PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, CMC – The Trinidad-based Caribbean Telecommunications Union (CTU) says it will host an open forum at the United Nations 18th Internet Governance Forum (IGF) in Kyoto, Japan, from October 8-12.
CTU Secretary-General Rodney Taylor said that the forum will be held on October 12 and will delve into the global digital compact and the multi-stakeholder model’s efficacy, particularly for small island developing states (SIDS).
“The forum will explore various approaches to ensure equitable opportunities and representation for SIDS in the digital era,” Taylor told the 19th Caribbean Internet Governance Forum (CIGF) and 2nd Caribbean Youth Internet Governance Forum (CYIGF) held here last weekend.
The events, which addressed critical issues surrounding the governance of the global digital landscape, were held under the theme “Evolving Caribbean Internet Governance Priorities for Sustainable Development.”
In his address, the United Nations Secretary-General’s Envoy on Technology, Amandeep Singh Gill, highlighted the importance of the CIGF and its role in advocating for a more level playing field for small island developing states (SIDS).
“Keeping the internet open, free, secure, and inclusive is a crucial global priority. For the small island developing states, it is a matter of life and death,” he said, acknowledging that while there are tremendous opportunities, artificial intelligence poses many challenges for the future.
“The internet’s long-established multi-stakeholder institutions require more support than ever. Such an approach aligns with the ongoing negotiation process for the Global Digital Compact, a crucial initiative to address digital divides and ensure comprehensive data and AI governance.”
In a statement, the CTU said that the CIGF remains dedicated to promoting a digital future that respects the principles of inclusivity, security, and freedom.
It said both Fora’s deliberations are set to foster a collaborative approach to shaping the evolving digital ecosystem, aligning with the United Nations’ broader vision for a sustainable and equitable global digital space and ensuring that the Caribbean’s voice is heard in this critical area.
“The CIGF, therefore, also importantly reviewed its signature product, A Caribbean Internet Governance Policy Framework, approving updates to its 2016 edition to take account of technological developments in the interim. The updated version will be released in the coming weeks.”
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