[Chapter-delegates] Application to start an Internet Society Chapter in North Macedonia: Peer-Review

[Brian Munyao Longwe]

The Malawi Chapter supports the application for Macedonia Chapter.

Brian Munyao Longwe
President, ISOC Malawi

On Mon, Jan 27, 2025 at 7:29 PM Nick Hyrka via Chapter-delegates <
chapter-delegates at elists.isoc.org> 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 202**5*.
>
>
>
> 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
> [image: signature_3725484352]
>
> Give a gift of opportunity. *Donate today. <https://bit.ly/3nUsQmJ>*
>
> Support strong encryption - Join the Global Encryption Coalition
> <https://www.globalencryption.org/join/>
>
>
> _______________________________________________
> 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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