[Chapter-delegates] Application to start an Internet Society Chapter in North Macedonia: Peer-Review
Samed Bajric
samed at e5.ijs.si
Tue Jan 28 03:02:10 PST 2025
Dear all,
I strongly support the establishment of the Internet Society - North
Macedonia Chapter. The application shows a clear understanding of the
local environment, a commitment to inclusion and a strategic vision for
the development of the Internet ecosystem in North Macedonia.
Best regards,
Samed
On 28. 1. 25 11:30, Marcin Olender via Chapter-delegates wrote:
> Hello,
>
> Full and enthusiastic support from Poland too!
>
> Best wishes,
> Marcin
>
> wt., 28 sty 2025 o 11:23 Raymond Mamattah via Chapter-delegates
> <chapter-delegates at elists.isoc.org> napisał(a):
>
> Hi all,
>
> This is a great effort to have this chapter. Fully support it.
>
> Regards,
> Raymond Mamattah
> linkedin <https://www.linkedin.com/in/raymond-selorm-mamattah/>
> facebook <https://www.facebook.com/selorm.mamattah> twitter
> <https://twitter.com/RMamattah>
> Accra, Ghana
>
>
> On Mon, Jan 27, 2025 at 5:29 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
> Macedoniainterested in joining this initiative, please let me
> know via hyrka at isoc.org <mailto: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.
>
> Kindregards,
>
> 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 <http://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 <http://ixp.mk>
>
> Operational Optimization:
>
> Collaborate with technical experts and Internet Service
> Providers (ISPs) to enhance the operational efficiency of
> ixp.mk <http://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 <http://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 <http://ixp.mk>. Organize
> knowledge-sharing sessions to build local expertise and ensure
> the sustainability of the IXP.
>
> Regional Collaboration:
>
> Explore opportunities for ixp.mk <http://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
> <http://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 <http://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 <http://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 <http://ixp.mk>.
>
> 5. Local Innovation and Content Development
>
> Support for Local Content Providers:
>
> Encourage the use of ixp.mk <http://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 <http://ixp.mk>. Use this data to
> set measurable goals and track progress over the first year.
>
> Performance Metrics for ixp.mk <http://ixp.mk>:
>
> Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for ixp.mk
> <http://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 <http://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 <http://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 <http://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 <mailto:hyrka at isoc.org>
> signature_3725484352
>
> Give a gift of opportunity. _Donate today.
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>
> 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/
>
> _______________________________________________
> 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.
>
> 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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