Community connectivity : building the Internet from scratch: annual report of the UN IGF Dynamic Coalition on Community Connectivity

In this article, we argue that, given that 4 billion people still lack access to the Internet, the traditional model of Internet access provision should not be necessarily considered as the most efficient one and, therefore, other alternative models should be experimented. We explore community networks (CNs) as an alternative bottom-up approach, based on community-driven infrastructure development, as a substitute to the classic topdown operator-driven paradigm. We stress that, differently from traditional networks, CNs directly engage users that may be active participants in the network design, deployment, operation, and maintenance. In the first part of this paper, we analyse the core elements of CNs, pointing out that, although such networks may be relatively easy to develop, their success depends on a variety of factors, exceeding the mere technical sphere and leading us to consider some essential policy and governance challenges. Subsequently, in the second section of this paper, we examine an example of successful community-networking experience, the AlterMundi network model, deployed in José de la Quintana and the surrounding region, in Argentina. Providing insight on the inception, evolution and fundamental features of the AlterMundi Network, we stress that alternative models may not only be successful in connecting unconnected communities but they also empower local stakeholders allowing them to become the true protagonists of the construction of connectivity. Community ConneCtivity: Building the internet from SCratCh 32