2022 Theme - More Resilient Together

Trust is an essential component in defining the future of the internet. People deserve to have their rights protected online, to be able to put trust in the systems which contain their data, livelihoods, and ability to stay informed and connected to a truly global world.   

Cooperation and collaboration are vital factors in the future development of the internet and tech space, as all people ultimately share a collective responsibility to work to ensure that the internet is trusted, secure, and available.  

Sub-topic ideas include:  

• Internet security 
• Digital rights 
• Ethics 
• Internet infrastructure 
• Disinformation 

Resilience is framed as the capacity to recover from the unpredictable. The impact of recent global events has shone a light on the nature of universal human resilience, and how we have continuously met and managed the obstacles thrown our way as individuals, groups, and communities.   

The importance of the Internet has never been clearer, in the critical role it plays in keeping us connected, informed, and communicating on a global level. The Internet has become a tool that has, can and should be used to optimise resilience. 

Sub-topic ideas include:   

• Policy & geopolitics 
• Natural disaster response 
• Environment 
• Education 
• Healthcare  

In recent history the world has witnessed the digitalization of society and the transition into an age of information.   

Rapid advances in digital technologies have enhanced connectivity, financial inclusion, and access to trade and public services. They have supported and accelerated the work of the United Nations in reaching their Sustainable Development Goals. They have enabled education to reach more people through virtual and distance learning, helped save lives with AI-enabled frontier technologies, made public services more accessible and accountable through blockchain-powered systems, and facilitated connections across the globe.   

However, those who do not have access to the internet, estimated as roughly half of the world’s 7.9 billion people, remain digitally excluded and cut off from the benefits provided by this digital era. In Australia some three million people are experiencing digital exclusion, whether that be because of limited access, affordability, or digital ability. Low-income people, the elderly and other vulnerable socio-demographic groups are some of those most affected by the digital divide.   

Digital inclusion is about ensuring equitable access to digital technologies, affording everyone the opportunity to take part in and enjoy the social and economic benefits the internet provides.  

Sub-topic ideas include:   

• Accessibility 
• Digital divide   
• Gender   
• Regional connectivity

The Internet is a powerful catalyst for innovation, economic growth and social well-being. It contributes to economic growth by facilitating the ease of and security in banking, making buying and selling goods and services easier, and bringing convenience and reach, thus paving the way for businesses to become more competitive in the market and increase their potential for trade.   

By offering a free open and interoperable communication and data transfer platform, the Internet intrinsically fosters innovation and bespoke or required development of services or mechanisms that can meet market needs and significantly promote economic growth and development.  

Sub-topic ideas include:    

• Consumer rights   
• Regulations   
• Digital economy   
• Small businesses  
• Emerging tech