Dominic Sepenu

Global Forum On Cyber Expertis, Ghana

I studied Bsc. Business Administration in the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology in Ghana; where I specialised in Accounting and Finance.

Fellow Report:

I had the privilege of attending the 18th EUROSSIG fellowship in Meissen, Germany, from July 13th to July 20th, 2024. This experience was instrumental in deepening my knowledge of Internet resources and the key issues surrounding the governance and management of domain names and IP addresses.

The fellowship provided an in-depth understanding of the governance and management of domain names and IP addresses. I learned about the complexities and challenges involved in managing these critical Internet resources. One of the significant takeaways was the multistakeholder approach in policy formulation. This approach involves various stakeholders, including governments, private sector, civil society, and technical community, working together to create inclusive and effective policies. I gained clarity on why the multistakeholder approach is superior to the multilateral approach, as it promotes inclusivity, transparency, and balanced decision-making.

The highlight of the fellowship was the session on Cybersecurity and Cybercrime. This session covered crucial topics such as Confidence Building Measures (CBMs), cybersecurity legislation, and the protection of the public core of the Internet. These discussions were pivotal in understanding the global efforts required to ensure a secure and resilient cyberspace.

I had the unique opportunity to participate in a multi-stakeholder negotiation on the third revision of the Global Digital Compact. This experience allowed me to actively contribute to the discussions and present our consensus in the plenary on the final day. This exercise not only honed my negotiation and consensus-building skills but also highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts in shaping global digital policies.

The fellowship was not only academically enriching but also culturally immersive. We were exposed to German culture and history, which added a rich context to our learning experience. The networks and connections made during the fellowship were invaluable. Engaging with professionals from diverse backgrounds provided a broader perspective on global Internet governance issues and fostered long-lasting professional relationships.

I look forward to applying the knowledge and skills gained from this fellowship to my career at the Global Forum on Cyber Expertise (GFCE). The insights into Internet governance, multi stakeholder policy formulation, and cybersecurity will undoubtedly enhance my contributions to the field.