Normally ISPs don’t really consider things like “Internet Governance” to be within their purview. This week I attended the Canadian Internet Governance Forum #CIGF2023 in #Montreal and the topics and speakers were outstanding. One of the most interesting discussions was “Canadian communications policy and internet governance” with a really engaged panel. Thanks to #CIGF for putting on a great conference.

The CIGF2023 was a fantastic platform for knowledge-sharing and collaboration across the public, private, and third sectors. The event brought together diverse perspectives on data governance from these different societal domains. The insightful cross-sector discussions have reinforced our collective commitment to ethical data practices that balance innovation with privacy, sustainability, and social responsibility. 

The CIGF brings the right people together to facilitate meaningful conversations. In 2023 I spoke on a panel discussing Canada’s ideal priorities for its G7 presidency, a session that brought together the key person creating that agenda with civil society, academia, and industry stakeholders representing different perspectives. The conversation was public, wide-ranging, and interactive, exemplifying the critical role the CIGF can play in Canada’s digital policy-making. 

The CIGF is the essential forum in Canada’s internet policy landscape. It is one of the few spaces dedicated to bringing together a full range of perspectives - government, industry, academic, civil society and consumer - to address the important tech policy issues of the day.

The CIGF is important as it convenes an independent community and public perspective on Internet governance issues relevant to Canada and makes sure that Canada’s multistakeholder voice is heard at the global Internet Governance Forum (IGF). 

The 2023 CIGF was a distinctive occasion for ICANN's North American engagement team to connect with the vibrant Canadian Internet community. ICANN Board Chair, Tripti Sinha, delivered the keynote address and was delighted by the meaningful interactions with the audience.