José Renato Laranjeira

Laboratório de Políticas Públicas e Internet & Universität Bonn, Germany

I hold a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Brasília, Brazil. I have completed my Master’s at the same university with an exchange programme at the University of Bologna. My thesis was about the regulatory enforcement of algorithmic transparency rules in data protection laws in Brazil and the European Union. I was then awarded a German Chancellor Fellowship by the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation to conduct research in Berlin and the European Parliament on AI regulations in Brazil and the EU. In my PhD project, I investigate AI’s environmental impacts based on Brazilian Indigenous Peoples’ epistemologies.

Fellow Report:

Participating in EUROSSIG 2024 as a fellow was an outstanding experience for the deep dive into the intricate world of internet governance and digital policy that it stimulates. The programme’s comprehensive coverage of topics has significantly broadened my understanding and appreciation of the infrastructure that underpins the internet.

One of the standout aspects of the programme was the detailed exploration of internet infrastructure. We delved into the specificities of domain names, gaining insights into the complex structure of the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN). Understanding the roles and responsibilities of registries and registrars provided a clearer picture of how the internet’s inner layers operate and are maintained.

Another highlight were the sessions and the simulation on the Global Digital Compact. Learning from the discussions around the processes involved in shaping this compact underscored the importance of multistakeholderism and the need for a cohesive approach to digital governance globally.

Moreover, the programme offered an in-depth look at the history and evolution of multistakeholderism in internet governance. Learning about its roots and how it has shaped the current landscape was particularly insightful.

I learned a lot from the faculty members, not only through their lectures, but also by chatting with them in such a rich and informal environment. These individuals, with their decades-long careers, brought a wealth of knowledge and historical perspective to the table. Their insights and experiences provided a richer context for understanding the issues at hand and emphasised the progress and ongoing challenges in the field of internet governance.

However, the most rewarding aspect of EUROSSIG 2024 was the chance to connect with my fellow colleagues. Building relationships with peers who share a passion for internet governance was incredibly fulfilling. The exchange of ideas, experiences, and perspectives among us added another layer of depth to the learning experience and fostered a sense of community and collaboration.

In conclusion, EUROSSIG 2024 has been a remarkable journey. It has equipped me with valuable knowledge, enriched my professional network, and inspired a deeper commitment to contributing to the field of internet governance. I am grateful for this opportunity and look forward to applying what I have learned in future endeavours.