The Internet Society Takes Centre Stage at WSIS+20 High-Level Event in Geneva.

As the digital world continues to evolve at breakneck speed, the global community is converging in Geneva next week for a pivotal moment: the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS)+20 High-Level Event. Commencing on July 7th and running until July 11th, 2025, this significant gathering marks two decades since the original WSIS summits laid the groundwork for a people-centric, inclusive, and development-oriented Information Society. A key voice at this crucial review will be the Internet Society (ISOC), an organization dedicated to the open development, evolution, and use of the Internet.

The WSIS+20 High-Level Event, co-hosted by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the Swiss Confederation, with support from UNESCO, UNDP, and UNCTAD, is set to be a comprehensive stocktaking of achievements, challenges, and emerging opportunities in the digital landscape. Discussions will revisit the foundational WSIS Action Lines, evaluate their effectiveness over the past two decades, and chart a course for the future of global digital cooperation.

For the Internet Society, this event is more than just a review; it’s a critical opportunity to reinforce the principles of a globally connected, open, secure, and trustworthy Internet. As a trusted partner and thought leader in the Internet Governance community, ISOC will be at the forefront of conversations around the WSIS+20 review, the evolution of the Internet Governance Forum (IGF), and the implementation of the Global Digital Compact.

“The WSIS+20 High-Level Event is a crucial moment for ensuring the Internet remains a force for good,” stated a representative from the Internet Society. “Our goal is to defend the participation of all stakeholders – including the technical community, civil society, academia, and the private sector – in shaping the Internet’s future. We believe that truly inclusive governance is the only way to build a digital future that serves everyone.”

ISOC’s participation will be multifaceted. They will leverage data from their “Internet Society Pulse” platform and insights from their policy analysis to inform public debate and advocate for pro-Internet positions Expect to see their experts contributing to sessions on:

• Community-centered connectivity: Exploring how local champions can empower communities to expand Internet access for all, particularly in underserved regions.
• Indigenous Digital Infrastructures and Emerging Technologies: Addressing the unique challenges and capacities within indigenous communities regarding digital infrastructure and the implications of new technologies.
• Digital Trust and Cyber Resilience: Leading discussions on collaborative strategies to strengthen digital trust and enhance cybersecurity in an increasingly complex online environment.
• Strengthening Multistakeholderism: Advocating for the continued and enhanced involvement of diverse stakeholders in Internet governance processes.
• Global Digital Governance & Multistakeholder Cooperation: Contributing to the broader discussions on how global digital governance frameworks can be strengthened for the benefit of all.
• Investing in Community Connectivity: Exploring sustainable models for fostering local connectivity initiatives beyond traditional aid models.

The WSIS+20 High-Level Event comes at a time when the digital landscape is undergoing rapid transformation, marked by the rise of artificial intelligence, evolving cybersecurity threats, and persistent digital divides. The discussions in Geneva are expected to influence the direction of the UN’s actions in the coming years, including the framework for stakeholder involvement and the future mandate of the IGF, which is up for renewal in 2025.

As the Internet Society heads to Geneva, their message is clear: the future of the Internet depends on collaboration, inclusivity, and a shared commitment to its open, global, and human-centric nature. Their active engagement at WSIS+20 will be instrumental in advocating for policies and practices that ensure the Internet continues to be a platform for innovation, empowerment, and global development for the next two decades and beyond.

All voices will be heard! Stop by the ISOC Booth and connect.

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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