[Chapter-delegates] Application to start an Internet Society Chapter in North Macedonia: Peer-Review
Yuri Kargapolov
yvk2010 at gmail.com
Sat Feb 1 01:57:07 PST 2025
Dear all,
We support the application and established of North Macedonia Chapter.
Wish colleagues success in a future work and activity.
Regards,
Yuri
ISOC Ukraine Chapter
Tuesday, January 28, 2025, 7:02:45 AM, you wrote:
> Dear all,
> I support the establishment of the North Macedonia chapter.
> Regards,
> Asrat
> ISOC Ethiopia Chapter
> On Tue, Jan 28, 2025, 07:41 Borka Dzonova Jerman-Blazic via Chapter-delegates <chapter-delegates at elists.isoc.org> wrote:
>> Dear all,
>> We support the application for N.Macedonia chapter and we are looking
>> forward to communicate and collaborate with the new chapter. We wish them
>> success in their working plan and mission.
>> With regards,
>> Borka Jerman Blažič
>> ISOC Slovenia
>> On Mon, 27 Jan 2025, Nick Hyrka via Chapter-delegates wrote:
>>>
>>> Dear Chapter Leaders,
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> We recently received the application below to start an Internet
>>> Society Chapter in North Macedonia. I kindly invite you to review it and
>>> share your comments by 10 February 2025.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> If you know of active Internet Society members within North Macedonia
>>> interested in joining this initiative, please let me know
>>> via hyrka at isoc.org. I would happily connect them to the volunteers who
>>> submitted this application.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Your comments and input will help us make a final decision on this
>>> application and move to the next steps.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Thank you very much in advance for your feedback.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Kind regards,
>>>
>>> Nick
>>>
>>>
>>> ================================================
>>>
>>> A. Proposed name of the Chapter
>>>
>>> Internet Society - North Macedonia Chapter
>>>
>>> ================================================
>>>
>>> B. Community of Interest the Chapter Will Serve
>>>
>>> The Internet Society Chapter in North Macedonia will serve a diverse and
>>> inclusive community united by a shared interest in advancing the
>>> development, accessibility, and responsible use of the Internet. Recognizing
>>> the transformative power of the Internet in driving social, economic, and
>>> cultural growth, the Chapter aims to engage and empower the following key
>>> stakeholder groups:
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Government Institutions and Policymakers
>>>
>>> Collaborate with ministries, regulatory bodies, and local government
>>> units to support the creation of effective Internet policies, enhance
>>> digital infrastructure, and promote e-governance solutions.
>>>
>>> Provide platforms for dialogue and knowledge sharing to ensure
>>> policies reflect the principles of openness, accessibility, and inclusivity.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Academic and Research Institutions
>>>
>>> Work with universities, schools, and research organizations to
>>> foster education and innovation in Internet-related fields such as
>>> cybersecurity, Internet governance, and digital transformation.
>>>
>>> Encourage the integration of emerging technologies and digital
>>> skills training into educational programs, equipping the next generation
>>> with the tools needed to thrive in the digital age.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Private Sector and Entrepreneurs
>>>
>>> Support businesses, startups, and entrepreneurs in leveraging the
>>> Internet to drive innovation, create job opportunities, and expand into
>>> global markets.
>>>
>>> Provide networking opportunities and resources to help local
>>> enterprises adopt digital solutions and compete effectively.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Civil Society Organizations
>>>
>>> Partner with NGOs, advocacy groups, and community organizations to
>>> address the digital divide, promote Internet rights, and ensure marginalized
>>> and vulnerable populations have equitable access to digital resources.
>>>
>>> Empower grassroots organizations to use the Internet as a tool for
>>> social change and community development.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Youth and Students
>>>
>>> Engage with young people and students who are passionate about
>>> technology and the Internet, offering mentorship, education, and
>>> opportunities to participate in shaping Internet policies and practices.
>>>
>>> Provide platforms for youth leadership and innovation in the digital
>>> space, amplifying their voices in national and international dialogues.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Rural and Underserved Communities
>>>
>>> Focus on expanding Internet access and digital literacy in rural and
>>> underserved areas, where connectivity remains a challenge.
>>>
>>> Develop programs that address the unique needs of these communities,
>>> enabling them to participate fully in the digital economy and society.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Technology Enthusiasts and Internet Advocates
>>>
>>> Serve individuals who are passionate about Internet-related topics,
>>> providing a space for knowledge exchange, collaboration, and advocacy.
>>>
>>> Encourage participation in global and regional Internet Society
>>> initiatives, allowing members to contribute to shaping the future of the
>>> Internet.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> General Public
>>>
>>> Promote awareness of Internet-related issues among the broader
>>> population, encouraging responsible use of digital technologies.
>>>
>>> Facilitate access to resources, tools, and knowledge that empower
>>> individuals to navigate the digital landscape confidently and safely.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> By engaging this diverse community of interest, the Chapter will ensure that
>>> its initiatives reflect the needs and aspirations of North Macedonia’s
>>> society. Through inclusivity, collaboration, and a commitment to the
>>> Internet Society’s core principles, the Chapter will foster a thriving
>>> digital ecosystem that benefits all citizens.
>>>
>>> ================================================
>>>
>>> C. Purpose and Scope of the Chapter
>>>
>>> The Internet Society Chapter in North Macedonia aims to advance the
>>> development, accessibility, and responsible use of the Internet within the
>>> country. By fostering a collaborative environment among key
>>> stakeholders—ranging from government institutions, academia, businesses, and
>>> civil society to individual users—the Chapter seeks to promote an inclusive,
>>> open, and secure Internet that benefits all citizens.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> This Chapter will serve as a platform to address the unique challenges faced
>>> by North Macedonia in terms of digital transformation, Internet penetration,
>>> and the digital divide. By bringing together individuals and organizations
>>> passionate about Internet development, the Chapter will work to:
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Build Capacity and Promote Education:
>>>
>>> Conduct workshops, seminars, and training sessions to improve
>>> digital literacy and skills, particularly in underserved and rural areas.
>>>
>>> Collaborate with schools, universities, and training centers to
>>> incorporate Internet governance and cybersecurity topics into curricula.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Advocate for Inclusive Internet Policies:
>>>
>>> Engage with policymakers and regulators to ensure that laws and
>>> policies support an open and accessible Internet.
>>>
>>> Advocate for affordable Internet access and infrastructure
>>> development, especially in regions where connectivity is limited.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Raise Awareness on Internet Rights and Responsibilities:
>>>
>>> Organize campaigns to educate citizens about their rights to
>>> privacy, freedom of expression, and access to information online.
>>>
>>> Highlight the importance of ethical and responsible behavior in the
>>> digital space, promoting safe online practices for individuals and
>>> organizations.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Drive Local Innovation:
>>>
>>> Support initiatives that foster the use of the Internet as a tool
>>> for social and economic growth, including entrepreneurship and e-governance.
>>>
>>> Provide platforms for local innovators and startups to connect,
>>> share, and scale their ideas.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Promote Multistakeholder Engagement:
>>>
>>> Facilitate dialogue among diverse stakeholders, ensuring that all
>>> voices are heard in shaping the future of the Internet in North Macedonia.
>>>
>>> Act as a bridge between global Internet Society initiatives and
>>> local needs, enabling the exchange of best practices and resources.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Establishing an Internet Society Chapter in North Macedonia is vital for
>>> addressing the local digital ecosystem’s unique needs. As part of the
>>> broader Internet Society, this Chapter will leverage global expertise,
>>> resources, and networks to amplify its impact. Through these efforts, the
>>> Chapter seeks to create a robust, inclusive, and sustainable digital
>>> environment that empowers individuals, strengthens communities, and drives
>>> the country's progress in the digital age.
>>>
>>> ================================================
>>>
>>> D. Outline of Key Priorities for the First Year of the Chapter
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> The first year of the Internet Society Chapter in North Macedonia will focus
>>> on laying a strong foundation for long-term success by addressing critical
>>> gaps in digital skills and enhancing the development and operational
>>> efficiency of ixp.mk. These priorities will align with the Chapter’s mission
>>> to promote a more inclusive, accessible, and sustainable Internet ecosystem
>>> in the country.
>>>
>>> 1. Capacity Building and Digital Skills Development
>>>
>>> Workshops and Training Programs:
>>>
>>> Organize targeted workshops on digital literacy, cybersecurity, and
>>> network infrastructure management. Special focus will be given to training
>>> individuals on topics related to Internet Exchange Points (IXPs), including
>>> routing, traffic management, and network optimization.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> 2. Development and Expansion of ixp.mk
>>>
>>> Operational Optimization:
>>>
>>> Collaborate with technical experts and Internet Service Providers (ISPs)
>>> to enhance the operational efficiency of ixp.mk. This will include upgrading
>>> infrastructure, improving redundancy, and implementing best practices for
>>> scalability and performance.
>>>
>>> Stakeholder Engagement:
>>>
>>> Host regular meetings and forums with ISPs, content providers, and other
>>> stakeholders to raise awareness about the benefits of ixp.mk. Highlight its
>>> role in reducing latency, lowering costs, and fostering local Internet
>>> traffic exchange.
>>>
>>> Technical Documentation and Knowledge Sharing:
>>>
>>> Develop comprehensive guides and documentation on managing and expanding
>>> ixp.mk. Organize knowledge-sharing sessions to build local expertise and
>>> ensure the sustainability of the IXP.
>>>
>>> Regional Collaboration:
>>>
>>> Explore opportunities for ixp.mk to collaborate with neighboring
>>> countries’ IXPs, promoting cross-border Internet traffic exchange and
>>> strengthening regional connectivity.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> 3. Awareness Campaigns and Community Outreach
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Public Awareness Campaigns:
>>>
>>> Conduct campaigns to educate the general public on the importance of
>>> digital skills and infrastructure like ixp.mk. Use social media, local
>>> events, and partnerships with media outlets to amplify the message.
>>>
>>> Engagement with Civil Society Organizations:
>>>
>>> Partner with NGOs and advocacy groups to promote the ethical and
>>> responsible use of the Internet while highlighting the societal benefits of
>>> robust Internet infrastructure.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> 4. Policy Advocacy and Stakeholder Collaboration
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Policy Development for Internet Growth:
>>>
>>> Engage with government institutions and policymakers to advocate for
>>> laws and regulations that support the growth of ixp.mk and digital skills
>>> development. This includes pushing for initiatives that fund and prioritize
>>> Internet infrastructure expansion.
>>>
>>> Private Sector Partnerships:
>>>
>>> Collaborate with businesses and tech companies to support training
>>> initiatives, sponsor events, and invest in the growth of ixp.mk.
>>>
>>> International Representation:
>>>
>>> Represent North Macedonia in international forums to attract technical
>>> expertise, funding, and support for both skills development and the
>>> enhancement of ixp.mk.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> 5. Local Innovation and Content Development
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Support for Local Content Providers:
>>>
>>> Encourage the use of ixp.mk by local content providers to improve
>>> accessibility and speed for North Macedonian users. Offer incentives or
>>> technical support to onboard more providers onto the platform.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> 6. Monitoring and Evaluation
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Baseline Assessments:
>>>
>>> Conduct an initial assessment of digital skills levels and the current
>>> state of ixp.mk. Use this data to set measurable goals and track progress
>>> over the first year.
>>>
>>> Performance Metrics for ixp.mk:
>>>
>>> Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for ixp.mk, such as traffic
>>> volume, latency improvements, and new stakeholder participation. Use these
>>> metrics to identify areas for improvement and growth.
>>>
>>> Community Feedback:
>>>
>>> Establish channels for community feedback on Chapter activities,
>>> including skill development programs and the performance of ixp.mk. Use this
>>> input to refine and adapt strategies.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> By focusing on these priorities, the Internet Society Chapter in North
>>> Macedonia will make significant strides in empowering its community with the
>>> skills needed to thrive in the digital age while establishing ixp.mk as a
>>> vital component of the country’s Internet infrastructure. This strategic
>>> foundation will ensure sustainable growth, inclusivity, and resilience in
>>> North Macedonia’s digital ecosystem.
>>>
>>> ================================================
>>>
>>> E. Founding members of the Chapter
>>>
>>> Vladislav Bidikov, FCSE/FINKI, IXP.mk, FINKI CIRT
>>>
>>> Boro Jakimovski, Dean FCSE/FINKI
>>>
>>> Anastas Mishev, Professor FCSE/FINKI, IEEE MKD, IGF-MKD, MARNET
>>>
>>> Kiril Kjiroski, Head of Computer Center FCSE/FINKI
>>>
>>> Stefan Marincevski, Computer Center FCSE/FINKI
>>>
>>> Aleksandar Stefanovski, Student
>>>
>>> Martin Ristoski, Student
>>>
>>> Martin Dinev, Teaching assistant FCSE/FINKI
>>>
>>> Marko Paloski, IGF-MKD
>>>
>>> Predrag Tasevski, Independet Researcher
>>>
>>> Jovan Bidikov, Game Industry
>>>
>>> Zhivko Kocev, Student
>>>
>>> Dragan Rizov, Student
>>>
>>> Jovan Kamchev, Student
>>>
>>> Voydan Kjorveziroski, Teaching assistant FCSE/FINKI
>>>
>>> Sonja Filiposka, Professor FCSE/FINKI, ACM, FINKI CIRT
>>>
>>> Petar Hristovski, Student
>>>
>>> Ivan Zanov, Student
>>>
>>> Andrea Trifunova, IT Industry
>>>
>>> Kristina Cokovska, Student
>>>
>>> Dario Stojanov, IT Industry
>>>
>>> Ani Trpovska, IT Industry
>>>
>>> Panche Ribarski, Professor FCSE/FINKI
>>>
>>> Ilija Marincevski, Student
>>>
>>> Anđela Jankoska, Lawyer, IGF-MKD
>>>
>>> ================================================
>>>
>>> G. Membership
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> The Internet Society Chapter in North Macedonia recognizes that an engaged
>>> and active membership base is the backbone of its success. A diverse and
>>> dynamic membership not only ensures a steady flow of ideas, energy, and
>>> talent but also builds a strong foundation for sustainable leadership and
>>> innovation. The Chapter will employ a multifaceted approach to communicate,
>>> engage, and interact with its members, creating an inclusive and
>>> collaborative environment.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> 1. Membership Recruitment
>>>
>>> Awareness Campaigns:
>>>
>>> Conduct targeted outreach through social media, local events, and
>>> partnerships with universities, tech hubs, and community organizations to
>>> attract new members.
>>>
>>> Value Proposition:
>>>
>>> Highlight the benefits of membership, including access to training,
>>> networking opportunities, participation in global Internet Society
>>> initiatives, and contributing to the development of the Internet in North
>>> Macedonia.
>>>
>>> Inclusive Membership Policies:
>>>
>>> Ensure that membership is open and accessible to individuals from all
>>> demographics, including youth, underserved communities, and professionals
>>> from various sectors.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> 2. Communication Channels
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Email Newsletters:
>>>
>>> Send regular newsletters to keep members informed about Chapter
>>> activities, upcoming events, opportunities, and achievements.
>>>
>>> Social Media Platforms:
>>>
>>> Utilize platforms such as Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram to
>>> engage members in real-time, share updates, and encourage interaction.
>>>
>>> Website and Member Portal:
>>>
>>> Maintain a dedicated website with a member portal that provides
>>> resources, event registration, and discussion forums.
>>>
>>> Community Groups:
>>>
>>> Create online and offline groups (e.g., Slack, WhatsApp, or Discord) to
>>> facilitate open communication among members and foster collaboration.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> 3. Engagement Activities
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Workshops and Training Sessions:
>>>
>>> Organize regular skill-building activities such as workshops on Internet
>>> governance, cybersecurity, and technical topics related to the development
>>> and maintenance of critical infrastructure like ixp.mk.
>>>
>>> Networking Events:
>>>
>>> Host meetups, conferences, and networking sessions to connect members,
>>> share experiences, and explore opportunities for collaboration.
>>>
>>> Volunteer Opportunities:
>>>
>>> Encourage members to volunteer for Chapter projects, providing them with
>>> leadership experience and a chance to contribute actively.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> 4. Recognizing and Retaining Members
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Member Recognition Programs:
>>>
>>> Acknowledge the contributions of active members through awards,
>>> certificates, or public appreciation during events.
>>>
>>> Mentorship and Leadership Development:
>>>
>>> Offer mentorship programs to support members' professional growth and
>>> prepare them for future leadership roles within the Chapter.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> 5. Expanding Membership Base
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Youth Engagement:
>>>
>>> Actively involve students and young professionals by collaborating with
>>> schools, universities, and youth organizations. Offer tailored programs such
>>> as internships, hackathons, and innovation challenges.
>>>
>>> Regional Outreach:
>>>
>>> Expand membership to include individuals and organizations from rural
>>> and underserved areas by addressing connectivity challenges and offering
>>> localized engagement opportunities.
>>>
>>> Industry Partnerships:
>>>
>>> Collaborate with ISPs, tech companies, and other industry players to
>>> bring professionals and organizations into the Chapter as members or
>>> partners.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> 6. Feedback and Continuous Improvement
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Surveys and Feedback Mechanisms:
>>>
>>> Regularly seek input from members through surveys, focus groups, and
>>> one-on-one conversations to understand their needs and expectations.
>>>
>>> Member-Led Initiatives:
>>>
>>> Encourage members to propose and lead initiatives that align with the
>>> Chapter’s goals, fostering a sense of ownership and active participation.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> By creating a vibrant and interactive membership ecosystem, the Internet
>>> Society Chapter in North Macedonia will ensure that it remains a dynamic and
>>> forward-looking organization. This approach will help attract and retain a
>>> diverse pool of individuals and organizations, enabling the Chapter to adapt
>>> to the evolving needs of its members and the broader community.
>>>
>>> ================================================
>>>
>>> H. List of requirements
>>>
>>> None.
>>>
>>> ================================================
>>>
>>> I. Additional information
>>>
>>> As all founding memebers are well recognized in the local community and
>>> beyond and powered by the student component, I strongly belive that the time
>>> for making the Chapter success is now. The students already have several
>>> projects as ideas in 2025 so i belive where are needed to fully enable this
>>> young talent.
>>>
>>> ================================================
>>>
>>> J. Your contact information
>>>
>>> Vladislav Bidikov
>>>
>>> Faculty of Computer Science and Engineering
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> ================================================
>>>
>>> --
>>>
>>> Nick Hyrka, Regional Community Engagement Manager, Europe
>>> hyrka at isoc.org
>>> signature_3725484352
>>>
>>> Give a gift of opportunity. Donate today.
>>>
>>> Support strong encryption - Join the Global Encryption Coalition
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>_______________________________________________
>> As a Chapter Leader, you are automatically added to the Internet Society’s Chapter Leaders Community Group and the Chapter Delegates e-list, which is regularly synchronized with the Internet Society Chapter Portal (AMS): https://community.internetsociety.org.
>> Based on ISOC’s legitimate interests to communicate with its chapter leaders, you will remain subscribed for the duration of your term and will be unsubscribed automatically when your term ends.
>> View the Internet Society Code of Conduct: https://www.internetsociety.org/become-a-member/code-of-conduct/
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