Zero-rating and Net Neutrality: Lessons from Theory and Practice

This panel featured experts from business, policy making, civil society and academia who addressed the challenges posed by "zero-rating," the commercial practice of allowing mobile phone users to access select online services or applications for free. Zero-rating is problematic because it is a per se violation of net neutrality, the principle that all data traffic on the Internet must be treated the same regardless of its source or destination. Facebook's Internet.org initiative (now called "Free Basics") is a controversial example of how zero-rating is being used to bring Internet access to millions of new users in the developing world.

Panelists

• Professor Vishal Misra, Computer Science Dept., Columbia University
• Pranesh Prakesh, Policy Director, Centre for Internet & Society (India)
• Kevin Martin (Invited), VP Facebook
• Mahip Vyas, Data Analysis & Business Strategy,Mavin 
• Josh Levy, Advocacy Director, Access
• Professor Arturo J. Carrillo, GW Law

The panel was moderated by Carolina Rossini, VP for International Policy at Public Knowledge.