Architecture for User Sovereignty in the Collaborative Digital Society

Abstract

At the onset of the Internet economy, there was great optimism that user-centric business models would evolve due to enhanced capabilities in user information searches. However, with the rise of targeted marketing fueled by cloud computing and related technologies, a supplier-centric economic landscape emerged. While this has resulted in a highly convenient society, concerns are intensifying over the infringement of users' rights in favor of sponsors' profits. More recently, technologies such as Web 3.0 and self-sovereign identity have been proposed to counter this issue. When paired with government regulations and innovative business models, these measures are anticipated to pave the way for a digital society that safeguards user rights. Maebashi Digital Garden City stands out as an early adopter of self-sovereign architecture, with a goal of protecting the desires and interests of its citizens.