The future of the internet is seemingly at a cross roads, with clear distinctions emerging in the way the technology may be utilized by states and big tech in the future. The content of the declaration-may have some concerning implications for Jamaica’s technological future. Amidst fears of a rising trend globally towards digital authoritarianism, where some states act to restrict access to online platforms, repress free expression and deny human rights. A declaration of the future of the internet was recently launched by the United States, with over 60 partners including Jamaica, to establish a vision of the internet as freely accessible and decentralized.
However local experts suggest that the declaration may not be in Jamaica’s best interests. Countries like china have utilized the internet of things to organize their population into civic conformity, with the establishment of a social credit score system, where citizens gain or lose ranking points based off of surveillance of acceptable behaviour. The declaration suggests however, that its signatories will refrain from taking that approach.
CEO of local technology company Adtelligent Craig Powe suggests that the declaration may lead Jamaica’s digital potential, into a technological cul-de-sac.
Joel Crosskill
