The United Nations and the Internet: It’s Complicated

The internet has remained decentralized and independent from global governance since its beginnings. Countries are divided as to whether the United Nations through its International Telecommunication Union (ITU) should have more control over internet standards and regulations: Russia, China and developing countries side against Western states, accusing them of dominating private sector–based internet institutions. Transparency is another issue, with most stakeholder meetings held behind closed doors as some telecommunications companies try to regain revenues from the internet. Despite fears about global governance, some UN control could have its benefits, such as greater enforcement of human rights principles on the internet. “History has shown that all governments and all corporations will use whatever vehicles available to advance their own interests and power,” warns Rebecca MacKinnon for Foreign Policy. The Internet is not exempt from politics. – YaleGlobal