Concerns spread as UN poises for Internet regulation

Faced with the prospect of United Nations regulation of the Internet, the United States has yet to appoint a leader for an upcoming battle with other countries over Web management.

Less than a year from a historic treaty negotiation that will redefine international agreements on Internet management, the U.S. has yet to name someone to head up the American delegation. The absence of an American point person in a process that will pit the United States, and other nations, against countries that would like to give the U.N. greater authority has started to worry lawmakers. “It’s a mistake, and I think it’s a bad mistake,” said House Subcommittee on Communications and Technology Chairman Greg Walden (R-OR). “I’m pretty concerned that they haven’t designated a lead person yet.” Chairman Walden and other officials are worried about efforts by Russia, China, India and Brazil, among other countries, to give the U.N. new and unprecedented powers over the Web. The fear is that the treaty might end up giving governments more of a say about Web content and infrastructure.

(April 4)