Day 1 Session 1: Introduction to ICT landscape and frameworks

Time: 3:00 UTC - 4:30 UTC

Objective: This first session invites participants to explore the regional ICT and digital rights landscape, develop an understanding of key frameworks and structures, and examine the powers and processes that create them. It will also help participants to identify the structures of governance and regulation, as well as recognise the opportunities and challenges that arise across different sectors and countries in Southeast Asia as a result of these regulations.

Session plan:

The session will aim to cover questions such as:

• What are the national and international structures that shape ICT policy and digital rights (standards, treaties, laws, policies)?;
• What have been the kinds of laws passed in Southeast Asia in relation to ICTs?
• Who are the key stakeholders in ICT governance? What roles do they play in decision making?
• What has been the impact of ICT policies in Southeast Asia on human rights? 
• What is a rights-based approach to ICT policy-making? Why is it important?

*Reading materials are hyperlinked, please click the text to access

Reading Materials:

• The APC ICT Policy Handbook
• GISWatch - WSIS+20: Reimagining Horizons of dignity, equity and justice for our digital future
• Introduction to digital rights - South and Southeast Asia
• Freedom on the Net 2025 - An Uncertain Future for the Global Internet
• United Nations resolutions, decisions and reports on human rights and technology
• Human rights impacts of new technologies on civic space in South-East Asia

📌 Presentation Slide: