The internet and how we all use and interact it with it is in constant flux and evolution. 20 years ago internet access wasn’t widespread, now it’s become a key factor for many people when they choose where to settle down. With the growth of our usage and our depth of reliance on the internet our relationship to it has changed quite dramatically. With those changes the policies both nationally, regionally and internationally will also need to evolve.
It’s for this reason that I tend to get involved in some of the discussions that take place on internet governance and policy. It’s not purely academic, as many of the people involved with these discussions are in a position to not simply discuss change but to also affect it.
Next week I’ll be joining a group of people from around the world in Stockholm for the 17th edition of the ICANN-Studienkreis. The agenda for this year’s edition covers a fairly broad range of topics including the IANA transition, new TLDs and data privacy. I’ve been asked to participate in a discussion around data privacy which will focus on GDPR:
GDPR – How data protection will affect the Domain Name Market
Moderation: Rinalia Abdul Rahim, ICANN BoardInput:
Dirk Krischenowski, dotBERLIN GmbH & Co. KG
Keith Drazek, VERISIGN
Maarten Botterman, ICANN Board
Heiki Sibul, Estonian Internet Foundation
Michele Neylon, Blacknight
I’ve been to the ICANN-Studenkreis in the past and it’s a very interesting event.
This is probably due to a couple of things. First off it’s a small event with only about 50 people in attendance (if that), so you can actually talk to pretty much everyone else without too much difficulty. Secondly in common with several of the more interesting events I get to attend the entire thing is run under the Chatham House Rule.
I’m looking forward to listening to and participating in some vibrant discussions next week!