This report begins with an outline of the background and context that contributed to the controversy in Tunis specifically, the human rights agenda, the ‘north-south’ agenda, lack of clarity regarding the focus and outcomes of phase II and early stress signs experienced by civil society in preparation for the PrepCom.
It then goes on to describe the basic elements, ways of working and preparation of civil society in the WSIS process up until 2004.
The third section describes briefly the events around the human rights controversy in Tunis, diarising the three days of civil society meetings. The fourth section makes brief observations, suggested discussion points and indications of strategies that are needed to protect and strengthen civil society participation in the WSIS process.