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

Tue Feb 11 06:59:01 PST 2025

Like to support application for Macedonia chapter.
Regards Shah Vice president, ISOC-BD

Yahoo Mail: Search, organise, conquer 

  On Tue, 11 Feb 2025 at 8:54 pm, Brian Munyao Longwe via Chapter-delegates<chapter-delegates at elists.isoc.org> wrote:   
The Malawi Chapter supports the application for Macedonia Chapter.
Brian Munyao LongwePresident, 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 inNorth Macedonia. I kindly invite you to review it and share your comments by10 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

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A. Proposed name of the Chapter

Internet Society - North Macedonia Chapter

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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

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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.

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H. List of requirements

None.

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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.

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J. Your contact information

Vladislav Bidikov

Faculty of Computer Science and Engineering

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-- 

Nick Hyrka, Regional Community Engagement Manager, Europe
hyrka at isoc.org 

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_______________________________________________
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/

_______________________________________________
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.
The Internet Society has a legitimate interest to communicate with its chapter leaders, you will therefore remain subscribed for the duration of your term and will be unsubscribed automatically when your term ends.
Please note that the archive of this list is publicly accessible and may be viewed by anyone. By submitting information to this list and contributing to the communications, you acknowledge that the contents will be publicly visible.
View the Internet Society Code of Conduct: https://www.internetsociety.org/become-a-member/code-of-conduct/

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