IGF Italy: The Net belongs to all of us
The upcoming Italian meeting of the Internet Governance Forum will be held in Trento on 10-12 November 2011. A three-day event -- free and open to all Internet stakeholders, including citizens, companies, and public institutions -- focused on future policies regarding Internet use and governance that will foster free speech, job opportunities, spreading knowledge and deeper relationships.
These issues directly affect all of us who use this tool every day: young people first and foremost, but also families and businesses that regularly access the Internet for any kind of activities. Along with the sixth annual global Internet Governance Forum held last September in Nairobi, Kenya, and similar meetings underway at National levels, IGF Italy aims to encourage local netizens to contribute their ideas and actions to build a better Internet. Even more so when over half of the Italian population is now online: this networked space can actually provide a precious change to improve our democracy and the economy, while also promoting broader participation within the civil society. Therefore, the Trento meeting plays a crucial role in shaping what's ahead on the Net and in other public sectors influenced by today’s digital revolution, such as culture, environment, politics, and more.
The event includes important International speakers, such as: Rick Falkvinge, founder of the first Pirate Party and a campaigner for next-generation civil liberties and a sensible information policy; David Weinberger, renowned author and fellow at Harvard’s Berkman Center for Internet & Society; Slim Amamou, Tunisian blogger and activist; Alice Munyua, Chair of the Internet Governance Steering Committee. The bulk of the discussion, however, will cover specific issues related to the current Italian landscape, organized into four main sections: economy and sharing, rights and duties, society and culture, technology and research. Some of the specific panels will focus, for instance, on Open data development, Internet and freedom, Religion on the Net, Knowledge workers’ issues, Internet access as a Constitutional right – while also covering online technical aspects and the information ecosystem. The attendees are expected to address the development of a broader National Digital Agenda in particular, a document drafted about a year ago and signed by thousands of people so far.
In tune with a worldwide approach, the overall goal is to encourage Italian citizens to get involved and contribute their ideas to build a better Internet. This precious common good affects our entire society and its future depends on each and all of us.
If you cannot make to Trento, please check the IGF Italy website for a live webcast and other info.
