Session
Organizer 1: Kulesza Joanna, 🔒UniLodz / Lodz Cyber Hub
Speaker 1: Akcali Gur Berna , Civil Society, Eastern European Group
Speaker 2: Dan York, Technical Community, Western European and Others Group (WEOG)
Speaker 3: Jane Roberts Coffin , Technical Community, Western European and Others Group (WEOG)
Roxana Radu, Western European Group, Academia
Kulesza Joanna, Civil Society, Eastern European Group
Kulesza Joanna, Civil Society, Eastern European Group
Kulesza Joanna, Civil Society, Eastern European Group
Roundtable
Duration (minutes): 90
Format description: The session format of a roundtable discussion lasting 90 minutes is best suited for our activity because it allows for in-depth discussion and interaction among participants. The roundtable setup fosters a collaborative atmosphere where participants can engage with each other more effectively compared to traditional panel formats. Additionally, the 90-minute duration provides sufficient time for exploring complex issues, sharing diverse perspectives, and generating meaningful insights and recommendations. Overall, this format promotes active engagement and facilitates a productive exchange of ideas on the topic of enhancing the digital contribution to peace, development, and sustainability.
1. How can multistakeholder governance be enhanced to address the governance challenges posed by the increasing utilization of low Earth orbit satellites and evolving data governance models, particularly in the context of Africa's developmental needs and considerations of data sovereignty? 2. In what ways can cybersecurity frameworks adapt to the evolving landscape of digital innovation and conflict dynamics in regions such as Iran to mitigate risks and promote stability? 3. How can data sovereignty be safeguarded in the face of increasing digital innovation and globalization, especially in regions where national policies are being formulated to govern data flows and usage?
What will participants gain from attending this session? Participants attending our session will gain insight into the dynamics shaping global progress through digital innovation. They will develop understanding of the role of low Earth orbit satellites, data governance, and infrastructure governance in driving socioeconomic change and development. Additionally, attendees will deepen their understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with digitalization, particularly in conflict zones such as Iran, Ukraine, and Gaza. Overall, participants will leave with awareness of the implications of digital dynamics on global peace, development, and sustainability, including the African developmental angle and considerations of data sovereignty.
Description:
This session will offer a comprehensive examination of global progress in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites, encompassing the complexities of data governance, considerations of new internet infrastructure governance, including references to relevant cybersecurity measures, as well as pertinent case studies from Africa and considerations of data sovereignty national policies. Throughout this session, participants will acquire a detailed understanding of the confluence between digital innovation and socioeconomic transformation. Aligned closely with the subtheme of "Enhancing the digital contribution to peace, development, and sustainability," our discourse will provide a formal and analytical framework to scrutinize the multifaceted impacts of digitalization on socioeconomic change and development. By drawing upon real-world examples and best practices, our panelists will offer insights and reflections on potential avenues for leveraging digital technologies for global progress, including insights derived from case studies in Africa and the implications of data sovereignty national policies on data governance. Please note this session proposal enjoys the endorsement of the Global Internet Governance Academic Network (Giganet) and presents results of two ISOC supported projects covering selected aspects of the proposed theme.
The session aims to achieve three main outcomes: 1. Session Report: A comprehensive summary of discussions, insights, and policy recommendations. 2. Advanced Knowledge: Participants will deepen their understanding of digital innovation, infrastructure governance, and conflict dynamics in Africa. Insights will address challenges and opportunities in conflict zones, promoting sustainable development and peace-building with digital technologies. 3. Policy Recommendations: Actionable policy suggestions will enhance multistakeholder governance frameworks, focusing on low Earth orbit satellite utilization, evolving data governance, sustainable infrastructure in conflict zones, and cybersecurity in digital innovation, such as in Iran. These recommendations support informed policymaking for development goals and stability objectives at national and international levels.
Hybrid Format: To facilitate interaction between onsite and online participants, we'll employ the following strategies: 1. Dedicated Moderation: An experienced moderator will ensure balanced participation, manage discussions, and facilitate questions and comments from both onsite and online attendees. 2. Online Tools: We'll utilize platforms like Zoom and onsite video conferencing equipment to facilitate seamless communication between all participants. 3. Interactive Session Design: The session will feature live polls, Q&A sessions, and breakout discussions to engage all attendees, regardless of location. Our approach prioritizes inclusivity and active engagement, ensuring a meaningful experience for both onsite and online participants.
Report
Multistakeholder governance must address challenges posed by LEO satellites by fostering inclusive, transparent frameworks that balance innovation and data sovereignty. Governments and the private sector should collaborate on policies that enable digital transformation, particularly in Africa, within 2–3 years.
Cybersecurity frameworks need adaptation to mitigate risks from digital innovations in conflict zones. Governments and IGOs should prioritize cross-border cooperation and capacity-building initiatives to promote stability and secure data flows within 1–2 years.
Data flow governance must ensure cross-border interoperability while respecting national data sovereignty. Governments, IGOs, and private stakeholders should develop flexible, harmonized frameworks to balance economic innovation with sovereignty concerns, targeting actionable agreements within the next 2–3 years.
To Governments and Intergovernmental Organizations (IGOs): Develop and implement harmonized frameworks for cross-border data governance and interoperability by 2026. Prioritize collaboration with private sectors and civil society to ensure policies respect national data sovereignty while fostering global innovation and equitable access.
To the Private Sector and Civil Society: Actively participate in multistakeholder initiatives to enhance cybersecurity measures in conflict zones. Focus on building technical capacity and sharing best practices to mitigate risks and promote data flow resilience within the next 1–2 years.
This session focused on the role of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites in improving global connectivity and driving socioeconomic progress, particularly in Africa. Panelists shared examples of how LEO satellites have reduced the digital divide and supported development in underserved communities. They stressed the importance of inclusive governance models to ensure that innovation aligns with national data sovereignty and sustainable growth.
Discussions covered the challenges of managing new internet infrastructures and data flows while respecting national and regional needs. Speakers highlighted the importance of collaboration among governments, private sectors, and civil society to create policies that allow global data exchange while addressing local priorities. National data sovereignty policies were identified as key to balancing innovation and control over critical data assets.
Cybersecurity challenges were a central concern, especially in regions experiencing conflict, such as Iran, Ukraine, and Gaza. The session emphasized the need for updated frameworks to reduce risks linked to digital technologies, calling for international cooperation and stronger capacity-building efforts. Panelists proposed concrete actions for governments, organizations, and companies to create governance frameworks and security strategies that promote peace, development, and sustainability.