- Navigating the Misinformation Maze: Strategic Cooperation for a Trusted Digital Future (15 December | 10:10)
In an increasingly digital world, misinformation and disinformation pose complex challenges that threaten public trust, polarize communities, and undermine democratic values. This session will address the critical need for strategic, cross-sector collaboration to build a digital environment rooted in accuracy, transparency, and trust. Panelists will discuss the evolving landscape of online misinformation, identifying emerging patterns, platforms, and technologies that either perpetuate or counter false information. The discussion will explore the role of AI in misinformation, the responsibilities of digital platforms, and the power of media literacy initiatives to empower users in discerning fact from fiction. Emphasis will be placed on multistakeholder approaches, involving governments, tech companies, civil society, and academia, to implement solutions that support informed digital spaces.
Main and Cross-cutting IGF 2024 Themes: Improving digital governance for the Internet We Want | Enhancing the digital contribution to peace, development, and sustainability | Harnessing innovation and balancing risks in the digital space
- Extending Digital Identity Verification to Protect Internet Transactions (15 December | 15:00)
In an era of increasing online interactions, robust digital identity verification has become essential to ensure the security and trustworthiness of Internet transactions. This session will examine the evolving landscape of digital identity systems, focusing on how enhanced verification methods can help protect users from fraud, data breaches, and identity theft. Panelists will discuss the latest advancements in digital identity technologies, including biometrics, decentralized identity frameworks, and multi-factor authentication, as well as the challenges of implementing these solutions globally. Emphasis will be placed on the importance of privacy protection, regulatory compliance, and the need for cross-sector collaboration to establish secure, user-friendly digital identity frameworks that safeguard online activities. The discussion will also explore how inclusive and accessible digital identity systems can promote financial inclusion and empower users in the digital economy.
Main and Cross-cutting IGF 2024 Themes: Harnessing innovation and balancing risks in the digital space | Advancing human rights and inclusion in the digital age | Improving digital governance for the Internet We Want
- Exploring Transparency and Explainability in AI: An Ethical Imperative (16 December | 11:30)
The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) brings unprecedented opportunities but also significant ethical challenges that need to be addressed to ensure a fair, transparent, and accountable digital future. The concept of AI Ethics revolves around guiding the development and use of AI technologies in a way that prioritizes human rights, fairness, privacy, and security. This session will delve into ethical frameworks and governance models that can help mitigate the risks associated with AI, such as bias, discrimination, and misuse of personal data. It will explore how multistakeholder approaches, including industry self-regulation, governmental policy-making, and civil society engagement, can collaboratively shape AI in a way that aligns with universal ethical standards. Focus areas will include algorithmic transparency, data protection, and AI in public sector applications.
Main and Cross-cutting IGF 2024 Themes: Advancing human rights and inclusion in the digital age | Improving digital governance for the Internet We Want | Harnessing innovation and balancing risks in the digital space
- From Summit of the Future to WSIS+ 20 (16 December | 16:15)
As we approach the 20-year milestone of the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS+20) and the implementation of the Global Digital Compact (GDC), this session will focus on assessing progress and envisioning the future of digital governance. It will serve as a platform to reflect on past achievements, identify gaps, and strategize on the way forward for global digital cooperation. Discussions will emphasize the need for a multistakeholder approach, incorporating governments, private sector, civil society, and technical experts, to ensure that digital policies are inclusive and promote sustainable development. Key topics will include enhancing digital trust, fostering digital inclusion, and preparing for the challenges and opportunities presented by emerging digital technologies.
Main and Cross-cutting IGF 2024 Themes: Improving digital governance for the Internet We Want | Enhancing the digital contribution to peace, development, and sustainability | Advancing human rights and inclusion in the digital age
- Protecting Children's Rights in the Digital World (17 December | 10:30)
As children increasingly navigate the digital landscape, ensuring their rights and well-being online has become a global priority. This session will explore the critical need for robust safeguards to protect children from online harms while empowering them to safely benefit from digital opportunities. Panelists will address key challenges, including exposure to inappropriate content, cyberbullying, data privacy violations, and the exploitation of minors online. The discussion will highlight the role of policy frameworks, technological solutions, and educational initiatives in upholding children’s rights. Special emphasis will be placed on the responsibilities of digital platforms, governments, and civil society in creating a safe and inclusive digital environment for children. Participants will also examine best practices for involving young people in decision-making processes that affect their online experiences.
Main and Cross-cutting IGF 2024 Themes: Advancing human rights and inclusion in the digital age | Improving digital governance for the Internet We Want