Remarks at the Freedom Online Coalition, UNGA Side Event - Securing the Future of the Open Internet

Excellencies,

Regardless of where we live, or what passport we hold, most of us spend a very considerable amount of our time in a digital environment. This space is not wholly shared, nor is it divided along country lines. It is, so to speak, a transnational Republic of the Internet, where we all have a stake.

If we aspire to live a democratic life in the modern world—a life that enables us to enjoy our human rights, to harness our potential, to own our future—then we must defend democracy not just in our countries and in these United Nations, but also in the Republic of the Internet. The Internet must remain open, interoperable, accessible and free. 

These four principles that underpin governance in the digital world are fundamentally inclusive and democratic. So, it is not a surprise that some authoritarian countries are trying to rewrite the rules. To them, an open Republic of the Internet is a dangerous beacon of freedom. They will stop at nothing to dim its light and to subject it to their will.

In response, democracies must stand and act together, through efforts like the Freedom Online Coalition’s work to develop Rights-Respecting Digital Public Infrastructure Principles. These principles should form a cornerstone for what we ultimately need: a sort of Digital Democratic Stack, a layered set of digital infrastructures that enables and amplifies democratic values and principles.

As we strive to strengthen the resilience of the Internet, let us never forget that we are also working to strengthen the resilience of democracy everywhere. And may that recognition strengthen our resolve to ensure that the Republic of the Internet remains free and open for all.