ICANN Reinforces Commitment to Global Internet Stability at IGF 2025 in Norway.

As the digital world converges in Lillestrøm, Norway, for the 20th annual Internet Governance Forum (IGF), the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of a stable, secure, and interoperable global Internet. The forum, running from June 23 to 27, 2025, under the theme “Building Digital Governance Together,” marks a crucial moment for assessing past progress and solidifying commitments for the digital age.

IGF 2025 is particularly significant as it serves as a key stepping stone towards WSIS+20, the 20-year review of the World Summit on the Information Society, scheduled for later this year. The discussions and outcomes from Lillestrøm are expected to significantly influence the priorities and principles that will guide the United Nations member states in negotiating the final outcome of WSIS+20.

Leading ICANN’s delegation is President and CEO Kurtis Lindqvist, who, along with his team, will be actively involved in a diverse range of sessions. These discussions will delve into critical Internet governance issues foundational to ICANN’s core mission: ensuring the coordination of the Internet’s unique identifier system. Key topics will include the security of the Domain Name System (DNS), the advancement of Universal Acceptance for a truly multilingual Internet, and the continuous evolution of the multistakeholder model – a cornerstone of effective Internet governance.

ICANN’s presence at IGF 2025 will prominently underscore the indispensable role of technical coordination in maintaining the Internet’s operational integrity. From the intricate network of domain names to the allocation of Internet Protocol addresses, ICANN’s foundational work provides the bedrock for a reliable and resilient online environment. This behind-the-scenes effort is what enables billions of people across the globe to connect, communicate, and innovate seamlessly, transcending geographical and technological boundaries.

The IGF platform also offers a vital opportunity to highlight the essential contributions of the technical community in the broader landscape of Internet governance. As a distinct and crucial stakeholder group, the technical community brings invaluable operational expertise. This expertise is integral to the practical implementation of policies and protocols that are vital for the Internet’s continued functionality and its global interoperability.

ICANN reaffirms its unwavering commitment to supporting the IGF as a vibrant and inclusive space for meaningful multistakeholder dialogue. In an increasingly complex and, at times, contested digital environment, the enduring relevance and impact of the IGF depend on its renewal and adequate resourcing. This continued investment is crucial to fostering informed cooperation and consensus-building among all stakeholder groups.

Join ICANN at IGF 2025:

ICANN invites all interested stakeholders to participate in IGF 2025, whether in-person in Lillestrøm or remotely. The forum remains an unparalleled opportunity to engage in discussions addressing the Internet’s most pressing challenges and exciting opportunities.

Scheduled ICANN Participation:

• 24 June, 16:00–17:00 UTC +2: Open Forum: Demystifying WSIS+20 (Organized by ICANN and the Government of Finland)
• 26 June, 11:30–12:30 UTC +2: Workshop #226: Strengthening Multistakeholder Participation (Subtheme: Building Digital Cooperation)

For more information on registration and participation options, please visit the official IGF 2025 website.

About Author

Dr. Adebunmi Adeola Akinbo

Dr. Adebunmi Akinbo is a Researcher, Media Psychologist, Brand and Content Expert. He is an Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) Fellow, Member of Association of Cyber Forensics and Threat Investigators (ACFTI), Associate Member of the Computer Professional Registration Council of Nigeria (CPN), and a Senior Member of Chartered Institute of Public Diplomacy & Management (CIPDM), He is passionate for information and solutions for ICT Challenges by the media for the global village.

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