Submissions will be considered on a rolling basis.
Shifting Landscape of Tech Policy
In the last ten years, technology policy has transitioned from a peripheral issue to a central aspect of global geopolitics. This transition has been further intensified by the Trump Administration’s tariff and industrial policies, which have repositioned U.S. tech firms as vital instruments of national power. As governments in Canada and Australia emerge from recent elections, they face the challenge of navigating this altered geopolitical landscape while striving to maintain democratic accountability.
Governance Challenges in Canada and Australia
The emergence of issues such as AI governance and online safety prompts these democracies to establish comprehensive frameworks that address the detrimental effects of technology. It is crucial for them to foster innovation and economic growth, especially as the Trump Administration’s opposition to policies from foreign governments continues to have major implications for U.S. tech firms.
Call for Contributions: Tech Governance
Tech Policy Press is initiating a special series aimed at engaging scholars, policymakers, journalists, and civil society from Canada and Australia. We seek critical reflections on the future of tech governance within these democratic contexts. Our goal is to stimulate nuanced discussions on how these nations can devise effective and accountable tech policies that meet both national priorities and global dynamics.
Themes for Original Submissions
We invite original contributions that delve into the following themes and topics:
Setting the Tech Policy Agenda
What key priorities should the new governments in Canada and Australia focus on for the upcoming phase of tech governance? How can national digital strategies mitigate domestic risks while addressing challenges posed by U.S. tech dependencies?
Tech Influence and Regulatory Capture
Investigate how tech corporations and influential billionaires can sway or obstruct policy formation. What strategies have governments employed to reclaim authority, and which have proven to be effective or unsuccessful?
Building Democratic Capacity
Exploring ways to fortify democratic institutions that can effectively regulate AI, algorithms, surveillance, and platform governance is vital. What roles do public consultations and participatory policy models play in this ecosystem?
Towards Sovereign and Accountable Tech
What innovative legislative or international measures could lessen dependency on dominant tech platforms? Are public or cooperative alternatives to widely used platforms viable? We welcome discussions surrounding these questions.
Submission Guidelines
Contributors interested in participating should provide drafts between 1,000 and 2,000 words. We encourage submissions in Google Docs format whenever possible. It is essential that drafts include biographical details of all authors and disclose any potential conflicts of interest.
All submissions should be sent to contributions@techpolicy.press for consideration.
Exploring the Future of Tech Governance in Canada and Australia
In recent years, technology policy has ascended to become a critical focal point in global geopolitics. This transformation has been significantly influenced by evolving governmental strategies, especially in the context of national interests intertwining with the tech industry. As the world’s digital landscape expands, nations like Canada and Australia face the challenge of crafting policies that balance regulation with innovation.
The Impact of Changing Political Landscapes
The recent elections in both Canada and Australia have set the stage for renewed discourse on technology governance. With the recognition of tech firms as vital assets to national security, it’s imperative that these countries navigate a complex geopolitical environment while upholding democratic integrity. The task at hand is not merely regulatory; it extends to ensuring that public accountability is maintained in policy formation.
Addressing the Challenges of Technological Advancement
As technology continues to evolve rapidly, the implications for society grow increasingly complex. From the governance of artificial intelligence to ensuring online safety, both governments must establish frameworks that not only mitigate risks but also promote economic prosperity. The delicate balance between regulation and innovation is critical, particularly in light of external pressures that can influence domestic tech policies.
Importance of Collaborative Discussions
Engaging a broad spectrum of stakeholders—including scholars, policymakers, and civil society—is essential for fostering a robust discourse about tech governance. Collaborative efforts can lead to a deeper understanding of diverse perspectives and solutions, creating a communal roadmap for effective policy-making in the tech sector. The dialogue must prioritize coherent policies that respond adequately to national needs while acknowledging global dynamics.
The Role of Institutional Reform
For Canada and Australia to assert their authority in tech governance, institutional reforms are necessary. Establishing new regulatory bodies or frameworks for digital rights can empower governments to take decisive action against powerful tech platforms. Such measures are crucial in ensuring that democratic values guide policy formation and that citizens’ rights are protected in an increasingly digital world.
Understanding Tech Influence on Policy
The influence of tech corporations and wealthy individuals on public policy can significantly shape or obstruct legislative processes. Understanding the mechanisms through which these actors operate is vital for governments aiming to safeguard democratic integrity. Analyzing historical successes and failures in regulatory attempts will provide insight into effective strategies moving forward.
Pathways to Sovereign Tech Solutions
Exploring sovereign alternatives to major tech platforms will be crucial for both countries. This includes evaluating new legislative approaches and international partnerships that reduce reliance on dominant tech entities. Furthermore, fostering public or cooperative alternatives could provide viable solutions tailored to the unique needs of each nation, enhancing digital sovereignty.
Conclusion: A Call for Contributions
As Canada and Australia embark on the journey to shape their technology policies, contributions from various voices in academia, politics, and civil society will be invaluable. Collaborative insights will strengthen the effort to create a future-oriented tech governance framework that is accountable, innovative, and reflective of democratic values.
By fostering an environment where diverse perspectives coexist, both nations can lead in establishing responsible tech policies that serve the public interest while thriving in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
