Foundation for a Human Internet Inc

The Foundation for a Human Internet Inc (FHI) is a U.S. nonprofit organization dedicated to creating a safer and more democratic online community. It operates under the principle "one human, one voice," aiming to extend fundamental democratic values to the digital realm.

Mission

FHI's mission is to promote a version of the internet that serves society, focusing on human rights and minimizing the influence of fake accounts and malicious bots. The organization advocates for data privacy, ensuring that personal data remains under individual control and is collected only when necessary, with deletion whenever possible.

Background

The foundation's vision was shaped by observations of increasing polarization and undermined trust in institutions across major democracies, including the U.S., Germany, and Indonesia. A notable example was the 2018 Indonesian election campaign, where manipulative algorithms, clickbait headlines, and widespread use of fake accounts contributed to contested outcomes and social unrest.

humanID

FHI developed humanID, an open-source, single sign-on tool aimed at verifying users while maintaining privacy and anonymity. This technology helps businesses comply with age verification regulations and protects youth in digital environments. humanID operates with the goal of enhancing online accountability and safety.

Key Goals

• Promote Democracy Online: FHI seeks to create an online space where each person has an equal and protected voice.
• Combat Misinformation: By reducing the impact of fake accounts and bots, the organization hopes to curb the spread of false information.
• Enhance Privacy and Security: FHI advocates for minimal data collection and retention, ensuring that users' personal information is safeguarded.

Operations

As a nonprofit, FHI relies on donations to further its mission. Contributions are used to scale humanID and ensure its product remains accessible and impactful for over 100 million online domains. The organization prioritizes transparency, reporting the use of donations on a quarterly basis. It has attracted over 100 volunteers and aims to secure talent through paid positions to sustain its work.

FHI is incorporated in New York State and has gained recognition as an award-winning organization. Its operations emphasize independence from major tech companies, ensuring that it remains free from data exploitation.

Impact and Vision

By reimagining the internet as a space for genuine human interaction, FHI aims to counter the negative trends in digital communication. It strives to build a future where the internet supports rather than undermines democratic institutions and values.