Brussels/Strasbourg — As the Internet faces threats from some regimes, which seek curb online freedoms and more governmental control, the European Parliament has today issued an important resolution in support of the open Internet, online rights, and an extension of the Internet Governance Forum’s mandate.
A broad coalition of civil society and the Internet industry in Europe issued this joint statement welcoming the European Parliament’s strong resolution.
The Computer & Communications Industry Association continues to advocate for an inclusive multi-stakeholder Internet governance of the Internet.
The following can be attributed to CCIA Europe Director, Christian Borggreen:
“We applaud the European Parliament for recognizing the importance of the open Internet for innovation, growth, and job creation. The resolution sends a strong signal of Europe’s support for our multi-stakeholder governance model and for the renewal of the IGF’s mandate. The IGF has positively enriched discussions on Internet governance and increased the level of inclusiveness and participation by all stakeholders.”
“We discourage the temptation to use the IGF as a bargaining chip by those countries seeking a more government-controlled model for Internet governance.”
“We welcome that MEPs underscore the need for net neutrality which is essential for the Internet’s contribution to Europe’s economy (which is expected to rise to 5.7% of EU GDP in 2016) and to foster innovation, trade, democracy, cultural diversity and human rights.”
“While no firm deadline exists, we support a timely and successful IANA stewardship transition from the U.S. government to the global multi-stakeholder community.”