Internet Governance
“The Internet is currently at an important turning point. The world needs to agree upon an Internet governance and management system within two years. Or else, we may run into a crisis. The Internet-of-Things era has already began, and the world will be a lot smarter.”
Internet Corporation of Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) CEO Fadi Chehade recently emphasized the urgency of an agreement for Internet governance among interested parties. ICANN is often referred to as a nuclear bomb, due to its extensive control over key Internet infrastructure such as IP addresses and Domain Name Servers (DNS).
“We are at a time when the Internet plays a key role in economics, politics, social stability, and world peace. Unlike the early Internet period, there’s heightened interest on who manages the Internet and how it is managed. Now is the time to think of some answers,” Chehade pointed out. “The Internet played an important role in Korea’s economic development. If the Internet were to disappear, 40% of their economy would come to a halt,” he added. Since 1998, Internet addresses have been managed by ICANN, an organization under the US Department of Commerce. Countries such as Russia and Brazil have pointed out the need for establishment of an international organization to end US control.
Chehade’s philosophy is that Internet governance should reflect the interests of all parties involved. “The Internet cannot be owned by a government, organization, or technical group. All parties need to gather to discuss the optimal management model,” he explained.
Chehade pointed to Korea as the role model. While not perfect, it has found a balance point. “Compared to other countries, Korea has accomplished a fairly balanced Internet management model and growth. It is important for government, corporations, and civil society to gather and discuss ways to maximize the Internet’s strengths and minimize weaknesses in order to increase value,” he emphasized.