IGF MAG Approves Four Policy Networks for 2026

The IGF Multistakeholder Advisory Group (MAG) has approved four Policy Networks as part of the IGF's 2026 intersessional work programme:

• Policy Network on Artificial Intelligence
• Policy Network on Cybersecurity
• Policy Network on Digital Inclusion
• Policy Network on Open Digital Infrastructure

The decision follows a review of over 60 community proposals, with the selected Policy Networks reflecting key priorities for multistakeholder dialogue and cooperation throughout the 2026 IGF cycle.

The MAG and the IGF Secretariat extends its sincere appreciation to all members of the community who submitted proposals for intersessional work. The proposals were carefully reviewed and demonstrated a remarkable level of expertise, commitment, and innovation across a wide range of digital policy issues. As many submissions addressed similar themes and objectives, the selected Policy Networks are expected to provide opportunities for broad community participation and collaboration. The MAG encourages all proposal submitters and interested stakeholders to remain engaged and contribute their expertise through the approved workstreams.

The MAG is meeting in Nairobi, Kenya, from 24–26 June 2026 to further discuss the scope, modalities, and implementation of these workstreams. Discussions will focus on how the approved Policy Networks can deliver timely and impactful outputs, and strengthen engagement across stakeholder groups.

MAG members also expressed broad support for evolving the IGF's intersessional work architecture by merging the Policy Network and Best Practice Forum formats into a single Policy Network framework that incorporates a best-practice component. This approach aims to streamline intersessional activities while maintaining space for practical experience-sharing and policy-oriented outputs.

During the Nairobi meeting, MAG members will identify facilitators, co-facilitators, and contributors for each Policy Network, while considering how best to adapt elements from the community proposals into the 2026 work programme. The IGF Secretariat will continue preparations for the launch of the workstreams, including coordinating volunteer expressions of interest and consultant recruitment processes.

The approved Policy Networks will serve as year-round multistakeholder platforms for dialogue, collaboration, and the development of outputs that contribute to informed digital policy discussions at the local, national, regional, and global levels.