belongs to its youth. By getting involved in internet governance today, young people can ensure that Nepal’s digital ecosystem grows in a way that is equitable, inclusive, and forward-looking. They have the power to shape not only their own futures but also the digital future of the country.
Hosting this session was both a humbling and exciting experience. The energy, curiosity, and passion of the young participants were palpable. As we continue to build Nepal’s internet governance landscape, I am confident that the youth will lead the way in fostering a robust, secure, and accessible digital future for all.
This session on Internet Governance 101 at APIGA Nepal was a testament to the importance of youth involvement in creating an inclusive digital space. Through such initiatives, we can build a more engaged, informed, and innovative community, ready to take on the challenges and opportunities of the digital age.
The Asia Pacific Internet Governance Academy (APIGA) is a prestigious capacity development workshop conducted by Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) in partnership with Korea Internet Security Agency (KISA) aimed at nurturing understanding and engagement with critical Internet governance issues, particularly within the Asia Pacific (APAC) region. In continuation of the global APIGA initiative, the Local APIGA Nepal 2024 will provide a unique opportunity for tertiary undergraduate and graduate students in Nepal to delve into the intricacies of Internet governance, ICANN policies, and the multistakeholder model.
Carrying forward with the larger objective of the APIGA, Asia Pacific Internet Governance Academy (APIGA) Nepal 2024 organized by Federation of Computer Association Nepal (CAN Federation) is a two-day capacity development workshop focused on Internet governance-related topics to be held in Nepal replicating APIGA at the local level. It is a localized version of the larger APIGA initiative aimed at nurturing understanding and engagement with Internet governance issues within the Asia Pacific region. This is a significant event aimed at bringing together stakeholders from the Internet Governance ecosystem to discuss, share knowledge, and build capacity in the realm of Internet Governance. The event is set to host a variety of sessions including keynote speeches, panel discussions, workshops, and a model ICANN conference, providing a comprehensive platform for learning and networking.
