IGF 2025 Taking Stock and Improvement Suggestions for 2026 | Written Contributions
- Input from the Swiss Federal Office of Communications (OFCOM)
- Input from ICC Basis
- Input from Justice Adel Maged
Number of contributions by:
Stakeholder Group
Government: 17
Intergovernmental Organizations: 3
Civil Society: 25
Technical Community: 4
Private Sector: 7
Regional Group
African Group: 20
Asia-Pacific Group: 17
Eastern European Group: 4
Latin American and Caribbean Group: 4
Western European and Others Group: 8
Intergovernmental Organization: 3
From Organizations:
Academia
What worked well: The call for issues encouraged diverse and relevant proposals from multiple stakeholders.
Capacity development initiatives ahead of the forum helped first-time participants engage more confidently.
What worked not so well:- The registration process for night programmes was uncomfortable — participants were not informed in advance about the additional check-in required for the dinner, which caused confusion.
Capacity development initiatives ahead of the forum helped first-time participants engage more confidently.
What worked not so well:- The registration process for night programmes was uncomfortable — participants were not informed in advance about the additional check-in required for the dinner, which caused confusion.
The thematic focus addressed current and emerging internet governance issues, ensuring relevance for multiple stakeholder groups.
A good balance between high-level policy discussions and community-driven sessions.
Inclusion of diverse formats (panels, lightning talks, roundtables) kept engagement dynamic.
Cross-cutting themes encouraged multi-disciplinary perspectives and collaboration.
A good balance between high-level policy discussions and community-driven sessions.
Inclusion of diverse formats (panels, lightning talks, roundtables) kept engagement dynamic.
Cross-cutting themes encouraged multi-disciplinary perspectives and collaboration.
The hybrid format allowed participation from stakeholders who could not travel, broadening inclusivity and diversity.
Live streaming and recording of sessions ensured that content remained accessible after the event.
Interactive tools like Q&A
Live streaming and recording of sessions ensured that content remained accessible after the event.
Interactive tools like Q&A
schedule made it easy to track sessions and manage time.
Security at the venue was professional and ensured a safe environment.
The bilateral meeting system provided a structured way to connect with other participants.
Security at the venue was professional and ensured a safe environment.
The bilateral meeting system provided a structured way to connect with other participants.
The diversity of participants including governments, private sector, civil society, academia, and youth enriched discussions.
Opportunities for informal networking, both in-person and online, helped foster collaborations.
The bilateral meeting system supported targeted connections between stakeholders.
Opportunities for informal networking, both in-person and online, helped foster collaborations.
The bilateral meeting system supported targeted connections between stakeholders.
the main programme helped share diverse regional perspectives and local solutions.
Some BPFs and PNs successfully integrated their findings into IGF 2025 sessions, making discussions more evidence-based and action-oriented.
Some BPFs and PNs successfully integrated their findings into IGF 2025 sessions, making discussions more evidence-based and action-oriented.
Dynamic Coalitions provided an ongoing platform for collaboration across stakeholder groups on specific thematic areas.
successfully brought local and regional perspectives to the global IGF, highlighting context-specific challenges and solutions.
IGFs encouraged meaningful participation of young stakeholders, creating pathways for future leadership, promoting collaboration.
IGFs encouraged meaningful participation of young stakeholders, creating pathways for future leadership, promoting collaboration.
The programme covered a broad range of timely and relevant internet governance topics, addressing policy, technical, and social dimensions.
Speakers were diverse in expertise, background, and geographic representation, providing multiple perspectives.
Many sessions encouraged interactive discussions, allowing participants to engage actively and share experiences
Speakers were diverse in expertise, background, and geographic representation, providing multiple perspectives.
Many sessions encouraged interactive discussions, allowing participants to engage actively and share experiences
The High-Level Leaders Track brought together decision-makers from government, private sector, and international organizations, ensuring high-level perspectives were represented.
Sessions offered strategic insights on global internet governance trends and policy priorities.
Interaction between leaders and other stakeholders fostered cross-sector dialogue and networking opportunities.
Sessions offered strategic insights on global internet governance trends and policy priorities.
Interaction between leaders and other stakeholders fostered cross-sector dialogue and networking opportunities.
The Parliamentary Track successfully engaged legislators and policymakers, providing insights into national and regional regulatory perspectives.
Sessions highlighted the role of parliaments in internet governance, cybersecurity, and digital policy development.
Interaction with other stakeholders helped bridge gaps between policy-making and technical or civil society communities.
Sessions highlighted the role of parliaments in internet governance, cybersecurity, and digital policy development.
Interaction with other stakeholders helped bridge gaps between policy-making and technical or civil society communities.
The Youth Track successfully engaged young stakeholders, giving them a platform to share ideas, experiences, and innovative solutions.
IGF 2025 included sessions that addressed gender equality, digital inclusion, and the role of women in internet governance.
Many presenters and programme leaders were female, which was very empowering and inspiring to see as a participant.
Many presenters and programme leaders were female, which was very empowering and inspiring to see as a participant.
The IGF Village provided a vibrant space for stakeholders, including civil society, technical communities, and youth, to showcase initiatives, projects, and research.
Interactive booths and informal discussions encouraged networking and knowledge sharing.
The Village helped participants discover innovative approaches and solutions that complemented formal sessions.
Interactive booths and informal discussions encouraged networking and knowledge sharing.
The Village helped participants discover innovative approaches and solutions that complemented formal sessions.
IGF 2025 communications, including the website, Email were informative and helped participants plan their engagement.
- Participating in IGF 2025 was a valuable and empowering experience.
- The workshops and sessions provided in-depth learning on topics such as digital rights, AI, cybersecurity, and internet governance.
- Informal interactions during dinners, coffee breaks, and networking events allowed meaningful connections and knowledge sharing.
- Exposure to diverse perspectives from multiple regions, stakeholder groups, and gender-balanced panels enriched understanding and inspired new ideas.
- Intersessional activities offered opportunities to engage with peers and experts, enhancing leadership and collaboration skills.
The hybrid format enabled access to additional sessions remotely, making the experience flexible and inclusive.
- The workshops and sessions provided in-depth learning on topics such as digital rights, AI, cybersecurity, and internet governance.
- Informal interactions during dinners, coffee breaks, and networking events allowed meaningful connections and knowledge sharing.
- Exposure to diverse perspectives from multiple regions, stakeholder groups, and gender-balanced panels enriched understanding and inspired new ideas.
- Intersessional activities offered opportunities to engage with peers and experts, enhancing leadership and collaboration skills.
The hybrid format enabled access to additional sessions remotely, making the experience flexible and inclusive.
Association for Progressive Communications (APC)
There was little or no information about the fact that the number of workshops to be approved would be significantly reduced for the 2025 edition, or the reasons for this. While fewer sessions are desirable, it is important to have timely information to enable the various stakeholders to take a more strategic approach to developing proposals.
Moving forward, greater and more significant involvement of the MAG and the community is needed for constructing key components of the programme, namely Open Forums and the High Level Track. This is not about control, but about ensuring coherence. There is a need for collective assessment of all session proposals by the MAG together with the host country and IGF intersessional forums to ensure overall coherence and complementarity.
Moving forward, greater and more significant involvement of the MAG and the community is needed for constructing key components of the programme, namely Open Forums and the High Level Track. This is not about control, but about ensuring coherence. There is a need for collective assessment of all session proposals by the MAG together with the host country and IGF intersessional forums to ensure overall coherence and complementarity.
Informal conversations in networking spaces and corridors focused largely on the complex geopolitical situation and the critical moment being experienced in various regions of the world. However, the sessions of the IGF programme did not address those issues. The IGF programme did not convey any sense at all of there being some key issues that the digital governance community needs to address (other than WSIS and IGF continuation). This raises questions about the role of the IGF in addressing controversial issues. The IGF should be a space to address difficult issues through in-depth high quality conversations.
The sessions were of a high standard overall and provided an opportunity not only to broaden the discussion and treatment of specific issues, but also to learn about and gain insight into new approaches or angles on those issues. Our members and staff highlighted the importance of the IGF as a space for understanding and defining actions at a time when the internet is no longer a safe space where the exercise of rights is guaranteed.
The reduction in the number of sessions is a positive development. It allows for a better balance between bilateral meetings and attending agenda sessions.
The sessions also contributed to understanding converging and diverging perspectives on key issues. Artificial intelligence was a predominant topic of discussion, and there is no consensus on the risks it poses. It will be important to continue to contribute to this discussion.
The lack of environmental issues on the agenda is concerning, given the increasingly critical situations arising from the impact of rapid digitalisation on the environment, natural resources and, in general, the well-being of the planet.
The lack of consistent and strong focus on gender in the programme is evident and concerning.
In relation to the layout of the workshop rooms, the separation between speakers and audience was too big and there were no roving mics which made it hard to do more creative and interactive moderation.
The sessions were of a high standard overall and provided an opportunity not only to broaden the discussion and treatment of specific issues, but also to learn about and gain insight into new approaches or angles on those issues. Our members and staff highlighted the importance of the IGF as a space for understanding and defining actions at a time when the internet is no longer a safe space where the exercise of rights is guaranteed.
The reduction in the number of sessions is a positive development. It allows for a better balance between bilateral meetings and attending agenda sessions.
The sessions also contributed to understanding converging and diverging perspectives on key issues. Artificial intelligence was a predominant topic of discussion, and there is no consensus on the risks it poses. It will be important to continue to contribute to this discussion.
The lack of environmental issues on the agenda is concerning, given the increasingly critical situations arising from the impact of rapid digitalisation on the environment, natural resources and, in general, the well-being of the planet.
The lack of consistent and strong focus on gender in the programme is evident and concerning.
In relation to the layout of the workshop rooms, the separation between speakers and audience was too big and there were no roving mics which made it hard to do more creative and interactive moderation.
Overall, it worked well.
The venue was excellent, easy to access and navigate, comfortable, the quality of the food was outstanding, as was the organisation for its decentralised distribution. The possibility of accessing public transport at no cost to event participants was greatly appreciated. Having a digital badge was also appreciated. The scheduler could be adjusted to facilitate its use.
Our members highlight the value of NRIs and contend that, for future editions of the IGF, representatives of NRIs should be invited to the opening and closing sessions of the annual event to bring the perspective of the regions and strengthen the local – global linkages.
Lack of critical engagement of major players from the private sector is notable. Although representatives from technology corporations were present, we would like to note their limited participation and their lack of meaningful engagement in certain critical conversations (for instance, gendered disinformation, militarisation of the internet, among others).
Lack of critical engagement of major players from the private sector is notable. Although representatives from technology corporations were present, we would like to note their limited participation and their lack of meaningful engagement in certain critical conversations (for instance, gendered disinformation, militarisation of the internet, among others).
Greater relevance of new BPFs has to be granted as part of the shaping of the broader programme.
The multiplicity of DC and NRI sessions is confusing. The MAG should work with the DCs, BPFs and NRIs in organising main sessions on key themes.
Please see response to the question on IGF overall programme: thematic focus, structure and session types.
Please see response to the question on IGF preparatory process (timeline, call for issues and session proposals, session selection, programme announcement, MAG meetings, capacity development etc.).
The growth of this track is impressive. APC would appreciate a bit more reflection of its partnership with the IGF on the African School on IG during the IGF’s Parliamentary Track sessions. E.g. A report back on participation in regional schools of IG and regional IGFs.
Reinstatement of the gender ‘report card’ would be important to get a sense of how effectively the IGF is integrating gender in how it deals with key themes. On the whole, however, it is good to see progress in the increasing participation of women.
The IGF Village is conducive to building relationships with different stakeholders, meeting new people, connecting with acquaintances, and expanding your network of contacts. The Village also contributes to raising awareness of the work of civil society organisations with a view to diversifying the mobilisation of resources to sustain their work. This is particularly important in the current context, where foreign policy decisions and geopolitical situations have a severe impact on allocations aimed at supporting the work of organisations in the Global South.
Improvements are still needed on this area. If the IGF tackled key concerns more ‘head on’, for instance big tech accountability or militarisation of the internet, it would also be easier to get media attention. If the thematic structure was more focused it would also be easier to outreach to other actors. A climate change focused IGF would be able to reach out to the climate change/green transition sector. Same with AI. Each IGF would do well by having one key topic it addresses in depth. The programme can still have space for other sub themes.
Visas were difficult for many people who could not get Schengen appointments in time.
APC would like to see some key reflections from the different tracks (the High level leaders, the Parliamentary and the Youth ones) in the closing session of the IGF based on the key themes being addressed.
We would also like to see a facilitated open space or unconference sessions on some key themes to generate some more consolidated messages. Virtual participants could contribute as well.
APC would like to see some key reflections from the different tracks (the High level leaders, the Parliamentary and the Youth ones) in the closing session of the IGF based on the key themes being addressed.
We would also like to see a facilitated open space or unconference sessions on some key themes to generate some more consolidated messages. Virtual participants could contribute as well.
Bangladesh Women Internet Governance Forum
1. What worked well
Inclusivity of issues: IGF 2025 ensured space for diverse topics including gender, youth, AI governance, and digital inclusion. This broadened participation and gave underrepresented groups visibility.
Hybrid engagement: Both online and on-site participation were smooth and interactive, allowing stakeholders from the Global South to engage without barriers.
Regional and national IGFs’ visibility: The NRIs track worked well in showcasing grassroots priorities and local perspectives in global discussions.
MAG’s communication efforts: Regular updates, transparency in selection criteria, and open consultations created trust and wider participation.
2. What did not work so well
Timeline challenges: The preparatory timeline felt tight for many stakeholders, especially for NRIs and smaller organizations that require longer planning.
Call for issues and proposals: The process was accessible but lacked adequate outreach in certain regions, meaning some voices were not fully reflected.
Programme overload: With so many sessions, participants often had to choose between equally important discussions, leading to reduced engagement across topics.
Capacity development gaps: While capacity-building initiatives existed, they were unevenly distributed, with fewer opportunities for women, youth, and grassroots leaders in the Global South to engage in advanced policy discussions.
3. Suggestions for improvements for IGF 2026
Extended preparatory timeline: Launch calls for issues and proposals earlier, and allow more time for programme design and outreach.
Focused programme design: Encourage clustering of overlapping proposals and create clearer thematic tracks to avoid session overload.
Stronger support for underrepresented groups: Expand scholarships and mentorship programmes, particularly for women, youth, and grassroots communities from the Global South.
Enhanced capacity development: Offer pre-IGF online training modules, especially on policy drafting, negotiation, and emerging tech issues, to prepare participants more effectively.
Continuous engagement: Strengthen year-round MAG and stakeholder interactions to keep momentum alive beyond the annual meeting.
Feedback loops: After each IGF, ensure a structured collection of participant feedback on sessions, logistics, and accessibility to refine processes further.
Inclusivity of issues: IGF 2025 ensured space for diverse topics including gender, youth, AI governance, and digital inclusion. This broadened participation and gave underrepresented groups visibility.
Hybrid engagement: Both online and on-site participation were smooth and interactive, allowing stakeholders from the Global South to engage without barriers.
Regional and national IGFs’ visibility: The NRIs track worked well in showcasing grassroots priorities and local perspectives in global discussions.
MAG’s communication efforts: Regular updates, transparency in selection criteria, and open consultations created trust and wider participation.
2. What did not work so well
Timeline challenges: The preparatory timeline felt tight for many stakeholders, especially for NRIs and smaller organizations that require longer planning.
Call for issues and proposals: The process was accessible but lacked adequate outreach in certain regions, meaning some voices were not fully reflected.
Programme overload: With so many sessions, participants often had to choose between equally important discussions, leading to reduced engagement across topics.
Capacity development gaps: While capacity-building initiatives existed, they were unevenly distributed, with fewer opportunities for women, youth, and grassroots leaders in the Global South to engage in advanced policy discussions.
3. Suggestions for improvements for IGF 2026
Extended preparatory timeline: Launch calls for issues and proposals earlier, and allow more time for programme design and outreach.
Focused programme design: Encourage clustering of overlapping proposals and create clearer thematic tracks to avoid session overload.
Stronger support for underrepresented groups: Expand scholarships and mentorship programmes, particularly for women, youth, and grassroots communities from the Global South.
Enhanced capacity development: Offer pre-IGF online training modules, especially on policy drafting, negotiation, and emerging tech issues, to prepare participants more effectively.
Continuous engagement: Strengthen year-round MAG and stakeholder interactions to keep momentum alive beyond the annual meeting.
Feedback loops: After each IGF, ensure a structured collection of participant feedback on sessions, logistics, and accessibility to refine processes further.
1. Thematic Focus
What worked well:
The thematic framing was broad and inclusive, addressing AI governance, digital inclusion, trust & security, human rights online, and sustainability.
Cross-cutting themes like gender, youth, and accessibility were integrated into many sessions rather than siloed, which strengthened inclusivity.
Thematic synergies between global, regional, and national IGFs helped ensure grassroots issues connected with global priorities.
What worked not so well:
The breadth of themes sometimes made the programme feel fragmented, with less depth in certain areas such as women’s digital rights and practical capacity-building on AI ethics.
Some thematic overlaps led to duplication of sessions instead of consolidated, more impactful discussions.
The balance between emerging issues (e.g., AI, digital sovereignty) and long-standing priorities (e.g., connectivity, human rights online) was uneven.
2. Programme Structure
What worked well:
A mix of high-level panels, workshops, lightning talks, and NRI sessions allowed for different levels of engagement.
The main sessions and High-Level Leaders Track gave visibility to global policy priorities and allowed governments, industry, and civil society to interact.
The Youth and Women tracks gave underrepresented groups their own spaces to voice concerns.
What worked not so well:
Session clustering was not always intuitive, making it harder for participants to follow a clear narrative through the week.
Overlaps between key sessions forced participants to miss discussions of equal importance.
Some main sessions were too formal, with limited interactivity, reducing the multi-stakeholder spirit.
3. Session Types
What worked well:
The diversity of formats (workshops, open forums, DC sessions, NRIs, lightning talks) created a dynamic programme.
Best Practice Forums (BPFs) and Dynamic Coalitions (DCs) successfully maintained continuity on specific issues across years.
Capacity-development sessions, though limited, helped newer participants understand the IGF ecosystem.
What worked not so well:
Some sessions leaned heavily towards panel-style formats, leaving insufficient space for genuine multistakeholder dialogue.
Lightning talks were sometimes under-attended due to lack of visibility in the programme.
A lack of structured outcomes or next steps from several sessions reduced their impact.
4. Suggestions for IGF 2026
Sharper thematic clustering: Reduce overlaps by grouping sessions into clear thematic tracks (e.g., AI & emerging tech, Human rights & inclusion, Connectivity & access, Governance & security).
Balance depth and breadth: Ensure emerging topics get enough depth without overshadowing long-standing priorities such as meaningful access and human rights.
Innovative session formats: Encourage roundtables, policy labs, and simulation-style sessions for more interactive participation, especially for youth and women.
Session outcome focus: Each session should conclude with short, actionable takeaways or recommendations, even if non-binding.
Visibility for lightning talks: Place them strategically in the programme to avoid them being overlooked.
Integrating NRIs better: Create more joint sessions between global and national/regional IGFs to deepen connections.
What worked well:
The thematic framing was broad and inclusive, addressing AI governance, digital inclusion, trust & security, human rights online, and sustainability.
Cross-cutting themes like gender, youth, and accessibility were integrated into many sessions rather than siloed, which strengthened inclusivity.
Thematic synergies between global, regional, and national IGFs helped ensure grassroots issues connected with global priorities.
What worked not so well:
The breadth of themes sometimes made the programme feel fragmented, with less depth in certain areas such as women’s digital rights and practical capacity-building on AI ethics.
Some thematic overlaps led to duplication of sessions instead of consolidated, more impactful discussions.
The balance between emerging issues (e.g., AI, digital sovereignty) and long-standing priorities (e.g., connectivity, human rights online) was uneven.
2. Programme Structure
What worked well:
A mix of high-level panels, workshops, lightning talks, and NRI sessions allowed for different levels of engagement.
The main sessions and High-Level Leaders Track gave visibility to global policy priorities and allowed governments, industry, and civil society to interact.
The Youth and Women tracks gave underrepresented groups their own spaces to voice concerns.
What worked not so well:
Session clustering was not always intuitive, making it harder for participants to follow a clear narrative through the week.
Overlaps between key sessions forced participants to miss discussions of equal importance.
Some main sessions were too formal, with limited interactivity, reducing the multi-stakeholder spirit.
3. Session Types
What worked well:
The diversity of formats (workshops, open forums, DC sessions, NRIs, lightning talks) created a dynamic programme.
Best Practice Forums (BPFs) and Dynamic Coalitions (DCs) successfully maintained continuity on specific issues across years.
Capacity-development sessions, though limited, helped newer participants understand the IGF ecosystem.
What worked not so well:
Some sessions leaned heavily towards panel-style formats, leaving insufficient space for genuine multistakeholder dialogue.
Lightning talks were sometimes under-attended due to lack of visibility in the programme.
A lack of structured outcomes or next steps from several sessions reduced their impact.
4. Suggestions for IGF 2026
Sharper thematic clustering: Reduce overlaps by grouping sessions into clear thematic tracks (e.g., AI & emerging tech, Human rights & inclusion, Connectivity & access, Governance & security).
Balance depth and breadth: Ensure emerging topics get enough depth without overshadowing long-standing priorities such as meaningful access and human rights.
Innovative session formats: Encourage roundtables, policy labs, and simulation-style sessions for more interactive participation, especially for youth and women.
Session outcome focus: Each session should conclude with short, actionable takeaways or recommendations, even if non-binding.
Visibility for lightning talks: Place them strategically in the programme to avoid them being overlooked.
Integrating NRIs better: Create more joint sessions between global and national/regional IGFs to deepen connections.
1. What worked well
Accessibility for remote participants: The hybrid model allowed stakeholders, especially from the Global South, to engage meaningfully even if they could not travel.
Interactive tools: The use of online Q&A, chat functions, and live captioning supported real-time participation and inclusivity.
Equal recognition: Remote speakers were given space in panels, and interventions from online participants were considered alongside on-site voices.
Reduced barriers: The format lowered costs and visa-related obstacles, particularly for women and youth who often face additional challenges in international travel.
2. What worked not so well
Time zone difficulties: Many online participants struggled to follow live sessions because of inconvenient time differences.
Engagement imbalance: In some sessions, in-room participants received more attention, while online inputs were acknowledged less consistently.
Technical gaps: Connectivity issues and occasional platform lags disrupted participation, particularly for those joining from regions with weaker infrastructure.
Networking limitations: Remote attendees often missed out on the informal discussions and connections that take place on-site.
3. Suggestions for IGF 2026
Stronger integration of online participants: Introduce hybrid moderators dedicated to balancing in-room and online voices in every session.
Time zone-sensitive programming: Rotate session timings or design some tracks with remote participants in mind to ensure fair global accessibility.
Enhanced technical support: Provide stable platforms with multilingual captioning, low-bandwidth options, and backup channels in case of disruptions.
Virtual networking spaces: Develop interactive lounges or small-group breakout rooms for remote participants to network and collaborate outside formal sessions.
Hybrid capacity development: Offer preparatory online training sessions so remote participants feel equally equipped to contribute in high-level discussions.
Post-session continuity: Create hybrid follow-up forums after the IGF where online and on-site participants can continue discussions and track progress.
Accessibility for remote participants: The hybrid model allowed stakeholders, especially from the Global South, to engage meaningfully even if they could not travel.
Interactive tools: The use of online Q&A, chat functions, and live captioning supported real-time participation and inclusivity.
Equal recognition: Remote speakers were given space in panels, and interventions from online participants were considered alongside on-site voices.
Reduced barriers: The format lowered costs and visa-related obstacles, particularly for women and youth who often face additional challenges in international travel.
2. What worked not so well
Time zone difficulties: Many online participants struggled to follow live sessions because of inconvenient time differences.
Engagement imbalance: In some sessions, in-room participants received more attention, while online inputs were acknowledged less consistently.
Technical gaps: Connectivity issues and occasional platform lags disrupted participation, particularly for those joining from regions with weaker infrastructure.
Networking limitations: Remote attendees often missed out on the informal discussions and connections that take place on-site.
3. Suggestions for IGF 2026
Stronger integration of online participants: Introduce hybrid moderators dedicated to balancing in-room and online voices in every session.
Time zone-sensitive programming: Rotate session timings or design some tracks with remote participants in mind to ensure fair global accessibility.
Enhanced technical support: Provide stable platforms with multilingual captioning, low-bandwidth options, and backup channels in case of disruptions.
Virtual networking spaces: Develop interactive lounges or small-group breakout rooms for remote participants to network and collaborate outside formal sessions.
Hybrid capacity development: Offer preparatory online training sessions so remote participants feel equally equipped to contribute in high-level discussions.
Post-session continuity: Create hybrid follow-up forums after the IGF where online and on-site participants can continue discussions and track progress.
1. What worked well
Website: The IGF website was timely updated, user-friendly, and served as the central information hub for participants.
Mobile app: The event app made it easier to track sessions, access speaker information, and personalize schedules.
3D Virtual platform: The immersive environment added value for those engaging remotely, replicating some of the onsite experience.
Registration process: The online registration system was clear and efficient, with helpful updates and reminders.
Security arrangements: On-site security was professional and ensured smooth, safe participation for attendees.
2. What worked not so well
Navigation challenges: The 3D virtual platform was not intuitive for all users, especially those with limited technical experience or low-bandwidth connections.
Mobile app sync issues: In some cases, personal schedules did not sync properly between the website and mobile app.
Schedule complexity: With many parallel sessions, navigating the programme was overwhelming even with digital tools.
Bilateral meeting system: The function existed but was underutilized due to lack of visibility and limited technical ease.
Accessibility gaps: Some online tools were less accessible for participants with disabilities or from regions with poor connectivity.
3. Suggestions for IGF 2026
Unified digital ecosystem: Better synchronization between the website, mobile app, and virtual platform to create a seamless experience.
Simplified virtual platform: Provide a lighter, bandwidth-friendly version of the 3D environment for participants in low-connectivity regions.
Enhanced schedule navigation: Introduce advanced filters (by theme, region, stakeholder group) and session clustering for easier planning.
Strengthen bilateral meeting system: Make this feature more visible, user-friendly, and integrated with personal schedules to encourage cross-stakeholder exchanges.
Accessibility-first design: Ensure all online platforms comply with international accessibility standards (screen readers, multilingual captioning, etc.).
Onboarding tutorials: Provide pre-event video walkthroughs and short training sessions on how to navigate the digital tools.
Website: The IGF website was timely updated, user-friendly, and served as the central information hub for participants.
Mobile app: The event app made it easier to track sessions, access speaker information, and personalize schedules.
3D Virtual platform: The immersive environment added value for those engaging remotely, replicating some of the onsite experience.
Registration process: The online registration system was clear and efficient, with helpful updates and reminders.
Security arrangements: On-site security was professional and ensured smooth, safe participation for attendees.
2. What worked not so well
Navigation challenges: The 3D virtual platform was not intuitive for all users, especially those with limited technical experience or low-bandwidth connections.
Mobile app sync issues: In some cases, personal schedules did not sync properly between the website and mobile app.
Schedule complexity: With many parallel sessions, navigating the programme was overwhelming even with digital tools.
Bilateral meeting system: The function existed but was underutilized due to lack of visibility and limited technical ease.
Accessibility gaps: Some online tools were less accessible for participants with disabilities or from regions with poor connectivity.
3. Suggestions for IGF 2026
Unified digital ecosystem: Better synchronization between the website, mobile app, and virtual platform to create a seamless experience.
Simplified virtual platform: Provide a lighter, bandwidth-friendly version of the 3D environment for participants in low-connectivity regions.
Enhanced schedule navigation: Introduce advanced filters (by theme, region, stakeholder group) and session clustering for easier planning.
Strengthen bilateral meeting system: Make this feature more visible, user-friendly, and integrated with personal schedules to encourage cross-stakeholder exchanges.
Accessibility-first design: Ensure all online platforms comply with international accessibility standards (screen readers, multilingual captioning, etc.).
Onboarding tutorials: Provide pre-event video walkthroughs and short training sessions on how to navigate the digital tools.
1. Who to Invite
Underrepresented communities: Women, youth, persons with disabilities, indigenous peoples, and grassroots activists, especially from the Global South.
Technical and academic voices: More experts from universities, research institutions, and open-source communities to strengthen evidence-based dialogue.
Private sector diversity: Beyond big tech companies, more representation from SMEs, start-ups, and local innovators to bring practical and entrepreneurial perspectives.
Policy shapers: Stronger engagement with parliamentarians, regulators, and policymakers from developing countries to connect IGF debates with national policy processes.
Civil society & human rights defenders: To ensure digital rights, online freedoms, and inclusive governance remain central in discussions.
2. How to Inter-Connect Participants
Thematic networking clusters: Create networking spaces (both online and onsite) grouped by themes such as AI, digital rights, access & inclusion, etc., to foster targeted collaboration.
Mentorship programmes: Pair first-time participants, particularly youth and women, with experienced IGF community members to ensure knowledge transfer and confidence-building.
Cross-stakeholder dialogues: Facilitate structured “multi-stakeholder roundtables” where governments, private sector, academia, and civil society exchange perspectives directly.
Digital networking tools: Strengthen the bilateral meeting system and include “interest-based matchmaking” features in the IGF app/website.
Community-driven social spaces: Provide informal meet-ups, cultural exchanges, and cross-regional events to build trust and long-term partnerships.
Pre-IGF engagement: Organize online thematic meet-ups before the IGF so participants can already connect and come prepared for deeper discussions at the main event.
3. Suggestions for IGF 2026
Expand targeted outreach to new stakeholder groups and marginalized voices through NRIs, regional forums, and partnerships with grassroots organizations.
Institutionalize mentorship and fellowship tracks, particularly for women and youth, to sustain participation beyond one IGF cycle.
Integrate smart networking features (matchmaking, one-to-one chatrooms, follow-up options) into the IGF digital platforms.
Ensure balance across stakeholder groups so that governments, businesses, civil society, and technical experts all have equitable space.
Encourage year-round online community interactions so that relationships do not begin and end at the annual IGF.
Underrepresented communities: Women, youth, persons with disabilities, indigenous peoples, and grassroots activists, especially from the Global South.
Technical and academic voices: More experts from universities, research institutions, and open-source communities to strengthen evidence-based dialogue.
Private sector diversity: Beyond big tech companies, more representation from SMEs, start-ups, and local innovators to bring practical and entrepreneurial perspectives.
Policy shapers: Stronger engagement with parliamentarians, regulators, and policymakers from developing countries to connect IGF debates with national policy processes.
Civil society & human rights defenders: To ensure digital rights, online freedoms, and inclusive governance remain central in discussions.
2. How to Inter-Connect Participants
Thematic networking clusters: Create networking spaces (both online and onsite) grouped by themes such as AI, digital rights, access & inclusion, etc., to foster targeted collaboration.
Mentorship programmes: Pair first-time participants, particularly youth and women, with experienced IGF community members to ensure knowledge transfer and confidence-building.
Cross-stakeholder dialogues: Facilitate structured “multi-stakeholder roundtables” where governments, private sector, academia, and civil society exchange perspectives directly.
Digital networking tools: Strengthen the bilateral meeting system and include “interest-based matchmaking” features in the IGF app/website.
Community-driven social spaces: Provide informal meet-ups, cultural exchanges, and cross-regional events to build trust and long-term partnerships.
Pre-IGF engagement: Organize online thematic meet-ups before the IGF so participants can already connect and come prepared for deeper discussions at the main event.
3. Suggestions for IGF 2026
Expand targeted outreach to new stakeholder groups and marginalized voices through NRIs, regional forums, and partnerships with grassroots organizations.
Institutionalize mentorship and fellowship tracks, particularly for women and youth, to sustain participation beyond one IGF cycle.
Integrate smart networking features (matchmaking, one-to-one chatrooms, follow-up options) into the IGF digital platforms.
Ensure balance across stakeholder groups so that governments, businesses, civil society, and technical experts all have equitable space.
Encourage year-round online community interactions so that relationships do not begin and end at the annual IGF.
1. Best Practice Forums (BPFs) and Policy Networks (PNs)
Process
The BPFs and PNs followed an open, consultative approach, allowing stakeholders to contribute throughout the year.
Their documentation and outreach helped sustain dialogue beyond the annual IGF, ensuring continuity on critical issues such as cybersecurity, data governance, and meaningful connectivity.
However, the timeline felt compressed, leaving limited room for wider community consultation and iteration of drafts.
Content
The BPFs produced high-quality reports, drawing on diverse inputs and offering practical insights.
PNs advanced important conversations on AI, sustainability, and digital inclusion, linking expert knowledge with policy discussions.
Yet, the accessibility of outputs could be improved—some reports were too technical or lacked executive summaries for broader audiences, especially grassroots and youth participants.
Inclusion in Annual Programme
The dedicated BPF and PN sessions at IGF 2025 highlighted ongoing work and engaged stakeholders.
Still, these sessions were often scheduled in parallel with other important workshops, which reduced participation.
The presentation style leaned towards report-launch format rather than interactive dialogue, limiting opportunities for participants to shape next steps.
2. National and Regional Initiatives (NRIs)
The NRI track remained a cornerstone of inclusivity, connecting grassroots priorities with global debates.
The collaborative sessions involving multiple NRIs enriched the programme by showcasing shared challenges and regional nuances.
However, the NRIs’ visibility was sometimes overshadowed by high-level panels. More integration across tracks could have highlighted their relevance to global policy discussions.
3. Suggestions for IGF 2026
For BPFs and PNs:
Launch consultations earlier and allow for more iterative drafting processes.
Ensure outputs are more accessible (summaries, translations, infographics) to broaden their impact.
Design interactive sessions at the IGF (roundtables, policy labs) rather than only report launches.
Link BPF/PN outputs explicitly to ongoing international processes (e.g., WSIS+20, UN Global Digital Compact, SDGs).
For NRIs:
Increase the number of joint NRI–global sessions to ensure local perspectives inform global priorities.
Strengthen visibility by placing NRI sessions in prime time slots and integrating them into thematic tracks.
Provide capacity-building and small grants to NRIs so they can contribute more substantively to intersessional work.
Facilitate year-round collaboration between NRIs and BPFs/PNs, so that national and regional insights feed directly into global policy outputs.
Process
The BPFs and PNs followed an open, consultative approach, allowing stakeholders to contribute throughout the year.
Their documentation and outreach helped sustain dialogue beyond the annual IGF, ensuring continuity on critical issues such as cybersecurity, data governance, and meaningful connectivity.
However, the timeline felt compressed, leaving limited room for wider community consultation and iteration of drafts.
Content
The BPFs produced high-quality reports, drawing on diverse inputs and offering practical insights.
PNs advanced important conversations on AI, sustainability, and digital inclusion, linking expert knowledge with policy discussions.
Yet, the accessibility of outputs could be improved—some reports were too technical or lacked executive summaries for broader audiences, especially grassroots and youth participants.
Inclusion in Annual Programme
The dedicated BPF and PN sessions at IGF 2025 highlighted ongoing work and engaged stakeholders.
Still, these sessions were often scheduled in parallel with other important workshops, which reduced participation.
The presentation style leaned towards report-launch format rather than interactive dialogue, limiting opportunities for participants to shape next steps.
2. National and Regional Initiatives (NRIs)
The NRI track remained a cornerstone of inclusivity, connecting grassroots priorities with global debates.
The collaborative sessions involving multiple NRIs enriched the programme by showcasing shared challenges and regional nuances.
However, the NRIs’ visibility was sometimes overshadowed by high-level panels. More integration across tracks could have highlighted their relevance to global policy discussions.
3. Suggestions for IGF 2026
For BPFs and PNs:
Launch consultations earlier and allow for more iterative drafting processes.
Ensure outputs are more accessible (summaries, translations, infographics) to broaden their impact.
Design interactive sessions at the IGF (roundtables, policy labs) rather than only report launches.
Link BPF/PN outputs explicitly to ongoing international processes (e.g., WSIS+20, UN Global Digital Compact, SDGs).
For NRIs:
Increase the number of joint NRI–global sessions to ensure local perspectives inform global priorities.
Strengthen visibility by placing NRI sessions in prime time slots and integrating them into thematic tracks.
Provide capacity-building and small grants to NRIs so they can contribute more substantively to intersessional work.
Facilitate year-round collaboration between NRIs and BPFs/PNs, so that national and regional insights feed directly into global policy outputs.
1. Process
The DCs continued to provide an open, bottom-up space where diverse stakeholders collaborated on specific thematic issues (e.g., Internet rights, accessibility, gender, digital health).
Many DCs maintained strong year-round engagement and produced well-researched reports ahead of the IGF 2025.
However, the level of participation across DCs varied significantly—some were highly active, while others lacked consistent community involvement and visibility.
Coordination among DCs could have been stronger, with more efforts to share best practices and avoid duplication of themes.
2. Content
The DCs contributed substantive outputs that addressed ongoing and emerging digital governance challenges.
Some reports effectively connected community-based evidence with global policy debates, offering practical recommendations.
The gender and digital rights DCs made important contributions by ensuring equity and rights-based perspectives were included.
However, not all outputs were easily accessible to newcomers—some documents remained too technical or lengthy for broader stakeholder use.
3. Inclusion in the Annual Programme
Dedicated DC sessions at IGF 2025 gave coalitions the opportunity to showcase their work and engage directly with participants.
A few coalitions successfully co-organized sessions with other stakeholders, which enriched cross-community dialogue.
Yet, many DC sessions remained siloed, with limited integration into the main thematic tracks of IGF 2025.
Participation in DC sessions was uneven, as they were sometimes scheduled against high-profile panels or workshops.
4. Suggestions for IGF 2026
Stronger integration into the main programme: Position DC sessions within thematic tracks (e.g., digital inclusion, AI governance, rights & freedoms) so their outputs contribute directly to broader debates.
Improve visibility: Highlight DC work more prominently on the IGF website, app, and communications before and during the event.
Capacity-building for DC leads: Provide training and facilitation support to help DCs improve inclusivity, outreach, and report drafting.
Cross-coalition collaboration: Encourage DCs with overlapping themes to organize joint sessions and co-produce outputs.
Accessibility of outputs: Develop executive summaries, translations, and visual formats to make DC outputs more approachable for policymakers, youth, and grassroots communities.
Year-round connectivity: Foster stronger links between DCs, NRIs, BPFs, and PNs so that intersessional work is mutually reinforcing and contributes to IGF 2026 in a coordinated way.
The DCs continued to provide an open, bottom-up space where diverse stakeholders collaborated on specific thematic issues (e.g., Internet rights, accessibility, gender, digital health).
Many DCs maintained strong year-round engagement and produced well-researched reports ahead of the IGF 2025.
However, the level of participation across DCs varied significantly—some were highly active, while others lacked consistent community involvement and visibility.
Coordination among DCs could have been stronger, with more efforts to share best practices and avoid duplication of themes.
2. Content
The DCs contributed substantive outputs that addressed ongoing and emerging digital governance challenges.
Some reports effectively connected community-based evidence with global policy debates, offering practical recommendations.
The gender and digital rights DCs made important contributions by ensuring equity and rights-based perspectives were included.
However, not all outputs were easily accessible to newcomers—some documents remained too technical or lengthy for broader stakeholder use.
3. Inclusion in the Annual Programme
Dedicated DC sessions at IGF 2025 gave coalitions the opportunity to showcase their work and engage directly with participants.
A few coalitions successfully co-organized sessions with other stakeholders, which enriched cross-community dialogue.
Yet, many DC sessions remained siloed, with limited integration into the main thematic tracks of IGF 2025.
Participation in DC sessions was uneven, as they were sometimes scheduled against high-profile panels or workshops.
4. Suggestions for IGF 2026
Stronger integration into the main programme: Position DC sessions within thematic tracks (e.g., digital inclusion, AI governance, rights & freedoms) so their outputs contribute directly to broader debates.
Improve visibility: Highlight DC work more prominently on the IGF website, app, and communications before and during the event.
Capacity-building for DC leads: Provide training and facilitation support to help DCs improve inclusivity, outreach, and report drafting.
Cross-coalition collaboration: Encourage DCs with overlapping themes to organize joint sessions and co-produce outputs.
Accessibility of outputs: Develop executive summaries, translations, and visual formats to make DC outputs more approachable for policymakers, youth, and grassroots communities.
Year-round connectivity: Foster stronger links between DCs, NRIs, BPFs, and PNs so that intersessional work is mutually reinforcing and contributes to IGF 2026 in a coordinated way.
1. Process
The NRI network remained one of the strongest pillars of the IGF ecosystem in 2025, ensuring that grassroots and regional priorities fed into the global dialogue.
Preparations were inclusive, with the NRI coordination calls and community-driven processes offering transparency and opportunities for participation.
Youth IGFs expanded in 2025, creating more entry points for young leaders and strengthening intergenerational dialogue.
However, the compressed timeline limited some NRIs’ ability to prepare fully, and smaller initiatives faced resource constraints in contributing meaningfully to the global programme.
2. Content
NRI sessions brought forward diverse perspectives from across regions—on connectivity, digital inclusion, human rights, and AI governance—highlighting local realities that global panels might otherwise miss.
Youth IGFs provided fresh, solutions-oriented ideas and emphasized future-focused policy concerns, including skills development, online safety, and the digital economy.
Regional IGFs (such as EuroDIG, APrIGF, and AfIGF) presented strong cross-border insights, showing how digital issues manifest at both national and regional levels.
Nonetheless, the content from NRIs could have been better connected with BPFs, PNs, and Dynamic Coalitions to strengthen policy impact and avoid duplication.
3. Inclusion in the Annual IGF Programme
The dedicated NRI track ensured visibility for these initiatives, and joint sessions involving multiple NRIs enriched the discussions.
The global programme recognized the importance of NRIs as a bottom-up force, providing space for dialogue that reflected local and regional needs.
However, NRI sessions were sometimes placed against high-profile main sessions, limiting participation and visibility.
Youth IGF contributions, while strong, were often treated as side-events rather than fully integrated into the core programme.
4. Suggestions for IGF 2026
Greater integration across tracks: Align NRI sessions with the IGF’s thematic clusters so grassroots priorities contribute directly to main session outputs.
Prime-time placement: Avoid scheduling NRI and Youth IGF sessions against major high-level panels to ensure strong participation.
Strengthen resource support: Provide small grants, mentoring, and logistical support to NRIs with limited capacity, especially in the Global South.
Linking with intersessional work: Create formal pathways for NRI outputs to feed into BPFs, PNs, and DCs so that national and regional insights shape year-round outputs.
Elevating youth voices: Ensure Youth IGF recommendations are integrated into main sessions, not treated as parallel discussions.
Cross-regional collaboration: Encourage NRIs from different regions to co-organize joint sessions with shared themes, demonstrating comparative perspectives.
The NRI network remained one of the strongest pillars of the IGF ecosystem in 2025, ensuring that grassroots and regional priorities fed into the global dialogue.
Preparations were inclusive, with the NRI coordination calls and community-driven processes offering transparency and opportunities for participation.
Youth IGFs expanded in 2025, creating more entry points for young leaders and strengthening intergenerational dialogue.
However, the compressed timeline limited some NRIs’ ability to prepare fully, and smaller initiatives faced resource constraints in contributing meaningfully to the global programme.
2. Content
NRI sessions brought forward diverse perspectives from across regions—on connectivity, digital inclusion, human rights, and AI governance—highlighting local realities that global panels might otherwise miss.
Youth IGFs provided fresh, solutions-oriented ideas and emphasized future-focused policy concerns, including skills development, online safety, and the digital economy.
Regional IGFs (such as EuroDIG, APrIGF, and AfIGF) presented strong cross-border insights, showing how digital issues manifest at both national and regional levels.
Nonetheless, the content from NRIs could have been better connected with BPFs, PNs, and Dynamic Coalitions to strengthen policy impact and avoid duplication.
3. Inclusion in the Annual IGF Programme
The dedicated NRI track ensured visibility for these initiatives, and joint sessions involving multiple NRIs enriched the discussions.
The global programme recognized the importance of NRIs as a bottom-up force, providing space for dialogue that reflected local and regional needs.
However, NRI sessions were sometimes placed against high-profile main sessions, limiting participation and visibility.
Youth IGF contributions, while strong, were often treated as side-events rather than fully integrated into the core programme.
4. Suggestions for IGF 2026
Greater integration across tracks: Align NRI sessions with the IGF’s thematic clusters so grassroots priorities contribute directly to main session outputs.
Prime-time placement: Avoid scheduling NRI and Youth IGF sessions against major high-level panels to ensure strong participation.
Strengthen resource support: Provide small grants, mentoring, and logistical support to NRIs with limited capacity, especially in the Global South.
Linking with intersessional work: Create formal pathways for NRI outputs to feed into BPFs, PNs, and DCs so that national and regional insights shape year-round outputs.
Elevating youth voices: Ensure Youth IGF recommendations are integrated into main sessions, not treated as parallel discussions.
Cross-regional collaboration: Encourage NRIs from different regions to co-organize joint sessions with shared themes, demonstrating comparative perspectives.
1. Content
What worked well: The IGF 2025 programme covered a wide spectrum of issues, from emerging technologies like AI and quantum computing to long-standing concerns such as meaningful access, human rights, and capacity-building. Cross-cutting issues—gender, youth, accessibility, and sustainability—were meaningfully included across sessions.
What worked not so well: The breadth sometimes came at the expense of depth. Certain critical areas, such as women’s digital rights and online safety for vulnerable groups, could have been given more dedicated attention. Overlaps across sessions created duplication rather than synergy.
2. Speakers
What worked well: The diversity of speakers improved compared to previous years, with more women, youth, and Global South representatives featured in high-level discussions. Several sessions successfully balanced government, private sector, technical, and civil society voices.
What worked not so well: Some high-level panels still leaned heavily toward government and industry perspectives, with limited space for grassroots or community leaders. Youth and women speakers were often included symbolically rather than given equal footing in decision-shaping discussions.
3. Quality of Discussions
What worked well: The multi-stakeholder model was upheld, with many sessions allowing for genuine dialogue rather than pre-set speeches. Best Practice Forums, NRIs, and Dynamic Coalitions contributed to evidence-based, bottom-up conversations.
What worked not so well: In some workshops and main sessions, discussions felt too formal and presentation-heavy, limiting interactivity and reducing the “discussion” spirit of the IGF. Time management challenges also meant audience questions were cut short in several sessions.
4. Suggestions for IGF 2026
Sharper thematic clustering: Streamline overlapping sessions to reduce duplication and increase focus.
Balance representation: Ensure grassroots leaders, women, youth, and underrepresented groups are not just present but actively shaping key discussions.
Interactive formats: Expand the use of roundtables, policy labs, and dialogue-driven formats to enhance exchange and avoid panel fatigue.
Speaker diversity standards: Apply clear guidelines for gender, regional, and stakeholder balance across all sessions, not just selected ones.
Outcome-oriented discussions: Encourage sessions to conclude with actionable takeaways, summaries, or policy pathways to strengthen IGF’s contribution to the global digital governance ecosystem.
Capacity-building integration: Include preparatory workshops (online and in-person) to equip participants—especially youth and newcomers—to engage meaningfully in complex debates.
What worked well: The IGF 2025 programme covered a wide spectrum of issues, from emerging technologies like AI and quantum computing to long-standing concerns such as meaningful access, human rights, and capacity-building. Cross-cutting issues—gender, youth, accessibility, and sustainability—were meaningfully included across sessions.
What worked not so well: The breadth sometimes came at the expense of depth. Certain critical areas, such as women’s digital rights and online safety for vulnerable groups, could have been given more dedicated attention. Overlaps across sessions created duplication rather than synergy.
2. Speakers
What worked well: The diversity of speakers improved compared to previous years, with more women, youth, and Global South representatives featured in high-level discussions. Several sessions successfully balanced government, private sector, technical, and civil society voices.
What worked not so well: Some high-level panels still leaned heavily toward government and industry perspectives, with limited space for grassroots or community leaders. Youth and women speakers were often included symbolically rather than given equal footing in decision-shaping discussions.
3. Quality of Discussions
What worked well: The multi-stakeholder model was upheld, with many sessions allowing for genuine dialogue rather than pre-set speeches. Best Practice Forums, NRIs, and Dynamic Coalitions contributed to evidence-based, bottom-up conversations.
What worked not so well: In some workshops and main sessions, discussions felt too formal and presentation-heavy, limiting interactivity and reducing the “discussion” spirit of the IGF. Time management challenges also meant audience questions were cut short in several sessions.
4. Suggestions for IGF 2026
Sharper thematic clustering: Streamline overlapping sessions to reduce duplication and increase focus.
Balance representation: Ensure grassroots leaders, women, youth, and underrepresented groups are not just present but actively shaping key discussions.
Interactive formats: Expand the use of roundtables, policy labs, and dialogue-driven formats to enhance exchange and avoid panel fatigue.
Speaker diversity standards: Apply clear guidelines for gender, regional, and stakeholder balance across all sessions, not just selected ones.
Outcome-oriented discussions: Encourage sessions to conclude with actionable takeaways, summaries, or policy pathways to strengthen IGF’s contribution to the global digital governance ecosystem.
Capacity-building integration: Include preparatory workshops (online and in-person) to equip participants—especially youth and newcomers—to engage meaningfully in complex debates.
The High-level Leaders Track provided valuable political visibility and reaffirmed global commitment to multistakeholder Internet governance. However, there was limited interaction between leaders and grassroots voices. For 2026, it is important to design formats that allow direct dialogue with civil society, youth, and marginalized communities, ensuring that leadership commitments are matched with inclusive accountability.
The Parliamentary Track was highly relevant, connecting lawmakers with digital policy debates. Yet, more structured follow-up is needed to translate dialogue into legislative action. I recommend strengthening regional parliamentary networks, particularly from the Global South, and ensuring that women parliamentarians are actively represented to highlight gender-sensitive policymaking.
The Youth Track succeeded in showcasing innovative perspectives and fresh approaches. Still, youth participation risks being tokenistic if not meaningfully integrated into the main sessions. For 2026, youth delegates should co-moderate high-level panels, lead intergenerational dialogues, and have stronger capacity-building pathways linked to IGF intersessional processes.
Gender was present but often as a parallel issue rather than mainstreamed. Many sessions lacked gender-disaggregated perspectives on digital rights, AI governance, or cybersecurity. For 2026, every thematic track should include a mandatory gender lens, ensuring balanced speaker representation, gender-responsive policy discussions, and space for women-led initiatives to influence outcomes.
The IGF Village was an excellent space for showcasing diversity of stakeholders. However, small grassroots and women’s organizations from the Global South faced challenges in visibility compared to larger institutions. Providing equitable booth access, better promotion of smaller initiatives, and integrating Village outputs into the main agenda would increase impact.
Outreach through social media and newsletters was strong, but outputs were not always visible to grassroots stakeholders. A simplified summary of key messages in multiple languages, including Bangla, would strengthen impact. Outputs should also be linked to advocacy toolkits for CSOs and parliaments.
As Chairperson of the Bangladesh Women Internet Governance Forum (BWIGF), I strongly emphasize the need for a people-centered, gender-responsive, and inclusive IGF process. For IGF 2026, the UN should focus on bridging global–local gaps, amplifying women and youth leadership, and ensuring that commitments made in high-level tracks are translated into concrete, measurable actions.
Core Logics
Datamation Foundation
The preparatory process was not well drafted. The session selections were done in an opaque and non-transparent process. The selectionw was evident in the final sessions roll-out with large exclusions of organizations from the South and also near absence of Civil Society Organizations.
The Programme was too cluttered with too many sessions and overlapping themes. There were many and overlapping sessions on AI and other intersectional issues. In the future, lesser sessions may be planned so that wider participation of the participants is possible.
I have no experience since I attended the meetng in person in Oslo.
The Online platform is not very userfriendly and difficult to navigate. The bilateral meetings were not well-publicized and no networking efforts were made by the IGF Secretariat. While respecting individual data and information security concerns; by the IGF Secretariat receives consent from the participants; the participants list ought to be shared with the participants.
While respecting individual data and information security concerns; by the IGF Secretariat receives consent from the participants; the participants list ought to be shared with the participants. Non-sharing of information results in poor networking and much needed networking, Important stakeholders are not invited.
The content of the Best Practice Forums are well organized, even though these appear very disjointed.
To best of my knowledge, there was no consolidation and aggregation of the themes and presented in the closing plenary or in any other forum.
Many deserving Youth and National Internet Governance stakeholders were missed, especially from the South,
Largely the content and the speakers identified for the IGF sessions are of high quality. However so many sessions are not needed and undesirable from participation standpoint and competing for attention,
Largely the content and the speakers identified for the High level tracks are of high quality. However so many sessions are not needed and undesirable from participation standpoint and competing for attention,.
Not much awareness.
Nothing much to talk about and important Youth leaders working on the issue were exclided.
The gender perspective was well covered and very well represented,
This was well organized and well laid ut,
The communication and outreach has been excellent. However the communication collaterals and outputs can be better designed and better disseminated.
From the choice of the speakers to the selection of the sessions there is lot of improvement needed to be done. We hope this shall be carried out in the IGF 2026.
Good Governance Protection Forum
I had the privilege of attending the IGF 2025 and wish to express my appreciation for the effort, dedication, and coordination that went into organizing this year’s event. The diversity of participants, the thematic breadth of sessions, and the opportunities for dialogue across stakeholder groups were truly commendable.
Strengths of IGF 2025:
Multi-stakeholder inclusivity: The engagement of governments, civil society, academia, private sector, and youth delegates created a rich and balanced dialogue.
Timely and relevant topics: Discussions on AI governance, data sovereignty, and digital inclusion reflected pressing global digital policy challenges.
Networking opportunities: Side events, informal meetups, and exhibition spaces enabled meaningful collaborations.
Suggestions for Improvement for IGF 2026:
Hybrid Participation Enhancement:
While the online participation platform worked well, integrating more interactive tools (live polls, breakout rooms, and collaborative boards) could make remote engagement more impactful.
Ensure real-time interpretation and transcription for both in-person and online participants to enhance accessibility.
Session Structuring and Moderation:
Introduce clearer formats (e.g., debates, solution-building workshops, lightning talks) alongside panel discussions to keep sessions dynamic.
Provide moderators with stronger facilitation guidelines to ensure balanced speaking time and actionable conclusions.
Youth and Local Community Engagement:
Strengthen youth tracks with mentorship opportunities and ensure more visibility for grassroots initiatives, especially from underrepresented regions.
Offer travel fellowships targeting local innovators and small CSOs from the Global South.
Action-Oriented Outcomes:
Consider producing concise “Key Takeaways & Action Points” for each session that can inform policy processes post-IGF.
Create a mid-year online follow-up to assess progress on commitments made at the annual IGF.
Sustainability and Accessibility:
Continue adopting eco-friendly event practices and ensure venue accessibility for people with disabilities.
Offer carbon offset options for participants traveling long distances.
Closing Reflection:
IGF 2025 was an enriching experience, successfully advancing the mission of fostering open, inclusive, and constructive digital policy dialogue. I believe implementing the above suggestions will further strengthen IGF 2026 as a forward-looking, solution-driven, and globally representative platform.
Strengths of IGF 2025:
Multi-stakeholder inclusivity: The engagement of governments, civil society, academia, private sector, and youth delegates created a rich and balanced dialogue.
Timely and relevant topics: Discussions on AI governance, data sovereignty, and digital inclusion reflected pressing global digital policy challenges.
Networking opportunities: Side events, informal meetups, and exhibition spaces enabled meaningful collaborations.
Suggestions for Improvement for IGF 2026:
Hybrid Participation Enhancement:
While the online participation platform worked well, integrating more interactive tools (live polls, breakout rooms, and collaborative boards) could make remote engagement more impactful.
Ensure real-time interpretation and transcription for both in-person and online participants to enhance accessibility.
Session Structuring and Moderation:
Introduce clearer formats (e.g., debates, solution-building workshops, lightning talks) alongside panel discussions to keep sessions dynamic.
Provide moderators with stronger facilitation guidelines to ensure balanced speaking time and actionable conclusions.
Youth and Local Community Engagement:
Strengthen youth tracks with mentorship opportunities and ensure more visibility for grassroots initiatives, especially from underrepresented regions.
Offer travel fellowships targeting local innovators and small CSOs from the Global South.
Action-Oriented Outcomes:
Consider producing concise “Key Takeaways & Action Points” for each session that can inform policy processes post-IGF.
Create a mid-year online follow-up to assess progress on commitments made at the annual IGF.
Sustainability and Accessibility:
Continue adopting eco-friendly event practices and ensure venue accessibility for people with disabilities.
Offer carbon offset options for participants traveling long distances.
Closing Reflection:
IGF 2025 was an enriching experience, successfully advancing the mission of fostering open, inclusive, and constructive digital policy dialogue. I believe implementing the above suggestions will further strengthen IGF 2026 as a forward-looking, solution-driven, and globally representative platform.
The IGF 2025 programme successfully addressed a wide range of urgent and emerging digital policy issues, with notable focus areas such as AI governance, cybersecurity, data protection, digital inclusion, and emerging technology ethics. The thematic diversity allowed stakeholders from different sectors to find relevant spaces for discussion.
However, to further strengthen the impact in IGF 2026, the following suggestions are offered:
Refining Thematic Focus:
Consolidate the number of main thematic tracks to 4–5 core global priorities (e.g., AI and Emerging Tech Governance, Digital Rights and Inclusion, Cybersecurity and Resilience, Internet Governance and Global Cooperation, and Sustainable Digital Development).
Ensure themes are forward-looking, informed by both global trends and region-specific digital challenges.
Balanced Session Structure:
Maintain a mix of high-level sessions for strategic policy dialogue and community-driven sessions for grassroots perspectives.
Introduce more solution-building labs where participants can co-create recommendations or action frameworks.
Allocate dedicated “Regional Insight Sessions” to highlight local innovations and challenges, ensuring balanced global representation.
Session Types for Better Engagement:
Reduce over-reliance on panel discussions; integrate interactive formats such as debates, roundtables, fishbowl discussions, and policy hackathons.
Provide clear session outcomes—each session should aim to produce short, actionable key takeaways.
Offer more capacity-building workshops targeting youth, small NGOs, and policymakers from the Global South.
Programme Flow and Accessibility:
Ensure no overlap of high-interest sessions to avoid participant dilution.
Publish the final programme earlier to allow better participant preparation.
Guarantee real-time captioning, interpretation, and hybrid interaction tools for both in-person and online attendees.
Overall Reflection:
The IGF 2025 programme was inclusive and timely, but IGF 2026 can further enhance its thematic coherence, diversify engagement formats, and strengthen actionable outputs to ensure discussions translate into tangible policy influence.
However, to further strengthen the impact in IGF 2026, the following suggestions are offered:
Refining Thematic Focus:
Consolidate the number of main thematic tracks to 4–5 core global priorities (e.g., AI and Emerging Tech Governance, Digital Rights and Inclusion, Cybersecurity and Resilience, Internet Governance and Global Cooperation, and Sustainable Digital Development).
Ensure themes are forward-looking, informed by both global trends and region-specific digital challenges.
Balanced Session Structure:
Maintain a mix of high-level sessions for strategic policy dialogue and community-driven sessions for grassroots perspectives.
Introduce more solution-building labs where participants can co-create recommendations or action frameworks.
Allocate dedicated “Regional Insight Sessions” to highlight local innovations and challenges, ensuring balanced global representation.
Session Types for Better Engagement:
Reduce over-reliance on panel discussions; integrate interactive formats such as debates, roundtables, fishbowl discussions, and policy hackathons.
Provide clear session outcomes—each session should aim to produce short, actionable key takeaways.
Offer more capacity-building workshops targeting youth, small NGOs, and policymakers from the Global South.
Programme Flow and Accessibility:
Ensure no overlap of high-interest sessions to avoid participant dilution.
Publish the final programme earlier to allow better participant preparation.
Guarantee real-time captioning, interpretation, and hybrid interaction tools for both in-person and online attendees.
Overall Reflection:
The IGF 2025 programme was inclusive and timely, but IGF 2026 can further enhance its thematic coherence, diversify engagement formats, and strengthen actionable outputs to ensure discussions translate into tangible policy influence.
IGF Hybrid Format Design and Experience
The hybrid format of IGF 2025 provided valuable opportunities for both in-person and remote participants to engage in global discussions. The ability to join sessions from anywhere significantly broadened inclusivity, allowing stakeholders who could not travel to still contribute meaningfully.
Positive Aspects:
Global accessibility: Remote participation enabled voices from across different time zones and regions, including those from underrepresented areas.
Live streaming and recordings: Availability of on-demand session replays helped participants catch up on missed discussions.
Integration of online Q&A: The inclusion of online interventions allowed virtual participants to interact with panelists in real time.
Areas for Improvement for IGF 2026:
Stronger Interaction Tools:
Introduce more interactive features such as live polls, collaborative whiteboards, and breakout rooms for smaller group discussions.
Enable “hybrid networking spaces” where in-person and online participants can meet and collaborate.
Technical Quality and Support:
Ensure stable audio/video quality for remote audiences, especially in smaller session rooms.
Provide a dedicated hybrid facilitation team to monitor online engagement and ensure remote voices are equally represented in discussions.
Time Zone Inclusivity:
Consider repeating high-demand sessions or offering “mirror sessions” at different times to accommodate global audiences.
Provide downloadable summaries or key takeaways shortly after sessions for those unable to join live.
Equal Visibility for Online Participants:
Encourage moderators to deliberately invite online participant interventions.
Display online participant videos or avatars on main room screens to foster a sense of presence and equality.
Overall Reflection:
The IGF 2025 hybrid model was a major step toward inclusive global engagement. By adding more interactive elements, improving technical reliability, and ensuring equal participation opportunities, IGF 2026 can set a new benchmark for meaningful hybrid conferencing in the global internet governance space.
The hybrid format of IGF 2025 provided valuable opportunities for both in-person and remote participants to engage in global discussions. The ability to join sessions from anywhere significantly broadened inclusivity, allowing stakeholders who could not travel to still contribute meaningfully.
Positive Aspects:
Global accessibility: Remote participation enabled voices from across different time zones and regions, including those from underrepresented areas.
Live streaming and recordings: Availability of on-demand session replays helped participants catch up on missed discussions.
Integration of online Q&A: The inclusion of online interventions allowed virtual participants to interact with panelists in real time.
Areas for Improvement for IGF 2026:
Stronger Interaction Tools:
Introduce more interactive features such as live polls, collaborative whiteboards, and breakout rooms for smaller group discussions.
Enable “hybrid networking spaces” where in-person and online participants can meet and collaborate.
Technical Quality and Support:
Ensure stable audio/video quality for remote audiences, especially in smaller session rooms.
Provide a dedicated hybrid facilitation team to monitor online engagement and ensure remote voices are equally represented in discussions.
Time Zone Inclusivity:
Consider repeating high-demand sessions or offering “mirror sessions” at different times to accommodate global audiences.
Provide downloadable summaries or key takeaways shortly after sessions for those unable to join live.
Equal Visibility for Online Participants:
Encourage moderators to deliberately invite online participant interventions.
Display online participant videos or avatars on main room screens to foster a sense of presence and equality.
Overall Reflection:
The IGF 2025 hybrid model was a major step toward inclusive global engagement. By adding more interactive elements, improving technical reliability, and ensuring equal participation opportunities, IGF 2026 can set a new benchmark for meaningful hybrid conferencing in the global internet governance space.
Positive Observations from IGF 2025:
Website & Information Access: The IGF website was well-maintained with timely updates, clear navigation, and accessible background materials. The availability of session descriptions, speaker bios, and thematic outlines helped participants prepare effectively.
Mobile App & Schedule: The IGF mobile app provided a convenient way to navigate the programme, bookmark sessions, and receive updates. The session reminder feature was particularly useful.
Registration & Check-In: The registration process was smooth, with quick verification and friendly staff assistance at the venue.
Security: On-site security was professional, courteous, and efficient, ensuring a safe environment without creating unnecessary barriers.
Suggestions for Improvement for IGF 2026:
Website & Programme Management:
Publish the final detailed programme earlier (at least 4–6 weeks before the event) to allow better planning.
Introduce a session filter by theme, region, and format for faster navigation.
Mobile App & Online Access:
Improve real-time updates for last-minute session changes or room shifts.
Add offline access to the programme and key documents for participants with limited internet connectivity.
3D Virtual Platform & Online Engagement:
Enhance the 3D virtual environment to allow more intuitive navigation and easier access to live session links.
Provide a virtual networking zone for online participants to meet speakers and other delegates between sessions.
Bilateral Meeting System:
Expand and better promote the bilateral meeting booking system, allowing participants to arrange meetings with more flexibility.
Include an integrated chat and video call function for hybrid bilateral meetings.
Registration & Security:
Offer a self-check-in kiosk option to reduce waiting time during peak registration hours.
Maintain the current high standard of security while ensuring accessibility for participants with disabilities.
Website & Information Access: The IGF website was well-maintained with timely updates, clear navigation, and accessible background materials. The availability of session descriptions, speaker bios, and thematic outlines helped participants prepare effectively.
Mobile App & Schedule: The IGF mobile app provided a convenient way to navigate the programme, bookmark sessions, and receive updates. The session reminder feature was particularly useful.
Registration & Check-In: The registration process was smooth, with quick verification and friendly staff assistance at the venue.
Security: On-site security was professional, courteous, and efficient, ensuring a safe environment without creating unnecessary barriers.
Suggestions for Improvement for IGF 2026:
Website & Programme Management:
Publish the final detailed programme earlier (at least 4–6 weeks before the event) to allow better planning.
Introduce a session filter by theme, region, and format for faster navigation.
Mobile App & Online Access:
Improve real-time updates for last-minute session changes or room shifts.
Add offline access to the programme and key documents for participants with limited internet connectivity.
3D Virtual Platform & Online Engagement:
Enhance the 3D virtual environment to allow more intuitive navigation and easier access to live session links.
Provide a virtual networking zone for online participants to meet speakers and other delegates between sessions.
Bilateral Meeting System:
Expand and better promote the bilateral meeting booking system, allowing participants to arrange meetings with more flexibility.
Include an integrated chat and video call function for hybrid bilateral meetings.
Registration & Security:
Offer a self-check-in kiosk option to reduce waiting time during peak registration hours.
Maintain the current high standard of security while ensuring accessibility for participants with disabilities.
Reflections from IGF 2025:
IGF 2025 brought together a rich mix of participants from governments, civil society, academia, the private sector, and technical communities. The diversity of voices contributed to vibrant debates and a comprehensive understanding of global internet governance challenges. The presence of youth delegates, grassroots organizations, and underrepresented regional voices was particularly valuable.
Suggestions for IGF 2026:
Who to Invite:
Underrepresented Regions & Voices: Increase participation from the Global South, small island developing states, rural innovators, and indigenous communities, ensuring they have equal visibility on panels.
Policy-Makers & Regulators: Encourage greater attendance by parliamentarians, regulators, and local government leaders to strengthen the policy implementation link.
Private Sector Innovators: Engage start-ups, SMEs, and tech entrepreneurs alongside major corporations to broaden perspectives on innovation and market realities.
Thematic Experts: Invite subject-matter experts in AI ethics, cybersecurity, and digital human rights to provide evidence-based insights.
Youth Leaders: Continue to expand youth engagement through fellowships, mentorship, and dedicated youth tracks.
How to Inter-Connect Participants:
Enhanced Networking Platforms:
Integrate a smart networking tool within the IGF mobile app/online platform, allowing participants to find others with similar interests or complementary expertise.
Offer “interest-based matchmaking” for one-on-one or small-group meetings.
Facilitated Networking Sessions:
Organize daily “Meet & Connect” slots—short, informal, thematic networking gatherings to foster new collaborations.
Host “Regional & Thematic Hubs” where participants from similar backgrounds or interest areas can meet face-to-face or virtually.
Hybrid Social Interaction:
Provide hybrid-friendly networking lounges with screens to connect online and in-person participants.
Encourage speakers to share contact or collaboration links for follow-up after sessions.
Pre-Event Engagement:
Open the online networking platform 2–3 weeks before IGF to allow participants to schedule meetings in advance.
Share participant profiles (with consent) for easier outreach and collaboration.
IGF 2025 brought together a rich mix of participants from governments, civil society, academia, the private sector, and technical communities. The diversity of voices contributed to vibrant debates and a comprehensive understanding of global internet governance challenges. The presence of youth delegates, grassroots organizations, and underrepresented regional voices was particularly valuable.
Suggestions for IGF 2026:
Who to Invite:
Underrepresented Regions & Voices: Increase participation from the Global South, small island developing states, rural innovators, and indigenous communities, ensuring they have equal visibility on panels.
Policy-Makers & Regulators: Encourage greater attendance by parliamentarians, regulators, and local government leaders to strengthen the policy implementation link.
Private Sector Innovators: Engage start-ups, SMEs, and tech entrepreneurs alongside major corporations to broaden perspectives on innovation and market realities.
Thematic Experts: Invite subject-matter experts in AI ethics, cybersecurity, and digital human rights to provide evidence-based insights.
Youth Leaders: Continue to expand youth engagement through fellowships, mentorship, and dedicated youth tracks.
How to Inter-Connect Participants:
Enhanced Networking Platforms:
Integrate a smart networking tool within the IGF mobile app/online platform, allowing participants to find others with similar interests or complementary expertise.
Offer “interest-based matchmaking” for one-on-one or small-group meetings.
Facilitated Networking Sessions:
Organize daily “Meet & Connect” slots—short, informal, thematic networking gatherings to foster new collaborations.
Host “Regional & Thematic Hubs” where participants from similar backgrounds or interest areas can meet face-to-face or virtually.
Hybrid Social Interaction:
Provide hybrid-friendly networking lounges with screens to connect online and in-person participants.
Encourage speakers to share contact or collaboration links for follow-up after sessions.
Pre-Event Engagement:
Open the online networking platform 2–3 weeks before IGF to allow participants to schedule meetings in advance.
Share participant profiles (with consent) for easier outreach and collaboration.
The Best Practice Forums (BPFs) and Policy Networks (PNs) at IGF 2025 provided a valuable mechanism to carry forward discussions throughout the year, ensuring continuity between annual meetings. The BPFs on cybersecurity, gender and digital inclusion, and environmental sustainability were especially well-attended, and their outputs were substantive, evidence-based, and globally relevant. The Policy Networks also succeeded in creating multi-stakeholder collaboration spaces that linked research, policy recommendations, and community practice.
The National, Regional, and Youth IGFs (NRIs) brought essential grassroots and regional perspectives into the global conversation. These sessions added a strong layer of contextual diversity, ensuring that global policy discussions remained grounded in local realities.
Positive Aspects:
BPF and PN reports were comprehensive and based on open consultations.
NRIs contributed unique local perspectives and innovative solutions.
Interlinking of thematic sessions with BPF/PN outcomes enriched the discussions.
Suggestions for IGF 2026:
Process Improvements:
Launch BPF and PN workplans earlier in the year, with clear timelines and interim deliverables, to ensure more robust outputs before the annual meeting.
Expand outreach to ensure broader community contributions, especially from stakeholders in underrepresented regions.
Ensure that NRI sessions are strategically placed in the programme to avoid overlap with high-level thematic events.
Content and Integration into IGF Programme:
Dedicate a main session at IGF 2026 to present the cumulative findings of all BPFs and PNs, followed by open discussions on implementation pathways.
Encourage thematic linkages between BPF/PN outcomes and related workshops, ensuring that the outputs inform broader IGF policy debates.
Provide a visual mapping of connections between BPF/PN work and relevant IGF sessions in the programme guide and mobile app.
Connecting to IGF 2026 Process:
Treat BPF and PN outcomes as living documents that guide discussions during intersessional periods, feeding into preparatory work for IGF 2026.
Strengthen collaboration between NRIs and global BPFs/PNs through joint webinars and regional consultations during the year.
Create an IGF Intersessional Portal where stakeholders can follow progress, contribute case studies, and access outputs throughout the year.
The National, Regional, and Youth IGFs (NRIs) brought essential grassroots and regional perspectives into the global conversation. These sessions added a strong layer of contextual diversity, ensuring that global policy discussions remained grounded in local realities.
Positive Aspects:
BPF and PN reports were comprehensive and based on open consultations.
NRIs contributed unique local perspectives and innovative solutions.
Interlinking of thematic sessions with BPF/PN outcomes enriched the discussions.
Suggestions for IGF 2026:
Process Improvements:
Launch BPF and PN workplans earlier in the year, with clear timelines and interim deliverables, to ensure more robust outputs before the annual meeting.
Expand outreach to ensure broader community contributions, especially from stakeholders in underrepresented regions.
Ensure that NRI sessions are strategically placed in the programme to avoid overlap with high-level thematic events.
Content and Integration into IGF Programme:
Dedicate a main session at IGF 2026 to present the cumulative findings of all BPFs and PNs, followed by open discussions on implementation pathways.
Encourage thematic linkages between BPF/PN outcomes and related workshops, ensuring that the outputs inform broader IGF policy debates.
Provide a visual mapping of connections between BPF/PN work and relevant IGF sessions in the programme guide and mobile app.
Connecting to IGF 2026 Process:
Treat BPF and PN outcomes as living documents that guide discussions during intersessional periods, feeding into preparatory work for IGF 2026.
Strengthen collaboration between NRIs and global BPFs/PNs through joint webinars and regional consultations during the year.
Create an IGF Intersessional Portal where stakeholders can follow progress, contribute case studies, and access outputs throughout the year.
Dynamic Coalitions (DCs) continued to serve as important collaborative platforms for sustained engagement on specific internet governance issues. At IGF 2025, DC sessions covered a wide range of topics including internet rights and principles, accessibility, blockchain technologies, Internet of Things governance, and community connectivity. These coalitions provided a space for multi-stakeholder experts to co-develop policy guidelines, share best practices, and monitor progress in their respective domains.
Positive Aspects:
Diversity of Topics: The breadth of DC themes ensured that both emerging and longstanding internet governance issues were addressed.
Expert-Led Engagement: DC sessions brought together highly knowledgeable practitioners and advocates, resulting in discussions rich in technical and policy insight.
Continuity of Work: Many DCs presented progress reports and updates from year-round activities, ensuring that discussions built upon previous work rather than starting from scratch.
Areas for Improvement & Suggestions for IGF 2026:
Process Improvements:
Announce DC session topics and draft agendas earlier in the preparatory phase to allow participants to review and prepare meaningful contributions.
Encourage cross-DC collaboration on overlapping topics (e.g., digital inclusion, AI governance, and cybersecurity) to avoid duplication and strengthen impact.
Standardize DC session formats to ensure they include time for open dialogue, not just presentations.
Content & Integration into Annual Programme:
Highlight DC sessions more prominently in the IGF programme guide, website, and mobile app to increase participation.
Align DC sessions with the main IGF thematic tracks so that their outputs feed directly into related policy discussions.
Provide short, accessible summaries of DC work and outcomes for wider dissemination to non-technical audiences.
Connection with IGF 2026 Process:
Create an online IGF DC Hub to centralize all coalition updates, working documents, and opportunities for public input throughout the year.
Encourage DCs to host pre-IGF webinars or regional consultations to broaden participation beyond those able to attend the annual meeting.
Ensure DC outputs are included in IGF synthesis documents and considered in intersessional activities, making them an integral part of the year-round IGF process.
Positive Aspects:
Diversity of Topics: The breadth of DC themes ensured that both emerging and longstanding internet governance issues were addressed.
Expert-Led Engagement: DC sessions brought together highly knowledgeable practitioners and advocates, resulting in discussions rich in technical and policy insight.
Continuity of Work: Many DCs presented progress reports and updates from year-round activities, ensuring that discussions built upon previous work rather than starting from scratch.
Areas for Improvement & Suggestions for IGF 2026:
Process Improvements:
Announce DC session topics and draft agendas earlier in the preparatory phase to allow participants to review and prepare meaningful contributions.
Encourage cross-DC collaboration on overlapping topics (e.g., digital inclusion, AI governance, and cybersecurity) to avoid duplication and strengthen impact.
Standardize DC session formats to ensure they include time for open dialogue, not just presentations.
Content & Integration into Annual Programme:
Highlight DC sessions more prominently in the IGF programme guide, website, and mobile app to increase participation.
Align DC sessions with the main IGF thematic tracks so that their outputs feed directly into related policy discussions.
Provide short, accessible summaries of DC work and outcomes for wider dissemination to non-technical audiences.
Connection with IGF 2026 Process:
Create an online IGF DC Hub to centralize all coalition updates, working documents, and opportunities for public input throughout the year.
Encourage DCs to host pre-IGF webinars or regional consultations to broaden participation beyond those able to attend the annual meeting.
Ensure DC outputs are included in IGF synthesis documents and considered in intersessional activities, making them an integral part of the year-round IGF process.
The National, Regional, and Youth IGFs (NRIs) brought an essential dimension to the global IGF, ensuring that diverse local, regional, and generational perspectives shaped the broader internet governance dialogue. At IGF 2025, the NRI sessions highlighted grassroots experiences, regional policy approaches, and youth-led innovations. These contributions enriched discussions by grounding them in real-world realities, particularly from underrepresented regions.
Positive Aspects:
Diversity of Perspectives: NRIs successfully showcased varied internet governance challenges and solutions from across the globe.
Youth Leadership: Youth IGFs provided inspiring examples of digital literacy projects, community connectivity initiatives, and advocacy for safe online spaces.
Regional Collaboration: Cross-regional exchanges during NRI sessions encouraged knowledge-sharing between countries facing similar policy and infrastructure issues.
Suggestions for IGF 2026:
Process Improvements:
Announce NRI session schedules earlier to allow participants to plan attendance and preparation.
Offer capacity-building support to emerging NRIs to strengthen their ability to produce impactful contributions for the global IGF.
Provide guidance for session formats to ensure interactivity, rather than solely report-based presentations.
Content & Programme Integration:
Position NRI sessions more strategically in the main programme to avoid overlaps with high-profile thematic events, maximizing attendance.
Establish clear thematic links between NRI outputs and IGF main sessions so that grassroots perspectives feed into global policy discussions.
Publish a NRI Synthesis Report summarizing key priorities and recommendations, and present it in a main session or closing plenary.
Connection to IGF 2026 Process:
Create year-round engagement channels between NRIs and global IGF intersessional work (BPFs, PNs, DCs) so local experiences inform policy work continuously.
Encourage joint activities between NRIs and thematic working groups to foster collaboration beyond the annual meeting.
Support hybrid participation for NRIs, ensuring that representatives from all regions can connect with global discussions regardless of travel limitations.
Positive Aspects:
Diversity of Perspectives: NRIs successfully showcased varied internet governance challenges and solutions from across the globe.
Youth Leadership: Youth IGFs provided inspiring examples of digital literacy projects, community connectivity initiatives, and advocacy for safe online spaces.
Regional Collaboration: Cross-regional exchanges during NRI sessions encouraged knowledge-sharing between countries facing similar policy and infrastructure issues.
Suggestions for IGF 2026:
Process Improvements:
Announce NRI session schedules earlier to allow participants to plan attendance and preparation.
Offer capacity-building support to emerging NRIs to strengthen their ability to produce impactful contributions for the global IGF.
Provide guidance for session formats to ensure interactivity, rather than solely report-based presentations.
Content & Programme Integration:
Position NRI sessions more strategically in the main programme to avoid overlaps with high-profile thematic events, maximizing attendance.
Establish clear thematic links between NRI outputs and IGF main sessions so that grassroots perspectives feed into global policy discussions.
Publish a NRI Synthesis Report summarizing key priorities and recommendations, and present it in a main session or closing plenary.
Connection to IGF 2026 Process:
Create year-round engagement channels between NRIs and global IGF intersessional work (BPFs, PNs, DCs) so local experiences inform policy work continuously.
Encourage joint activities between NRIs and thematic working groups to foster collaboration beyond the annual meeting.
Support hybrid participation for NRIs, ensuring that representatives from all regions can connect with global discussions regardless of travel limitations.
The IGF 2025 programme successfully covered a wide range of timely and critical internet governance issues, including AI ethics, cybersecurity, data governance, digital inclusion, and environmental sustainability in the digital era. The thematic diversity ensured that stakeholders from all sectors found relevant spaces to engage, and the multi-stakeholder approach allowed for the exchange of varied perspectives.
Positive Aspects:
Content Relevance: Discussions addressed both emerging challenges and long-standing issues, balancing innovation-focused topics with rights-based concerns.
Speaker Diversity: Panels included representatives from governments, civil society, academia, private sector, technical communities, and youth organizations. The inclusion of speakers from the Global South added valuable perspectives.
Quality of Discussions: The sessions encouraged open dialogue and multi-stakeholder interaction. Case studies, research findings, and on-the-ground experiences enriched the debates, making them more actionable.
Suggestions for IGF 2026:
Content Improvements:
Reduce duplication by consolidating overlapping sessions and ensuring thematic coherence across the programme.
Integrate more forward-looking discussions on emerging technologies (quantum computing, Web 4.0, metaverse governance) alongside traditional IGF themes.
Dedicate more space to regional and grassroots innovations that can inspire scalable solutions globally.
Speaker Selection & Diversity:
Further increase participation from underrepresented groups, including indigenous communities, persons with disabilities, and rural innovators.
Engage more policymakers and regulators to strengthen the link between IGF discussions and legislative or regulatory follow-up.
Ensure panels include a balance of experienced experts and fresh voices, particularly youth leaders and early-career professionals.
Enhancing Quality of Discussions:
Encourage more interactive formats such as debates, roundtables, and collaborative workshops to avoid overly static presentations.
Provide moderators with structured facilitation guidelines to ensure balanced speaking time and focus on producing concrete takeaways.
Encourage each session to conclude with 2–3 actionable recommendations that can feed into IGF outputs and follow-up activities.
Positive Aspects:
Content Relevance: Discussions addressed both emerging challenges and long-standing issues, balancing innovation-focused topics with rights-based concerns.
Speaker Diversity: Panels included representatives from governments, civil society, academia, private sector, technical communities, and youth organizations. The inclusion of speakers from the Global South added valuable perspectives.
Quality of Discussions: The sessions encouraged open dialogue and multi-stakeholder interaction. Case studies, research findings, and on-the-ground experiences enriched the debates, making them more actionable.
Suggestions for IGF 2026:
Content Improvements:
Reduce duplication by consolidating overlapping sessions and ensuring thematic coherence across the programme.
Integrate more forward-looking discussions on emerging technologies (quantum computing, Web 4.0, metaverse governance) alongside traditional IGF themes.
Dedicate more space to regional and grassroots innovations that can inspire scalable solutions globally.
Speaker Selection & Diversity:
Further increase participation from underrepresented groups, including indigenous communities, persons with disabilities, and rural innovators.
Engage more policymakers and regulators to strengthen the link between IGF discussions and legislative or regulatory follow-up.
Ensure panels include a balance of experienced experts and fresh voices, particularly youth leaders and early-career professionals.
Enhancing Quality of Discussions:
Encourage more interactive formats such as debates, roundtables, and collaborative workshops to avoid overly static presentations.
Provide moderators with structured facilitation guidelines to ensure balanced speaking time and focus on producing concrete takeaways.
Encourage each session to conclude with 2–3 actionable recommendations that can feed into IGF outputs and follow-up activities.
The High-Level Leaders Track at IGF 2025 successfully brought together ministers, senior policymakers, heads of international organizations, industry leaders, and thought leaders from across sectors. These sessions elevated the visibility of IGF discussions and provided political and institutional weight to the outcomes. The presence of leaders from diverse geographic regions, including the Global South, helped ensure that the discussions reflected global realities rather than being dominated by a single regional perspective.
Positive Aspects:
Strategic Relevance: The sessions addressed critical policy areas such as digital governance, AI regulation, cybersecurity cooperation, and bridging the digital divide.
Diversity of Representation: Leaders from governments, the private sector, civil society, and multilateral organizations shared perspectives, creating a multi-stakeholder policy dialogue at the highest level.
Visibility and Impact: The track helped position IGF as a platform where internet governance priorities are connected to decision-making and global policy frameworks.
Suggestions for IGF 2026:
Content and Format Improvements:
Introduce interactive high-level dialogues rather than only formal speeches to encourage cross-sector engagement.
Ensure thematic alignment between the High-Level Leaders Track and the broader IGF themes so that leader discussions feed directly into other sessions.
Include scenario-based policy discussions where leaders explore practical responses to emerging governance challenges.
Diversity and Inclusion:
Increase the representation of leaders from small and developing states, including small island developing states (SIDS) and least developed countries (LDCs).
Involve more female leaders, youth leaders, and leaders from marginalized communities to ensure inclusive policy perspectives.
Strengthening Linkages to Outcomes:
Summarize the High-Level Leaders Track discussions into clear, concise takeaways that can inform the IGF outputs and be referenced in post-IGF processes.
Create opportunities for follow-up by encouraging leaders to commit to specific initiatives or collaborative actions announced during the track.
Positive Aspects:
Strategic Relevance: The sessions addressed critical policy areas such as digital governance, AI regulation, cybersecurity cooperation, and bridging the digital divide.
Diversity of Representation: Leaders from governments, the private sector, civil society, and multilateral organizations shared perspectives, creating a multi-stakeholder policy dialogue at the highest level.
Visibility and Impact: The track helped position IGF as a platform where internet governance priorities are connected to decision-making and global policy frameworks.
Suggestions for IGF 2026:
Content and Format Improvements:
Introduce interactive high-level dialogues rather than only formal speeches to encourage cross-sector engagement.
Ensure thematic alignment between the High-Level Leaders Track and the broader IGF themes so that leader discussions feed directly into other sessions.
Include scenario-based policy discussions where leaders explore practical responses to emerging governance challenges.
Diversity and Inclusion:
Increase the representation of leaders from small and developing states, including small island developing states (SIDS) and least developed countries (LDCs).
Involve more female leaders, youth leaders, and leaders from marginalized communities to ensure inclusive policy perspectives.
Strengthening Linkages to Outcomes:
Summarize the High-Level Leaders Track discussions into clear, concise takeaways that can inform the IGF outputs and be referenced in post-IGF processes.
Create opportunities for follow-up by encouraging leaders to commit to specific initiatives or collaborative actions announced during the track.
The Parliamentary Track at IGF 2025 played an important role in connecting global internet governance debates with legislative and regulatory processes at national and regional levels. The participation of parliamentarians from diverse countries and political systems enriched the dialogue, helping bridge the gap between multi-stakeholder discussions and formal policymaking.
Positive Aspects:
Relevance of Topics: The Parliamentary Track addressed pressing issues such as AI governance, online safety, data protection, cybersecurity legislation, and digital inclusion policies.
Cross-National Exchange: The track facilitated valuable exchanges of legislative approaches and best practices between countries, offering opportunities for harmonization of digital policies.
Integration into IGF: Parliamentary sessions were connected to broader IGF themes, ensuring that lawmakers’ perspectives informed multi-stakeholder debates.
Suggestions for IGF 2026:
Content and Format Improvements:
Move beyond information-sharing to collaborative policy-building, where parliamentarians work with other stakeholders to draft model policy recommendations or legislative frameworks.
Introduce case study discussions highlighting successful and challenging legislative experiences, with lessons learned for other countries.
Dedicate at least one joint session between parliamentarians and youth delegates to encourage intergenerational policy dialogue.
Diversity and Representation:
Increase participation of parliamentarians from underrepresented regions, particularly least developed countries (LDCs) and small island developing states (SIDS).
Ensure gender balance and greater inclusion of MPs working on human rights, indigenous affairs, and rural development, in addition to technology committees.
Strengthening Impact and Follow-Up:
Produce a Parliamentary Track Outcomes Document summarizing key priorities, policy gaps, and possible legislative actions, to be shared with national parliaments and inter-parliamentary networks.
Create a year-round parliamentary network under the IGF umbrella to continue discussions, share updates, and align legislative agendas ahead of IGF 2026.
Encourage MPs to make public commitments or declarations at IGF, which can be reviewed in subsequent forums.
Positive Aspects:
Relevance of Topics: The Parliamentary Track addressed pressing issues such as AI governance, online safety, data protection, cybersecurity legislation, and digital inclusion policies.
Cross-National Exchange: The track facilitated valuable exchanges of legislative approaches and best practices between countries, offering opportunities for harmonization of digital policies.
Integration into IGF: Parliamentary sessions were connected to broader IGF themes, ensuring that lawmakers’ perspectives informed multi-stakeholder debates.
Suggestions for IGF 2026:
Content and Format Improvements:
Move beyond information-sharing to collaborative policy-building, where parliamentarians work with other stakeholders to draft model policy recommendations or legislative frameworks.
Introduce case study discussions highlighting successful and challenging legislative experiences, with lessons learned for other countries.
Dedicate at least one joint session between parliamentarians and youth delegates to encourage intergenerational policy dialogue.
Diversity and Representation:
Increase participation of parliamentarians from underrepresented regions, particularly least developed countries (LDCs) and small island developing states (SIDS).
Ensure gender balance and greater inclusion of MPs working on human rights, indigenous affairs, and rural development, in addition to technology committees.
Strengthening Impact and Follow-Up:
Produce a Parliamentary Track Outcomes Document summarizing key priorities, policy gaps, and possible legislative actions, to be shared with national parliaments and inter-parliamentary networks.
Create a year-round parliamentary network under the IGF umbrella to continue discussions, share updates, and align legislative agendas ahead of IGF 2026.
Encourage MPs to make public commitments or declarations at IGF, which can be reviewed in subsequent forums.
The Youth Track at IGF 2025 was a vibrant and impactful platform, empowering young leaders from diverse backgrounds to contribute meaningfully to global internet governance discussions. Youth participants demonstrated strong knowledge of key digital policy issues such as online safety, digital literacy, AI ethics, climate-tech, and inclusive digital transformation. The track effectively amplified youth perspectives and ensured intergenerational dialogue across IGF sessions.
Positive Aspects:
Diverse Representation: Young participants came from multiple regions, including the Global South, and represented a variety of sectors such as civil society, academia, entrepreneurship, and advocacy.
Capacity Building: The preparatory workshops and mentorship initiatives equipped youth delegates with the knowledge and confidence to engage in substantive discussions.
Integration with IGF Themes: Youth-led sessions aligned well with broader IGF topics, and several youth representatives spoke as panelists in main sessions and workshops.
Suggestions for IGF 2026:
Strengthening Content & Skills Development:
Expand pre-IGF training to include negotiation skills, policy drafting, and cross-stakeholder collaboration techniques.
Introduce thematic working groups for youth participants to develop joint policy proposals before the IGF.
Integration Across the Programme:
Increase youth speaker representation in high-level sessions, Dynamic Coalitions, and Parliamentary Track discussions.
Ensure youth-led recommendations feed directly into IGF outputs, including BPFs, PNs, and closing session takeaways.
Networking & Collaboration Opportunities:
Create youth–mentor networking sessions pairing young leaders with senior policymakers, industry experts, and researchers.
Host intergenerational dialogues where youth and experienced stakeholders co-develop solutions to pressing digital governance issues.
Year-Round Engagement:
Maintain an active online youth IGF community for ongoing exchange of ideas, joint projects, and skill-building activities.
Organize regional youth consultations linked to NRIs to ensure that local youth perspectives shape global conversations.
Positive Aspects:
Diverse Representation: Young participants came from multiple regions, including the Global South, and represented a variety of sectors such as civil society, academia, entrepreneurship, and advocacy.
Capacity Building: The preparatory workshops and mentorship initiatives equipped youth delegates with the knowledge and confidence to engage in substantive discussions.
Integration with IGF Themes: Youth-led sessions aligned well with broader IGF topics, and several youth representatives spoke as panelists in main sessions and workshops.
Suggestions for IGF 2026:
Strengthening Content & Skills Development:
Expand pre-IGF training to include negotiation skills, policy drafting, and cross-stakeholder collaboration techniques.
Introduce thematic working groups for youth participants to develop joint policy proposals before the IGF.
Integration Across the Programme:
Increase youth speaker representation in high-level sessions, Dynamic Coalitions, and Parliamentary Track discussions.
Ensure youth-led recommendations feed directly into IGF outputs, including BPFs, PNs, and closing session takeaways.
Networking & Collaboration Opportunities:
Create youth–mentor networking sessions pairing young leaders with senior policymakers, industry experts, and researchers.
Host intergenerational dialogues where youth and experienced stakeholders co-develop solutions to pressing digital governance issues.
Year-Round Engagement:
Maintain an active online youth IGF community for ongoing exchange of ideas, joint projects, and skill-building activities.
Organize regional youth consultations linked to NRIs to ensure that local youth perspectives shape global conversations.
The IGF 2025 programme demonstrated an encouraging level of gender inclusion, both in its thematic content and in the representation of speakers. Several sessions explicitly addressed gender equality in the digital sphere, including women’s participation in the tech industry, online gender-based violence, gender-responsive digital policies, and the intersection of gender and emerging technologies such as AI. The presence of women leaders, policymakers, researchers, and youth advocates enriched the discussions with diverse lived experiences and policy insights.
Positive Aspects:
Gender-Specific Sessions: Dedicated workshops and main sessions addressed digital gender divides, online safety for women and marginalized genders, and policy interventions for equitable access.
Gender-Balanced Panels: Many sessions met or exceeded the IGF’s gender balance guidelines, ensuring visibility of female experts and gender-diverse perspectives.
Intersectional Approach: Some discussions incorporated intersectionality, recognizing how gender intersects with geography, socio-economic status, disability, and ethnicity in shaping digital access and empowerment.
Suggestions for IGF 2026:
Mainstreaming Gender Across All Tracks:
Ensure every thematic area—AI, cybersecurity, data governance, connectivity—integrates gender implications into discussions, rather than confining these to dedicated “gender” sessions.
Require session proposals to explain how gender considerations will be addressed, even if the topic is not explicitly gender-focused.
Diversity Beyond Gender Balance:
Increase representation of women from the Global South, rural communities, indigenous populations, and other marginalized groups.
Promote the participation of non-binary and gender-diverse individuals to reflect the full spectrum of gender identities.
Strengthening Actionable Outcomes:
Encourage each session addressing gender issues to produce concrete policy recommendations or calls to action.
Highlight successful case studies of gender-transformative digital policies and projects.
Capacity Building and Mentorship:
Expand mentorship programmes linking women and gender-diverse youth with senior leaders in internet governance.
Offer skills development workshops for women on leadership, advocacy, and technical competencies in digital governance.
Positive Aspects:
Gender-Specific Sessions: Dedicated workshops and main sessions addressed digital gender divides, online safety for women and marginalized genders, and policy interventions for equitable access.
Gender-Balanced Panels: Many sessions met or exceeded the IGF’s gender balance guidelines, ensuring visibility of female experts and gender-diverse perspectives.
Intersectional Approach: Some discussions incorporated intersectionality, recognizing how gender intersects with geography, socio-economic status, disability, and ethnicity in shaping digital access and empowerment.
Suggestions for IGF 2026:
Mainstreaming Gender Across All Tracks:
Ensure every thematic area—AI, cybersecurity, data governance, connectivity—integrates gender implications into discussions, rather than confining these to dedicated “gender” sessions.
Require session proposals to explain how gender considerations will be addressed, even if the topic is not explicitly gender-focused.
Diversity Beyond Gender Balance:
Increase representation of women from the Global South, rural communities, indigenous populations, and other marginalized groups.
Promote the participation of non-binary and gender-diverse individuals to reflect the full spectrum of gender identities.
Strengthening Actionable Outcomes:
Encourage each session addressing gender issues to produce concrete policy recommendations or calls to action.
Highlight successful case studies of gender-transformative digital policies and projects.
Capacity Building and Mentorship:
Expand mentorship programmes linking women and gender-diverse youth with senior leaders in internet governance.
Offer skills development workshops for women on leadership, advocacy, and technical competencies in digital governance.
The IGF Village at IGF 2025 was a dynamic and engaging space that showcased the diversity of organizations, initiatives, and innovations within the global internet governance community. It provided a unique opportunity for participants to explore ongoing projects, connect with organizations, and discover resources that support multi-stakeholder collaboration. The informal and interactive environment encouraged networking and learning beyond formal sessions.
Positive Aspects:
Diversity of Exhibitors: The Village hosted a wide range of stakeholders, including governments, civil society, academia, private sector actors, and youth-led initiatives.
Accessibility and Layout: The open, walk-through design made it easy for participants to visit multiple booths and engage in spontaneous conversations.
Interactive Engagement: Many exhibitors offered live demonstrations, printed resources, and multimedia content that helped attract and inform visitors.
Suggestions for IGF 2026:
Enhancing Visibility and Promotion:
Increase pre-event promotion of the IGF Village, including exhibitor profiles on the IGF website and mobile app, so participants can plan their visits.
Highlight thematic “zones” (e.g., digital rights, technical innovation, inclusion and capacity building) to help attendees navigate based on interests.
Interactive and Hybrid Access:
Provide virtual booths or 360° virtual tours so that online participants can also engage with exhibitors.
Enable live chat or appointment booking with booth representatives for hybrid networking.
Facilitating Connections:
Organize short “IGF Village Spotlight” sessions where exhibitors give 5-minute pitches about their work to attract more foot traffic.
Create networking corners within the Village to encourage deeper follow-up conversations after initial introductions.
Inclusivity and Diversity:
Ensure affordable and accessible participation for small NGOs, grassroots movements, and youth-led initiatives, particularly from the Global South.
Provide shared booth spaces for smaller organizations that cannot manage a full stand.
Positive Aspects:
Diversity of Exhibitors: The Village hosted a wide range of stakeholders, including governments, civil society, academia, private sector actors, and youth-led initiatives.
Accessibility and Layout: The open, walk-through design made it easy for participants to visit multiple booths and engage in spontaneous conversations.
Interactive Engagement: Many exhibitors offered live demonstrations, printed resources, and multimedia content that helped attract and inform visitors.
Suggestions for IGF 2026:
Enhancing Visibility and Promotion:
Increase pre-event promotion of the IGF Village, including exhibitor profiles on the IGF website and mobile app, so participants can plan their visits.
Highlight thematic “zones” (e.g., digital rights, technical innovation, inclusion and capacity building) to help attendees navigate based on interests.
Interactive and Hybrid Access:
Provide virtual booths or 360° virtual tours so that online participants can also engage with exhibitors.
Enable live chat or appointment booking with booth representatives for hybrid networking.
Facilitating Connections:
Organize short “IGF Village Spotlight” sessions where exhibitors give 5-minute pitches about their work to attract more foot traffic.
Create networking corners within the Village to encourage deeper follow-up conversations after initial introductions.
Inclusivity and Diversity:
Ensure affordable and accessible participation for small NGOs, grassroots movements, and youth-led initiatives, particularly from the Global South.
Provide shared booth spaces for smaller organizations that cannot manage a full stand.
The communications and outreach activities for IGF 2025 were generally effective in raising awareness, engaging diverse stakeholders, and sharing key developments before, during, and after the event. Social media updates, the IGF website, newsletters, and live-streaming channels ensured broad access to information. The outputs—such as session reports, daily summaries, and video archives—were valuable for participants and observers alike.
Positive Aspects:
Multi-Channel Communication: Effective use of social media platforms (Twitter/X, LinkedIn, YouTube) and the IGF website to share announcements, live coverage, and resources.
Daily Summaries: Timely daily highlights helped participants stay informed about key discussions, especially when unable to attend all sessions.
Video Archives: Recorded sessions provided valuable reference material and ensured accessibility for those unable to join live.
Suggestions for IGF 2026:
Enhancing Communication Strategy:
Launch a pre-IGF communications campaign several months in advance, including thematic previews, speaker highlights, and interactive polls to generate engagement.
Produce short explainer videos or infographics summarizing complex topics for a wider audience beyond the IGF community.
Strengthening Outreach and Inclusion:
Expand targeted outreach to underrepresented regions, including translation of key announcements and outputs into additional UN languages.
Partner with regional media and NRI networks to amplify IGF messages at the grassroots level.
Improving Outputs for Impact:
Standardize “Key Takeaways & Action Points” for every main session and thematic track to make IGF discussions more actionable for policymakers.
Publish a concise, accessible post-IGF summary report within one month, alongside the comprehensive proceedings.
Highlight examples where past IGF discussions influenced concrete policy decisions to demonstrate impact.
Interactive Engagement:
Use live Q&A polls during sessions and share results in real time to keep online and in-person audiences equally engaged.
Offer a centralized IGF Outputs Hub on the website where all reports, recommendations, and session recordings are easily searchable.
Positive Aspects:
Multi-Channel Communication: Effective use of social media platforms (Twitter/X, LinkedIn, YouTube) and the IGF website to share announcements, live coverage, and resources.
Daily Summaries: Timely daily highlights helped participants stay informed about key discussions, especially when unable to attend all sessions.
Video Archives: Recorded sessions provided valuable reference material and ensured accessibility for those unable to join live.
Suggestions for IGF 2026:
Enhancing Communication Strategy:
Launch a pre-IGF communications campaign several months in advance, including thematic previews, speaker highlights, and interactive polls to generate engagement.
Produce short explainer videos or infographics summarizing complex topics for a wider audience beyond the IGF community.
Strengthening Outreach and Inclusion:
Expand targeted outreach to underrepresented regions, including translation of key announcements and outputs into additional UN languages.
Partner with regional media and NRI networks to amplify IGF messages at the grassroots level.
Improving Outputs for Impact:
Standardize “Key Takeaways & Action Points” for every main session and thematic track to make IGF discussions more actionable for policymakers.
Publish a concise, accessible post-IGF summary report within one month, alongside the comprehensive proceedings.
Highlight examples where past IGF discussions influenced concrete policy decisions to demonstrate impact.
Interactive Engagement:
Use live Q&A polls during sessions and share results in real time to keep online and in-person audiences equally engaged.
Offer a centralized IGF Outputs Hub on the website where all reports, recommendations, and session recordings are easily searchable.
GWQ
كل شي كان منظم
البرنامج ممتاز جدا
ممتاز
كل شي جيد
لايوجد تعليق
KijijiLink
IGF is a powerful platform for advancing an equitable internet, and I deeply value its commitment to inclusion. However, as a technology leader attending my first global IGF, I noticed a significant gap: the technical community was largely absent from the conversation. Most sessions I joined focused on policy, with little engagement around the transformative role of technology itself.
My recommendation is to diversify the session topics and reduce redundancy, making space for organizations like mine that are leveraging digital tools to improve lives—specifically by raising awareness around mental health through internet-based initiatives. Combining overlapping themes could help surface more voices and innovations.
My recommendation is to diversify the session topics and reduce redundancy, making space for organizations like mine that are leveraging digital tools to improve lives—specifically by raising awareness around mental health through internet-based initiatives. Combining overlapping themes could help surface more voices and innovations.
Implementing a simple physical badge for security checks, as an alternative to relying solely on digital codes. Not all attendees may have access to a mobile device at all times, and phones can run out of battery unexpectedly. A physical badge would ensure smoother entry and greater accessibility for everyone.
I recommend inviting more speakers from the technology community to future IGF sessions. During my attendance, nearly every discussion centered on policy, with limited representation from those actively building and deploying tech solutions. Including more voices from the field—especially those using technology to drive social impact—would enrich the dialogue and better reflect the full spectrum of internet governance.
While policy-focused sessions are essential, I observed that most off-sessions leaned heavily in that direction. Yet the internet is fundamentally a technological construct—built, maintained, and evolved by those creating solutions on the ground. Excluding these voices risks making the dialogue incomplete, and potentially counterproductive.
I strongly recommend allocating more time and space to sessions led by tech companies and innovators who are actively addressing critical social impact issues. Their work—whether in mental health, accessibility, or digital inclusion—is vital to shaping an internet that truly serves humanity.
I strongly recommend allocating more time and space to sessions led by tech companies and innovators who are actively addressing critical social impact issues. Their work—whether in mental health, accessibility, or digital inclusion—is vital to shaping an internet that truly serves humanity.
I was unclear on the rationale behind launching another “Women in IGF” initiative when one already exists. Strengthening existing efforts might be more impactful than duplicating them.
Grateful to IGF for providing a platform to spotlight mental health initiatives—an area that deeply impacts lives and deserves continued visibility. As a technology leader, I hope future forums will include more voices from the technical community, especially those driving social impact through innovative digital solutions. Bridging policy with practice is key to building a truly inclusive internet.
Lillestrøm kirkelige fellesråd
Easy to navigate, even for first time attendant.
The local general knowledge in Lillestrøm area about IGF was very low. I think more organisations would come if they knew what IGF is, the very easy access and the relevans to civil society and private sector. It was by coincident I read a small article in the newspaper about the major who should welcome the IGF to Lillestrøm. I represent the Norwegian Church in the area and found the program very interesting.
Ministry communication and télécommunications Djibouti. Expert artificiel intelligence
While the IGF was successful overall, it is important to reflect on its commitment to true inclusivity. The forum aims to be a global, multistakeholder space, yet African voices remain underrepresented—especially as speakers and thought leaders. This is all the more concerning given the continent’s recent progress, including the adoption of a continental AI strategy led by the African Union, to which I contributed as a member of the working group. No mention or visibility was given to this effort during the IGF in Norway, which is a missed opportunity. If the IGF is to remain relevant and credible, it must go beyond symbolic inclusion and ensure that Africa is recognized as a legitimate and active contributor to global digital governance.
Abdou-rachid Idris Nour
Abdou-rachid Idris Nour
Ministry communication, posts and télécommunications. Djibouti
Moldova IGF
The preparatory process was organised transparently and in line with the core principles of the IGF.
The IGF 2025 programme was built around four sub-themes, which enabled coverage of a very broad range of issues. To improve intersessional linkages, cross-cutting discussions and formats would be especially appropriate.
The hybrid format enabled broader participation and access, allowing attendees from multiple time zones to engage in the discussions.
From a logistical standpoint, the event was well organised. Both the mobile app and the 3D platform were convenient to use. However, it might be beneficial to simplify the registration process and allow more flexible deadlines, especially for official delegations.
In addition to the parliamentary track, it seems advisable to introduce a dedicated government track or a separate space for the participation of high-level government representatives, as executive authorities play a key role in digital policy development and implementation in many countries.
IGF 2025 demonstrated that the work of Best Practice Forums and Policy Networks is increasingly integrated into the core IGF process.
As shown at the IGF in Norway, NRIs and Youth IGF are actively engaging in thematic discussions and providing fresh local insights, trends, and initiatives. At the same time, there is room to further improve engagement and integration among national and regional initiatives. As an NRI, we are interested in holding joint events with a regional or thematic focus.
This year, the programme featured a diverse array of speakers representing different stakeholder groups, and the quality of discussions was high. Nevertheless, there remains potential to further broaden the expert pool according to various inclusion criteria.
The IGF 2025 High-level Leaders, Parliamentary, and Youth Tracks were marked by substantive and solution-oriented engagement. Each track facilitated in-depth, multi-stakeholder dialogues on critical topics.
The IGF 2025 High-level Leaders, Parliamentary, and Youth Tracks were marked by substantive and solution-oriented engagement. Each track facilitated in-depth, multi-stakeholder dialogues on critical topics.
From this perspective, we believe the balance of speakers in key discussions improved.
IGF Village fostered communication and the formation of partnership initiatives. At the same time, IGF Village could be even more effective if its thematic focus were enhanced.
Public information and reporting materials effectively reflect the entire IGF 2025 process. National and regional initiatives should also contribute to disseminating outcomes within their respective communities.
The IGF 2025 was notable for the richness and diversity of its programme, as well as its open and inclusive atmosphere. The wide variety of formats helped attract many participants from different stakeholder groups. At the same time, it may be advisable to devote additional attention to inclusion—especially regarding regional balance.
In recent years, the IGF has evolved into a sustainable, multi-layered, multistakeholder platform, combining local, regional, and global expertise. This approach should continue to be developed and expanded, taking into account the context of the WSIS and Global Digital Compact processes to further strengthen the coordination of global initiatives.
In recent years, the IGF has evolved into a sustainable, multi-layered, multistakeholder platform, combining local, regional, and global expertise. This approach should continue to be developed and expanded, taking into account the context of the WSIS and Global Digital Compact processes to further strengthen the coordination of global initiatives.
The preparatory process was organised transparently and in line with the core principles of the IGF.
The IGF 2025 programme was built around four sub-themes, which enabled coverage of a very broad range of issues. To improve intersessional linkages, cross-cutting discussions and formats would be especially appropriate.
The hybrid format enabled broader participation and access, allowing attendees from multiple time zones to engage in the discussions.
From a logistical standpoint, the event was well organised. Both the mobile app and the 3D platform were convenient to use. However, it might be beneficial to simplify the registration process and allow more flexible deadlines, especially for official delegations.
In addition to the parliamentary track, it seems advisable to introduce a dedicated government track or a separate space for the participation of high-level government representatives, as executive authorities play a key role in digital policy development and implementation in many countries.
IGF 2025 demonstrated that the work of Best Practice Forums and Policy Networks is increasingly integrated into the core IGF process.
As shown at the IGF in Norway, NRIs and Youth IGF are actively engaging in thematic discussions and providing fresh local insights, trends, and initiatives. At the same time, there is room to further improve engagement and integration among national and regional initiatives. As an NRI, we are interested in holding joint events with a regional or thematic focus.
This year, the programme featured a diverse array of speakers representing different stakeholder groups, and the quality of discussions was high. Nevertheless, there remains potential to further broaden the expert pool according to various inclusion criteria.
The IGF 2025 High-level Leaders, Parliamentary, and Youth Tracks were marked by substantive and solution-oriented engagement. Each track facilitated in-depth, multi-stakeholder dialogues on critical topics.
The IGF 2025 High-level Leaders, Parliamentary, and Youth Tracks were marked by substantive and solution-oriented engagement. Each track facilitated in-depth, multi-stakeholder dialogues on critical topics.
From this perspective, we believe the balance of speakers in key discussions improved.
IGF Village fostered communication and the formation of partnership initiatives. At the same time, IGF Village could be even more effective if its thematic focus were enhanced.
Public information and reporting materials effectively reflect the entire IGF 2025 process. National and regional initiatives should also contribute to disseminating outcomes within their respective communities.
The IGF 2025 was notable for the richness and diversity of its programme, as well as its open and inclusive atmosphere. The wide variety of formats helped attract many participants from different stakeholder groups. At the same time, it may be advisable to devote additional attention to inclusion—especially regarding regional balance.
In recent years, the IGF has evolved into a sustainable, multi-layered, multistakeholder platform, combining local, regional, and global expertise. This approach should continue to be developed and expanded, taking into account the context of the WSIS and Global Digital Compact processes to further strengthen the coordination of global initiatives.
In recent years, the IGF has evolved into a sustainable, multi-layered, multistakeholder platform, combining local, regional, and global expertise. This approach should continue to be developed and expanded, taking into account the context of the WSIS and Global Digital Compact processes to further strengthen the coordination of global initiatives.
National Authority for Digital Certification
tight timelines, uneven regional participation
Suggestions for IGF 2026: start earlier, improve outreach for wider input
Suggestions for IGF 2026: start earlier, improve outreach for wider input
Session types: workshops, roundtables, debates, lightning talks, town halls, and capacity-building sessions.
What worked well: broad stakeholder participation, rich thematic discussions, strong networking opportunities.
What didn’t work well: some sessions overlapped, limited time for Q&A, uneven regional voices.
Suggestions for IGF 2026: streamline programme, allow more interactive dialogue, strengthen inclusivity and early outreach.
What didn’t work well: some sessions overlapped, limited time for Q&A, uneven regional voices.
Suggestions for IGF 2026: streamline programme, allow more interactive dialogue, strengthen inclusivity and early outreach.
What worked well: user-friendly website, functional registration, secure environment, and good mobile app support.
What didn’t work well: 3D virtual platform was underused, schedule updates were sometimes late, and online access faced minor glitches.
Suggestions for IGF 2026: simplify virtual tools, improve real-time schedule updates, enhance bilateral meeting system, and ensure smoother online access.
What didn’t work well: 3D virtual platform was underused, schedule updates were sometimes late, and online access faced minor glitches.
Suggestions for IGF 2026: simplify virtual tools, improve real-time schedule updates, enhance bilateral meeting system, and ensure smoother online access.
interactive workshops, social events, mentoring schemes, and stronger online engagement tools.
strengthen early promotion, give BPF/PN outputs more prominent slots in the main programme, and ensure their findings directly feed into discussions and policy recommendations
highlight DC outcomes more prominently, link their work to thematic sessions, and strengthen cross-collaboration with Best Practice Forums and Policy Networks for greater policy impact.
provide NRIs with more prominent and non-overlapping slots, strengthen youth engagement, and create clearer linkages between NRI outcomes and the global IGF agenda.
Content: Covered relevant and timely internet governance issues with good thematic diversity.
Speakers: Broad stakeholder representation, though some regions and sectors were underrepresented.
Quality of Discussions: Generally interactive and informative, but some sessions were time-constrained, limiting in-depth debate.
Potential Improvements: Ensure balanced regional and sectoral representation, allow longer Q&A or interactive segments, and provide summaries of outcomes for wider dissemination.
Speakers: Broad stakeholder representation, though some regions and sectors were underrepresented.
Quality of Discussions: Generally interactive and informative, but some sessions were time-constrained, limiting in-depth debate.
Potential Improvements: Ensure balanced regional and sectoral representation, allow longer Q&A or interactive segments, and provide summaries of outcomes for wider dissemination.
together senior policymakers, industry leaders, and international experts to discuss strategic internet governance priorities.
Increase outreach to more parliaments, schedule dedicated interactive sessions, and ensure outcomes inform broader IGF discussions and recommendations.
Give the Youth Track more prominent slots, strengthen mentorship opportunities, and ensure outputs feed into the broader IGF programme.
Encourage participation of women from underrepresented regions and communities.
Expand physical and virtual accessibility, schedule Village activities to avoid conflicts, and promote showcases in advance to maximize engagement.
Potential Improvements: Strengthen early and multilingual promotion, ensure timely publication of all outputs, and provide concise summaries for wider accessibility and policy uptake.
Accessibility: More support for participants with disabilities and better multilingual coverage would enhance inclusivity.
Engagement: Strengthen interactive formats to increase audience participation and feedback.
Follow-up: Share post-event reports and actionable outcomes more systematically to ensure continuity into IGF 2026.
Engagement: Strengthen interactive formats to increase audience participation and feedback.
Follow-up: Share post-event reports and actionable outcomes more systematically to ensure continuity into IGF 2026.
Pakistan Red Crescent Society
The IGF 2025 preparatory process followed an inclusive, multi-stakeholder approach to ensure broad participation and thematic relevance such as Launch of Call for Issues to gather input on priority themes from all stakeholder groups, MAG (Multistakeholder Advisory Group) reviews submissions and sets the overarching themes, Call for Session Proposals opens for workshops, open forums, town halls, and other formats, MAG evaluates proposals against thematic relevance, diversity, and format balance; final programme is agreed.
August 2025: Official Programme Announcement, including main sessions, thematic tracks, and side events.
August 2025: Official Programme Announcement, including main sessions, thematic tracks, and side events.
The programme was shaped through a global, multi-stakeholder consultation process to ensure relevance to emerging digital policy challenges. The final themes included , Data Governance & Privacy, Digital Inclusion & Rights, , AI and Emerging Technologies, Climate, Sustainability & the Digital Economy & Cross-Cutting Policy and Regulatory Issues
The IGF’s hybrid format is designed to ensure equitable participation for both onsite and online participants, making the event truly global and inclusive
All Well
Governments & Regulators – Policy makers, legislators, and diplomats engaged in digital and Internet governance.
Private Sector – Technology companies, telecom providers, start-ups, industry associations.
Civil Society – NGOs, advocacy groups, community networks, and user rights organisations.
Technical Community – Internet standards bodies, network operators, cybersecurity experts.
Academia & Research – Universities, think tanks, and policy research organisations.
Youth Representatives – Young leaders, innovators, and students from all regions.
Media – Journalists, digital rights reporters, and communication specialists.
Marginalised & Underrepresented Groups – Ensuring diversity in geography, gender, and accessibility needs.
Private Sector – Technology companies, telecom providers, start-ups, industry associations.
Civil Society – NGOs, advocacy groups, community networks, and user rights organisations.
Technical Community – Internet standards bodies, network operators, cybersecurity experts.
Academia & Research – Universities, think tanks, and policy research organisations.
Youth Representatives – Young leaders, innovators, and students from all regions.
Media – Journalists, digital rights reporters, and communication specialists.
Marginalised & Underrepresented Groups – Ensuring diversity in geography, gender, and accessibility needs.
Intersessional Work – Both BPFs and PNs operate year-round, engaging global stakeholders through open calls, mailing lists, and virtual meetings.
Multistakeholder Participation – Governments, private sector, civil society, academia, and technical community contribute equally to drafting, reviewing, and validating outputs.
Evidence-Based Approach – Work is informed by surveys, case studies, policy mapping, and data collection to ensure practical and relevant recommendations.
Multistakeholder Participation – Governments, private sector, civil society, academia, and technical community contribute equally to drafting, reviewing, and validating outputs.
Evidence-Based Approach – Work is informed by surveys, case studies, policy mapping, and data collection to ensure practical and relevant recommendations.
Independent but Connected – NRIs are independently organised, bottom-up initiatives aligned with IGF principles, ensuring local ownership and global relevance.
Perfect and informative
superb
good
Awsum
Balanced
Rayznews | Learn Internet Governance
1. Call for Issues and Session Proposals
# Strength: bottom-up, wide input from all stakeholders.
# Weakness: volume of submissions often exceeds capacity, leading to duplication and overlap.
# Risk: well-resourced actors submit stronger proposals, disadvantaging under-represented groups.
2. Session Selection
#Weakness: Alot of the session organizers and speakers were the same. Some valuable proposals get cut due to limited slots.
3. Programme Development
Strength: mix of workshops, main sessions, NRIs, BPFs creates comprehensive coverage.
Weakness: we Need new voice and new synergies
4. MAG Meetings and Open Consultations
Weakness: Needs to be more open and MAG nomination has to be OPEN
5. Capacity Development
Strength: year-round fellowships, youth engagement, and training improve inclusivity.
Weakness: still uneven across regions, especially Global South. Limited follow-up after training reduces long-term impact.
6. Programme Announcement
Strength: published early enough for planning.
Weakness: frequent late changes to sessions and speakers create uncertainty.
7. Outputs and Follow-Up
Strength: IGF messages and BPF reports provide structured outcomes.
Weakness: translation of discussions into concrete policy influence remains limited.
Overall analysis:
The process is democratic and transparent in principle, but constrained by resources, agenda saturation, and uneven participation. The balance between inclusivity and effectiveness is the core challenge.
# Strength: bottom-up, wide input from all stakeholders.
# Weakness: volume of submissions often exceeds capacity, leading to duplication and overlap.
# Risk: well-resourced actors submit stronger proposals, disadvantaging under-represented groups.
2. Session Selection
#Weakness: Alot of the session organizers and speakers were the same. Some valuable proposals get cut due to limited slots.
3. Programme Development
Strength: mix of workshops, main sessions, NRIs, BPFs creates comprehensive coverage.
Weakness: we Need new voice and new synergies
4. MAG Meetings and Open Consultations
Weakness: Needs to be more open and MAG nomination has to be OPEN
5. Capacity Development
Strength: year-round fellowships, youth engagement, and training improve inclusivity.
Weakness: still uneven across regions, especially Global South. Limited follow-up after training reduces long-term impact.
6. Programme Announcement
Strength: published early enough for planning.
Weakness: frequent late changes to sessions and speakers create uncertainty.
7. Outputs and Follow-Up
Strength: IGF messages and BPF reports provide structured outcomes.
Weakness: translation of discussions into concrete policy influence remains limited.
Overall analysis:
The process is democratic and transparent in principle, but constrained by resources, agenda saturation, and uneven participation. The balance between inclusivity and effectiveness is the core challenge.
well planned and organized
It was well managed
Very well managed
very well planned
well managed but I felt there should have been separated solts for the all the Dynamic coalition at the booth
The same people and the same youth leaders with the same issues. The UNIGF should have a new format to promote new policy of giving opportunity to other new leaders travel opportunity as the same people who is elected youth coordinator keep travelling. There should be a baseline of 2 -3 travel per person only so that it promotes inclusivity.
we need new leaders and new though process for the youth IGF.
we need new leaders and new though process for the youth IGF.
well managed
excellent
excellent
very very disspointed
well managed
very well managed
good
UNA-CHAD
United Diplomats of Africa
Le processus de préparation est vraiment top. Je suggère une continuité des choses comme avant
C’est vraiment bien structuré et une belle communication pour les programmes
Rien à dire c’est bien
Très accessible et compréhensible
C’est toujours parfait aussi je vois une connexion des participants avant 1 mois avant l’événement et c’est bien
Le Forum est bien organisé. Juste comme IGF 2025 en Tanzanie il y’a des sessions qui se passent en même dans des salles différentes où on a envie de les assister en même temps. Mais quand même pour l’organisation c’es top
Pour moi la coalition est bonne
Une belle initiative permettant une belle connexion des jeunes. Juste augmenter plus de représentant des pays
C’est excellent pour moi l traduction pour les autres langues est parfaite aussi
Beaucoup de dirigeants parfaits
Des parlementaires de haut niveau
Des jeunes leaders parfait. Pour moi en tant leader en Africa j’ai pu me connecter avec des jeunes dynamique et ambitieux
C’est top et car tout le monde respecte l’égalité des genres
Vajpayee Research Foundation
The timeline was well-structured, but an earlier call for issues and faster programme announcement could improve preparation and outreach. MAG meetings and capacity development initiatives were valuable but could include more youth-focused sessions.
The thematic focus was relevant and diverse, but some topics overlapped. A more streamlined structure with balanced representation of all regions could make discussions more impactful.
The hybrid model allowed wider participation, but online engagement tools could be more interactive to ensure virtual participants feel equally included.
The website and registration were smooth, but the 3D virtual platform could be simplified for better accessibility. The mobile app was helpful, yet a real-time update feature for session changes would be useful.
Expanding invitations to more grassroots organizations, youth leaders, and underrepresented communities could bring fresh perspectives. More networking spaces to connect participants across sectors would strengthen collaboration.
The process was inclusive and generated relevant, actionable insights. However, integration into the main IGF programme could be strengthened by aligning sessions with thematic tracks and ensuring follow-up outputs feed directly into policy discussions for IGF 2026.
The diversity of topics and expertise was valuable, but some sessions lacked visibility. A clearer scheduling strategy, more pre-event promotion, and dedicated reporting slots in the main programme would better connect their work to IGF 2026 goals.
NRIs brought strong grassroots perspectives and showcased local innovations, but their sessions could be more interlinked with global debates. Structured matchmaking, cross-NRI collaboration panels, and joint reporting to plenaries would ensure their insights are embedded in IGF 2026 discussions.
Covered diverse and timely topics, with strong multi-stakeholder participation. Some sessions could benefit from more interactive formats and clear outcome documentation to enhance follow-up.
Brought valuable political visibility and cross-sector perspectives. Future editions could include more direct engagement with civil society and youth voices within high-level panels.
Enabled policy-oriented exchanges, but could be expanded with more representation from underrepresented regions and greater integration with thematic sessions.
Provided fresh perspectives and innovative ideas. Strengthening cross-track integration and mentorship opportunities would amplify youth contributions to the main programme.
While gender balance among speakers improved, some panels still lacked equitable representation. Embedding a gender lens in session planning and outcome reporting would further inclusivity.
Offered a dynamic space for networking and showcasing initiatives. Greater promotion during the main programme could increase footfall and engagement.
Communications were clear, but real-time updates on session outcomes could be improved. Outputs should be more accessible post-event, with summaries linked to thematic priorities.
IGF 2025 successfully brought together diverse voices and fostered constructive dialogue on pressing digital governance issues. The hybrid format expanded access, but further efforts to ensure equitable participation across regions, languages, and bandwidth capacities will make it even more inclusive. Strengthening linkages between discussions and actionable outcomes, while ensuring post-event follow-up, will enhance IGF’s long-term impact. More opportunities for informal networking, mentorship, and cross-track collaboration could further energize the community and attract new stakeholders.
World Digital Technology Academy
excellent
excellent
excellent
excellent
excellent
excellent
excellent
excellent
excellent
excellent
excellent
excellent
excellent
excellent
excellent
Willing to participate and work together to support the successful implementation of IGF2026.
Xu Ting, Founder and Chairman of SXR Technology Think Tank, Vice Chairman of World Academy of Digital Sciences
Xu Ting, Founder and Chairman of SXR Technology Think Tank, Vice Chairman of World Academy of Digital Sciences
From Persons:
Aisha
This was my first Inter Governance Forum meeting I have attended, and was a great experience overall. Everything was well-organised and up to the mark. However, the time allocated for the visa process was a bit short, which made it challenging to manage all the necessary arrangements.
Overall, all the session were outstanding. The programme was well-structured, with a good balance of session type that kept the engagement high throughout. I particularly appreciated the thematic focus on digital rights and cyber security, which was both timely and highly relevant.
The hybrid format was thoughtfully designed, allowing both in-person and virtual participants to engage effectively. The technical arrangements were smooth, and the sessions were accessible and interactive for everyone. While attending in person, I could see the virtual integration was seamless, ensuring exclusivity and board participation. Overall, it was a successful and well-executed hybrid experience.
The logistic were handled efficiently across all platform.The 3D virtual platform was innovative and engaging, making the remote experience more interactive. R
The selection of guests and speakers was excellent all the leaders and participants were well-chosen, bringing diverse perspectives and expertise to the discussions. It was a truly impressive guest list, with thought leaders, policymakers and professionals contributing to meaningfully to ever session.
To further enhance interconnection among participation, more structured networking opportunities could be helpful, such dedicated breakout sessions, thematic groups. I really appreciate the informal meet-and-greet events and was a great networking with people from around the globe.
To further enhance interconnection among participation, more structured networking opportunities could be helpful, such dedicated breakout sessions, thematic groups. I really appreciate the informal meet-and-greet events and was a great networking with people from around the globe.
The inclusion of international activities in the annual Inter Governance Forum meeting has a participatory. Expending participation in intersessional work through outreach, multilingual support and partnership with regional and national Inter Governance Forum meetings.
As a first-time participant engaging with dynamic coalitions at IGF 2025, I was impressed by both the openness and the depth of work being carried out through these intersessional activities.
The process of engaging with the dynamic coalitions felt welcoming and as a new comer better understand how to get involved. It was encouraging to see how accessible and collaborative these spaces are, and even for those participating for the first time.
I’m grateful for the inclusive spirit that defines this space, and I believe they will continue to be a critical part of a successful and impactful Inter Governance Forum 2026 beyond.
The process of engaging with the dynamic coalitions felt welcoming and as a new comer better understand how to get involved. It was encouraging to see how accessible and collaborative these spaces are, and even for those participating for the first time.
I’m grateful for the inclusive spirit that defines this space, and I believe they will continue to be a critical part of a successful and impactful Inter Governance Forum 2026 beyond.
National, Regional and Youth Inter Governance Forum continue to be a cornerstone of the internet Governance Forum's distributed and inclusive model. At Inter Governance Forum 2025, NRIs processes around the world. The content presented by NRIs reflected the unique challenges and priorities faced in different parts of the world, including emerging regulatory issues, digital inclusion, youth empowerment, and local capacity building. The content presented by NRIs reflected the unique challenges and priorities faced in different parts of the world, including emerging regulatory issues, digital inclusion, youth empowerment, and local capacity building. These inputs added valuable context to global discussions, helping to ground high-level policy debates in lived local experiences.
In connection to IGF 2026 programme looking ahead to a process where NRIs well places to serve as key contributors. To strengthen this link,several steps could be considered: Encouraging joint thematic outputs from NRIs that can feed directly into Inter Governance Forum 2026 and more representation from the under developing regions. Supporting increase visibility for Youth Inter Governance Forum including dedicated mentorship and speaking roles for young leaders in the main programme.
In connection to IGF 2026 programme looking ahead to a process where NRIs well places to serve as key contributors. To strengthen this link,several steps could be considered: Encouraging joint thematic outputs from NRIs that can feed directly into Inter Governance Forum 2026 and more representation from the under developing regions. Supporting increase visibility for Youth Inter Governance Forum including dedicated mentorship and speaking roles for young leaders in the main programme.
The Inter Governance Forum 2025 programme offered a broad and timely range of content that reflected many of the most pressing challenges and opportunities in global digital governance.The thematic areas tracks were well chosen, with strong relevance to ongoing international debates including AI governance, digital inclusion and cyber security and platform accountability. The sessions covered a wide array of policy and technical issues.
The speakers lineup across the Forum was diverse and representative, with a good balance of stakeholders from, governments, civil society, the technical community, and international organisations. There were many high-quality contributions, including strong interventions from youth and underrepresented regions. I encourage more dynamic sessions such as round tables, moderated debates, to foster deeper engagement and participation, especially from those not on the panel.
The Parliamentary Track at Inter Governance Forum 2025 continued to be a valuable component of the forum.
I really appreciated the inclusion of the youth track and recognise the continued committed to amplifying youth voices in global internet governance discussions. However, as youth from Pakistan where nearly 60% of the population in under 30 we believe there is a critical need to strengthen regional representation and ensure more meaningful engagement from the Global South, particularly South Asia
Viewing the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) 2025 programme content from a gender prospective involves evaluating how well gender-related issues are integrated into the discussion, how inclusive the process is for people of all genders especially women and gender-diverse groups and whether the outcomes support gender equality in digital spaces.
The IGF village is a space within the Internet Governance Forum various organisations, initiatives and stakeholders showcase their work related to internet governance. From a gender perspective, evaluating the IGF village involves looking at how gender equality, women's rights and inclusion are presented, promoted and integrated into the exhibits, participants, and narratives.
Inter Governance Forum demonstrates a very high level of gender-inclusive language across its official communications. The website, social media posts and public statements constantly reflect a commitment to diversity and inclusion. Its outreach is really active in proactive engagement with feminist and gender-diverse actors with outcome of gender-specific insights included in reports and summaries highlighting the issues of genders in different perspectives.
The Inter Governance Forum plays a crucial role in advancing digital rights globally, providing a space where diverse voices can come together to address challenges like privacy, freedom of expression, cyber security and access to internet. Its ongoing protecting and promoting digital rights is vital for fair and open internet.
Looking forward to Inter Governance Forum 2026 with a lot of innovations.
Looking forward to Inter Governance Forum 2026 with a lot of innovations.
Akinrinlola
Very good and perfect.
Each region should be giving more sessions.
Very lovely.
Very excellent.
I will propose a general platform for all the participants.
All inclusive
All the speakers are good and impactful.
More attention should be given.
It's ok
Excellent
It's ok
I will like to advise that the 2026 edition should be all inclusive and also focused on community engagement and youth oriented.
Very good and perfect.
Each region should be giving more sessions.
Very lovely.
Very excellent.
I will propose a general platform for all the participants.
All inclusive
All the speakers are good and impactful.
More attention should be given.
It's ok
Excellent
It's ok
I will like to advise that the 2026 edition should be all inclusive and also focused on community engagement and youth oriented.
Aleruchi
Publish the programme and session details earlier to allow participants sufficient preparation time.
Provide clear, publicly available criteria for selecting sessions to improve transparency.
Expand pre-event training and capacity-building opportunities, especially for youth, grassroots actors, and participants from developing countries.
Provide clear, publicly available criteria for selecting sessions to improve transparency.
Expand pre-event training and capacity-building opportunities, especially for youth, grassroots actors, and participants from developing countries.
Maintain a healthy balance between recurring thematic areas and new, forward-looking topics.
Use more interactive formats for example, roundtables, live polls, collaborative workshops to engage participants more actively.
Ensure gender balance and diversity in moderators and speakers.
Use more interactive formats for example, roundtables, live polls, collaborative workshops to engage participants more actively.
Ensure gender balance and diversity in moderators and speakers.
Improve integration between in-person and online participants so that both have equal speaking opportunities.
Provide real-time captioning and multilingual interpretation for more sessions to improve accessibility.
Provide real-time captioning and multilingual interpretation for more sessions to improve accessibility.
Enhance the mobile app with improved filtering and search options for sessions and speakers.
Simplify the registration and platform login processes to reduce technical issues.
Upgrade the bilateral meeting system with better matchmaking tools based on participant interests.
Simplify the registration and platform login processes to reduce technical issues.
Upgrade the bilateral meeting system with better matchmaking tools based on participant interests.
Increase targeted outreach to underrepresented groups, including grassroots innovators, youth, and community-based organizations.
Facilitate regional networking opportunities within the main programme.
Facilitate regional networking opportunities within the main programme.
Better integrate their findings into the main sessions to increase their visibility and impact.
Summarise their work in short, accessible formats for wider dissemination.
Summarise their work in short, accessible formats for wider dissemination.
Give more programme time for them to present actionable outcomes.
Encourage collaboration between coalitions and NRIs to connect global and local priorities.
Encourage collaboration between coalitions and NRIs to connect global and local priorities.
At IGF 2025, the National, Regional, and Youth IGFs (NRIs) presented sessions showcasing local priorities, challenges, and best practices from their respective communities. These contributions enriched the global dialogue but were mostly scheduled as stand-alone segments, making them feel somewhat separate from the main thematic discussions. For IGF 2026, NRI outcomes could be more directly integrated into plenary and thematic sessions, with joint presentations, plenary showcases, and structured networking to ensure local insights inform global policy debates.
Topics were relevant and diverse, but future programmes should incorporate more emerging issues and interactive dialogue formats.
Maintain a strong gender balance and diversity among speakers.
Maintain a strong gender balance and diversity among speakers.
Provided valuable governmental and policymaking insights, continue, but consider more cross-dialogue between leaders and community participants.
Successfully brought legislative perspectives, but could benefit from more joint sessions with civil society and technical experts.
Continue engaging youth in the main programme beyond their dedicated track, ensuring their perspectives influence broader discussions.
I think it was balance
Expand the diversity of exhibitors, including more grassroots and regional organisations.
Increase social media outreach before and during the event to attract new audiences.
Produce concise and accessible summaries of outputs for policymakers, media, and the public.
Produce concise and accessible summaries of outputs for policymakers, media, and the public.
Consider creating a Digital Inclusion Showcase to highlight innovative community projects worldwide, also
Launch a mentorship programme connecting first-time attendees with experienced IGF participants.
Launch a mentorship programme connecting first-time attendees with experienced IGF participants.
Basbey
In my opinion, at the annual IGFs, the fact that the session topics are determined around very general and limited main themes often leads to sessions addressing subjects that are too similar to one another. Recommendation: In addition to the main themes, much more specific sub-themes should be defined, where certain clear and concrete issues that deserve direct attention and discussion can be addressed, even without necessarily having to fit strictly under a main theme. For example, while a proposed session titled “Measures that social media platforms should take to prevent hate crimes online” might currently be categorized under the broad main theme of “Internet for All/Safe Internet for All,” it would be more refined if there were sub-themes such as “Combating Digital Hate Crimes” or “Essential Safety Measures for Social Media Platforms.” In that case, the session could be proposed under that smaller category, resulting in a more precise and thematically distinct IGF.
A large number of sessions are held where topics are discussed only through broad, overarching concepts, with a stronger focus on the principles that should be emphasized rather than on the practical aspects of internet-related issues. By the end of these sessions, what usually happens is that everyone shares their goodwill with one another, no real disagreements emerge, and ultimately, the discussions do not contribute any genuinely new ideas to the participants.
In many session descriptions, it is stated that the format will be a roundtable, where participants will be divided into groups to generate different proposals and create a kind of idea workshop. Despite making a special effort to attend such sessions, I have not witnessed a single one where this format was actually implemented as described. In theory, I find this approach truly engaging and valuable, but in practice, it seems that it is not being put into action.
In the past, I did not receive replies to some of my questions about the IGF that I had sent by email. As participants, we often rely on these clarifications to better prepare and engage with the sessions. Paying a bit more attention to responding to emails, especially before the program, would make participants feel more supported and connected to the process.
It may be valuable to extend more invitations to senior executives and CEOs of technology companies that are directly engaged with the internet and the digital environment. Furthermore, ensuring the active participation of officials from security institutions with operational authority, as well as representatives of regulatory bodies, could significantly enrich the discussions. Additionally, the personal presence of the United Nations Secretary-General would likely inspire greater engagement from policymakers and well-known public figures, further strengthening the IGF’s visibility and impact.
Thank you and see you next IGF.
BORRA
Dear maam/ sir
At the very outset i wish you a very good morning to you madam/ sir or good afternoon or good evng to you all Local time. very good noon to you all from Hyderabad, Telangana state. Well ! I, THANK GOD, everything's went on well note by the Blessings of our Lord & saviour of the world Jesus Christ. God Bless this IGF SECRETARIAT OFFICIALS IN PEACE ALWAYS BE with Entire officials of the IGF secretariat. God Bless this my favourite country " Norway " in peace Always & i, Acknowledges the Mastwr ceremonies madam God's Blessings be with madam always & all your family members too, in peace Always. My only Request to you is
" what wotked not so well ? answer ; if in case i'm facing to apply for " VISA" issues & nonbody helped on time , please look into the issue's. Thanking you wth wrm Regards B.V.REDDY
At the very outset i wish you a very good morning to you madam/ sir or good afternoon or good evng to you all Local time. very good noon to you all from Hyderabad, Telangana state. Well ! I, THANK GOD, everything's went on well note by the Blessings of our Lord & saviour of the world Jesus Christ. God Bless this IGF SECRETARIAT OFFICIALS IN PEACE ALWAYS BE with Entire officials of the IGF secretariat. God Bless this my favourite country " Norway " in peace Always & i, Acknowledges the Mastwr ceremonies madam God's Blessings be with madam always & all your family members too, in peace Always. My only Request to you is
" what wotked not so well ? answer ; if in case i'm facing to apply for " VISA" issues & nonbody helped on time , please look into the issue's. Thanking you wth wrm Regards B.V.REDDY
IGF 2K25overall Programme I, already said . By the Blessings of our Lord & saviour Jesus Christ The IGF2K25 Annual summit of IGF on june 23rd- june.27th.2k25 went on well note. I, Thank God & Also i, Thank you very very much madam Hon'ble minister of Digitization & public governance, maam ( Mrs) Kritainne Oldernes & all her Department officials Hon'ble Prime minister of Norway & All the officials Heads of state's & officials of the IGF secretariat & Head of IGF changetai Masango, sir & All Team's IGF SECRETARIAT OFFICIALS & Officials of U.N.D.E.S.A. too My sincere Acknowledges all the officials who worked day in , day out .20th Annual meeting of IGF on june 23rd- june.27th.2k25 frm day -1 till last day Everything's went on well note, it's Lovely, Awesome,beautiful,Kind,wonderfull to me. Thanking you wth wrm Regards V Reddy
IGF Hybrid format is well ! those who are on the Live experience even i, also experienced Live .Thank you very very much madam/ sir
IGF Logistics ( websites 3Dvirtual platform, or on mobile phone device's or mobile app , scheduled , Registration's access, & use of online platform & check in's & check's out & etc ).Utmost useful is it on the mobile phone device's Registrations badge's're also " SMART VISIBLE " OR SMART CHECK'S etc or et al. Thanking you wth wrm Regards V R
Maam./ sir,
can i, reffered to other's who wish to attend IGF Annual summit's if yes & i'll Definitely/ sure i'm very very much aspiring inspiration & intention , Desire is this that i, want to invite yo attend the " IGF Annual summit's & lady is she is none other than & she ia Heartpreneur, Authorpreneur, Entrepreneur, S/w, Engineering & Tech Savy wrkng for @ INFOSYS TECHNOLOGIES LTD , wrkng as Sr.mngr Delivery. & e-mail id ; [email protected] , just 4 days back i, told her about "IGF", to attend in the coming days .So, participants can interact with the Expertise & Fraternity or K.I.S.S.in.other words as ( keep it short & simple ).as known or called or what is cslled or what is known as Netizens or Tech Professional's Tech Savy's or et al .Thanking you wth wrm Regards V R
can i, reffered to other's who wish to attend IGF Annual summit's if yes & i'll Definitely/ sure i'm very very much aspiring inspiration & intention , Desire is this that i, want to invite yo attend the " IGF Annual summit's & lady is she is none other than & she ia Heartpreneur, Authorpreneur, Entrepreneur, S/w, Engineering & Tech Savy wrkng for @ INFOSYS TECHNOLOGIES LTD , wrkng as Sr.mngr Delivery. & e-mail id ; [email protected] , just 4 days back i, told her about "IGF", to attend in the coming days .So, participants can interact with the Expertise & Fraternity or K.I.S.S.in.other words as ( keep it short & simple ).as known or called or what is cslled or what is known as Netizens or Tech Professional's Tech Savy's or et al .Thanking you wth wrm Regards V R
Well ! this forum so , called " Best practices & policy N'wrks this take it by the " Top Level Executives & His Excellencies , Head of state's & minister's concerned & also even i, already said to you maam/ sir, Top Level mgmt Executives & Top Tech Savy's & professional's will.take furthermore forward .Intersessional activities. Excuse me, i've no.idea's in this matter .I, leave to the Expertise & Fraternity or Tech Professional's orTech Savy's oor Tech Top Level Executives or mgmt Executives into their hands. Thanking you wth wrm Regards V R
This Dynamic coalitions at " IGF2K25" , reqd more to be inçluded hope & i, believe that this also be Digital Transformation & even other's such as Main Event's're going on & this D.c.'s - Dynamic coalitions at " IGF" Annual summit's so, far is going on & request is this side session's those who wish to attend the D.c's , instead main Session's must not be disturbed when attending this D.c's session's. also be take over by Top Level Executives or mgmt Executives or etc or et al or Tech Professional's Tech Savy's will advice or give some directions or other's maam/ sir. Thanking you wth wrm Regards V R
National , Regional , & Youth IGF , vry well required to addresa about the youth they're residing & what're their under going , facing at the Levels of National.Regional by the youth & also.the NRI'S be addressed or simultaneously or side by side to go during the main " IGF Annual summit's " as far as the youth is concerned ministry is said to be addressed àbout the action taken & other's et al. Thanking you wth wrm Regards V R
Programme contents is well.versed & content of the speaker's well & quality of discussions, interruption's in between or key note's addresses the gathering's just see all in smooth & everything's is went on well note by the Blessings of our Lord & saviour of the world Jesus Christ. God's Blessings be with you all & all your family members too, in peace always.Thanking you wth wrm Regards V R
who, i'm to give my 360-degrees on High - Level leaders track .pass it on .Thanking you wth wrm Regards V R
Again i'm not here to give on the " iGF Parliamentary track, hope & i believe that may the leader's & Tech Savy's or Tech Professional's Tech or Top Level Executives or mgmt Executives only'll give correct what to be included & what to be excluded from the Programme/ Agenda & how to keep in a Chronological order's .Thanking you wth wrm Regards V R
Yes.! Absolutely yes we need talk about the " Youth" @ iGF, what to discuss about in latest measures to be followed by youth when they're using Net on their mobile phones how they're using , are they controlling or contempt or carefully using the internet ? or what they're doing, what they're doing & how they're doing ? all these are usefulness about the Youth & other's et al. Thanking you wth wrm Regards V R
Yes ! Absolutely i, see IGF programme content's from a Gender perspective's , our Main programme is IGF- so, called we need not to be forget or forgo that we're in K'ledge or Tech Era or New Tech Tools Era & even Digi era " that we're about passout these era's what is going to take over , I, don't know, nobody's know's ? only God knows well .So, Gender perspectives is also be addressed & action's required to follow as far as Gender perspectives is concerned & i, see IGF Programme content's from a Gender perspectives differently - where as Gender - Female & Male , even Transgendèr yeah it's different, but instead we're all to hear about them, we're keeping them sub- sided , sidewise and otherway wrong no not yet at all .Thanking you wth wrm Regards V R
Wow ! IGF village is Absolutely yes i'll say Awesome beautiful Lovely , wonderful, Fantastic, kind to me .Hatt's off to all the Local govt of Norway & Hon'ble Prime minister of Norway & his entire cabinets & concerned ministry of Digitization & public governance madam's & all her officials & all Departments official's everything is went on well note by the Blessings of our Lord Jesus Christ. Thanking you wth wrm Regards V R
Absolutely no not yet at this moment of time mgmt. All.is Awesome beautifull, Lovely , wonderful, Kind to me. Hatt's off to the IGF communications , outreach & outputs are Hatt's off to you all Everyone whoever be wth this " 20th Annual summit of IGF on june.23rd- june.27th.2k25. All the credit goes to the Everyone, whoever worked for " IGF2K25" made possible outstanding performance from.day -1 till day last ending & beyond too , Till all Returns safe & peace. God Bless the " Norway " country in peace Always, & God Bless the " IGF" SECRETARIAT OFFICIALS IN PEACE ALWAYS & Head of IGF Changetai Masango sir God Bless your family members & your job & your journey in peace Always & God Bless this " IGF SECRETARIAT OFFICIALS Too, in Peace Be the All OFFICIALS IN PEACE ALWAYS. Thanking you wth wrm Regards V R
Absolutely no not yet at this moment of time mgmt. Thanking you wth wrm Regards VEERENDHAR B REDDY
Mobile phone. ; +91-957-316-1036
E-mail id; [email protected]
Mobile phone. ; +91-957-316-1036
E-mail id; [email protected]
CERF
Organized in record time; well-attended; excellent program.
Broad scope, good tracks for judicial, legislative and regulatory attendees. Well executed incentives for collaboration among Dynamic Coalitions for example. Norwegian leadership and execution was superb. Ample opportunities to consider broad range of policies as well as WSIS+20, AI, GDC, and other matters of central interest to IGF participants. Good engagement of NRIs.
Remote access worked very well for me (in US East Coast). The mechanisms for finding the right URLs to attend meetings was effective and convenient.
As a remote participant, I found the online experience to be very accommodating.
We need to continue to reach out to other constituencies not normally engaged in IGF.
Very impressed with Dynamic Coalitions and Policy Networks. Must increase engagement of the NRIs in intersessional work.
Very impressed with Dynamic Coalitions and Policy Networks. Must increase engagement of the NRIs in intersessional work.
Youth group went on some kind of rant - not sure what precipitated but did not seem justified.
I found the sessions i attended to be well worth the time.
Great to glimpse policy highlights from this track.
Note unjustified rant about the Youth Track report. I found listening to the younger attendees well worth my time.
Seems pretty balanced to me.
unable to attend
very effective.
Chau
DE SILVA-MITCHELL
Longer time to source proposals. Shorter time to notify of acceptance
Always better to have more sessions
Online is critical for inclusivity .
Some accessibility tools showcased for the future
Some accessibility tools showcased for the future
System found it difficult to identify non Caucasian female photos ... this was a generic problem for members
of the DC
of the DC
Asian tech giants
Ensure plenty of advance notice of events
DC activities are critical for capacity building and inclusivity and diversity
Diverse
More advance notice
Explore virtual socializing tools
Budget restrictions make virtual participation critical
Save on carbon foot print with virtual
Budget restrictions make virtual participation critical
Save on carbon foot print with virtual
DO
The IGF 2025 preparatory process was clear and well-structured, with transparent calls for issues and session proposals, open MAG meetings, and useful capacity-building activities. The timeline allowed for broad participation, and the programme was announced in a timely manner.
The IGF 2025 overall programme offered a well-balanced mix of main sessions, thematic workshops, and lightning talks, combining both policy perspectives and practical experiences. As a lecturer, this diversity broadened my understanding of global digital governance and provided concrete examples and best practices to integrate into my teaching. The variety of formats encouraged engagement with experts and practitioners, and upon returning, I organised a workshop to share key takeaways with my students, helping them connect theory with real-world applications.
Seamless integration of live streaming, interactive Q&A, and chat functions allowed remote participants to engage meaningfully. Moderators ensured balanced attention to online and onsite voices
The logistics for IGF 2025 were well-organised and participant-friendly.
IGF 2026 should continue to invite a diverse mix of stakeholders, including policymakers, industry leaders, technical experts, academics, youth, civil society, and underrepresented groups from developing regions.
Follow-up sessions at IGF 2026 could track progress on BPF and PN recommendations from 2025, assessing uptake and impact.
Stronger integration with thematic sessions would ensure that intersessional outputs directly feed into high-level debates rather than being presented in isolation.
Stronger integration with thematic sessions would ensure that intersessional outputs directly feed into high-level debates rather than being presented in isolation.
From a gender perspective, the IGF 2025 programme made commendable efforts to include gender-related themes and ensure diverse representation among speakers and panellists.
I suggest shifting from presentation-heavy formats toward more dynamic approaches such as roundtables, breakout discussions, and participant co-creation sessions to foster deeper engagement.
It would also be valuable to develop concise “IGF Highlights” or “Key Messages” documents tailored for different stakeholder groups (e.g., youth, policymakers, technical community) to facilitate their use in advocacy, policy development, and teaching.
It would also be valuable to develop concise “IGF Highlights” or “Key Messages” documents tailored for different stakeholder groups (e.g., youth, policymakers, technical community) to facilitate their use in advocacy, policy development, and teaching.
Elsenousy
What worked well:
- Early coordination with some national and regional IGF initiatives helped ensure that topics aligned with their priorities.
- The calls for issues and session proposals were open and transparent, enabling broad participation from diverse stakeholders.
- The Multistakeholder Advisory Group (MAG) meetings were held on a regular schedule, allowing continuous review of progress and follow-up on preparatory steps.
What worked not so well:
- Despite the early call, there was a short gap between the closure of proposal submissions and the programme announcement, which limited some stakeholders’ ability to prepare adequately.
- Some proposed sessions had overlapping topics, indicating the need for a stronger mechanism to merge similar proposals.
- Communication with new participants during the preparatory stage was limited, particularly regarding pre-event capacity building.
Suggestions for improvement (IGF 2026):
- Extend the period between session selection and programme announcement to give speakers and organizers sufficient preparation time.
Establish a thematic review team within MAG to identify overlaps between sessions and merge related proposals.
- Strengthen preparatory capacity-building programmes through interactive webinars before the Forum, especially for new participants from developing countries.
- Develop an online progress tracking board where participants can follow preparatory milestones and key dates.
- Early coordination with some national and regional IGF initiatives helped ensure that topics aligned with their priorities.
- The calls for issues and session proposals were open and transparent, enabling broad participation from diverse stakeholders.
- The Multistakeholder Advisory Group (MAG) meetings were held on a regular schedule, allowing continuous review of progress and follow-up on preparatory steps.
What worked not so well:
- Despite the early call, there was a short gap between the closure of proposal submissions and the programme announcement, which limited some stakeholders’ ability to prepare adequately.
- Some proposed sessions had overlapping topics, indicating the need for a stronger mechanism to merge similar proposals.
- Communication with new participants during the preparatory stage was limited, particularly regarding pre-event capacity building.
Suggestions for improvement (IGF 2026):
- Extend the period between session selection and programme announcement to give speakers and organizers sufficient preparation time.
Establish a thematic review team within MAG to identify overlaps between sessions and merge related proposals.
- Strengthen preparatory capacity-building programmes through interactive webinars before the Forum, especially for new participants from developing countries.
- Develop an online progress tracking board where participants can follow preparatory milestones and key dates.
What worked well:
- Covered diverse and emerging issues, with cross-cutting themes such as digital inclusion, cybersecurity, and AI governance.
- Offered a variety of session formats, including workshops, main sessions, and interactive events.
What worked not so well:
- Imbalance in topic representation, with some subjects overrepresented and others missing.
- Repetitive content in certain sessions.
- Scheduling conflicts between high-interest sessions, limiting attendance.
Suggestions for improvement (IGF 2026):
- Ensure more balanced topic coverage, adding underrepresented areas such as environmental impact and digital human rights.
- Reduce repetitive content by merging similar proposals.
- Improve scheduling based on participants’ interest surveys.
- Increase interactive and outcome-oriented sessions.
- Covered diverse and emerging issues, with cross-cutting themes such as digital inclusion, cybersecurity, and AI governance.
- Offered a variety of session formats, including workshops, main sessions, and interactive events.
What worked not so well:
- Imbalance in topic representation, with some subjects overrepresented and others missing.
- Repetitive content in certain sessions.
- Scheduling conflicts between high-interest sessions, limiting attendance.
Suggestions for improvement (IGF 2026):
- Ensure more balanced topic coverage, adding underrepresented areas such as environmental impact and digital human rights.
- Reduce repetitive content by merging similar proposals.
- Improve scheduling based on participants’ interest surveys.
- Increase interactive and outcome-oriented sessions.
What worked well:
- Enabled broad participation through combined on-site and remote engagement.
- Smooth on-site technical setup with live streaming and some multilingual interpretation.
What worked not so well:
- Occasional technical instability on the virtual platform.
- Delayed access to session recordings.
- Inconsistent multilingual support.
Suggestions for improvement (IGF 2026):
- Enhance platform stability and integrate real-time multilingual interpretation.
- Provide prompt access to recordings.
- Ensure consistent multilingual support across sessions.
- Add interactive tools to boost remote engagement.
- Enabled broad participation through combined on-site and remote engagement.
- Smooth on-site technical setup with live streaming and some multilingual interpretation.
What worked not so well:
- Occasional technical instability on the virtual platform.
- Delayed access to session recordings.
- Inconsistent multilingual support.
Suggestions for improvement (IGF 2026):
- Enhance platform stability and integrate real-time multilingual interpretation.
- Provide prompt access to recordings.
- Ensure consistent multilingual support across sessions.
- Add interactive tools to boost remote engagement.
What worked well:
- Website offered timely updates and clear programme details.
- Smooth on-site registration and well-managed security.
What worked not so well:
- Navigation issues on the 3D virtual platform and mobile app.
- Occasional online platform glitches during peak times.
- Limited use of the bilateral meeting system.
Suggestions for improvement:
- Improve usability of virtual platform and app.
- Ensure online platform stability during high demand.
- Promote and guide use of bilateral meeting system.
- Website offered timely updates and clear programme details.
- Smooth on-site registration and well-managed security.
What worked not so well:
- Navigation issues on the 3D virtual platform and mobile app.
- Occasional online platform glitches during peak times.
- Limited use of the bilateral meeting system.
Suggestions for improvement:
- Improve usability of virtual platform and app.
- Ensure online platform stability during high demand.
- Promote and guide use of bilateral meeting system.
What worked well:
- Broad participation from governments, civil society, academia, and the private sector.
- Networking sessions and social events facilitated some in-person connections.
What worked not so well:
- Underrepresentation of participants from least developed countries and marginalized communities.
- Limited tools to connect online and on-site participants effectively.
Suggestions for improvement:
- Increase outreach and funding support for participants from underrepresented regions.
- Create an integrated networking platform to connect all attendees before, during, and after the event.
- Facilitate thematic meetups to connect stakeholders with shared interests.
- Broad participation from governments, civil society, academia, and the private sector.
- Networking sessions and social events facilitated some in-person connections.
What worked not so well:
- Underrepresentation of participants from least developed countries and marginalized communities.
- Limited tools to connect online and on-site participants effectively.
Suggestions for improvement:
- Increase outreach and funding support for participants from underrepresented regions.
- Create an integrated networking platform to connect all attendees before, during, and after the event.
- Facilitate thematic meetups to connect stakeholders with shared interests.
At IGF 2025, Best Practice Forums (BPFs) and Policy Networks (PNs) delivered valuable year-round work with practical recommendations in areas like accessibility, cybersecurity, and AI governance. Their inclusion in the annual programme allowed direct stakeholder engagement. For IGF 2026, aligning their work plans with MAG priorities early, releasing concise policy briefs in advance, improving promotion through a central repository, and introducing pilot projects based on their outputs could strengthen integration and increase policy impact.
At IGF 2025, Dynamic Coalitions (DCs) contributed diverse expertise and collaborative outputs on topics such as digital rights, accessibility, and emerging technologies. Their sessions in the annual programme provided space to present results and engage stakeholders. For IGF 2026, earlier coordination with MAG to align DC priorities, wider promotion of their work before the Forum, and creating follow-up pathways to integrate outcomes into broader IGF discussions would help maximize their relevance and impact.
At IGF 2025, National, Regional, and Youth IGFs (NRIs) brought valuable grassroots perspectives and showcased diverse regional priorities through dedicated sessions and collaborative discussions. Their inclusion enriched the programme’s diversity and strengthened multi-stakeholder dialogue. For IGF 2026, earlier integration of NRI outputs into thematic clusters, enhanced cross-regional exchanges, and improved visibility of youth contributions could ensure stronger connections between local insights and global policy discussions.
IGF 2025 sessions covered a broad range of relevant and timely topics, featuring diverse formats such as workshops, main sessions, and interactive discussions. Many sessions had knowledgeable speakers and encouraged multi-stakeholder dialogue. For IGF 2026, improving thematic balance, avoiding overlap between similar topics, and increasing interactive and outcome-oriented formats could further enhance engagement and policy relevance.
The IGF 2025 High-level Leaders Track brought together ministers, CEOs, and senior experts, providing strategic perspectives on digital governance. While it succeeded in raising the forum’s visibility, discussions were sometimes high-level without clear actionable outcomes. For IGF 2026, ensuring stronger links between these sessions and the main thematic tracks, along with follow-up mechanisms to translate commitments into actions, could increase their impact.
The IGF 2025 Parliamentary Track successfully engaged lawmakers from various countries, fostering dialogue on digital policy and regulation. It provided a platform to share legislative experiences, but links to the broader IGF discussions were limited. For IGF 2026, integrating parliamentary insights into relevant sessions and creating mechanisms for continued engagement with legislators after the event could enhance policy influence.
The IGF 2025 Youth Track highlighted fresh perspectives and innovative ideas from young stakeholders, adding diversity to the discussions. While it effectively showcased youth engagement, stronger integration of their outputs into the main programme could increase their policy relevance. For IGF 2026, providing mentorship opportunities, co-organized sessions with senior experts, and clearer pathways to feed youth recommendations into IGF outcomes would strengthen their contribution.
From a gender perspective, the IGF 2025 programme showed improved gender balance in panels and speaker representation compared to previous years, with several sessions addressing digital gender inclusion. However, gender considerations were not consistently mainstreamed across all themes. For IGF 2026, ensuring gender balance in every session, embedding gender analysis in all thematic areas, and promoting women’s leadership roles could strengthen inclusivity and equity.
The IGF 2025 Village provided a vibrant space for stakeholders to showcase initiatives, foster networking, and exchange knowledge. Its diversity of booths enriched the event, but online visibility for remote participants was limited. For IGF 2026, enhancing the virtual exhibition experience, increasing promotion of village activities, and facilitating thematic tours could maximize its outreach and engagement.
IGF 2025 communications and outreach efforts effectively promoted the event through the website, social media, and newsletters, while outputs such as session reports and IGF messages were timely. However, visibility of key outcomes beyond the IGF community remained limited. For IGF 2026, expanding outreach to mainstream media, producing concise and accessible summaries, and translating outputs into multiple languages could broaden global impact.
IGF 2025 demonstrated strong multi-stakeholder engagement and thematic relevance, but greater emphasis on actionable outcomes and follow-up mechanisms could enhance its long-term impact. Strengthening integration between intersessional work and the annual meeting, expanding inclusivity for underrepresented regions, and leveraging technology for hybrid participation would further advance the IGF’s role in global digital governance.
Enes
Lack of overview of programme, should be a complete overview somewhere, not only by the stages.
Could be more room for questions from the room, a lot of discussions were only timed for panel, not audience.
Digital did not function. At all. Lack of a social interaction opportunity
I see you put in the report facebook, X, LinkedIN and Bluesky as where #IGF2025 was used.
Please include Mastodon/fediverse next year as well.
Please include Mastodon/fediverse next year as well.
more audience participation.
Esteves
What Worked Well at IGF 2025
Inclusive Participation
Strong Thematic Focus
Digital trust and resilience
Sustainable and responsible innovation
Universal access and digital rights
Digital cooperation1
Youth and Global South Engagement
Youth voices and stakeholders from the Global South were prominently featured, helping rebalance global digital governance dialogues.
High-Level Dialogues and Multistakeholder Collaboration
What Didn’t Work So Well
Limited Tangible Outcomes
Despite rich discussions, there was criticism that IGF 2025 lacked concrete policy outputs or actionable commitments.
Funding and Sustainability Concerns
Stakeholders expressed concerns about the IGF’s reliance on voluntary contributions and called for more secure, sustainable funding mechanisms.
Integration with Broader UN Processes
While IGF 2025 aligned with WSIS+20 and the Global Digital Compact, some felt it could better integrate with other UN digital governance initiatives.
Inclusive Participation
Strong Thematic Focus
Digital trust and resilience
Sustainable and responsible innovation
Universal access and digital rights
Digital cooperation1
Youth and Global South Engagement
Youth voices and stakeholders from the Global South were prominently featured, helping rebalance global digital governance dialogues.
High-Level Dialogues and Multistakeholder Collaboration
What Didn’t Work So Well
Limited Tangible Outcomes
Despite rich discussions, there was criticism that IGF 2025 lacked concrete policy outputs or actionable commitments.
Funding and Sustainability Concerns
Stakeholders expressed concerns about the IGF’s reliance on voluntary contributions and called for more secure, sustainable funding mechanisms.
Integration with Broader UN Processes
While IGF 2025 aligned with WSIS+20 and the Global Digital Compact, some felt it could better integrate with other UN digital governance initiatives.
Introduce Outcome Summaries
Each session should produce a short summary with key takeaways and policy recommendations to enhance impact and traceability.
Improve Session Coordination
Use thematic clustering and better scheduling to reduce overlap and improve accessibility for attendees.
Expand Regional and Youth-Led Tracks
Build on the success of youth and regional sessions by giving them more visibility and dedicated space.
Enhance Speaker Diversity
Continue to prioritize speakers from underrepresented regions and sectors, especially indigenous and rural communities.
Strengthen Follow-Up Mechanisms
Create a post-IGF platform or dashboard to monitor progress on commitments and ideas shared during the forum.
Each session should produce a short summary with key takeaways and policy recommendations to enhance impact and traceability.
Improve Session Coordination
Use thematic clustering and better scheduling to reduce overlap and improve accessibility for attendees.
Expand Regional and Youth-Led Tracks
Build on the success of youth and regional sessions by giving them more visibility and dedicated space.
Enhance Speaker Diversity
Continue to prioritize speakers from underrepresented regions and sectors, especially indigenous and rural communities.
Strengthen Follow-Up Mechanisms
Create a post-IGF platform or dashboard to monitor progress on commitments and ideas shared during the forum.
The IGF 2025 in Lillestrøm demonstrated the immense value of multistakeholder engagement in shaping global digital governance. However, despite its success, many potential contributors—particularly from underrepresented regions and communities—faced financial and logistical barriers that limited their ability to attend and actively participate.
Expanding subvention opportunities would:
Promote equitable representation, especially from the NGO and public sector organizations.
Strengthen the quality of dialogue by incorporating diverse perspectives and lived experiences.
Enhance capacity building, enabling new voices to contribute meaningfully to digital policy discussions.
Align with the IGF’s core values of inclusivity, openness, and collaboration.
I believe that additional subvention calls—whether through travel grants, accommodation support, or remote participation stipends—would significantly enrich the IGF 2026 and reinforce its role as a truly global and accessible platform.
Expanding subvention opportunities would:
Promote equitable representation, especially from the NGO and public sector organizations.
Strengthen the quality of dialogue by incorporating diverse perspectives and lived experiences.
Enhance capacity building, enabling new voices to contribute meaningfully to digital policy discussions.
Align with the IGF’s core values of inclusivity, openness, and collaboration.
I believe that additional subvention calls—whether through travel grants, accommodation support, or remote participation stipends—would significantly enrich the IGF 2026 and reinforce its role as a truly global and accessible platform.
Hafiz Muhammad Masood Younis
What Worked Well
The preparatory timeline was announced early, giving stakeholders adequate notice to prepare and engage.
The call for issues and session proposals reached a broad audience through mailing lists, social media, and regional IGFs, resulting in strong thematic diversity.
The MAG applied clear, publicly available criteria for session selection, enhancing transparency and trust in the process.
Regular MAG meetings were open to observers, with well-documented minutes, ensuring openness and accountability.
Pre-event capacity development activities, including webinars and newcomer sessions, helped first-time participants engage more effectively.
What Did Not Work So Well
The period between proposal submission and selection was short, limiting opportunities for proposers to refine sessions after feedback.
The detailed programme was announced later than ideal, making travel and promotion challenging for some stakeholders.
Session proposals remained unevenly distributed geographically, with limited input from small island developing states and least developed countries.
Capacity development resources were mostly in English, restricting accessibility for non-English speakers.
MAG meeting schedules sometimes conflicted with time zones for members in Asia-Pacific and Latin America.
Suggestions for Improvement
Introduce a two-stage proposal process with an initial concept submission, MAG feedback, and final proposal resubmission.
Publish the final programme at least three months before the event to allow for better travel, promotion, and stakeholder engagement.
Conduct targeted outreach to underrepresented regions via regional IGFs and partner networks.
Offer preparatory capacity-building materials in multiple UN languages and partner with local hubs for translation support.
Rotate MAG meeting times to ensure fair live participation across all time zones.
Create an intensive online orientation (“bootcamp”) for newcomers before the call for proposals opens.
The preparatory timeline was announced early, giving stakeholders adequate notice to prepare and engage.
The call for issues and session proposals reached a broad audience through mailing lists, social media, and regional IGFs, resulting in strong thematic diversity.
The MAG applied clear, publicly available criteria for session selection, enhancing transparency and trust in the process.
Regular MAG meetings were open to observers, with well-documented minutes, ensuring openness and accountability.
Pre-event capacity development activities, including webinars and newcomer sessions, helped first-time participants engage more effectively.
What Did Not Work So Well
The period between proposal submission and selection was short, limiting opportunities for proposers to refine sessions after feedback.
The detailed programme was announced later than ideal, making travel and promotion challenging for some stakeholders.
Session proposals remained unevenly distributed geographically, with limited input from small island developing states and least developed countries.
Capacity development resources were mostly in English, restricting accessibility for non-English speakers.
MAG meeting schedules sometimes conflicted with time zones for members in Asia-Pacific and Latin America.
Suggestions for Improvement
Introduce a two-stage proposal process with an initial concept submission, MAG feedback, and final proposal resubmission.
Publish the final programme at least three months before the event to allow for better travel, promotion, and stakeholder engagement.
Conduct targeted outreach to underrepresented regions via regional IGFs and partner networks.
Offer preparatory capacity-building materials in multiple UN languages and partner with local hubs for translation support.
Rotate MAG meeting times to ensure fair live participation across all time zones.
Create an intensive online orientation (“bootcamp”) for newcomers before the call for proposals opens.
What Worked Well
The thematic tracks reflected current global priorities, including AI governance, digital sovereignty, cybersecurity, human rights online, and digital inclusion.
The structure balanced high-level sessions, stakeholder-led workshops, and community-driven initiatives, appealing to both policymakers and grassroots actors.
The inclusion of youth track sessions and newcomer-focused events brought fresh perspectives and energy.
Policy Networks and Dynamic Coalitions integrated their outputs into the main programme, creating stronger linkages between ongoing work and annual discussions.
Lightning talks and interactive formats allowed for rapid knowledge exchange on emerging topics.
What Did Not Work So Well
Some thematic overlaps caused repetition across different sessions without enough cross-referencing or coordination.
Several workshops were presentation-heavy, leaving limited time for audience engagement and Q&A.
Overlapping high-interest sessions created difficult choices for participants, especially those following multiple tracks.
Certain session types, such as open forums, had inconsistent quality and depth of discussion.
Thematic balance was tilted toward technology and governance, with less emphasis on capacity building and development-focused topics.
Suggestions for Improvement
Use cross-track planning to link related sessions, reduce duplication, and encourage thematic continuity.
Require session organizers to allocate at least one-third of the time for interactive participation.
Stagger high-demand sessions across the programme to avoid clashes for audiences and speakers.
Strengthen quality control for open forums through clearer guidance and pre-event coordination with organizers.
Ensure thematic balance by guaranteeing a minimum number of sessions dedicated to development, capacity building, and digital inclusion.
Encourage hybrid formats that blend presentations with structured dialogue, polls, or breakout groups to boost interactivity.
The thematic tracks reflected current global priorities, including AI governance, digital sovereignty, cybersecurity, human rights online, and digital inclusion.
The structure balanced high-level sessions, stakeholder-led workshops, and community-driven initiatives, appealing to both policymakers and grassroots actors.
The inclusion of youth track sessions and newcomer-focused events brought fresh perspectives and energy.
Policy Networks and Dynamic Coalitions integrated their outputs into the main programme, creating stronger linkages between ongoing work and annual discussions.
Lightning talks and interactive formats allowed for rapid knowledge exchange on emerging topics.
What Did Not Work So Well
Some thematic overlaps caused repetition across different sessions without enough cross-referencing or coordination.
Several workshops were presentation-heavy, leaving limited time for audience engagement and Q&A.
Overlapping high-interest sessions created difficult choices for participants, especially those following multiple tracks.
Certain session types, such as open forums, had inconsistent quality and depth of discussion.
Thematic balance was tilted toward technology and governance, with less emphasis on capacity building and development-focused topics.
Suggestions for Improvement
Use cross-track planning to link related sessions, reduce duplication, and encourage thematic continuity.
Require session organizers to allocate at least one-third of the time for interactive participation.
Stagger high-demand sessions across the programme to avoid clashes for audiences and speakers.
Strengthen quality control for open forums through clearer guidance and pre-event coordination with organizers.
Ensure thematic balance by guaranteeing a minimum number of sessions dedicated to development, capacity building, and digital inclusion.
Encourage hybrid formats that blend presentations with structured dialogue, polls, or breakout groups to boost interactivity.
What Worked Well
The hybrid format allowed broad participation, with on-site and remote attendees engaging in parallel.
Real-time captioning, multilingual interpretation, and stable streaming quality improved accessibility for remote participants.
Moderators in many sessions actively invited interventions from both online and in-room participants, creating a sense of inclusion.
The online platform integrated session chat, Q&A, and live polls, encouraging real-time interaction.
Recording and on-demand availability of sessions enabled participants to catch up across time zones.
What Did Not Work So Well
In some sessions, remote participant interventions were delayed or deprioritized compared to in-person audience questions.
Variations in moderator skills led to inconsistent experiences between sessions, especially in managing hybrid interaction.
Remote networking opportunities remained limited compared to on-site, reducing informal exchange for online participants.
Some participants in regions with low bandwidth faced difficulties in maintaining stable connections to the platform.
The user interface of the online platform, while functional, was not fully intuitive for first-time users.
Suggestions for Improvement
Adopt a “remote-first” moderation policy in hybrid sessions to ensure online participants receive equal priority.
Provide training to all moderators and facilitators on hybrid engagement techniques before the event.
Introduce virtual networking lounges, thematic chat rooms, or AI-assisted matchmaking to help remote participants connect informally.
Offer a low-bandwidth mode for the online platform to improve accessibility in connectivity-challenged areas.
Create short video tutorials for first-time users of the hybrid platform, available in multiple languages.
Assign a dedicated “online engagement officer” to each hybrid session to support remote interaction in real time.
The hybrid format allowed broad participation, with on-site and remote attendees engaging in parallel.
Real-time captioning, multilingual interpretation, and stable streaming quality improved accessibility for remote participants.
Moderators in many sessions actively invited interventions from both online and in-room participants, creating a sense of inclusion.
The online platform integrated session chat, Q&A, and live polls, encouraging real-time interaction.
Recording and on-demand availability of sessions enabled participants to catch up across time zones.
What Did Not Work So Well
In some sessions, remote participant interventions were delayed or deprioritized compared to in-person audience questions.
Variations in moderator skills led to inconsistent experiences between sessions, especially in managing hybrid interaction.
Remote networking opportunities remained limited compared to on-site, reducing informal exchange for online participants.
Some participants in regions with low bandwidth faced difficulties in maintaining stable connections to the platform.
The user interface of the online platform, while functional, was not fully intuitive for first-time users.
Suggestions for Improvement
Adopt a “remote-first” moderation policy in hybrid sessions to ensure online participants receive equal priority.
Provide training to all moderators and facilitators on hybrid engagement techniques before the event.
Introduce virtual networking lounges, thematic chat rooms, or AI-assisted matchmaking to help remote participants connect informally.
Offer a low-bandwidth mode for the online platform to improve accessibility in connectivity-challenged areas.
Create short video tutorials for first-time users of the hybrid platform, available in multiple languages.
Assign a dedicated “online engagement officer” to each hybrid session to support remote interaction in real time.
What Worked Well
The IGF 2025 website was regularly updated, with clear navigation to session details, speaker bios, and preparatory materials.
The mobile app offered real-time programme updates, personal agenda building, and push notifications, improving participant coordination.
Registration was smooth, with both online and on-site processes well-managed and secure.
The online platform offered integrated streaming, chat, and document-sharing functions, ensuring remote accessibility.
Security at the venue was well-organized, with efficient screening and clear guidance for entry.
The bilateral meeting system helped facilitate planned stakeholder engagements, particularly for government and business delegates.
What Did Not Work So Well
The 3D virtual platform, while innovative, was underused and not fully intuitive for many participants.
Session schedule changes were sometimes reflected late across all platforms, causing confusion.
The bilateral meeting booking system had occasional technical glitches and lacked integration with the main app.
Mobile app search functionality for sessions and speakers was limited, making it harder to locate specific events quickly.
The online platform’s performance dropped during peak concurrent sessions for some remote participants.
Suggestions for Improvement
Provide a simple tutorial or demo session for the 3D virtual platform ahead of the event to increase usage.
Ensure real-time synchronization of schedule updates across the website, app, and online platform.
Upgrade the bilateral meeting system with better integration into the mobile app and calendar syncing.
Enhance mobile app search and filtering functions for easier navigation of sessions, speakers, and thematic tracks.
Improve server capacity and load balancing for the online platform to handle peak traffic smoothly.
Include a live helpdesk function in both the mobile app and online platform for technical support during the event.
The IGF 2025 website was regularly updated, with clear navigation to session details, speaker bios, and preparatory materials.
The mobile app offered real-time programme updates, personal agenda building, and push notifications, improving participant coordination.
Registration was smooth, with both online and on-site processes well-managed and secure.
The online platform offered integrated streaming, chat, and document-sharing functions, ensuring remote accessibility.
Security at the venue was well-organized, with efficient screening and clear guidance for entry.
The bilateral meeting system helped facilitate planned stakeholder engagements, particularly for government and business delegates.
What Did Not Work So Well
The 3D virtual platform, while innovative, was underused and not fully intuitive for many participants.
Session schedule changes were sometimes reflected late across all platforms, causing confusion.
The bilateral meeting booking system had occasional technical glitches and lacked integration with the main app.
Mobile app search functionality for sessions and speakers was limited, making it harder to locate specific events quickly.
The online platform’s performance dropped during peak concurrent sessions for some remote participants.
Suggestions for Improvement
Provide a simple tutorial or demo session for the 3D virtual platform ahead of the event to increase usage.
Ensure real-time synchronization of schedule updates across the website, app, and online platform.
Upgrade the bilateral meeting system with better integration into the mobile app and calendar syncing.
Enhance mobile app search and filtering functions for easier navigation of sessions, speakers, and thematic tracks.
Improve server capacity and load balancing for the online platform to handle peak traffic smoothly.
Include a live helpdesk function in both the mobile app and online platform for technical support during the event.
What Worked Well
IGF 2025 attracted a balanced mix of stakeholders, including governments, private sector, technical community, academia, civil society, and youth.
Targeted outreach to youth networks, regional IGFs, and policy communities helped diversify participation.
Networking sessions, informal lounges, and stakeholder-specific gatherings allowed meaningful in-person connections.
The bilateral meeting system facilitated structured stakeholder interactions and collaborations.
Thematic tracks and community-led initiatives acted as natural “meeting points” for participants with shared interests.
What Did Not Work So Well
Participation from some underrepresented groups—particularly developing states, grassroots NGOs, and indigenous communities—remained limited.
Remote participants had fewer informal networking opportunities compared to on-site attendees.
Thematic networking events were sometimes scheduled in parallel with high-interest sessions, limiting attendance.
No integrated digital tool existed to match participants by interest or expertise in real time.
Some newcomers reported difficulty in identifying relevant people to meet, especially in the large in-person setting.
Suggestions for Improvement
Expand targeted travel support and sponsorship for underrepresented regions and communities.
Create a digital “matchmaking” tool in the IGF app and online platform to connect participants by thematic interest, region, or stakeholder group.
Introduce hybrid-friendly networking formats such as virtual coffee breaks or topic-based online roundtables.
Schedule thematic networking sessions at times that do not conflict with major plenaries or high-demand workshops.
Provide newcomers with a “networking starter kit” that lists relevant contacts, interest groups, and recommended sessions.
Encourage pre-event participant engagement through moderated online forums or community boards to build connections before arrival.
IGF 2025 attracted a balanced mix of stakeholders, including governments, private sector, technical community, academia, civil society, and youth.
Targeted outreach to youth networks, regional IGFs, and policy communities helped diversify participation.
Networking sessions, informal lounges, and stakeholder-specific gatherings allowed meaningful in-person connections.
The bilateral meeting system facilitated structured stakeholder interactions and collaborations.
Thematic tracks and community-led initiatives acted as natural “meeting points” for participants with shared interests.
What Did Not Work So Well
Participation from some underrepresented groups—particularly developing states, grassroots NGOs, and indigenous communities—remained limited.
Remote participants had fewer informal networking opportunities compared to on-site attendees.
Thematic networking events were sometimes scheduled in parallel with high-interest sessions, limiting attendance.
No integrated digital tool existed to match participants by interest or expertise in real time.
Some newcomers reported difficulty in identifying relevant people to meet, especially in the large in-person setting.
Suggestions for Improvement
Expand targeted travel support and sponsorship for underrepresented regions and communities.
Create a digital “matchmaking” tool in the IGF app and online platform to connect participants by thematic interest, region, or stakeholder group.
Introduce hybrid-friendly networking formats such as virtual coffee breaks or topic-based online roundtables.
Schedule thematic networking sessions at times that do not conflict with major plenaries or high-demand workshops.
Provide newcomers with a “networking starter kit” that lists relevant contacts, interest groups, and recommended sessions.
Encourage pre-event participant engagement through moderated online forums or community boards to build connections before arrival.
What Worked Well
The BPFs and PNs maintained steady work throughout the year, engaging a wide range of stakeholders in open consultations.
The content produced was practical and evidence-based, with outputs that could be referenced by policymakers and practitioners.
Integration into the IGF 2025 annual programme was more visible, with dedicated sessions for presenting results and discussing follow-up actions.
Collaboration with NRIs helped contextualize BPF and PN findings to specific regional and national realities.
Some PNs successfully connected their outputs with ongoing multistakeholder policy processes, increasing relevance.
What Did Not Work So Well
Awareness of intersessional work remained low among general IGF participants, with many discovering BPF/PN outputs only during the annual event.
The link between annual IGF discussions and the next year’s intersessional work was not clearly structured, leading to missed continuity.
NRIs’ contributions to BPFs and PNs were uneven, depending on resources and capacity.
Some annual meeting sessions on intersessional work were overly report-oriented, with limited interactive discussion or co-creation.
Outputs, while strong, were not always translated into multiple languages, limiting accessibility.
Suggestions for Improvement
Launch an early-year communication campaign on BPF and PN topics to build awareness and engagement before the annual IGF.
Use the annual meeting to explicitly set next year’s BPF/PN priorities, ensuring continuity between IGF 2025 and IGF 2026.
Strengthen collaboration with NRIs by offering small grants or technical support for contributing case studies and regional perspectives.
Redesign annual meeting sessions on intersessional work to be more interactive, using panel + workshop or roundtable formats.
Ensure all final outputs are available in multiple UN languages and distributed through partner networks.
Create an “intersessional work hub” on the IGF website that consolidates all outputs, events, and participation opportunities in one place.
The BPFs and PNs maintained steady work throughout the year, engaging a wide range of stakeholders in open consultations.
The content produced was practical and evidence-based, with outputs that could be referenced by policymakers and practitioners.
Integration into the IGF 2025 annual programme was more visible, with dedicated sessions for presenting results and discussing follow-up actions.
Collaboration with NRIs helped contextualize BPF and PN findings to specific regional and national realities.
Some PNs successfully connected their outputs with ongoing multistakeholder policy processes, increasing relevance.
What Did Not Work So Well
Awareness of intersessional work remained low among general IGF participants, with many discovering BPF/PN outputs only during the annual event.
The link between annual IGF discussions and the next year’s intersessional work was not clearly structured, leading to missed continuity.
NRIs’ contributions to BPFs and PNs were uneven, depending on resources and capacity.
Some annual meeting sessions on intersessional work were overly report-oriented, with limited interactive discussion or co-creation.
Outputs, while strong, were not always translated into multiple languages, limiting accessibility.
Suggestions for Improvement
Launch an early-year communication campaign on BPF and PN topics to build awareness and engagement before the annual IGF.
Use the annual meeting to explicitly set next year’s BPF/PN priorities, ensuring continuity between IGF 2025 and IGF 2026.
Strengthen collaboration with NRIs by offering small grants or technical support for contributing case studies and regional perspectives.
Redesign annual meeting sessions on intersessional work to be more interactive, using panel + workshop or roundtable formats.
Ensure all final outputs are available in multiple UN languages and distributed through partner networks.
Create an “intersessional work hub” on the IGF website that consolidates all outputs, events, and participation opportunities in one place.
What Worked Well
The programme covered a wide range of timely and relevant topics, including AI governance, digital inclusion, cybersecurity, human rights online, and emerging technologies.
High-profile speakers from governments, international organisations, the private sector, civil society, academia, and the technical community brought authority and diversity of perspectives.
Several sessions successfully blended global policy discussions with grassroots and community-level case studies.
Some workshops and high-level panels provided actionable recommendations, linking discussions to concrete policy pathways.
Interactive formats, when used, encouraged meaningful exchanges between panellists and participants.
What Did Not Work So Well
The balance between presentation time and audience engagement was inconsistent; many sessions were panel-heavy with limited Q&A.
The representation of certain regions and stakeholder groups—particularly small island developing states, indigenous communities, and youth—was uneven.
In some sessions, speakers were not fully briefed on the IGF’s multistakeholder ethos, leading to less inclusive dialogue.
Cross-thematic integration was limited, with related topics often discussed in isolation without clear linkages.
The quality of discussions varied, with some sessions lacking clear moderation or focus on concrete outcomes.
Suggestions for Improvement
Require session organisers to allocate at least 30–40% of time to audience interaction and dialogue.
Strengthen regional and stakeholder diversity requirements for speaker line-ups, with proactive outreach to underrepresented voices.
Provide pre-event orientation for speakers unfamiliar with the IGF process to promote more inclusive, interactive discussions.
Encourage cross-track or joint sessions on overlapping topics to avoid siloed debates.
Implement a light-touch quality review process for session moderation to ensure focus, inclusivity, and actionable takeaways.
Develop a mechanism to document and follow up on key recommendations from each session, linking them to intersessional work.
The programme covered a wide range of timely and relevant topics, including AI governance, digital inclusion, cybersecurity, human rights online, and emerging technologies.
High-profile speakers from governments, international organisations, the private sector, civil society, academia, and the technical community brought authority and diversity of perspectives.
Several sessions successfully blended global policy discussions with grassroots and community-level case studies.
Some workshops and high-level panels provided actionable recommendations, linking discussions to concrete policy pathways.
Interactive formats, when used, encouraged meaningful exchanges between panellists and participants.
What Did Not Work So Well
The balance between presentation time and audience engagement was inconsistent; many sessions were panel-heavy with limited Q&A.
The representation of certain regions and stakeholder groups—particularly small island developing states, indigenous communities, and youth—was uneven.
In some sessions, speakers were not fully briefed on the IGF’s multistakeholder ethos, leading to less inclusive dialogue.
Cross-thematic integration was limited, with related topics often discussed in isolation without clear linkages.
The quality of discussions varied, with some sessions lacking clear moderation or focus on concrete outcomes.
Suggestions for Improvement
Require session organisers to allocate at least 30–40% of time to audience interaction and dialogue.
Strengthen regional and stakeholder diversity requirements for speaker line-ups, with proactive outreach to underrepresented voices.
Provide pre-event orientation for speakers unfamiliar with the IGF process to promote more inclusive, interactive discussions.
Encourage cross-track or joint sessions on overlapping topics to avoid siloed debates.
Implement a light-touch quality review process for session moderation to ensure focus, inclusivity, and actionable takeaways.
Develop a mechanism to document and follow up on key recommendations from each session, linking them to intersessional work.
What Worked Well
Gender equality and digital inclusion were addressed in several sessions, both as standalone topics and as cross-cutting elements within broader themes.
Many panels achieved balanced gender representation, particularly in youth and civil society-led sessions.
Women leaders from government, business, and advocacy groups played prominent roles in high-level panels and keynote discussions.
Some sessions integrated gender-disaggregated data and policy recommendations, linking digital transformation to women’s empowerment.
What Did Not Work So Well
Gender balance among speakers was inconsistent across the programme, with some high-level panels and technical sessions male-dominated.
Gender was not always mainstreamed into discussions on emerging technologies, cybersecurity, and AI governance, where it remains highly relevant.
Limited participation of women from underrepresented regions and grassroots organisations reduced diversity of lived experiences.
Few sessions addressed intersectionality (gender combined with factors such as disability, age, ethnicity, or socio-economic status).
Suggestions for Improvement
Establish a clear benchmark for gender-balanced speaker line-ups across all sessions, including high-level panels.
Mainstream gender considerations into all thematic tracks, ensuring relevance beyond “gender-focused” sessions.
Support participation of women from underrepresented regions and sectors through targeted outreach and travel funding.
Encourage session organisers to integrate gender-disaggregated data, case studies, and policy implications into discussions.
Promote intersectional approaches that reflect diverse lived realities and ensure more inclusive digital policy debates.
Gender equality and digital inclusion were addressed in several sessions, both as standalone topics and as cross-cutting elements within broader themes.
Many panels achieved balanced gender representation, particularly in youth and civil society-led sessions.
Women leaders from government, business, and advocacy groups played prominent roles in high-level panels and keynote discussions.
Some sessions integrated gender-disaggregated data and policy recommendations, linking digital transformation to women’s empowerment.
What Did Not Work So Well
Gender balance among speakers was inconsistent across the programme, with some high-level panels and technical sessions male-dominated.
Gender was not always mainstreamed into discussions on emerging technologies, cybersecurity, and AI governance, where it remains highly relevant.
Limited participation of women from underrepresented regions and grassroots organisations reduced diversity of lived experiences.
Few sessions addressed intersectionality (gender combined with factors such as disability, age, ethnicity, or socio-economic status).
Suggestions for Improvement
Establish a clear benchmark for gender-balanced speaker line-ups across all sessions, including high-level panels.
Mainstream gender considerations into all thematic tracks, ensuring relevance beyond “gender-focused” sessions.
Support participation of women from underrepresented regions and sectors through targeted outreach and travel funding.
Encourage session organisers to integrate gender-disaggregated data, case studies, and policy implications into discussions.
Promote intersectional approaches that reflect diverse lived realities and ensure more inclusive digital policy debates.
Jijide
All went well for me.
I just have a suggestion that in the future IGF, it should include more people with disabilities and have their sessions at the beginning of the event than the last day. Also i suggest that the workshops and events should have the tech assistive tools to support these people as the last IGF hardly had such gadgets.
It is good to have both as some failed to make it in person, but still they had a chance of attending virtually.
The travel support for the Global South youth was really a thoughtful idea, hoping for an increase in terms of intake. There should be transport consideration of visa processes shall a participant who has received the travel support needs to travel to another country for visa application. On the food, it should be a diverse to allow everyone have meals without a second thought.
All groups should be involved, youth, women, disabled people just to mention a few.
The sessions should be made in a away that all groups are able to participate, that is only making the sessions in English and allowing the tech assistive tools to be made available at all times as that helps to grasp the whole idea of attending IGF to non French or Arabic speaking people.
It was nice that there were coalitions as different sectors were able to host a session and arrive at an idea that was universal for all.
African and Youth IGFs had a table at the IGF schedule. We were able to discuss issues that affect youth and Africans within the internet space and mapped the way forward during the IGF 2025. Such should be the rhythm in all the Global IGF including the one for 2026.
I saw the sessions as epic, only that time was a limiting factor as we could not discuss things at a length.
The involvement was great as well. Saw high level leaders taking part in a number of sessions and interacted with participants.
N/A
It was wonderful as we talked about issues that come by using the social media, global youth had an opportunity to share their experiences and strategies on how such could be conquered.
It was inclusive, however i look forward to see more sessions led by women in the next IGF.
Wow the village was amazing, spent every single day at the booths where i interacted with various stakeholders and got more information about their work and how that can be translated in my space here in Malawi.
The communication was timely, keep it up.
I take this moment to express my gratitude to the UN IGF Secretariat for supporting me and other Global south youth at the IGF 2025 in Norway. You allowed our voices to be heard and such cause is deeply appreciated. Looking forward to more participation in the future IGF sessions. Thank you!
Julian Silden
When you're participating physically it would be nice to have an indicator of hoe many people are participating digitally.
While having the participant badges be strictly digital probably saved time and money, it had two drawbacks. Firstly we lost the benefit of everyone having a nametag, secondly you lost the sense of community you get when you see other people out and about wearing the badges.
I had a great time and learned a lot, I am grateful for the opportunity to attend free of charge.
Kamara
Unfortunately for me I never attended this year IGF in Norway.
My reason I never went was due to the slow respond of the host country. I communicated to team in charge of communication and could get response, after several email sent, I was automatic email response came to me that the team went for holiday, this was very unfortunate. in such as a program, the team to be focus until the everybody arrived. If the communication wanted to go holiday, two could have left there to respond to email until others return. Another issue has to do with payment of VISA later you be reimburse, I this will to find. Other IGF Meeting in other country make VISA free no payment, if you have system that call for payment, please do adjustment.
Capacity building need to be considered at the conference where people with certain professional skills can share knowledge with interested participants like ICT Policy development, ICT Project management, and other.
We should also look at the five days, gradually, it can be increased at least by two.
My reason I never went was due to the slow respond of the host country. I communicated to team in charge of communication and could get response, after several email sent, I was automatic email response came to me that the team went for holiday, this was very unfortunate. in such as a program, the team to be focus until the everybody arrived. If the communication wanted to go holiday, two could have left there to respond to email until others return. Another issue has to do with payment of VISA later you be reimburse, I this will to find. Other IGF Meeting in other country make VISA free no payment, if you have system that call for payment, please do adjustment.
Capacity building need to be considered at the conference where people with certain professional skills can share knowledge with interested participants like ICT Policy development, ICT Project management, and other.
We should also look at the five days, gradually, it can be increased at least by two.
In the event over program as it relate thematic focus and session, I would suggest that the program sheet be share with the participants to make inputs before the starting day. It should be written on the doors topic of discussion in those room or halls.
This is okay to me
This should be a special platform where IGF Participants will be exchanging ideas of interest to help or bring growth to IGF Community.
National Regional Initiatives are very cardinal for the IGF. This brings together other region inputs into the IGF Meetings. This should be encouraged. The people should share their report or the inputs of their region on time. The regional should focus on thematic areas of IGF couple with the regional thinking of the IGF.
I think as usual, it should be included as the way it was included 2025.
At the regional level, youth should involve entirely in regional ICT activities because they are the driver of ICT technologies preparing to take over from the Old generation in the near future. The IGF should prioritize programs from all pasts of the world.
These should be considered good. In this session, please include the interpreters quality so participants can have observation on them.
Good
The leader of the parliamentarian need to do more to involve other parliamentarian from other parts of the world. It is the them who make laws or pass laws. They need to be largely involve into IGF activities so that they will know what kind of laws to pass. There should also be capacity building or workshop organize for the parliamentarian.
Good
Good. At the IGF women participation is encourage along with males. I this perspective is very good
I have no comment for this now
IGF communication and outreach program is very good, because the information of application take long period, people always have enough time to work on preparation.
No other comments,
Kanasa
The preparatory process for the timeline, call for issues and session proposal, and session etc was fairly enough. As a new comer presenting under my Government on Day zero and also representing Pacific IGF on the NRI as a session speaker on Day 4. I would say, for a new comer capacity development would be something I would consider. The only disappointment for me was the Letter of Invite for my Minister came in very late which saw him attend to the first invite letter that came for another forum on the same date.
The overall programme was great. I enjoyed as a first timer for a session speaker I think it was better then last years at Saudi Arabi which I was also there but did not took part as speakers but attended the forum. The session was well structured with no noise and well articulated and engaged with the audience which I enjoyed.
It was better then in Saudi Arabi because it was more focused and the whole settings gave that feeling. In Saudi Arabi the forum was extravagant. But would be more better if enough space given for more session to be hosted for new comers.
I love the registration more easy and better then Saudi Arabi experience where we had to walk all the way out of the Forum site to a hotel a mile to be registered then walk back to forum. Very tiring. At Norway, Oslo, The welcoming and information all the way from the airport immigration knowing we were participant for the IGF all the way with the train to the Hotel to the forum was very helpful with signage and IGF officers helping all the way to the Forum area. As a fellow for the IGF travel support it was far better for hotel arrangement next to the Forum. The logistic was smooth. We were attending a bilateral meeting and unfortunately the group that was inside took longer so we had to wait for 30 minutes then move to an extra room on the other side. Bilateral meetings must be strictly on time. Because when we where told to move to another meeting I was late for my session which I was a speaker. I went 10 minutes late which was upsetting for me because it was my first time as a speaker. maybe this can be looked into that time slots attended on time and finish strictly on time.
Coming from a government in the Pacific, I found the inclusion of government-led sessions—particularly on Day Zero and at the high-level meetings—extremely enriching. I had the opportunity to represent the Government of Papua New Guinea and share our current initiatives on data governance. However, our engagement in internet governance extends far beyond that, and it was valuable to raise awareness of our broader efforts on a global stage.
I was honored to participate in the IGF, and we were especially grateful for the formal invitation extended to our ICT Minister. Although the Minister was unable to attend due to a scheduling conflict and the late arrival of the invitation letter, the gesture was deeply appreciated and reflects the growing recognition of Pacific voices and the south in global digital policy.
With the invitation and my participation, I’m pleased to share that our department is now talking towards establishing a dedicated Internet Governance division..
Participating in IGF allowed me to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds who shared brilliant ideas and insights on similar topics. This kind of exchange is vital—not only for governments from the Global South to gain exposure to global perspectives, but also for non-governmental actors to better understand the priorities and progress of their respective governments in the internet governance space.
Such interactions foster mutual understanding and help countries learn from one another. To strengthen these connections, I would recommend introducing a pre-event one day networking opportunity for participants. This would enhance collaboration and ensure more meaningful engagement throughout the forum."
I was honored to participate in the IGF, and we were especially grateful for the formal invitation extended to our ICT Minister. Although the Minister was unable to attend due to a scheduling conflict and the late arrival of the invitation letter, the gesture was deeply appreciated and reflects the growing recognition of Pacific voices and the south in global digital policy.
With the invitation and my participation, I’m pleased to share that our department is now talking towards establishing a dedicated Internet Governance division..
Participating in IGF allowed me to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds who shared brilliant ideas and insights on similar topics. This kind of exchange is vital—not only for governments from the Global South to gain exposure to global perspectives, but also for non-governmental actors to better understand the priorities and progress of their respective governments in the internet governance space.
Such interactions foster mutual understanding and help countries learn from one another. To strengthen these connections, I would recommend introducing a pre-event one day networking opportunity for participants. This would enhance collaboration and ensure more meaningful engagement throughout the forum."
Looking ahead to IGF 2026, it will be important to maintain momentum by ensuring continuity across thematic workstreams and strengthening regional engagement through NRIs. Greater involvement of government actors—particularly from developing and emerging regions—will be essential to achieving balanced representation across multistakeholder processes. Aligning intersessional outputs with global policy frameworks will further enhance their relevance and impact.
At IGF 2025, Dynamic Coalitions were actively included in the annual programme through dedicated workshops and a main session, showcasing their year-round work on issues such as digital accessibility, cybersecurity, children's rights, and financial inclusion. These coalitions operate as bottom-up, self-organized groups that contribute expert-driven research and policy recommendations. Their outputs served as valuable inputs to broader IGF discussions and are well-positioned to inform the IGF 2026 process through continued collaboration and alignment with global digital policy frameworks
At IGF 2025, National, Regional, and Youth IGFs (NRIs) were actively included through joint main sessions, collaborative panels, and dedicated networking events, bringing localized perspectives into the global dialogue. These sessions were developed through bottom-up, multistakeholder processes and showcased the diversity of internet governance priorities across regions. To strengthen their impact at IGF 2026, deeper government involvement and structured follow-up mechanisms will be key to ensuring that NRI contributions inform global policy discussions and foster meaningful regional engagement.
Reflections on IGF 2025 Programme
The IGF 2025 programme featured well-structured sessions with speakers who demonstrated deep expertise and clarity on their subject matter. Discussions were focused, relevant, and effectively engaged the audience, contributing to a high-quality exchange of ideas.
While the calibre of speakers was commendable, there is room to diversify the speaker pool. Introducing new voices—particularly those with fresh perspectives and emerging experience—would enrich the dialogue and ensure the IGF remains inclusive and forward-looking. Longstanding speakers could take on mentorship or advisory roles, allowing space for newer contributors to lead. This approach fosters renewal and reflects the evolving nature of internet governance.
I do not mean simply bringing in more youth participants, but rather specialists and experts in specific areas relevant to the session topics—especially individuals actively contributing to NRIs, MAG, and IGF fellowship alumnai actively in the NRI and MAGS. Their inclusion would strengthen the relevance and depth of discussions.
Bringing in new speakers helps ensure that the IGF continues to reflect current realities and emerging challenges, rather than relying solely on legacy perspectives.
Enjoyed the session.
I wish to see more Ministers representatives from the Global south especially the Pacific.
Great to see this track added in the forum.
I think its equal and am happy about it.
I love the settings though I wish we had more space for more setups.
It was all fantastic
nil
Koroney
Tout était bon sauf la question budgétaire, les ressources financières sont de plus en plus limitées.
Le temps imparti pour les sessions est très limité.
Parfois les questions des participants sont refusées, alors où est l inclusion.
Parfois les questions des participants sont refusées, alors où est l inclusion.
Ras
Ras
Ras
Ras
Le manque de traduction est parfois un handicap, chez les francophones
Parfait
Il y a des l exclusion
Parfait
Ras
Ras
Ras
Ras
Lawrence
Session submission process confusing, not communicative and overvalued traditional participation methods
To broad and also repetitive
confusing
confusing
Good cross section, needed more philanthropy
The best events were off the main program, way too many people just talking at us, not even at each other.
Why not do a Dynamic Coalition-focused day?
Hard to tell the difference bewteen other sessions
To talk focused
Very bland
Luy
It's great job, however, there is less topic on the gender and social inclusion
It worked well.
All are good for me.
It's a great platform which I can connect with other NGOs, UN, private sector and the my government to build good network and connection.
It will be good to discuss and share practical experience of a country or organization in the multi-stakeholder approach to address the issues. Please share real example as everybody belief in the multi-stakeholder approach, but how to get it work? still a question?
Mirza
Some sessions should’ve had more youth voices, especially when there was call for issues
Overall program was good, but there were way to few youth delegates throughout the forum.
Invite youth councils in every country. Especially the country who is hosting. More get together throughout the days, even when some sessions are on going
Nottingham
It would greatly improve quality of participation if the agenda were available and stable significantly earlier in the process.
The session proposal process could benefit from streamlining; it is still difficult to navigate and requires considerable context about the IGF to successfully propose a session.
The session proposal process could benefit from streamlining; it is still difficult to navigate and requires considerable context about the IGF to successfully propose a session.
Recognising that organising such an event is difficult, I would suggest an effort to remove duplication in the agenda -- too often, sessions on similar topics are scheduled. This reflects a lack of coordination in the community, and could be improved by efforts to promote truely differing viewpoints on a given topic in the same session (e.g., by combining sessions).
Improvements to the agenda's navigability and user interface would be greatly appreciated.
The practice of having substantive details on the host country's Web site leads to confusion and inconsistent experience.
The practice of having substantive details on the host country's Web site leads to confusion and inconsistent experience.
OCHIENG
The IGF 2025 preparatory process went very well. The timeline, call for issues and session proposals, session selection, programme announcement, MAG meetings, and capacity development activities were all well-organized and effectively executed. Each year, there has been a noticeable improvement in the process since its inception, and 2025 was no exception. The sessions and overall programme were excellent and highly relevant.
The IGF 2025 overall programme was outstanding, the thematic focus was timely, relevant, and truly reflective of the global digital policy landscape. The structure struck the perfect balance between main sessions, interactive workshops, high-level panels, and capacity-building tracks, ensuring both depth and inclusivity. The diversity of session types kept the event dynamic and engaging, while allowing participants to explore topics from multiple perspectives. It was clear that a lot of thought and collaboration went into making the programme impactful, accessible, and inspiring for all participants.
While the IGF brings together a diverse range of participants, I believe there is room to broaden access especially for individuals from Africa who are enthusiastic about attending but lack the financial means. Currently, funding support tends to favor those affiliated with well-established organizations, which often leaves out passionate youth and independent voices. I recommend that travel support and funding opportunities be extended to individuals based on merit, commitment, and contribution potential, rather than primarily on organizational affiliation or resources. This would make participation more inclusive and representative of diverse perspectives.
The Best Practice Forums (BPFs) and Policy Networks at IGF 2025 were well-curated, with rich content and diverse expert inputs. The process allowed for meaningful multi-stakeholder engagement, and their inclusion in the annual programme was seamless ensuring that outcomes from the intersessional work were visible and relevant to the main event discussions. To strengthen the connection with the IGF 2026 process, it would be beneficial to build more structured follow-up mechanisms, such as year-round engagement platforms, early dissemination of draft outputs for feedback, and dedicated sessions that track progress on recommendations from previous cycles. This continuity would help sustain momentum and enhance the impact of these valuable initiatives.
The Dynamic Coalitions (DCs) at IGF 2025 demonstrated strong collaborative spirit, with processes that encouraged participation from a wide range of stakeholders. The content was relevant and addressed both emerging and ongoing issues in the digital governance space. Their inclusion in the annual programme was well thought out, enabling DCs to showcase their work and connect with new participants. For IGF 2026, a stronger connection could be built by ensuring earlier visibility of DC activities during the preparatory phase, creating joint sessions between DCs and other intersessional groups, and providing platforms for continuous collaboration throughout the year. This would help translate the coalitions’ work into sustained impact and actionable outcomes.
The National, Regional, and Youth IGFs (NRIs) at IGF 2025 played a crucial role in bringing local and regional perspectives to the global stage. The process of incorporating NRIs into the annual programme was smooth and inclusive, with sessions that highlighted unique challenges, solutions, and innovations from different parts of the world. The Youth IGFs, in particular, brought fresh ideas and energy that enriched discussions. To better connect NRIs with the IGF 2026 process, it would be valuable to strengthen year-round collaboration, provide more visibility for NRI outputs early in the preparatory phase, and create dedicated spaces for cross-NRI dialogue and joint initiatives. This would ensure local voices continue to inform and shape global policy conversations in a meaningful way.
Was perfect.
Was so informative
Was good though many voices missed the opportunity.
Affirmative action was not well balanced.
Was well on the schedule
Owusu
Point of Contact for visa application process was limited
The programme was well organised and met all my expectation in terms of programme itineraries
The programme design and experience was excellent
Reschedule of programme in the last minute distorted participants movement and schedules
Less privileged groups should fully sponsored, especially with persons with disabilities. I saw how some of these people struggled to participate in the event.
Some key events were running concurrently, making it difficult for participants experience other programmes
Participants were to have a pack of information on the various outcomes and issues from the various National, Regional and Youth IGFs before the main IGF for the year. So that it could help participants relate with the issue before they participate in the meeting.
Some resolutions were not signed because there were limited engagement with the nations that have local and cultural issues that must be addressed. Some issues were specific to continents and regions which must be resolved before the IGF. A sub-committee should be set up to engage countries on pertinent issues for it to be addressed before the IGF event. Apart from that, the selected speakers were knowledge and well vest in their field of profession and their impact was good
It was impressive. However, if care is not taken more women will over shadow the men I think we should stick to balance.
The facility was excellent
The information flow was ok
The catering in terms of menu was woefully inadequate. The selected menu was not impressive. You may want to introduced more menu choices
Point of Contact for visa application process was limited
The programme was well organised and met all my expectation in terms of programme itineraries
The programme design and experience was excellent
Reschedule of programme in the last minute distorted participants movement and schedules
Less privileged groups should fully sponsored, especially with persons with disabilities. I saw how some of these people struggled to participate in the event.
Some key events were running concurrently, making it difficult for participants experience other programmes
Participants were to have a pack of information on the various outcomes and issues from the various National, Regional and Youth IGFs before the main IGF for the year. So that it could help participants relate with the issue before they participate in the meeting.
Some resolutions were not signed because there were limited engagement with the nations that have local and cultural issues that must be addressed. Some issues were specific to continents and regions which must be resolved before the IGF. A sub-committee should be set up to engage countries on pertinent issues for it to be addressed before the IGF event. Apart from that, the selected speakers were knowledge and well vest in their field of profession and their impact was good
It was impressive. However, if care is not taken more women will over shadow the men I think we should stick to balance.
The facility was excellent
The information flow was ok
The catering in terms of menu was woefully inadequate. The selected menu was not impressive. You may want to introduced more menu choices
OZOEMENA
EXCELLENT
EXCELLENT
EXCELLENT
EXCELLENT
EXCELLENT
EXCELLENT
EXCELLENT
EXCELLENT
The IGF 2025 sessions seem to cover a wide range of topics, including digital governance, inclusivity, and sustainability. Some sessions, like "Gender Mainstreaming in Digital Connectivity Strategies" and "Strengthening Digital Inclusion: Empowering Women, Youth, and Marginalized Communities for Enhanced" indicate a focus on gender and digital inclusion. The IGF's multistakeholder approach facilitates collaboration and knowledge-sharing among different stakeholders
The IGF High-Level Leaders Track likely features prominent speakers and thought leaders in the field of digital governance. Speakers like Maria Ressa and Joseph Gordon have participated in IGF 2025, sharing their insights and expertise
While specific details about the IGF Parliamentary Track are limited, it likely brings together parliamentarians to discuss digital governance issues and develop policies.
The IGF Youth Track probably focuses on empowering young people to participate in digital governance and shape the future of the internet.
The IGF program content appears to prioritize gender inclusivity, with sessions focused on digital inclusion, women's empowerment, and gender mainstreaming in digital connectivity strategies. Recommended readings on technology-facilitated gender-based violence and community-centred connectivity also highlight the IGF's commitment to addressing gender-related issues
The IGF Village is a dynamic hub where diverse stakeholders share ideas, build connections, and showcase innovative technologies and products related to the internet. It provides a unique opportunity for networking and collaboration
The IGF seems to prioritize effective communication and outreach, with features like live streaming, social events, and recaps from the forum. Establishing formal feedback channels could further enhance future program planning and execution
I suggest it is made much more easier for Delegates to participate effectively.
I look forward to participating in the IGF 2026.
Thank you for the privilege.
I look forward to participating in the IGF 2026.
Thank you for the privilege.
Parris
This part was done very well.
Very good
Very good
Very good
New participants were somewhat confused by the IGF process. There needs to be a preparation workshop explaining the process.
Very good preparation, however, the public needs to know with reminder emails, posts, and other networking inviting the public to join the sessions.
More communication is needed, especially to newcomers to the IGF
More training sessions about what to expect is needed.
There were. Outlying of good quality, except that some attendees did not understand and the process .
Not as well attended as it should have been, again due to communication.
As above.
Was well done with new ideas.
There was a good gender balance.
Very good, with new experiences, would have loved to see more demistrations especially robotics and AI.
Could have been better. Outreach is lacking. Given the 6 month preparation time, there should have been an Outreach and Engagement working troop dealing with the public to entice greater participation. Too much focus on high level and parliamentarian discussion that did not include the general public.
Not having badges was a mistake, most of us rely on names on badges, and I personally had a problem remembering peoples names, which appeared rude at times. Entry to the venue was also delayed since I personally could not find my badge most days on my phone, and forgot to print the email with the badge. A printed badge would have been easier, so I'm taking the blame for that aspect of my preparation. A hand out would have helped older and disabled guests as well, since I wanted a charger, I forgot my apple connection and my power bank, some airlines do now allow power banks as well. I only noticed that there were power bank stations on-site on my last day. A virtual map was on the host site, but the power bank stations on-site was not listed. Maybe I missed it or it was overlooked. Taxi for pickup were not allowed to the hotel entrance either despite being told by the hotel they would pick the client up outside the entrance, Thy are hotel taxis and should have been allowed. The town itself was not prepared for the onslaught of visitors, chargers should have been available in the town.
This part was done very well.
Very good
Very good
Very good
New participants were somewhat confused by the IGF process. There needs to be a preparation workshop explaining the process.
Very good preparation, however, the public needs to know with reminder emails, posts, and other networking inviting the public to join the sessions.
More communication is needed, especially to newcomers to the IGF
More training sessions about what to expect is needed.
There were. Outlying of good quality, except that some attendees did not understand and the process .
Not as well attended as it should have been, again due to communication.
As above.
Was well done with new ideas.
There was a good gender balance.
Very good, with new experiences, would have loved to see more demistrations especially robotics and AI.
Could have been better. Outreach is lacking. Given the 6 month preparation time, there should have been an Outreach and Engagement working troop dealing with the public to entice greater participation. Too much focus on high level and parliamentarian discussion that did not include the general public.
Not having badges was a mistake, most of us rely on names on badges, and I personally had a problem remembering peoples names, which appeared rude at times. Entry to the venue was also delayed since I personally could not find my badge most days on my phone, and forgot to print the email with the badge. A printed badge would have been easier, so I'm taking the blame for that aspect of my preparation. A hand out would have helped older and disabled guests as well, since I wanted a charger, I forgot my apple connection and my power bank, some airlines do now allow power banks as well. I only noticed that there were power bank stations on-site on my last day. A virtual map was on the host site, but the power bank stations on-site was not listed. Maybe I missed it or it was overlooked. Taxi for pickup were not allowed to the hotel entrance either despite being told by the hotel they would pick the client up outside the entrance, Thy are hotel taxis and should have been allowed. The town itself was not prepared for the onslaught of visitors, chargers should have been available in the town.
Ribeiro
Due to the overall necessity we have for an internet interontological aignment to establish the IGF own standards, an Ontology Forum is imprescindible to take place. I recommend that the https://iaoa.org be invited to take part in this process.
Due to the overall necessity we have for an internet interontological aignment to establish the IGF own standards, an Ontology Forum is imprescindible to take place. I recommend that the https://iaoa.org be invited to take part in this process.
Due to the overall necessity we have for an internet interontological aignment to establish the IGF own standards, an Ontology Forum is imprescindible to take place. I recommend that the https://iaoa.org be invited to take part in this process.
Ontology development workshops for general audiences.
SOSSOU
The process was well structured, but early engagement with NRIs and youth initiatives could be improved. NRIs are often the closest link between global discussions and local realities; engaging them earlier in the cycle would make the call for issues and programme more inclusive and representative.
The themes covered were comprehensive. However, the programme could benefit from clearer clustering of sessions around outcomes, not just themes, so participants can follow impact-driven discussions. Additionally, more interactive formats (roundtables, workshops with synthesis outputs) would encourage concrete takeaways.
The process was well structured, but early engagement with NRIs and youth initiatives could be improved. NRIs are often the closest link between global discussions and local realities; engaging them earlier in the cycle would make the call for issues and programme more inclusive and representative.
The website and schedule worked, but navigation could be more user-friendly. A more integrated mobile app with session reminders, speaker bios, and in-app networking tools would improve the participant experience.
Greater efforts should be made to personally engage national and regional NRI coordinators, and youth leaders. Personalized invitations and logistical support (especially travel grants for developing countries) would strengthen inclusivity and diversity.
Interlinking BPFs, PNs, and DCs with the main programme was positive. However, they should be better showcased during the annual meeting, possibly through dedicated synthesis sessions that highlight their progress and relevance for future IGFs.
NRIs and Youth IGFs were present, but their sessions often compete with main sessions, reducing visibility. To maximize impact, NRIs and Youth IGFs should be given dedicated slots in prime time and space to showcase consolidated recommendations to feed into global discussions.
The Youth Track should be better connected to the main sessions to avoid being seen as parallel or isolated.
The diversity of speakers improved, but there is still room for more regional balance and gender balance in high-level panels. The Youth Track should be better connected to the main sessions to avoid being seen as parallel or isolated.
Nothing to add. Maybe more space.
Outputs were well documented, but they should be translated into more languages and disseminated through simplified formats (infographics, short videos) to reach wider audiences beyond the IGF community. Media ar the IGF subgroup should be put to work here but also include other DCs.
Consider developing a multi-year vision for IGF, so discussions connect more clearly across years, rather than being reset annually. Strengthen youth leadership roles within MAG and programme committees. Ensure that the IGF remains accessible to the Global South by improving financial support and digital
Vallesverd
Good preperations by hosts and IGF
Very complex and little user friendly program.
good
the app could be more user friendly. A lot of scrolling...
did not see this? What does NRI mean?
If there was any categoization of any intersessional events in term of deliverable-process, this was very difficult to see. and I still dont see it looking at the programme. "best practise" is not mentioned in the programme, neither "policy networks"
If there was any categoization of any intersessional events in term of deliverable-process, this was very difficult to see. and I still dont see it looking at the programme. "best practise" is not mentioned in the programme, neither "policy networks"
No idea what this is. Not visible.
NRI? had to google what this means.
Far to complex and very difficult to make real changes to evolving problems in the internet ecosystem. Discussions need to be more operational AND the should be sub groups working on topics prepareing for decision at next IGF. There shoudl be som kind of best practose adoption. If not we loose against the dark side of internet.
It needs clear lederships that delegates tasks to the forum. task that aim to provide som kind of harmonizing measures on common isues.
It needs clear lederships that delegates tasks to the forum. task that aim to provide som kind of harmonizing measures on common isues.
wei
IGF 2025 had several positive aspects in its preparatory process, such as a timely call for proposals and capacity - building initiatives. However, areas like programme announcement timeliness, session selection transparency, and MAG representation need improvement. By implementing the suggested changes for IGF 2026, the forum can become an even more effective platform for multistakeholder dialogue on internet governance, contributing to the development of a more inclusive, secure, and sustainable digital future.
Narrow Down and Prioritize: For IGF 2026, the thematic focus could be narrowed down and more clearly prioritized. Instead of a very broad theme, the organizers could identify 2 - 3 key areas within digital governance that are most pressing and in need of in - depth exploration. For example, they could focus on "Strengthening Digital Trust in the Age of AI" and "Bridging the Digital Divide in Rural and Remote Areas". This would allow for more focused and detailed discussions.
Interactive Tools for Virtual Participation: The virtual platform should be equipped with more advanced interactive tools. For example, real-time polling that allows both in-person and virtual participants to vote simultaneously, and a queuing system for virtual participants to indicate their desire to speak. These tools can help create a more inclusive environment where all participants have equal opportunities to engage.
Mobile APP functionality :The IGF mobile app had room for improvement in terms of functionality. Although it provided basic information like the schedule and session details, the quick view of the personal schedule on the app did not display detailed session information; instead, it only showed the session number. The app also required frequent updates, which was inconvenient for users. Additionally, the app's search function was not very effective, making it difficult for users to find specific sessions or participants.
Newcomer-friendly interaction programs :Structured interaction programs for newcomers should be developed. This could include a "newcomer orientation" session at the beginning of the event, where new participants are introduced to the IGF ecosystem, key participants, and the best ways to engage. Mentorship programs could also be established, pairing newcomers with experienced participants who can guide them through the event, introduce them to relevant sessions, and help them build connections.
Link Intersessional Activities to IGF 2026 Themes Early: To ensure that intersessional activities are aligned with the priorities of IGF 2026, the themes of the 2026 forum should be announced early, and intersessional activities should be encouraged to address these themes. This could be done by including the 2026 themes in the call for NRI proposals, providing guidance on how intersessional activities can contribute to these themes.
Formalize Policy Feedback Loops: Establish formal channels for Dynamic Coalitions to feed their outputs into IGF 2026’s policy discussions. For example, require MAG members to review coalition recommendations and reference them in thematic debates. Invite coalition representatives to present key findings during high-level policy dialogues, ensuring their work informs decision-making.
With the increasing prevalence of technology, the IGF 2026 process can further leverage digital tools to engage NRIs. For example, creating a dedicated online platform for NRIs to interact throughout the year, share updates on their local activities, and collaborate on joint projects. This platform can also be used to promote the participation of NRIs in IGF 2026, by providing easy - to - access information on session submissions, registration, and other relevant details. By using technology in this way, NRIs can be more closely connected to the IGF 2026 process, regardless of their geographical location.
IGF 2025 sessions demonstrated the forum’s unique value as a multi-stakeholder space for inclusive, action-oriented internet governance dialogue. By building on strengths—multistakeholder inclusivity, local relevance, actionable outputs—and addressing challenges—marginalized representation, thematic fragmentation, weak follow-up—the IGF can make its sessions even more impactful in 2026.
The key to success will be centering “inclusivity by design” (not just as an afterthought) and ensuring sessions are part of a continuous, global-local dialogue—rather than isolated annual events. With these improvements, IGF sessions can continue to lead the way in shaping a more equitable, secure, and innovative digital future for all.
The key to success will be centering “inclusivity by design” (not just as an afterthought) and ensuring sessions are part of a continuous, global-local dialogue—rather than isolated annual events. With these improvements, IGF sessions can continue to lead the way in shaping a more equitable, secure, and innovative digital future for all.
The IGF High - level Leaders Track plays a crucial role in shaping the global discourse on internet governance. By bringing together the most influential figures in the field, it has the potential to drive meaningful change and set the direction for future policies. However, to fully realize its potential, the track must address the challenges of representation, thematic focus, and follow - up on outcomes. By implementing the proposed solutions, the High - level Leaders Track can become an even more effective platform for promoting inclusive, action - oriented, and sustainable internet governance in the years to come.
The IGF Parliamentary Track plays a vital role in the global internet governance ecosystem. By bringing together parliamentarians from around the world, it has the potential to drive meaningful change in digital policies at a national and international level. However, to fully realize its potential, the track must address the challenges of representation, thematic focus, and follow - up on legislative outcomes. By implementing the proposed solutions, the IGF Parliamentary Track can become an even more effective platform for promoting inclusive, action - oriented, and sustainable digital governance in the years to come.
The IGF Youth Track plays a pivotal role in the global internet governance landscape. By involving young people in discussions and decision - making processes, it not only empowers the youth but also enriches the global discourse on internet governance. However, to fully realize its potential, the track must overcome challenges related to youth representation, thematic focus, and sustaining youth engagement. By implementing the proposed solutions, the IGF Youth Track can continue to be a vibrant and effective platform for promoting youth - centered, inclusive, and sustainable internet governance in the future.
while the IGF programme content has made strides in addressing gender - related issues in the digital realm, there is still much work to be done. By continuing to focus on improving digital access for women, promoting gender - inclusive policies, enhancing female representation, providing targeted digital skills training, and combating gender - based online threats, the IGF can contribute significantly to achieving digital gender equality.
The IGF Village is an integral part of the Internet Governance Forum ecosystem. It enriches the IGF experience by providing a space for informal interactions, innovative thinking, and capacity building. However, to fully realize its potential, it must address challenges related to the transfer of ideas between the informal and formal IGF processes and ensure inclusivity. By implementing the proposed solutions, the IGF Village can continue to be a dynamic and effective platform for promoting inclusive and sustainable internet governance.
IGF's communications, outreach, and outputs play a vital role in the global internet governance ecosystem. Through effective communication strategies, wide - reaching outreach efforts, and the generation of valuable outputs, IGF aims to raise awareness, engage stakeholders, and influence policy - making in the field of internet governance. However, to fully realize its potential, IGF must address the challenges related to communication barriers, outreach impact, and output utilization. By implementing the proposed solutions, IGF can continue to be a leading platform for promoting inclusive, sustainable, and effective internet governance.
In an era where data is abundant, IGF could make more use of big data analytics in its communications, outreach, and output evaluation. For example, by analyzing social media data, IGF can gain deeper insights into the topics that are most engaging for different stakeholder groups. This can help in tailoring future communication strategies. If data shows that discussions around “digital identity in the metaverse” are generating a high volume of interactions among the youth, IGF can organize more sessions and produce targeted content on this topic. In terms of outreach, big data can help identify regions or communities with untapped potential. Analyzing website traffic data, IGF might discover that there is a growing interest in internet governance
Yakoubi
I believe that travel support should be integrated into the proposal submission process, rather than occurring beforehand. Currently, the travel support application asks whether the applicant will be presenting or simply attending. This information directly affects funding decisions. However, at that stage, applicants often do not know their final role, since proposals have not yet been submitted or reviewed, and acceptance has not been confirmed.
It would be more logical and efficient if travel support and proposal applications were submitted together and reviewed in parallel. This way, funding decisions could be informed by the proposal outcome, and applicants could provide accurate information about their participation.
Furthermore, the current sequence creates additional challenges. When proposal results are announced, applicants are asked to confirm their attendance and indicate whether they will present in person. At that point, however, travel support decisions have not yet been communicated. This creates a dilemma for participants—such as in my case—where in-person attendance is only possible if travel funding is granted. Without that information, the only option is to commit to online presentation, which can significantly affect participation plans.
In my experience, this led to further complications. None of the team members who applied received travel support, requiring us to make substantial last-minute modifications to our presentation. Aligning the timelines for proposal review, travel support decisions, and attendance confirmation would prevent such issues, ensure fairness, and improve logistical planning for all parties involved.
It would be more logical and efficient if travel support and proposal applications were submitted together and reviewed in parallel. This way, funding decisions could be informed by the proposal outcome, and applicants could provide accurate information about their participation.
Furthermore, the current sequence creates additional challenges. When proposal results are announced, applicants are asked to confirm their attendance and indicate whether they will present in person. At that point, however, travel support decisions have not yet been communicated. This creates a dilemma for participants—such as in my case—where in-person attendance is only possible if travel funding is granted. Without that information, the only option is to commit to online presentation, which can significantly affect participation plans.
In my experience, this led to further complications. None of the team members who applied received travel support, requiring us to make substantial last-minute modifications to our presentation. Aligning the timelines for proposal review, travel support decisions, and attendance confirmation would prevent such issues, ensure fairness, and improve logistical planning for all parties involved.
Ytterli
It was quite late that both the programme and the info on the digital Village was announced. We prepared as much as we could, but still had to do some last minute crunches to get everything ready before the IGF-week.
Registration took some time. Especially since it was very hard to upload a photo that was accepted by the platform.
Security, entrance to the area, toilets and food was all great.
Security, entrance to the area, toilets and food was all great.
It might have been more suitable to group the booths in order of themes in stead of Norwegian vs International, for example place all the DNS-actors together so that we could point visitors to each other.
We had excellent help from the employees of Medvind both before and during the event. They really went above and beyond.
We had excellent help from the employees of Medvind both before and during the event. They really went above and beyond.
Zakaria
What worked well: Diversity of voices, hybrid participation, strong Youth Track, clearer preparatory process.
What worked not so well: Overlapping sessions, heavy digital platforms, limited follow-up on outputs, weaker Global South visibility.
Suggestions for IGF 2026: Better coordination to avoid overlaps, lighter online tools, stronger link to policy recommendations, mentorship for newcomers, more funding for underrepresented youth.
Preparatory process: Timeline was clear, but calls should open earlier; MAG meetings could be more interactive; expand Global South capacity building.
What worked not so well: Overlapping sessions, heavy digital platforms, limited follow-up on outputs, weaker Global South visibility.
Suggestions for IGF 2026: Better coordination to avoid overlaps, lighter online tools, stronger link to policy recommendations, mentorship for newcomers, more funding for underrepresented youth.
Preparatory process: Timeline was clear, but calls should open earlier; MAG meetings could be more interactive; expand Global South capacity building.
Overall programme: Relevant themes but imbalance between technical and policy focus; too many speakers in some panels, limiting interaction.
Hybrid format: Useful but online participants often felt excluded; moderators should balance onsite and online contributions.
Logistics: Website and schedule worked but navigation could be simpler; 3D platform heavy; bilateral meeting system needs improvement.
Participants: Invite more grassroots leaders, educators, and local innovators; provide structured networking opportunities.
Intersessional activities and NRIs: Visible but not fully integrated into the main programme; stronger links with main sessions needed.
Best Practice Forums and Policy Networks: Valuable, but outputs should be highlighted more clearly in the agenda.
Dynamic Coalitions: Good discussions but small reach; encourage collaboration with youth initiatives.
National, Regional and Youth IGFs: Youth IGF was strong; NRIs should have more structured slots in the main programme.
Programme content and speakers: Content was strong but often dominated by international organizations; need more grassroots and youth voices.
Sessions: High-level track should allow more Q&A; parliamentary track needs more regional diversity; youth track strong but should not be isolated.
The Youth Track at IGF 2025 was very impactful and gave young people meaningful visibility. However, it should not stand alone; youth voices need to be integrated into the main sessions and high-level discussions, not only in youth-dedicated spaces. For IGF 2026, I suggest stronger youth representation in decision-making tracks, more collaboration between youth and other stakeholder groups, and more funding support to bring diverse young leaders, especially from the Global South.
Gender perspective: Gender balance improved, but Global South women remain underrepresented in high-level tracks.
IGF Village: Useful for networking; more visibility needed for youth-led and African civil society initiatives.
Communications, outreach and outputs: Pre-event communication was good; outputs should be simplified and more widely shared; expand multilingual outreach.
Other comments: IGF is valuable but must keep evolving to be inclusive, impactful, and accessible. IGF 2026 should ensure stronger youth participation in decision-making, better regional balance, and closer integration of intersessional work into the main programme.
