Adviser, Digital Democracy and Open Governance, Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO)
Based in the UK, Nicola is the FCDO’s Policy Adviser on digital democracy issues, focussing on internet shutdowns and supporting a free, open and inclusive online space. Prior to joining the FCDO, Nicola worked for NGOs in the international development sector in Myanmar, Bangladesh and Zambia.
Sessions
FOC Task Force on Internet Shutdowns and Defending Democracy Online
This event will serve as the launch of the FOC’s Task Force on Internet Shutdowns. It will begin with a brief description of the task force’s structure and mission, led by speakers from the U.S. Department of State, Access Now, and the Global Network Initiative (GNI). These organizations are the task force’s founding chairs. The session will also feature breakout rooms engaging participants in answering two questions: How can well-intentioned governments protect individuals and democratic values online without resorting to Internet shutdowns? And what levers of influence can FOC members and partners use to influence the behavior of states that engage in Internet shutdowns?