Not in Mexico for the 2016 IGF? Here’re seven reasons to participate remotely

  • 29 November 2016
ICC Digital Economy

In an age when it is hard to imagine a business that does not use the Internet in its daily operations, business inclusion in discussions that shape the policies and development of the Internet — and the information society – is more vital than ever.

That’s why, if you are not able to join us in person in Mexico for the 2016 Internet Governance Forum (IGF,) we explain the hows and whys of participating remotely in this unique UN-linked, multistakeholder event.

1. Your opinions can shape the future of Internet governance

The IGF advances Internet policy. Not via negotiations but via frank discussion and the pooling of diverse views and practices. By contributing to discussions, you help to inform the decisions relating to Internet policy and practice development that may come back to affect your business operations.

2. We’re all invited!

The uniqueness of the Forum lies in the fact that it is open to every interest group or “stakeholder”. Whether representing business, governments, the technical community, academia or civil society, each participant is an equally-empowered contributor. And with no time diverted to negotiating outcome texts, the event can dedicate itself to knowledge sharing, best practice exchange and capacity building – leading ultimately to more informed policy making down the line!

3. Gain insight into the views of others

Participants come to the IGF knowing they will benefit from hearing different perspectives from every stakeholder vantage point. Whether discovering perspectives of the Singapore ministry of communications, a founding father of the Internet, or the CEO of a small enterprise in Egypt, every community leaves the Forum with a better understanding of the needs and ideas of others. This multistakeholder approach has received widespread support from those who recognize the value of collaborating on an equal footing and in an open environment.

4. An impressive track record

If you have never attempted participating in an event remotely, we highly recommend beginning with the IGF. With live webcasts, real-time closed captioning and remote participation moderators assigned to each session, the IGF is a leader in ensuring inclusivity and facilitating access to discussion from your office or home.

5. And if you don’t want to join alone…

If you are looking for more of a community approach to remote participation you can also join or organize a remote hub. Hubs allow remote participants to watch webcasts together and send questions to session panellists when the floor is opened to questions. Hub organizers can also hold debates to discuss the themes introduced at the IGF from their local perspective. The requirements to organise a hub are simple. Find out more here .

6. A click of a mouse is all it takes

The forum takes place from 6-9 December and remote participation is free of charge: All you need is an Internet connection! Take some time to familiarise yourself with the IGF schedule and sign up so that you don’t miss the opportunity to put your questions to the floor moderator.

7. Join the #IGF conversation

ICC’s Business Action to Support the Information Society (BASIS) initiative works to mobilize business participation at the IGF, organizing daily business briefings, ensuring private sector representation in main sessions and relevant workshops, and convening side meetings for business to exchange perspectives with governments or stakeholders on developments. Remote participants can follow our activities via our dedicated social media accounts on Twitter @ICCnetgov or join the conversation using #IGF2016.