Markdown Version | Session Recording

Session Date/Time: 23 Jul 2025 07:30

rasprg

Summary

The RASPRG session covered three presentations. First, Jeffrey Ding presented research on US-China economic interdependence in standards setting. Second, Brian Newbold discussed interoperation in the AT protocol ecosystem. Finally, Karim Atumani Muhammad presented on quantifying barriers to African participation in IETF standardization.

Key Discussion Points

• US-China Interdependence:
  • Jeffrey Ding presented data suggesting economic interdependence between the US and China in IETF standards is increasing, despite narratives of decoupling.
  • Discussion centered on whether RFC co-authorship accurately reflects economic relationships and investment in global interoperable standards.
  • Suggestions were made to consider deployment and adoption of standards as additional indicators of interdependence.
  • The relevance of Chinese national policies on standardization was discussed.
• AT Protocol Ecosystem:
  • Brian Newbold discussed Blue Sky's efforts to standardize the AT protocol, including considerations for venue (IETF, W3C, or a new foundation).
  • Challenges in balancing product development with protocol standardization were highlighted.
  • Concerns about maintaining credible neutrality and avoiding corporate dominance in the ecosystem were raised.
  • The need for expertise in security, extensibility, and protocol evolution within a standards body was noted.
• African Participation in IETF:
  • Karim Atumani Muhammad presented on barriers to African participation in the IETF, including geographic, linguistic, and structural challenges.
  • Proposals were made to track regional participation statistics, translate documentation, and promote author diversity.
  • The importance of engaging with African academia and youth communities was emphasized.
  • The economics of participation and the need for funding and career pathways were discussed.
  • The role of industry engagement in driving standards development and deployment was highlighted.

Decisions and Action Items

• Jeffrey Ding: Consider incorporating deployment/adoption data and exploring country-specific trends in network analysis. Talk to people and figure out why people become co-authors, for a good understanding of the topic.
• Brian Newbold: No specific action items, but the presentation served as a valuable exploration of the challenges and considerations involved in standardizing a rapidly evolving protocol ecosystem.
• Karim Atumani Muhammad: Continue work on the internet draft outlining barriers to African participation and strategies for improvement.

Next Steps

• Encourage further discussion and collaboration on the topics presented in the RASPRG mailing list and at future meetings.
• RASPRG to consider future research on participation statistics and inclusive outreach.