Introduction to Internet and Digital Governance online course

As digital technologies have become embedded in all aspects of society, the need for coherent governance frameworks has grown more urgent. The protection of data, cybersecurity, accountability of private companies, and boundaries of content moderation are just a few examples of issues that now demand the attention of a wide range of actors.

But what do we talk about when we talk about the internet and digital governance? Who governs the internet and/or the digital space, and how? What are the most pressing policy and governance issues, and how are they addressed at the regional and international levels? 

This course aims to answer these and other similar questions by providing an overview of how the global digital governance architecture has evolved over time and what it encompasses today. It also explains the core infrastructure that makes the internet work, looks at the development, economic, and sociocultural dimensions of the internet, and discusses cybersecurity and human rights-related challenges in the digital space.

What will you learn?

• To understand key internet-related terminology, concepts, and issues.
• To understand the main components of the global digital governance architecture and how it has evolved.
• To understand the main elements of the technical infrastructure underpinning the internet.
• To map the policy implications of internet and digital technologies in areas such as sustainable development, economy, human rights, and security, as well as the main international processes and organisations where these are addressed.
• How to engage in the internet governance policy processes in their countries and regions, as well as in global policy processes.

Course lecturers

Sorina Teleanu

Director of Knowledge, Diplo

Jovan Kurbalija

Executive Director, Diplo

Marília Maciel

Director of Digital Trade and Economic Security, Diplo

Pavlina Ittelson

Executive Director, Diplo US

Who should apply

• Officials in government ministries, departments, judicial or regulatory institutions dealing with policy issues affected by the internet and digital technologies (e.g. security and defence, foreign affairs, justice, telecommunications)
• Practising diplomats, civil servants, and others working in international relations who want to expand their knowledge on the subject
• Experts and officials in intergovernmental, international and regional organisations in charge of security cooperation, justice and home affairs, defence or internet and digital policy
• Academics, researchers and postgraduate students in fields such as international relations, political sciences, diplomacy, and digital economy
• Professionals from the corporate sector in charge of digital technology policies
• Journalists and staff of non-governmental organisations, covering issues such as cybersecurity and online rights and freedoms

Overview

The course consists of 4 modules:

1. Internet and digital governance: A journey through time. This module looks at how today’s global digital governance architecture has evolved, from the so-called ‘1998 deals’, through the World Summit on the Information Society in 2003-2005 and the subsequent implementation of its outcomes, and to the adoption of the Global Digital Compact and its follow-up activities post 2024.
2. Infrastructure and development. In this module, we unpack the key technical aspects that enable the internet to work: Internet Protocol Numbers, the Domain Name System, telecom infrastructure, and technical standards. We also discuss issues related to digital divides, digital inclusion, and the role of the internet and digital technologies in advancing sustainable development.
3. Economic, sociocultural, and legal implications. This module examines the interplay between the economic, sociocultural, and legal aspects of internet governance. It discusses key components of the internet/digital economy (e.g. e-commerce, taxation), looks at challenges associated with online content policy (including the roles and responsibilities of various actors), and considers key legal instruments applicable to the internet and digital space.
4. Security and human rights. The final module unpacks the main policy issues typically encompassed under the broad umbrella of cybersecurity, including information infrastructure protection, cybercrime, and cyberconflict, as well as their impact and international peace and security. And it looks at how the internet and technology affect the exercise, promotion and protection of human rights.

*Modules 2, 3 and 4 will also survey major governance processes and organisations where the respective issues are addressed at international and regional levels.

Methodology

The course will last for a total of 5 weeks, structured as follows:

• 1 week split between the course introduction and the wrap-up
• 4 weeks dedicated to addressing the course topics individually

The course is based on a collaborative learning approach, involving a high level of interaction over a four-week period. This interaction takes place in two main forms:

• Asynchronous interaction, using a custom-developed commenting tool
• Synchronous interaction, through live class meetings held in real time

Each module is discussed over seven days, during which you are expected to actively engage in the exchange of ideas, examples, and experiences with fellow participants and lecturers from around the world. Some modules may also include additional online activities, such as quizzes and exercises. Weekly interaction concludes with a one-hour live class meeting, conducted via Zoom or as a text-based chat. These sessions provide an opportunity to discuss the week’s topic in real time with the lecturer and other participants.

To complete the course successfully, an average of 5 to 7 hours of study time per week is required. This includes both synchronous and asynchronous discussions, as well as any additional online activities. Throughout the course, you will also receive guidance and personalised feedback on your classwork from the course team.

Course materials and the necessary tools for online interaction and course tasks are provided in a virtual classroom.

Participants who successfully complete the course receive a certificate issued by Diplo Academy, which can be printed or shared electronically.

To learn more about the methodology used in this course, watch the video below.

Prerequisites

• Regular internet access
• An undergraduate university degree, OR 3 years of work experience, and appropriate professional qualifications in diplomacy or international relations
• Sufficient English language proficiency to undertake postgraduate-level studies

Fees and scholarships

The fee for this course is €500. 

• Diplo alumni are eligible for a 15% discount on the course fee.
• A limited number of partial scholarships are available for diplomats and professionals working in international relations from developing countries.
• Group discounts are available for multiple participants from the same institution.

Applicants are encouraged to actively explore scholarship funding from local or international institutions.

How to apply

Fill out the short form to start your application process for this course. 

Applying for financial assistance? Please indicate this on the application form and upload your CV, along with a motivation statement that includes:

• Details of your relevant professional and educational background
• Your reasons for applying to the course
• Why you believe you should be offered the opportunity to participate, and how your participation would benefit you, your institution, and/or your country

Note: Financial assistance from Diplo is available only to applicants from developing countries! Late applications will be considered only if places are still available.

Cancellation policy

A minimum of 15 applications is required for the course to run.

Diplo Academy reserves the right to cancel the course if enrollment is insufficient. In the event of cancellation, Diplo will notify applicants shortly after the application deadline. Applicants who have paid an application fee may either transfer the fee to another course or request a refund.