IGF Expert Group Meeting 2026 Calls for Stronger Global Digital Governance Framework

The Internet Governance Forum Expert Group Meeting (EGM) took place in New York on 14–15 April 2026, bringing together digital policy experts, governments, civil society, private sector leaders, and technical community representatives to discuss the future of the IGF after the United Nations granted it a permanent mandate. The meeting focused on how the IGF can evolve from being mainly a discussion platform into a stronger mechanism for influencing global digital governance and Internet policy. Participants explored ways to improve cooperation with major UN digital initiatives such as the WSIS+20 review and the Global Digital Compact. In attendance was Dr. Jimson Olufuye, CEO, Kontemporary Konsulting Ltd & Founder/fmr Chair, Chair Advisory Council, AfICTA. Key discussions included: Strengthening the IGF’s role in shaping global digital policy outcomes. Improving collaboration between governments, civil society, and the technical community. Expanding intersessional work and year-round policy engagement. Preserving the IGF’s multistakeholder and bottom-up governance model while making it more action-oriented. The meeting report highlighted growing international support for a more influential and better-resourced IGF as digital governance issues such as AI, cybersecurity, online rights, and Internet fragmentation become increasingly important globally. Download the Report.