AmCham EU applauds commitment to multi-stakeholder model at Internet Governance Forum in Istanbul

More than 3,000 delegates gathered at the 9th Internet Governance Forum (IGF) last week in Istanbul to discuss the important issues pertaining to the growth of the global Internet. AmCham EU was pleased to see the continued commitment to the multi-stakeholder model of Internet governance by diverse stakeholders across the globe. In particular, participants called for renewal of the IGF’s mandate in 2015 and stronger commitments to its funding.  

The UN established the IGF as a multi-stakeholder forum in 2005 to discuss existing and emerging Internet governance policy issues. The unique structure of the IGF allows it to inform the Internet policy agenda at the global and national level with a detailed understanding of facts and ideas among all stakeholders, while avoiding centralised decision-making or a politicised inter-governmental treaty process.

AmCham EU considers the multi-stakeholder model of participation and dialogue as the most effective way to advance a well-informed understanding of Internet policy issues, while preserving investment and innovation.

‘What it means is that the explosion of the Internet over the last 20 years, the incredible innovation, the coming together of, from Google to YouTube to Twitter to Facebook, to Ali Baba to companies all over the world and dial up all over the world is because of people and individuals making the Internet work’, said Edward Vaizey, British Minister for Culture, Communications and Creative Industries. He went on, ‘The Internet is not a creation of government or treaty.  It is a creation of people and civic society, and long may it remain that way’.

The IGF continues to demonstrate why maintaining an open and transparent process that encourages participation from a diverse range of actors, including business, governments and civil society is paramount. Given the rapid evolution of technology, and the inherently cross-border nature of Internet networks and services, it is critical that we set out high-level principles and mechanisms for international cooperation that can adapt with the pace of technology.

AmCham EU speaks for American business committed to Europe on trade investment and competitiveness issues. It aims to ensure a growth orientated business and investment climate in Europe. AmCham EU facilitates the resolution of transatlantic issues that impact business and play a role in creating better understanding of EU & US positions on business matters.

For more information, please contact: Anna McNally, Communications Director Email: anna.mcnally@amchameu.eu Direct: +32 (0)2 289 10 16