The Pan-African Parliament Permanent (PAP) Committee on Transport, Industry, Communications, Energy, Science and Technology participated in the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) conference which brings together Internet policymakers and stakeholders to discuss various issues regarding access to the internet and to propose solutions and ways to work together to ensure Internet usage supports societal development.
The 17th gathering focused on how the Internet can facilitate the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Meaningful access to the Internet, Internet regulation and governance, Cyber security and emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence were some of the issues that took centre stage during the Forum as participants tackled the growing threat of Cyber Security.
On the margins of the IGF, the PAP delegation led by Hon. Behdja Lammali Mokrani, Chairperson of the participating Committee, held a workshop to capacitate members on the various topics discussed at the conference. The members also took part in a series of online and physical sessions dedicated to Parliamentarians. These brought together legislators from around the world to discuss how parliaments can better participate in Internet Governance.
At the conclusion of the conference members of the Permanent Committee on Transport, Industry, Communications, Energy, Science and Technology resolved to undertake various activities with respect to internet governance as part of their work.
These include:
- Study of issues related to Internet access and Access to information. This involves working with UNESCO in understanding the ROAM-x country-based assessments on Internet Rights, Openness, Access for all and multistakeholder participation. The committee will also review the work done in the implementation of the AU Agenda2063 on Interconnectedness;
- Review of the various cyber security frameworks including the Malabo protocol, ECA model law on cyber security and the Budapest convention;
- Consideration of emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence and how governance can be undertaken without impacting innovation.
These activities will ensure that the committee is able to provide thought leadership while enhancing Africa’s participation at the next IGF to be held in Japan in 2024.
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