Around the world, states are utilizing the cyberspace, and associated governance regimes, to assert their interests. Even though many transnational networks of engineers, primarily based in the United States and Europe, have been the main cyberspace governance architects, many governments are become more influential through a multiplicity of governance forums. These same governments are currently trying to figure out how to utilize the cyberspace domain to exercise power. Some of these governments are in nondemocratic states outside of North America, Europe and parts of Asia. They are engaging in a process of asserting their interest in cyberspace governance regimes such as the International Telecommunications Union. This paper analyzes international mechanisms and dynamics that account for the growth of cyberspace controls and studies norm regression in global governance which is the growth of practices that weaken the ability for cyberspace to operate as an open commons of information dissemination and communication.
