As a youth leader from India, I am fortunate to participate in one of the biggest digital policy dialogues of 2024–Asia Pacific Internet Governance Academy (APIGA) in Busan, South Korea. This was an experience that significantly enriched my comprehension of the intricate digital challenges and the opportunities defining our interconnected world.
A pivotal part of this fellowship has always been its focus on youth engagement. The fellows were not just passive recipients of knowledge but active contributors. APIGA’s intensive curriculum challenged us to think beyond the surface of the Internet. We delved into the intricacies of Alternative Naming Systems, exploring how these systems could potentially decentralize and democratize Internet navigation. We navigated the complex ecosystem of Internet Governance Forums, in understanding how organizations like the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), Asia Pacific Network Information Centre (APNIC), the Internet Society (ISOC), etc. strive for equality in the multi-stakeholder collaboration in shaping Internet policy while also addressing different critical Internet governance issues.
All the sessions provided a unique opportunity to learn from seasoned experts. Instead of straightforward lectures, we engaged in spirited debates, examining case studies and sharing experiences. One particularly impactful session involved a cybersecurity roleplay activity. As a part of the legal team during a simulated cyber attack, the team navigated the complexities of legal ramifications and crisis management. This activity forced the fellows to think on their feet, highlighting the importance of preparedness and inter/intra cooperation in an increasingly interconnected world and the need for comprehensive cybersecurity measures in today’s digital landscape.
The APrIGF proposal writing workshop seamlessly blended creativity with strategic thinking. Our proposed theme, “Resilient Internet,” centered on establishing a framework for service providers to maintain high availability across the Asia Pacific region, inspired by the Basel Framework. This concept ignited a cascade of innovative suggestions from my team, culminating in a comprehensive and ambitious proposal. Although our proposal may not have been perfect enough to be selected, especially since it was developed in just one day, it was still a strong and commendable effort. This collaborative effort underscored the power of diverse perspectives in developing solutions that are both inventive and practical.
The highlight of the fellowship program was the Model ICANN Conference. Stepping into the shoes of various stakeholders, from companies to end users and governments, we engaged in lively debates on aspects like the scope of the Alternative Naming Systems and the appropriate governing authority for this decentralized system. This simulation brought policy-making processes to life. Split into groups, we simulated a mock forum, crafting agendas and debating policies with an enthusiasm that mirrored real-world scenarios. This hands-on experience provided invaluable insights into the complexities involved in these multi-stakeholder policy development processes.
APIGA was an incredible opportunity to learn and make meaningful connections. Late-night conversations, shared meals with amazing food, and spontaneous beach trips helped forge lasting friendships. We debated, disagreed, and learned from one another, building a network of future collaborators committed to creating a more inclusive, equitable, and accessible internet. With a deeper understanding of internet governance and a renewed sense of purpose, I’m determined to share what I’ve learned, advocate for digital rights, and contribute to policy discussions to ensure India’s voice is heard globally. The internet isn’t just a tool; it’s a reflection of our shared humanity. It’s time for all of us to play an active role in shaping its future. For me, APIGA was a reminder that internet governance isn’t just about policies and regulations—it’s about people, their stories, and our collective effort to create a more inclusive digital world.
Reflecting on my time at APIGA 2024, I’ve distilled several key learnings that will significantly influence my professional journey. Here are the most impactful lessons I gained
- Networking and Professional Growth – Built a network of professional contacts across the Asia Pacific regions, facilitating future collaborations and knowledge exchange on global digital policy issues.
- Enhanced Public Speaking and Presentation Skills – Improved my public speaking and presentation skills through active participation in roleplays, group discussions and conference simulations, essential for articulating policy positions and advocating effectively.
- Advanced Stakeholder Negotiation Skills – Learned the intricacies of negotiating and balancing interests among various stakeholders, from corporate entities to government bodies and civil society groups, which is crucial in multi stakeholders environments.
- Strategic Assignment completion – Refined my ability to quickly develop and complete various kinds of assignments such as proposals and presentations under tight deadlines, demonstrating the capacity to think creatively and work efficiently in high pressure environments.