22. March 2024

Navigating Cyberspace: Insights from Daniel Stauffacher

In a recent interview, Daniel Stauffacher, founder and president of ICT4Peace Foundation, and Lena Herbst of the Technical University Braunschweig delved into the intricate world of UN diplomacy concerning information and communication technology (ICT). From fostering peace and security to navigating the complexities of internet and cybersecurity governance, the discussion shed light on the evolving landscape of global governance in cyberspace.

Besides the work of the ITU since 1865, Daniel Stauffacher traced the recent roots of ICT governance back to pivotal events like the UN World Summits on Information Society (WSIS) in 2003 and 2005. From these origins, the UN has grappled with a myriad of issues spanning human rights, internet and data governance, cybercrime, terrorism, cybersecurity and most recently disinformation, hate speech, and AI. UN discussions have largely focused on the applicability of international law, responsible state behaviour, confidence-building measures, role of the private sector and civil society  and capacity-building in cybersecurity efforts.

Among the plethora of UN processes, amongst others the current Open-Ended Working Group on ICTs, UN Digital Global Compact and UN Summit for the Future the ICT4Peace Foundation is actively involved. With its steadfast dedication to promoting technology for peaceful and humanitarian purposes, ICT4Peace Foundation is an esteemed contributor to UN processes, like the UN Crisis Information Management System (CIM) since 2006. ICT4Peace Foundation is ECOSOC-accredited and has participated in high-level discussions of the UN Security Council, and chaired a panel discussion with social media companies in the UN Security Council’s Counter-Terrorism Committee.

One notable aspect of ICT4Peace’s work since 2003. is its role in transporting civil society concerns to governance processes through statements and publications and capacity building programs for policy makers and cyber-diplomats. By enriching discussions with diverse perspectives, non-state actors play a crucial role in shaping global ICT policies.

Delving into the current state of cybersecurity governance as well as the work of non-state actors in state-led processes, Daniel Stauffacher elucidates the challenges due to geopolitical tensions. Highlighting the need for perseverance in the face of these challenges, he underscores the importance of continued engagement from non-state actors.

But how can this be achieved? Daniel Stauffacher explains the necessity for non-state actors to be well-prepared and actively engaged in negotiations. “To know what you’re talking about” is crucial to become and remain credible as a civil society partner for Governments and the private sector, he says, highlighting the value of exchanging perspectives in collaborative workshops and partnerships.As practitioners and delegates navigate the complexities of cyberspace governance, it’s clear that the contributions of non-state actors like ICT4Peace Foundation are indispensable. By bridging the gap between society, technology, and governance processes, they pave the way for a digital future characterized by peace, security, and cooperation.

Lena Herbst, M.A.

Lena Herbst. is a Lecturer and Ph.D. researcher at the Institute of International Relations at the Technical University of Braunschweig in Germany. In this context, She is studying the agency of non-state actors in UN cybersecurity governance institutions, specifically focusing on the Internet Governance Forum, UN Security Council, Ad Hoc Committee on Cybercrime, and OEWG on ICTs

Braunschweig, 17 March 2024

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