Cyber Stewards Network partners ran workshops and participated in programming at the 2016 Internet Governance Forum in Guadalajara, Mexico, held from December 6-9. In addition, several Cyber Stewards Network partners launched the 2016 Global Information Society Watch publication, a report to which they had contributed. Paradigm Initiative Nigeria also launched a report at the IGF, titled “Digital Rights in Africa,” reviewing governments’ restrictions on Internet freedom on the continent in the past year.
Cyber Stewards network Partner Asociación por les Derechos Civiles (ADC) hosted a two part workshop. The first session, about Data Protection Systems in Latin America, involved participants sharing concerns regarding the practice of collecting personal data from citizens, which has been carried out by both governments and the private sector. In addition, the regulatory frameworks of the Region and international standards for the protection of personal data were examined. The second session focused on biometrics and surveillance technologies, held in tandem with Privacy International. ADC shared their work on biometrics technologies used at the state level in Argentina, and discussion followed on the different uses of the technology, whether in migration management or by security agencies. Other organizations invited, including Derechos Digitales, shared their strategies for research and advocacy, and identify potential collaboration opportunities.
Donny BU of ICT Watch also co-organized the Indonesia Open Forum in tandem with the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The session investigated the effect of social media on democracy in Indonesia, and the ways it can be harnessed as a tool for strengthening civil engagement. Participants discussed ways to improve access for underrepresented groups such as youth and women. Read more information on the workshop.
Representatives from the Centre for Internet and Society and CIPESA were also in attendance at the IGF.