Programa Líderes

Líderes (Leaders program) is a community development initiative, founded in 2017, from Uruguay. Created by the Latin American and Caribbean Internet Addresses Registry (LACNIC), it supports the production of research on Internet Governance issues across Latin America and the Caribbean through a grant and mentorship format. The program contributes to regional capacity building in Internet-related public policy and maintains a direct connection to the ICANN ecosystem through LACNIC’s role as a Regional Internet Registry (RIR).

Origin and Objectives

The Líderes Program was launched as part of LACNIC’s broader strategy to promote informed participation in Internet Governance processes. It encourages individuals from the region to explore topics with local relevance that also connect to global discussions on Internet infrastructure, digital rights, and technical policy.

Key objectives of the program include:

• Supporting research in areas such as Internet infrastructure, cybersecurity, DNS governance, and digital inclusion.
• Encouraging regional perspectives on Internet policy issues.
• Connecting emerging researchers with expert mentors in the Internet Governance field.
• Amplifying the visibility of local research at international forums such as ICANN and the Internet Governance Forum (IGF).

Structure and Participation

Each edition of the Líderes Program includes an open call for proposals, with selected participants receiving financial support and guidance from experienced mentors. Research outcomes are published by LACNIC and may be presented at relevant regional and international events.

Participants receive:

• A grant of USD $1,500.
• A mentorship from an expert in Internet Governance.
• A three-month period to complete their research project.

The program prioritizes thematic areas with clear policy relevance and encourages diversity among participants.

2024 Edition

The fifth edition of the Líderes Program opened its call for proposals on 15 April 2024. The 2024 edition emphasizes research with both local impact and global relevance. The eligible thematic categories are:

• Internet for All: Inclusion, development of digital skills, and the impact on human rights.
• Artificial Intelligence, Innovation, and Emerging Technologies.
• Cybersecurity and Cybercrime: Building online trust.
• Internet and Public Policy.
• Internet as an Instrument for Social and Economic Development.

Selected participants will receive funding and mentorship to develop their work over a three-month period. The deadline for submitting proposals is 13 May 2024.

Relevance to Internet Governance

As the RIR for Latin America and the Caribbean, LACNIC plays a key role in IP address allocation under the ICANN-coordinated system. The Líderes Program supports the broader Internet Governance ecosystem by fostering informed policy voices and technical expertise in the region.

Many participants have gone on to engage with ICANN constituencies such as the Address Supporting Organization (ASO), the Non-Commercial Stakeholder Group (NCSG), and the At-Large Advisory Committee (ALAC).

References

• LACNIC – Líderes Program – Official Program Page
• LACNIC Blog – Líderes 2023: Proyectos seleccionados
• LACNIC News – LACNIC Opens Call for Proposals for the 5th Edition of the Líderes Program (April 2024)
• ICANN – Regional Engagement Strategy for Latin America and the Caribbean
• NRO – What are the Regional Internet Registries (RIRs)?

Latin American and Caribbean Internet Addresses Registry

Internet Governance Forum

Regional Internet Registry

Address Supporting Organization. Advises the Board with respect to policy issues relating to the operation, assignment, and management of Internet addresses (ICANN Bylaws).

Non-Commercial Stakeholder Group. Represents the full range of non-commercial entities of the Internet (ICANN Bylaws). Not to be confused with the At-Large Advisory Committee.

At-Large Advisory Committee. Considers and provides advice on the activities of ICANN related to the interests of individual Internet users (ICANN Bylaws). Not to be confused with the Non-Commercial Stakeholder Group.