involves numerous players and benefits from the contributions of various players. It is therefore not possible for a single interest group to control it. • The WSIS acknowledgement that the challenges and opportunities posed by the internet require global discussion at the highest level, and the Tunis Agenda’s adoption of a multi-stakeholders model for internet governance structure informs MISA Zimbabwe’s call for an open and inclusive internet governance framework for Zimbabwe. • The multi-stakeholder approach incorporates stakeholders from the government, civil society, academia, technocrats, the private sector citizens and everyday users and consumers of the internet, among other interested stakeholders. The advantages of using the multi-stakeholder approach are that diverse views and opinions are gathered in an atmosphere of openness and equality. It also reflects the aspirations and interests of the broader society. • The multi-stakeholder approach needs to be sustained through continuous dialogue among stakeholders and similar conferences in future. Internet stakeholders that attended the conference Panel Discussion Points Some of the key issues raised during the plenary session include: • Endorsement by the participants of multi-stakeholder approach as a democratic practice for gathering deep and wide views on internet governance in Zimbabwe and the region as a whole. Participants acknowledged, also, that the multi-stakeholder approach is characteristic of democratic practices which should be sustained throughout the process and extended to dealing with other matters. • Concern was raised on the possibility of ‘bigger’ stakeholders such as government and business players exercising more control against the essence of the multi-stakeholder approach. Participants emphasised the need for respect, equality, openness and transparency in drawing up a democratic internet governance framework. INTERNET GOVERNANCE MULTISTAKEHOLDER CONFERENCE REPORT 2015 • The conference acknowledged government as the overall facilitator but that there should be representation and participation of all citizens in the process of drawing up internet regulation. There was also need to involve through raising of awareness among the rural populace and children, thereby fostering a culture of engagement with the internet for learning purposes. • There was a call for the clear mapping of all ‘stakeholders’ to avoid exclusion. This process would also define ‘what is at stake’ for each interest group in the process of framing internet governance. 010 www.misazim.com @misazimbabwe MISA Zimbabwe