“As the technology evolution barrels forward…we need to make sure we have a governance system that is capable of both minimizing the inevitable social costs and holding these new institutions of power democratically accountable.”
Digital platforms — from social media spaces such as Facebook and Twitter to search and retail hubs such as Google and Amazon — have grown enormously, largely in a laissez-faire policy environment. These platforms now provide essential core services globally. But, as Taylor Owen wrote, “Platforms are more like shopping malls than town squares — public to an extent, but ultimately managed according to private interests.”
A “techlash” prompted by concerns about the social and economic costs posed by these platforms is in full swing, driven by government officials and former technology developers alike. In response, CIGI brought together 16 experts to outline policy approaches to regulating data, competition and content in a global context. The essays have laid the groundwork for CIGI to create an international research network on platform governance.