A unified call for a stronger digital future at IGF 2025
Amid rising digital divides and shifting global dynamics, the IGF 2025 session brought together an unprecedented coalition of voices determined to redefine how the internet is governed for the next generation.
At the Internet Governance Forum 2025 in Lillestrøm, Norway, global stakeholders converged to shape the future of digital governance by aligning the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) with the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) Plus 20 review and the Global Digital Compact (GDC) follow-up. Moderated by Yoichi Iida, former Vice Minister at Japan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, the session featured high-level representatives from governments, international organisations, the business sector, and youth networks, all calling for a stronger, more inclusive, better-resourced IGF.
William Lee, WSIS Plus 20 Policy Lead for the Australian Government, emphasised the need for sustainable funding, tighter integration between global and national IGF processes, and the creation of ‘communities of practice.’ Philipp Schulte from Germany’s Ministry of Education, Digital Transformation and Government Modernisation echoed these goals, adding proposals such as appointing an IGF director and establishing an informal multistakeholder sounding board.
The European Union’s unified stance also prioritised long-term mandate renewal and structural support for inclusive participation. Speaking online, Gitanjali Sah, Strategy and Policy Coordinator at the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), argued that WSIS frameworks already offer the tools to implement GDC goals, while stressing the urgency of addressing global connectivity gaps.
Maarit Palovirta, Deputy Director General at Connect Europe, represented the business sector, lauding the IGF as an accessible forum for private sector engagement and advocating for continuity and simplicity in governance processes. Representing over 40 youth IGFs globally, Murillo Salvador emphasised youth inclusion, digital literacy, online well-being, and co-ownership in policymaking as core pillars for future success.
Across all groups, there was strong agreement on the urgency of bridging digital divides, supporting grassroots voices, and building a resilient, inclusive, and forward-looking IGF. The shared sentiment was clear: to ensure digital governance reflects the needs of all, the IGF must evolve boldly, inclusively, and collaboratively.
Track all key moments from the Internet Governance Forum 2025 on our dedicated IGF page.