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Decentralized Web3 Reshaping Internet Governance: Towards the Emergence of New Forms of Nation-Statehood?

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  • Igor Calzada

    (Department of Public Policy & Economic History, School of Economics & Business, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Oñati Square 1, 20018 San Sebastián, Spain
    Ikerbasque, Basque Foundation for Science, 48009 Bilbao, Spain
    Decentralization Research Centre, 545 King St. W, Toronto, ON W5V 1M1, Canada
    Wales Institute of Social and Economic Research and Data (WISERD), Social Science Research Park (Sbarc/Spark), School of Social Sciences, Cardiff University, Maindy Road, Cathays, Cardiff CF24 4HQ, UK)

Abstract

This article explores how decentralized Web3 is reshaping Internet governance by enabling the emergence of new forms of nation-statehood and redefining traditional concepts of state sovereignty. Based on fieldwork conducted in Silicon Valley since August 2022, this article systematically addresses the following research question: How is decentralized Web3 reshaping Internet governance and influencing the rise in new nation-statehood paradigms? It compares three emerging paradigms around Web3: (i) Network States (Srinivasan), envisioning digital entities rooted in crypto-libertarian principles; (ii) Network Sovereignties (De Filippi), emphasizing communal governance aligned with digital commons; and (iii) Algorithmic Nations (Calzada), drawing on Arendtian thought and demonstrating how communities—such as indigenous and stateless groups, as well as e-diasporas—can attain self-determination through data sovereignty. This article contributes a unique conceptual analysis of these paradigms based on fieldwork action research in Silicon Valley, responding to evolving technologies and their potential to reshape Internet governance. This article argues that decentralized Web3 provides a transformative vision for Internet governance but requires careful evaluation to ensure that it promotes inclusivity and equity. It advocates for a hybrid approach that balances global and local dynamics, emphasizing the need for solidarity, digital justice, and an internationalist perspective in shaping future Internet governance protocols.

Suggested Citation

  • Igor Calzada, 2024. "Decentralized Web3 Reshaping Internet Governance: Towards the Emergence of New Forms of Nation-Statehood?," Future Internet, MDPI, vol. 16(10), pages 1-29, October.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jftint:v:16:y:2024:i:10:p:361-:d:1492264
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Mathew, Ashwin J., 2016. "The myth of the decentralised internet," Internet Policy Review: Journal on Internet Regulation, Alexander von Humboldt Institute for Internet and Society (HIIG), Berlin, vol. 5(3), pages 1-16.
    2. Utrata, Alina, 2024. "Engineering Territory: Space and Colonies in Silicon Valley," American Political Science Review, Cambridge University Press, vol. 118(3), pages 1097-1109, August.
    3. Kean Birch & Fabian Muniesa, 2020. "Assetization: Turning Things into Assets in Technoscientific Capitalism," Post-Print halshs-02878684, HAL.
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