Internet Governance
Forum
Key facts
- The Internet Governance Forum (IGF) was created in 2006 as a key outcome of the UN’s World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS), based on guidance in the Tunis Agenda.
- It is a global multistakeholder forum convened by the UN Secretary-General to discuss public policy issues related to Internet governance and digital technologies.
- The IGF does not have a decision-making mandate but plays a vital role in facilitating dialogue, sharing best practices, and informing policy globally, regionally and nationally.
- The IGF structure includes an annual global meeting, a network of over 150 national, regional and youth IGF initiatives (NRIs), and year-round intersessional work supported by the UN Secretariat and Multistakeholder Advisory Group (MAG).
Related events
Why it matters
The IGF is the primary global platform for open, inclusive and multistakeholder dialogue on digital policy, supporting the implementation of the WSIS Action Lines and the achievement of the SDGs.
It helps identify emerging issues, supports capacity building, and brings grassroots concerns into global discussions.
It could play a key role in monitoring and supporting implementation of global digital policy initiatives, including the Global Digital Compact. To do this, it needs support to address challenges; including the need for more sustainable funding, and a lack of inclusivity, transparency and accountability in some of its procedures.
How it works
The global IGF is convened in a different host country every year, drawing thousands of stakeholders from governments, civil society, industry, academia, and the technical community. Global IGFs are open to all, with remote engagement options and resources available to support inclusion and accessibility.
NRIs are National, Sub-Regional, Regional and Youth IGF initiatives, organised independently and on a voluntary basis to discuss Internet governance matters relevant at the national, sub-regional and regional level.
The IGF’s programme is developed through a bottom-up, inclusive process coordinated by the MAG, with inputs from all stakeholder groups.
Intersessional work is carried out through Best Practice Forums, Policy Networks and Dynamic Coalitions on issues such as cybersecurity, gender and Internet fragmentation.
A Leadership Panel supports efforts to make the IGF more impactful and strategically aligned.
How to engage
Register to attend the 2025 Global IGF.
Check if there is a nearby national and regional IGF meeting.
Join intersessional work.
The IGF Secretariat and MAG welcome public inputs and consultations throughout the year.
Ask GPD for support and advice.