Take Action

Make a difference for Internet development in your community, and across the country.

#CountMyVoice

We have a vision that the Internet must be open, global, and secure for the good of all people. But to get there, the world must demand change in how decisions that shape the Internet’s future are made. Decisions being made behind closed doors. We’re asking young people around the world – smart passionate people who are spearheading online diversity initiatives, using tech for social development, or working to make the Internet more inclusive – to raise their voice and let policy and decision-makers know that when it comes to the policies that shape the Internet their voice counts. The digital future impacts us all. Open the doors and listen to the diverse voices of people both online and off. Let’s build an Internet that’s for everyone.

The Internet Is for Everyone

Help build an open, globally-connected, and secure Internet.

Switch It On!

The Internet can improve the quality of life for people everywhere. It can enable economic and social growth. But with only a little more than half of the world’s people with access, it does not include all of us. Internet connectivity and access is a key enabler of economic and social development. It can improve access for the poor to financial services; it can help people with their education and empower them; it can give them a voice when they lack one. Internet connectivity also enables the fulfillment and exercise of human rights. ICTs allow people to exercise their freedom of expression and other fundamental rights. Internet access is also central to the development agenda and to realizing the success of the Sustainable Development Goals. Lack of access compounds inequality, with many disadvantages for those left offline. ITU statistics reveal that there are twice as many mobile-broadband subscriptions per 100 inhabitants in developed countries as in developing countries, and four times as many in developed countries as in the least developed countries (LDCs). Closing the Internet access gap is a matter of social justice—and of global responsibility. We all must work together to bridge the digital divide and to foster an inclusive digital society.

#GetIoTSmart

From dental sensors that can monitor what a person eats to kitty litters that can track a cat’s every movement, it can be difficult to sort fact from fiction when it comes to the Internet of Things. Can you tell which is real and which is not? The connected future is here. Imagine the possibilities. It pays to get IoT smart. We can help.

Say no to Internet shutdowns and content filtering

#KeepItOn #Thinktwice
Restrictions to Internet access are on the rise globally. Data shows that between 2015 and 2016, the number of Internet shutdowns bumped up from 15 to 56 worldwide. Not only is this causing collateral damage to the Internet, but we’re also putting the society and economy at risk. If we don’t do anything, we are at serious risk of eroding the trust that people have in the Internet – to the point of no return. Before they take action, governments need to #ThinkTwice: Internet shutdowns and content filtering are not the answer, they must #KeepItOn!

Become an Organization Member

Our Organization Members Advisory Council includes representatives from business, academia, and the not-for-profit sector. Together, these members help steer our priorities and help us figure out the best way to build a better Internet. The more diverse voices we have, the more effective we’ll be when it comes to influencing policy and promoting best practices. Your membership is critical to accomplishing these goals.

Join a global movement

Our members shape the future.
You can help preserve the foundations on which the Internet was built and join us in keeping it open, global and available to all.

Community Networks

The Internet can open up a world of opportunity. With half the world’s population unconnected, it’s urgent that we shape a tomorrow that benefits everyone. Let’s build a digital future that puts people first. Closing the digital divide is critical and community networks offer a solution. These are “do it yourself” networks built by people for people. You can promote, donate to, or even build a community network yourself. You can also work with your local community and government to help create change!

Build Your Community

When you join an Internet Society Chapter, you’ll receive lots of great benefits as well as helping to further our aim of using the Internet to make the world a better place. The more involved you get, the more value you get from your membership. Some of the great reasons to join your local Chapter include:
Networking- You’ll meet like-minded people who share your interest in the Internet, and expand your network of contacts – ideal if you’re job hunting, growing your business or just building a professional network.
Helping your community- Your involvement can make a difference to your local community through grants and schemes designed to help further our mission of a free and open Internet for all.
Grow your skills- Volunteering for your local Internet Society Chapter is a great way to grow your business skills and gain visibility among prospective employers or customers. In particular, you’ll be able to develop your communications, management and leadership skills through getting involved in your local Chapter. Make a difference to people’s lives
Internet Society Chapters run a variety of programmes and events that you can get involved in, and they make a real difference to people’s lives. These include educational events that teach the general public about Internet-related issues such as security and child safety, and community programmes to increase Internet access among the economically disadvantaged or those with disabilities. On top of this, you’ll have the chance to contribute to public policy programmes, helping to inform policy and decision makers on Internet issues such as net neutrality, copyright protection, censorship or human rights.