In the second episode of Internet Changemakers, hosts Yug Desai and Claire van Zwieten are joined by Alan Ramírez García and Everton Teles Rodrigues, prominent representatives of the Latin American Internet community and alumni of the Internet Society Mid-career Fellowship (2023). Alan and Everton share their earliest memories of discovering the Internet in the 1990s, reflecting on how their initial curiosity and the pursuit of knowledge defined their online journeys.

The conversation delves into the complexities of the Internet ecosystem, exploring who “runs” the Internetand the vital roles played by a range of stakeholders—from governments and the private sector to civil society and the technical community. Both guests emphasize the importance of the multi-stakeholder model in creating a dynamic and resilient Internet that serves users worldwide.

The episode highlights the essential work required to preserve a trustworthy and globally connected Internet in the face of new challenges. Key topics include the emergence and significance of national and regional Internet Governance Forums (IGFs), particularly in Latin America and the Caribbean, as well as ongoing efforts to address local challenges, such as rural connectivity. Everton explains the historical and evolving role of the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) in managing Internet resources. At the same time, Alan shares insights into the IGF’s multi-stakeholder Advisory Group and its consensus-driven processes.

This episode also examines the Internet Society’s impact, providing technical leadership, advocating for an open and secure Internet, supporting community networks, and empowering professionals through educational programs, such as the Mid-Career Fellowship.

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References:

ICANN
Internet Engineering Task Force
ISOC Mid-career Fellowship Program
United Nations Internet Governance Forum (IGF)
World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS)