i2Coalition Applauds House Vote to Preserve Internet Freedom

One of the core public policy principles of the i2Coalition is the belief that a multistakeholder process is essential in any discussion about the Internet governance process. The i2Coalition has taken an active role globally in support of this ideal. A multistakeholder process is critical in ensuring that the Internet continues to be an engine for economic growth and innovation.

Members of the U.S. House of Representatives reaffirmed those sentiments earlier this week by unanimously passing H.R. 1580, legislation reiterating U.S. policy “to preserve and advance the successful multistakeholder model that governs the Internet.”

The bill was sponsored by Rep. Greg Walden (R-OR) and comes in anticipation of the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) in Geneva, where Internet governance will be one of the main debates. As we saw at the ITU’s 2012 World Conference on International Telecommunications in Dubai last December, a multistakeholder model is needed to engage in any substantive discussion about the future of the Internet.

We applaud House members for their unanimous, bipartisan support of this important legislation and look forward to continuing to work with members of Congress in support of an inclusive process in which all stakeholders participate to ensure an open and free Internet.