Evaluating the Internet Governance Forum in a broader digital governance landscape

DNS Research Federation has recently released a comprehensive report assessing the impact of the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) in anticipation of the WSIS+20 review. The report was commissioned and funded by the UK Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT). This event aims to bring together experts and students in the field of Internet governance and digital policy for an engaging and interactive experience.
Presentation by DNSRF
Emily Taylor, CEO of DNSRF, Georgia Osborn, Senior Research Analyst, and Dorottya Zsiboracs, Research and Policy Analyst, will present the findings and insights from the report, highlighting the achievements and impact of the IGF – such as the growth of Internet Exchange Points (IXPs), the development of an ecosystem of National and Regional IGFs, the cultivation of the next generation of Global South leaders, and the facilitation of IANA transition- over the past decade. The report holds significant importance as it offers a data-driven analysis of the IGF’s accomplishments over the past two decades and underscores the necessity of renewing its mandate to prevent internet fragmentation and sustain global collaboration on internet-related issues.
Q&A
Following the short presentation by the DNSRF team, we hope to have engaging discussions on the context of this report leading up to the WSIS+20 review, and in a broader context the implications of multistakeholder governance and the evolving role of organisations like ICANN and IETF in shaping internet policies, their strengths / achievements and areas of improvement. In addition, we hope to explore the implications of the recent Zero Draft of the Global Digital Compact (GDC) on the future of the IGF. This could involve discussing potential adjustments in focus, priorities, or operational strategies for the IGF to remain effective in the changing digital landscape.