The 20th annual Internet Governance Forum (IGF) concluded today in Lillestrøm, marking two decades of global collaboration for a secure, inclusive, and open digital future. Hosted by the Government of Norway in partnership with the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA), the landmark event drew more than 9,000 participants from around the world.
The IGF 2025 served as a vital platform for dialogue among policymakers, tech leaders, civil society, academics, and youth—especially from Africa and the Global South. Major tech companies including Meta, OpenAI, and TikTok participated, with actor Joseph Gordon-Levitt joining discussions on artificial intelligence and digital ethics.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized in his opening remarks that “digital cooperation is now a shared responsibility,” highlighting the IGF’s central role in the recently adopted Global Digital Compact and Pact for the Future.
Over five days, more than 260 sessions explored key issues such as cybersecurity, data governance, digital rights, and the impacts of emerging technologies. The overarching theme, “Building Digital Governance Together,” underscored the importance of collective action in addressing challenges like misinformation, disinformation, and digital trust—especially in the age of generative AI.
In his closing address, UN Under-Secretary-General Li Junhua called on the global community to reinforce the IGF’s mandate ahead of its review at the UN General Assembly in December, stating, “We must deliver safe and secure digital technologies through multistakeholder cooperation.”
Norway’s Minister of Digitalisation, Karianne Tung, celebrated the forum’s success, noting its contribution to the upcoming WSIS+20 process and reaffirming Norway’s commitment to inclusive digital governance.
A key outcome was the launch of the Lillestrøm IGF Messages—a set of shared priorities and policy recommendations that aim to guide global digital development, protect human rights online, and harness technology for peace and sustainability.
As the digital world evolves rapidly, IGF 2025 has once again proven itself a crucial space for shaping a more responsible and equitable digital future for all.
