Power Dynamics in Internet Governance: Case of the Internet Governance Forum

Abstract

This research study investigates the dynamics of power shifts within global internet governance, with a particular focus on the influence wielded by individuals and experts from developing states. The central research questions explore how these individuals, acting as representatives of various stakeholders, shape the global agenda and engage in political struggles within the Internet Governance Forum (IGF). The hypothesis posits that individuals from the developing world can exert substantial influence on global internet governance through active engagement in multistakeholder platforms like the IGF. A significant facet of this thesis centers on the role and impact of National and Regional IGF Initiatives (NRIs) in shaping agendas across different governance levels. The study investigates how individuals and stakeholders initially exert their influence at the national level, progress to the regional level, and eventually extend their impact to the international stage. NRIs are recognized as pivotal platforms where discussions on internet governance occur within individual nations and regions, and this research seeks to uncover the mechanisms by which these discussions contribute to shaping national, regional, and international internet governance agendas. Moreover, the research explores the ripple effect of local and regional dialogues within NRIs, analyzing how the ideas, perspectives, and policy recommendations generated within these initiatives gain momentum and influence broader international internet governance discussions and decisions. This includes an examination of the pathways through which individuals and groups transition from local and regional engagement to becoming influential voices on the global stage. By scrutinizing the role of NRIs and multistakeholder engagement in this context, the research aims to illuminate the mechanisms that empower individuals and stakeholders to navigate the intricate landscape of internet governance. It highlights the progressive expansion of their influence from the national to the regional and international levels. Ultimately, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of how grassroots participation and multistakeholder collaboration shape the development of inclusive and effective frameworks for internet governance in an ever-evolving digital landscape.

Employing a qualitative case study approach aligned with social constructivism, this research delves into the dynamics of the IGF as a non-binding, multistakeholder forum for informed policymaking. Data collection involves semi-structured interviews with representatives from nation-states, intergovernmental organizations, civil society, and the private sector, supplemented by participant observation at the IGF 2023 Kyoto. Documents such as official IGF reports, meeting minutes, and transcripts of IGF Kyoto 2023 sessions are analyzed. The study comprises interviews with 20 key informants, conducted both during and after IGF 2023, with regular participation at the IGF Secretariat meetings during an internship from July to October 2023. Data analysis combines content analysis and thematic analysis to identify patterns in discourse, practices, and stakeholder perceptions. This research contributes to the understanding of how individuals, particularly from developing states, can actively engage in global internet governance through existing national and regional IGF initiatives. By tracing the influence from local to international levels, the study sheds light on how grassroots participation and multistakeholder collaboration contribute to the development of inclusive and effective frameworks for internet governance. The findings offer practical insights into enhancing individual involvement in shaping internet governance agendas, contributing valuable perspectives to the ongoing discourse on inclusive and participatory global governance in the digital era.