Saudi Arabia is set to host the 19th Internet Governance Forum (IGF) from December 15-19, 2024, at the King Abdulaziz International Conference Center in Riyadh. This prestigious event will gather over 10,000 participants from 160 countries, including more than 1,000 international speakers. The forum, themed “Building Our Multistakeholder Digital Future,” aims to address critical issues related to internet governance, innovation, and digital inclusion. The IGF will provide a platform for stakeholders from governments, the private sector, and non-profit organizations to collaborate and shape the future of the internet.
The Internet Governance Forum (IGF) is an annual event organized by the United Nations to discuss and formulate international trends and policies regarding internet governance. This year’s forum in Riyadh will focus on four main topics: harnessing innovation and balancing risks in the digital space, enhancing the digital contribution to peace, development and sustainability, advancing human rights and inclusion in the digital age, and improving digital governance for the internet we want.
The forum will feature over 300 sessions and workshops, providing a comprehensive platform for participants to share their experiences and best practices. These sessions will cover a wide range of topics, including cybersecurity, data governance, digital divides, and human rights. The goal is to foster a collaborative environment where stakeholders can work together to address the challenges and opportunities presented by the digital age.
The IGF’s emphasis on multistakeholder participation is crucial for its success. By bringing together representatives from different sectors and regions, the forum aims to ensure that diverse perspectives are considered in the development of internet governance policies. This inclusive approach is essential for creating a digital future that benefits everyone.
Saudi Arabia’s Commitment to Digital Development
Hosting the IGF is a testament to Saudi Arabia’s commitment to digital development and its role as a leader in the field of information and communications technology (ICT). The Kingdom has made significant strides in enhancing its digital infrastructure and promoting digital inclusion. This progress is aligned with Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the economy and reduce dependence on oil by fostering innovation and technological advancement.
The Saudi government has implemented various initiatives to support the growth of the digital economy. These include investments in broadband infrastructure, the development of smart cities, and the promotion of digital literacy. The Kingdom’s efforts have been recognized internationally, with Saudi Arabia ranking highly in global digital competitiveness and regulatory readiness indexes.
The IGF provides an opportunity for Saudi Arabia to showcase its achievements and share its experiences with the global community. By hosting this event, the Kingdom aims to strengthen its position as a hub for digital innovation and collaboration. The forum will also highlight Saudi Arabia’s efforts to bridge the digital divide and ensure that all citizens have access to the benefits of the digital age.
Enhancing International Cooperation
The IGF in Riyadh will serve as a platform for enhancing international cooperation on internet governance issues. The forum will facilitate the exchange of ideas and best practices among participants, fostering a collaborative approach to addressing global digital challenges. This cooperation is essential for creating a secure and inclusive digital future.
One of the key objectives of the IGF is to build consensus among stakeholders on policies for enhanced internet governance. The forum will provide a space for open dialogue and debate, allowing participants to explore different perspectives and find common ground. This collaborative approach is crucial for developing effective and sustainable solutions to the complex issues facing the digital world.
The IGF will also promote the importance of digital rights and inclusion. By advancing human rights in the digital age, the forum aims to ensure that the benefits of the internet are accessible to all. This includes addressing issues such as online privacy, freedom of expression, and access to information. The IGF’s focus on human rights and inclusion reflects the broader goal of creating a digital future that is equitable and just.
