Introduction 

The Internet was developed to interconnect servers, but with the Web, it quickly became a space for free and open communications. The Internet has also changed our world, by playing a central role in ensuring fundamental human rights such as freedom of expression. It is part of our modern economies and societies, but the paradigm of a free Internet is under pressure to address security and law enforcement requirements, which raises questions about its future governance. The speakers on this panel will explore the complex interplay between Internet governance, security requirements, and fundamental rights, in particular the risks posed to freedom of expression, personal data protection and privacy. It will also consider the question of its neutrality and the risk of fragmentation, with countries limiting its access. 

Key questions and objectives 

• What are the main challenges for Internet governance?
• How can the law enforcement needs be addressed without harming the freedom of expression and access to information?
• What are the emerging risks to Internet neutrality and fragmentation in the era of increasing content filtering, and how can equal access to information be ensured?
• In what ways does the fragmentation of the internet pose risks to global interconnectedness, and how can this be fixed?
• What are the ways forward?