- APNIC takes part in the first-ever Asia Pacific Internet Governance Academy (APIGA) held in Melbourne.
- The event gathers experts to discuss critical internet governance issues and digital policy in the region.
What happened: APNIC at APIGA Australia 2024
APNIC participated in the inaugural Asia Pacific Internet Governance Academy Australia (APIGA Australia), held from 20 to 21 November 2024 in Melbourne, Australia. The two-day event, hosted by auDA, featured interactive sessions and mentoring from Australian and Asia Pacific industry experts designed to develop the next generation of leaders in Internet governance and the digital ecosystem.
The academy featured interactive workshops, lectures, and seminars, focusing on key topics like cybersecurity, digital economy, and internet regulation. By focusing on the role of local and global stakeholders in shaping internet policies, APNIC aimed to foster a deeper understanding of digital governance challenges and promote regional cooperation on internet policy issues.
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What it’s important
APIGA Australia 2024 is an important event because it highlights the growing need for stronger internet governance frameworks in the Asia-Pacific region, which is experiencing rapid digital transformation. As countries in the region increasingly integrate digital technologies into their economies, effective governance becomes essential to ensure fair and secure digital environments. Small companies, such as Toku, a cloud-based communication provider in Singapore, often struggle to navigate the complexities of varying regional regulations, including data privacy laws and cybersecurity requirements. Events like APIGA offer such businesses valuable insights into how to address these challenges and ensure compliance with evolving policies.
The broader context of global digital governance also amplifies the significance of this event. The increasing frequency of cyberattacks, such as the Optus data breach in Australia, demonstrates the urgent need for comprehensive cybersecurity frameworks. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are particularly vulnerable to such risks, as they may lack the resources to implement robust security measures. By providing a platform for dialogue between governments, large organizations, and smaller companies, APIGA helps foster a deeper understanding of the regulatory landscape, empowering businesses of all sizes to better prepare for potential threats.
