The World Wide Web Foundation, co-founded by Sir Tim Berners-Lee and Rosemary Leith, has decided to close after 15 years of advocating for a safer, more accessible internet.
The foundation helped expand global internet access from 20% to nearly 70%, and now believes that its core mission has been largely accomplished. As a result, Sir Tim will now focus on a new challenge—decentralizing control of personal data.
Rather than continuing the foundation’s work, Sir Tim aims to prioritize the Solid Protocol, a decentralized data system that gives individuals control over their own data.
By using personal online data stores, known as “Pods,” users will be able to manage their information more securely. This move represents a direct response to the growing dominance of corporations that profit by exploiting user data.
In Sir Tim’s view, the internet has shifted too far from its original purpose, becoming a tool for large companies to concentrate power and track users for profit.
Consequently, the decision to shutter the foundation reflects the changing priorities in today’s digital landscape, where privacy and decentralization are more critical than ever. Sir Tim’s new efforts will focus on creating a more user-centered web that empowers individuals.
