GigaNet is a network for internet governance scholars. You can participate in our community in three ways: by applying to become a full member, to become an observer, or follow us on Twitter. Membership is free.

Who can participate?

Full Membership is open to individuals who have contributed to internet governance research and scholarship. Most full members hold an advanced degree and are affiliated with a university, research institution, or are undertaking internet governance-related research in other relevant venues.

Full members have access to the listserv, can vote, and run for office in GigaNet elections.

Alternatively, you can apply to become an Observer; if you are interested in taking part in the network’s activities and online conversations but do not want to be a full member, or if your current profile does not meet the full membership criteria. This status may be particularly suitable for graduate students and activists interested in the field.

Observers have access to the listserv, and can take part in all our activities. Observers cannot run for office, vote, nominate or second candidates in GigaNet elections.

Many of our members begin as observers before moving on to full membership. If you are currently an observer and are ready to apply for full membership please contact the Chair of the Membership Committee at membership at giga-net dot org.

How can I apply?

You can apply by completing our application form. On completing the form please note the following:

  1. If you want to become a full member, please provide evidence of your post-graduate degree, and your contributions to the scholarly literature in the field.
  2. If you are currently undertaking an advanced academic degree, such as a PhD in internet governance or a related area, please include a letter of support from your supervisor or from a current GigaNet member.
  3. If you want to become an observer, but do not hold an advanced degree, then please provide evidence of your interest or activities in internet governance domains (e.g. non-academic publications, educational or disseminating activities, advocacy or policy-making participation).
  4. As our working language is English, the application needs to be in English.

What happens next?

Incomplete application forms will not be reviewed.

The Membership Committee may request additional information. If we do not hear back from you within a month, the application will be withdrawn.

The Membership Committee meets periodically, online, to consider applications. Decisions are made on a consensus basis. Membership Committee members work as volunteers so this process may take some weeks. The Membership Committee Chair will be in touch with you as soon as possible after a decision is taken.

Please feel free to contact the Chair of the Membership Committee if you have any questions about an ongoing application, or any other inquiries.

Who’s on the Membership Committe?

The 2023-2025 Membership Committee team includes:

  • Berna Akcali Gur (Chair)
  • Angela Daly
  • Francesca Musiani
  • Aashish Srivastava
  • Malcolm Campbell-Verduyn
  • Jun Liu