[Bali, Indonesia] – The Internet Society will be an active participant in the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) in Bali, Indonesia 22-25 October. The IGF is a platform for attendees to openly exchange perspectives and concerns on key issues related to the future of the Internet.
A major outcome of the United Nations World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS), the IGF brings together various stakeholder groups to discuss and shape public policy issues related to Internet governance. More than 1,500 representatives from the private sector, civil society, the Internet community, and Intergovernmental organizations are expected to participate in the eighth annual forum.
This year’s IGF theme is “Building Bridges: Enhancing Multistakeholder Cooperation for Growth and Sustainable Development.” The discussions will encourage constructive dialogue and actions to strengthen cooperation between the various stakeholders to create an environment that will allow the Internet to grow for the betterment of all people.
The Internet Society’s engagement at the IGF spans a broad range of programs and activities, including:
- Participating in the pre-event Collaboration Leadership Exchange on Capacity Building;
- Opening session speech from Lynn St. Amour, President and Chief Executive Officer, Internet Society;
- Moderating, organizing, and participating in more than 25 focus sessions and workshops;
- Leading the closing forum to synthesize the principles and frameworks for the IGF; and
- Hosting 20 IGF Ambassadors to participate in and contribute to the discussions.
Following recent revelations concerning surveillance activities through the Internet, the IGF is more relevant than ever. With all stakeholder groups rethinking the role of and the dynamics within the Internet governance space, the IGF constitutes the perfect venue to discuss and deliberate on the future of the Internet.
Internet Society President and CEO Lynn St. Amour commented, “The IGF has proven its value, and is more necessary than ever. I fully expect this year’s event will show an increased commitment of the multistakeholder community to strengthen the IGF and put it on a more stable and sustainable basis. Multistakeholder engagement is essential to ensure the stability, security, and future growth of the open Internet. The IGF reminds us that the key to finding solutions is the open exchange of information, ideas, and experiences.”
For more details on the Internet Society’s participation at IGF, visit http://www.internetsociety.org/2013-igf-mini-site
About the Internet Society
The Internet Society is the trusted independent source for Internet information and thought leadership from around the world. With its principled vision and substantial technological foundation, the Internet Society promotes open dialogue on Internet policy, technology, and future development among users, companies, governments, and other organizations. Working with its members and Chapters around the world, the Internet Society enables the continued evolution and growth of the Internet for everyone. For more information, visit www.internetsociety.org.
Media Contact: Wende Cover, [email protected], +1-703-439-2773