Reaction Of Sen. Patrick Leahy,

Ranking Member, Senate Judiciary Committee,

And Co-Chair, Congressional Internet Caucus,

To The Agreement On Internet Governance

At The World Summit On The Information Society

November 16, 2005

“This agreement marks a critical step toward ensuring the stability and security of the Internet and preserving its benefits not only for the United States, but for countries across the globe.

“In late October I joined with the other co-chairs of the Internet Caucus in a letter to the White House, urging the Administration to stand firm in its position to protect the Internet and resist efforts to undo the structure that has worked so well so far.  I also joined Senator Burns in offering a resolution to maintain the currently effective status quo on Internet governance.  The agreement that now has been reached in Tunis to maintain the current structure for managing domain names and the Internet is consistent with our efforts.

“The value of the Internet is incalculable.  The Internet has brought an unprecedented level of commercial exchanges in both the consumer and business-to-business realms.  It has spawned and prompted the development of new ideas, businesses and relationships.  It has empowered people who have never had access to power and otherwise would likely never have an opportunity to be heard, much less challenge or influence public policy and institutional power.  It has introduced and cemented friendships across the globe, and it has distributed information and fostered greater understanding and awareness of others’ ideas and others’ cultures.  Becoming part of a global Internet environment has also shown us we are part of the wider world in which all of us live.  It is values like these that no doubt our world partners are seeking to preserve in their proposals, yet would unwittingly undermine. 

“The United States developed and nourished the Internet.  The open economy and constitutional liberties that are the foundations of our nation allowed us the privilege and extraordinary responsibility to serve as the great incubator that has unleashed these spectacular developments and benefits. 

“No doubt we can do even better.  Some have benefited substantially more than others.  We have further strides to make before eradicating the digital divide and narrowing the gaps between the haves and have-nots.  We also need to be vigilant in maintaining the essential freedom and influences that have kept the Internet flourishing.  We should work closely with other countries to address challenges and concerns as they arise.  By proceeding prudently and knowledgeably, taking care not to jeopardize the innovations and openness that have allowed the Internet to thrive, we can foster progress and continue to enjoy the benefits the Internet continues to bring to the world.”

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PDF versions of the Internet Caucus letter to the White House and the legislative resolution are available upon request.