Parliamentarians gather at IGF 2024 to shape a prosperous digital future
The roundtable underscored the necessity of international cooperation and knowledge-sharing among legislators to effectively address global digital challenges and develop inclusive governance strategies.
Parliamentarians from across the globe convened at the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) 2024 in Riyadh to explore their pivotal role in shaping inclusive and secure digital governance frameworks. The ‘Parliamentary Track Roundtable: A Powerful Collective Force for Change’ session underscored the necessity of international collaboration and the harmonisation of digital legislation to address shared challenges and opportunities in an increasingly interconnected world.
Hakob Arshakyan, Vice President of the National Assembly of the Republic of Armenia, presented his country’s ‘Crossroads of Peace’ initiative, aimed at fostering connectivity across regions by reopening blocked roads and railways. He highlighted Armenia’s strides in digitalisation and stressed the importance of seamless cross-border legislation to unlock the full potential of digital public services and unified governance platforms.
Meanwhile, Norway’s Sigbjørn Gjelsvik championed the principles of inclusivity and accessibility, announcing Norway’s upcoming hosting of the IGF in June 2025 and reiterating the commitment to an open internet. The digital divide, particularly in rural regions, took centre stage as Namibia’s Maria Ilago detailed her nation’s efforts to enhance digital literacy and connectivity.
She emphasised the significance of localised digital content to ensure inclusivity. Issa Al-Otaibi, a member of the Shura Council from Saudi Arabia, mirrored these sentiments, sharing Saudi Arabia’s bold investments in AI, smart cities, and capacity development for legislators to balance governance with technological innovation.
Human-centred governance and safeguarding rights in the digital sphere were key themes for Argentina’s member of parliament, Pamela Calletti. She addressed concerns over disinformation and manipulation, advocating for robust regulations to protect individuals online. Pakistani senator Palwasha Mohammad Zai Khan underscored the role of youth in driving digital transformation, calling for regional cooperation to bolster cybersecurity and infrastructure.
Across these varied perspectives, common themes emerged: the pressing need for international collaboration, bridging digital divides, and the importance of fostering cybersecurity and data privacy. Speakers also emphasised engaging youth in policy-making and equipping legislators with technical expertise to navigate complex digital landscapes.
The roundtable illustrated the power of collective action in shaping a global digital future. As countries grapple with rapid technological advances, the insights and commitments from IGF 2024 call for parliaments worldwide to lead with vision and unity in the digital age.
All transcripts from the Internet Governance Forum sessions can be found on dig.watch.