China Internet Research Conference 2023
About US
The Digital Asia Hub is an independent, non-profit Internet and society research think tank based in Hong Kong, led by an Executive Director, Management Board, and Steering Committee.
Its funding is provided through individual, institutional and corporate donations.
Incubated by The Berkman Klein Center for Internet and Society at Harvard University and a diverse group of academic, civil society, and private sector partners, the Hub provides a non-partisan, open, and collaborative platform for research, knowledge sharing and capacity building related to Internet and Society issues with focus on digital Asia.
The Hub also aims to strengthen effective multi-stakeholder discourse, with both local and regional activities, and will contribute to - and itself serve as a node of - a larger network of academic organizations: the Global Network of Internet & Society Centers (the “NoC”).
OUR MISSION AND SCOPE
The Digital Asia Hub undertakes activities in three main areas: research, knowledge sharing and capacity building.
Research
At the core of the Hub is independent and interdisciplinary research exploring both the opportunities and challenges related to digital technology, innovation, and society in Asia. The following topics, among others, have been flagged as initial issues for the Hub to explore:
- Digital Rights (incl. access, privacy, and freedom of expression)
- Governance and infrastructure (incl. policy, standards, cyberlaw)
- Innovation, open manufacturing, and digital trade (entrepreneurship and economics)
- Trending technologies and technology spaces: Smart Contracts, Big Data, Internet of Things
- Mobile technology and its impact on access, education, entrepreneurship, etc.
- The use of ICT for Development and Civic Engagement
Knowledge Sharing
In addition to impactful research, knowledge sharing is a key element of the Hub’s vision and mission. Particularly, the Hub seeks to support researchers, policymakers, entrepreneurs and students from the region with an interest in Internet and society issues by providing a platform for knowledge creation and sharing. The Hub, itself a node of the larger NoC network, will actively seek and invite collaboration with other research centers and think tanks in the region, and globally.
Capacity Building
Related to research and knowledge sharing is overall trust and capacity building, which is the third envisioned area of activity of the Hub. The goal is not only to support existing networks and incubate new networks among experts, but also to engage and build bridges between the different interested stakeholders from all sectors and backgrounds.