[Geneva, Switzerland] – Today, the World Telecommunication Policy Forum (WTPF) came to a close with robust debate among all stakeholders about the role of government in Internet governance. Throughout the meeting, the Internet Society participated in dialogue that focused on several key areas, including the significant role of Internet exchange points as a means of enhancing Internet connectivity, the need for timely deployment of IPv6, and the importance of the multi-stakeholder model of Internet governance.
Six opinions were drafted by a WTPF Informal Experts Group and submitted to the meeting, addressing topics such as capacity building, IP addressing, and Internet governance. These Opinions were discussed among all participants: ITU member states and sector members, civil society organizations, and other key international stakeholders. The inclusion of stakeholders assisted in broadening the discussion to allow for a more inclusive dialogue. As a result, a vigorous debate related to the role of governments in the multi-stakeholder model exhibited the importance of continued discussions in a variety of fora.
“This week’s dialogue was a significant step forward,” said Lynn St. Amour, Internet Society President and Chief Executive Officer. “We know that the multi-stakeholder model has served the Internet and individuals across the world extraordinarily well, leading to innovations and infrastructure development that may not have come about with a top-down model. We welcome this open dialogue and hope these discussions continue over the coming months at forums such as the Commission on Science and Technology for Development and the Internet Governance Forum in order that all voices are heard.”
The Internet Society is a global, nonprofit organization dedicated to an open Internet for everyone. The Internet Society is a strong advocate of the multi-stakeholder model of Internet governance because it is the heart of the Internet’s architectural foundation and has proven to be the best way to ensure that the benefits of the Internet are available to all. Experience shows that public policy processes that draw from a base of community expertise are most effective in creating the environment in which Internet development and access can flourish.
To read the Internet Society submission to the WTPF, visit: http://www.internetsociety.org/doc/contribution-itu-2013-world-telecommunicationict-policy-forum
About the Internet Society
The Internet Society is the trusted independent source for Internet information and thought leadership from around the world. With its principled vision and substantial technological foundation, the Internet Society promotes open dialogue on Internet policy, technology, and future development among users, companies, governments, and other organizations. Working with its members and Chapters around the world, the Internet Society enables the continued evolution and growth of the Internet for everyone. For more information, visit www.internetsociety.org.
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