Concept Note
International cooperation is the key to a successful digital state. It is also the goal of cyber diplomacy, which has become one of the key topics of international politics. It combines international security, internet governance, capacity building, and human rights online. Many states that support the multi-stakeholder governance model of the internet have made internet freedom one of their human rights priorities. Therefore, the underlying notion is that people should have the same rights online and offline and these rights must be protected. Respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms and security online are complementary concepts.
This open forum under the third programme theme of IGF 2019 with the focus on security, safety, stability and resilience will analyse the links between trust, norms and freedom in cyberspace. Taking place only a few days before the first meeting of the new UN GGE, the panel will create a platform for an exchange of thoughts and further analysis on how the existing norms of responsible state behaviour in cyberspace relate to the work of non-governmental organisations and the private sector.
The panel will focus on the ongoing discussions regarding the norms of cybersecurity (and internet governance) while keeping in mind the aim of preserving a free, open, and secure cyberspace. The key points of the discussion will emerge from the notion that there is a need to further discuss the implementation of norms of responsible state behaviour in cyberspace. The protection of human rights and basic freedoms in cyberspace is the underlying principle of internationally recognised cyber norms. The GGE, among others, has confirmed that states must comply with their obligations under international law to respect and protect human rights and fundamental freedoms.