IGF 2019 5G, IoT and Zero Rating Challenges for Net Neutrality

In early 2019, two proposals emerged as most interesting net neutrality challenges to be explored by members of the Dynamic Coalition on Network Neutrality (DCNN), over 2019, in preparation to the IGF in Berlin:

• So-called “network slicing” and the compatibility of 5G and the Internet of Things (IoT) with NN frameworks
• The impact of zero rating of dominant social media on quality journalism and on elections

Over the past years, DCNN members have produced substantial works and research on these issues, which have recently gained incredible prominence with regard to both political and developmental agendas. While 5G and the IoT are supposed to bring incredible changes to the way connectivity is provided and utilised, zero rating practices – with particular regard to the sponsoring of social media – are already determining an incredible impact on democracies around the world.

Building on the DCNN 2018 outcome, the Zero Rating Map (available at www.zerorating.info ) and on the works developed by DCNN members, this session aim at exploring the impact that the most recent technological and commercial development are deploying and will deploy on Internet users’ capability to freely access and share innovation and information online and, ultimately, on the rights of every connected individual.

The IGF session will have the following agenda:
• Introduction and presentation of DCNN and its work
• Presentations and debate on 5G and IoT
• Presentations and debate on zero rating
• Discussion of next steps and priorities for DCNN