https://netmission.asia/2024/05/15/asia-pacific-policy-observatory-may-2...
The May 2024 edition focuses on eight APAC jurisdictions – Bangladesh, Bhutan, Taiwan, Tuvalu, Pakistan, Indonesia, Cambodia, and Iran. This report aims to provide valuable insights on the major digital policy developments initiated and the challenges faced by the winning parties. Through data-driven research, our report examines how the current ruling parties have paved the way for the digital development of their respective jurisdictions and analyzes the potential policy shifts that may occur under new leadership.
This report sheds light on the new ruling party’s visions and priorities for the digital future of respective jurisdictions. By examining the digital landscape of each jurisdiction, the report offers insights to inform critical discussions and promote the development of future-proof digital strategies for these regions.
Executive Summary
The Asia Pacific Policy Observatory May 2024 Report, entitled “Polls, Politics, and Policies: Assessing Impact of 2024 Elections on Digital Development and Internet Governance”, explores how the 2024 elections in eight Asia Pacific jurisdictions – Bangladesh, Bhutan, Taiwan, Tuvalu, Pakistan, Indonesia, Cambodia and Iran – are shaping their digital destinies. Each essay delves into a specific region and analyzes how their respective political landscapes shape their approach to Internet governance and technological advancement.
Bangladesh prepares for its “Smart Bangladesh” initiative amid the 2024 elections. Mahee Kirindigoda’s “Bangladesh’s 2024 Elections and the Trajectory of Digital Governance” explores the pre-election digital landscape, including concerns about the Cyber Security Act, and the core pillars of the Smart Bangladesh vision. Kirindigoda emphasizes that transparency, public awareness, and collaboration are crucial for this initiative’s success and by harnessing social, cultural, political, and economic support, Bangladesh can transform into a smart and sustainable nation by 2041.
Bhutan‘s journey to digital transformation takes center stage next. Here, Ankita Rathi’s “From Monarchy to Democracy: Bhutan’s Political Evolution and Digital Transformation” examines the key initiatives undertaken by the People’s Democratic Party during their tenure(s). From digital transformation policies and regulations to the ambitious Digital Drukyul Flagship Program, Bhutan’s ICT landscape is on the move; and yet, challenges remain – resource constraints, limited infrastructure, and cybersecurity threats loom large. It would be imperative for Bhutan to overcome these hindrances to achieve the Party’s vision of a digitally empowered nation.
Taiwan‘s recent presidential election results in a familiar face – the Democratic Progressive Party wins a third term, signifying continued focus on digital development. Jenna Manhau Fung’s “Taiwan’s Digital Frontier: Digital Economy, Democracy and Beyond” explores the evolving roles of key government agencies like the Ministry of Digital Affairs and the National Science and Technology Council under this renewed leadership. While challenges like cybersecurity and talent gaps persist, Taiwan’s commitment to collaboration and open data positions it for a bright digital future.
The island country of Tuvalu faces a unique challenge – rising sea levels threaten its very physical existence. In response, the government has prioritized the “Future Now Project,” a digital replica of the country in the metaverse, aiming to preserve its cultural heritage. This digital migration raises unique questions about cybersecurity and socio-technical challenges. Songo Nore’s “Climate Change Impact on Digital Governance Policies in pre- and post-2024 General Election in Tuvalu” explores the role of regional powers and international aid in shaping Tuvalu’s digital future. One thing is clear: climate change will compel Tuvalu to embrace digital solutions for survival.
The digital policy landscape in Pakistan, overseen by the Ministry of Information Technology and Telecommunication and regulated by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority, faces scrutiny for actions that challenge Internet freedom. Saima Nisar’s “Pakistan’s Democracy: Election’s Influence on Policy Evolution” notes that despite government initiatives like the “Digital Pakistan Policy” and “Digital Pakistan Vision,” concerns persist about transparency and inclusivity in digital policies, with advocacy groups urging prioritization of digital rights and media freedom. Empowering the youth, who are key stakeholders in the country’s digital transformation, will be vital. Initiatives to foster digital literacy, support entrepreneurship, and encourage innovation in emerging technologies should be prioritized to harness the expertise and energy of Pakistan’s young IT professionals.
Indonesia‘s hotly contested 2024 general election brought the Prabowo-Gibran duo to the forefront. Zahra Nur Aliya and Harisa Shahid’s “The 2024 Indonesian Elections and its Potential Impact on the Future of Digital Policy in Indonesia” analyzes the duo’s campaign strategies, particularly their use of AI and social media, alongside their stance on digital policies like cybersecurity and data privacy. The essay delves into the challenges of regulating AI, the implications of the EIT Law amendments, and the transition to 5G and 6G technologies. As Indonesia navigates this digital transformation, achieving inclusive governance and collaboration is key to ensuring equitable benefits for all its citizens.
Cambodia‘s youth face a different struggle. Despite government efforts to promote digitalization, new laws threaten privacy and free speech. The lack of independent media and online restrictions stifle civic engagement. The recent Senate election solidified control by the CPP, making reform unlikely. Ananya Ramani’s “Cambodia’s Youth and the Digital Space of Tomorrow” recommends legal changes to protect human rights and promote a safe digital space for Cambodia’s youth.
Hessam Norouzpour’s “From Ballots to Bytes: Tracing the Impact of Parliamentary Elections on Iran’s Digital Sphere” highlighted the rigorous regulations of Iran’s government, including the Protection Bill, creating a challenging digital landscape for Iranian youth. However, social media remains a vital tool for activism and economic opportunity. The recent parliamentary elections resulted in a conservative majority, making significant reforms to Iran’s digital policies improbable. This lack of reform likely translates to a continued crackdown on online dissent and further marginalization of Iranian youth.
In “Afterword: Inspecting the Internet-Election Intersection – Online Censorships, Cyberattacks, and Synthetic Content”, Kenneth Leung acknowledged election results could be indicative data points to comprehend the dynamics between tech policies, politics, power, and people. While the crust of this Report focuses on analyzing and projecting digital policies and Internet governance, the prevalence of synthetic content, cyberattacks, and online censorships across the 2024 electoral periods are spotlighted in the closing.
This Report paints a vivid picture of the complex interplay between politics and digital development in the Asia Pacific region. By understanding these dynamics, stakeholders can work towards a future where technology empowers citizens and fosters inclusive growth across the region. The game continues, but with informed strategies, the Asia Pacific region can leverage the power of technology to build a brighter digital future for all.
NetMission.Asia is a network of passionate young Asians dedicated to engage and empower youth on Internet governance discourse with the aim to enhance youth mobility and create impact in Asia.
Supported by DotAsia Organisation, NetMission.Asia was established in 2009 where students from top tertiary institutes or universities are recruited every year for the NetMission Academy. The program covers a wide range of Internet governance topics that provide you the basic understanding and the current issues at stake with an emphasis on the multi-stakeholder approach. Upon completion, fellows of the Academy will join the working groups, research team, or other initiatives of NetMission.Asia to contribute to capacity building and policy advocacy of youth in the Asia Pacific.
