Catherine Garcia van Hoogstraten

Catherine Garcia van Hoogstraten

Senior Advisor, Institutional Relations

Biography

In my role, I support global Internet policy and advocacy by driving strategic engagement at major international and regional organizations and building consensus to advance an open, globally connected, secure, and trustworthy Internet.

Prior to joining the Internet Society, in my work with the ICT industry, I have been instrumental to the field of responsible technology, leading high-profile tech policy files, multistakeholder engagement, and advocacy efforts at the intersection of privacy, digital safety, and trust. Moreover, I developed an excellent understanding of the interinstitutional procedures at organizations like the United Nations, OECD, ITU, European Commission, Council of Europe, and Organization of American States. In my work with international or regional organizations, I crafted and oversaw outreach campaigns, coalition building, capacity building, and partnership programs. I hold a JD in Law and Political Sciences and advanced specialization studies in Human Rights in the Digital Age, Privacy, and Cybersecurity.

When I'm not at work, I can usually be found listening to music, combining traveling with photography, learning languages and dining out, chasing vitamin sea and good coffee, or in nature walks.