[Chapter-delegates] Application to start an Internet Society Chapter in North Macedonia: Peer-Review
Charles Mok (gmail)
charlespmok at gmail.com
Tue Jan 28 00:55:08 PST 2025
It's great to see more new chapters or rejuvenated chapters to be added to
our community!
Charles
On Mon, Jan 27, 2025 at 8:41 PM 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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