Riyadh is set to host the 19th United Nations Internet Governance Forum (IGF 2024) from December 15 to 19, 2024, at the King Abdulaziz International Conference Center, with over 10,000 participants expected from 160 countries. The event, announced by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) citing the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, will gather more than 1,000 international speakers and feature approximately 300 specialized sessions and workshops.
Context and Background
The IGF is a global platform under the United Nations umbrella, dedicated to discussing internet governance policies and fostering a common understanding of digital opportunities and challenges. Saudi Arabia’s selection as the host for this year’s edition underscores its growing influence in shaping international digital policies. The theme for IGF 2024, “Innovating Together, Shaping Tomorrow,” reflects a focus on collaboration among governments, the private sector, and the non-profit sector to address emerging digital issues, including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and sustainable development.
Key Details
Minister of Communications and Information Technology Eng. Abdullah bin Amer Alswaha emphasized that IGF Riyadh 2024 offers a global platform to promote international digital cooperation in the era of AI. “The forum provides a unique opportunity to cultivate new ideas that foster economic growth and prosperity worldwide,” he said, encouraging stakeholders to visit Riyadh and help shape innovative internet governance. The event is organized around four key pillars: harnessing innovation and balancing risks, enhancing digital contributions to peace and sustainability, advancing human rights and inclusion, and improving digital governance. Participating entities include the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT), the Communications, Space & Technology Commission (CST), King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), and the Digital Government Authority (DGA).
Implications and Impact
The hosting of IGF 2024 reinforces Saudi Arabia’s position as a key contributor to international digital policy discussions and solidifies its status as a center for digital innovation. The forum aims to align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the strategic directions of the Saudi Digital Government, promoting benefits of digital innovation while addressing challenges. This event is expected to enhance global collaboration, particularly in areas like data governance, AI ethics, and bridging the digital divide, benefiting both participating nations and the broader international community.
Vision 2030 Alignment
Saudi Arabia’s hosting of IGF 2024 directly supports the objectives of Vision 2030, which prioritizes digital transformation, economic diversification, and global partnerships. By convening world leaders, experts, and innovators in Riyadh, the Kingdom demonstrates its commitment to becoming a leading hub for technology and innovation. This forum will help advance a sustainable and inclusive digital future, aligning with Vision 2030’s goals of building a vibrant society, a thriving economy, and an ambitious nation.
20 Questions
Q1. What is the IGF 2024 and when will it be held?
A1. The IGF 2024 is the 19th United Nations Internet Governance Forum, hosted by Saudi Arabia in Riyadh from December 15 to 19, 2024, at the King Abdulaziz International Conference Center.
Q2. How many participants are expected at IGF 2024?
A2. Over 10,000 participants from 160 countries are expected, along with more than 1,000 international speakers and around 300 specialized sessions.
Q3. Who announced the hosting of IGF 2024 in Riyadh?
A3. The announcement was made by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) citing the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology.
Q4. What is the theme of IGF 2024?
A4. The theme is “Innovating Together, Shaping Tomorrow,” focusing on collaborative approaches to internet governance and digital innovation.
Q5. What are the four key pillars of IGF 2024?
A5. The pillars are harnessing innovation and balancing risks, enhancing digital contributions to peace and sustainability, advancing human rights and inclusion, and improving digital governance.
Q6. Which Saudi entities are organizing IGF 2024?
A6. The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT), Communications, Space & Technology Commission (CST), King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), and Digital Government Authority (DGA).
Q7. What did Minister Eng. Abdullah bin Amer Alswaha say about the forum?
A7. He stated that the forum offers a global platform to promote digital cooperation and cultivate ideas for economic growth and prosperity.
Q8. How does IGF 2024 align with Saudi Vision 2030?
A8. It supports Vision 2030 by advancing digital transformation, economic diversification, and global partnerships in technology and innovation.
Q9. What is the purpose of the Internet Governance Forum?
A9. It fosters a common understanding of leveraging internet opportunities while addressing risks and challenges in a participatory manner.
Q10. How many sessions will be held at IGF 2024?
A10. Around 300 specialized sessions and workshops are planned to discuss internet governance trends and policies.
Q11. What global goals does IGF 2024 aim to advance?
A11. It aims to advance the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and align with Saudi Digital Government strategic directions.
Q12. Why is Riyadh chosen to host IGF 2024?
A12. The selection reinforces Saudi Arabia’s role in shaping international digital policies and its status as a hub for digital innovation.
Q13. Who can participate in IGF 2024?
A13. Participants include governments, private sector, non-profit organizations, entrepreneurs, and innovators from around the world.
Q14. What is the focus of the pillar on harnessing innovation?
A14. It focuses on balancing risks and opportunities in digital spaces, particularly with emerging technologies like AI.
Q15. How does IGF 2024 promote sustainability?
A15. By enhancing digital contributions to peace, development, and sustainability through collaborative discussions and solutions.
Q16. What is the role of King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology?
A16. KACST contributes expertise in science and technology to support the forum’s discussions on digital innovation.
Q17. How can stakeholders register for IGF 2024?
A17. Registration and more information are available on the official website of the Internet Governance Forum 2024.
Q18. What is the significance of IGF 2024 for digital inclusion?
A18. It advances human rights and inclusion in the digital age by promoting equitable access and participation.
Q19. What does the pillar on improving digital governance entail?
A19. It aims to improve governance frameworks for the internet to ensure it meets the needs of all stakeholders.
Q20. How does IGF 2024 benefit the international community?
A20. It fosters global collaboration, shares best practices, and helps build a prosperous and sustainable digital future for humanity.
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