The Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST) concluded its participation in the Internet Governance Forum (IGF), hosted by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in Riyadh from December 15 to 19, 2024. The forum brought together global stakeholders to advance discussions on harnessing innovation and reducing risks in the digital space, with a focus on promoting peace, development, sustainability, human rights, and inclusiveness in the digital age.
Context and Background
The Internet Governance Forum (IGF) is a United Nations-mandated platform for multistakeholder dialogue on internet policy issues. Hosting the event for the first time in Saudi Arabia underscores the Kingdom’s growing leadership in global digital governance and its commitment to shaping an inclusive and secure digital future. The forum aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which prioritizes digital transformation, innovation, and international cooperation as pillars of economic diversification and societal progress.
Key Details and High-Level Participation
CST Governor Dr. Mohammed Al-Tamimi participated in a High-Level Session titled ‘From Summit of the Future to WSIS+20,’ which evaluated progress and highlighted the future of digital governance, coinciding with the 20th anniversary of the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS+20) and the implementation of the Global Digital Compact Process. The session underscored the need for a multilateral approach involving governments, the private sector, individuals, and technical experts to ensure inclusive digital policies that promote sustainable development.
Additionally, Naif Sheshah, CST Deputy Governor of Strategy and Digitalization Sector, contributed to a workshop on the role of national and technical policy in shaping global digital well-being. Eng. Musaab Alammar, Director of Internet Technologies Development, participated in a session on ‘IPv6 MS Collaboration: A Path to Digital Inclusion in MENA.’ CST Saudi Domain Name Director Hesham AlHammad highlighted the importance of multilingual domain names for digital inclusion, while Eng. Afnan AlRomi, Director of the CST Cybersecurity Operations Center, presented a workshop titled ‘Balancing Acts: Encryption, Privacy, and Public Safety.’
Implications and International Impact
The IGF convened over 1,000 speakers from more than 160 countries, with more than 300 sessions and workshops held to exchange expertise, success stories, and best practices on internet policies. This extensive participation reflects the international community’s recognition of Saudi Arabia’s role as a convening power for digital dialogue. The outcomes are expected to influence global internet governance frameworks, promote digital inclusion across the Middle East and North Africa, and enhance cybersecurity cooperation, directly benefiting regional and international stakeholders.
Vision 2030 Alignment
CST’s active participation in the IGF reinforces Saudi Arabia’s commitment to becoming a global hub for digital innovation and governance under Vision 2030. By fostering multilateral cooperation, advancing digital infrastructure, and prioritizing inclusivity and security, the Kingdom is positioning itself as a leader in building a secure, sustainable digital future that supports economic growth, social development, and international partnership for decades to come.
20 Questions
Q1. What was the main event discussed in the article?
A1. The article discusses the Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST) concluding its participation in the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) hosted by Saudi Arabia.
Q2. When and where was the Internet Governance Forum held?
A2. The forum was held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from December 15 to 19, 2024.
Q3. What is the purpose of the Internet Governance Forum?
A3. The IGF aims to promote digital contributions to peace, development, sustainability, human rights, and inclusiveness in the digital age.
Q4. Which Saudi agency participated in the IGF?
A4. The Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST) represented Saudi Arabia at the forum.
Q5. Who is the governor of CST?
A5. The governor of CST is Dr. Mohammed Al-Tamimi.
Q6. What high-level session did Dr. Mohammed Al-Tamimi participate in?
A6. He participated in a session titled ‘From Summit of the Future to WSIS+20,’ focusing on digital governance progress.
Q7. What milestone did the session recognize?
A7. The session recognized the 20th anniversary of the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS+20).
Q8. What is the Global Digital Compact Process?
A8. It is a UN initiative to establish shared principles for an open, free, and secure digital future for all.
Q9. How many speakers attended the IGF from abroad?
A9. Over 1,000 speakers from more than 160 countries participated in the forum.
Q10. How many sessions and workshops were held?
A10. More than 300 sessions and workshops were conducted during the forum.
Q11. Who represented CST in a workshop on national and technical policy?
A11. Naif Sheshah, CST Deputy Governor of Strategy and Digitalization Sector, participated in that workshop.
Q12. What topic did Eng. Musaab Alammar address?
A12. He contributed to a session on IPv6 collaboration for digital inclusion in the MENA region.
Q13. Why are multilingual domain names important, according to Hesham AlHammad?
A13. Multilingual domain names promote digital inclusion by allowing internet access in local languages.
Q14. What workshop did Eng. Afnan AlRomi present?
A14. She presented a workshop titled ‘Balancing Acts: Encryption, Privacy, and Public Safety.’
Q15. How does the IGF align with Saudi Vision 2030?
A15. It supports Vision 2030 by advancing digital transformation, innovation, and international cooperation.
Q16. What approach did the high-level session advocate for?
A16. It advocated for a multilateral approach including governments, private sector, individuals, and experts.
Q17. What is the role of CST in Saudi Arabia’s digital governance?
A17. CST regulates communications, space, and technology sectors, promoting innovation and security.
Q18. How does the IGF contribute to global digital well-being?
A18. It provides a platform for sharing best practices and policies to ensure an inclusive and safe internet.
Q19. What is the significance of hosting the IGF in Saudi Arabia?
A19. It highlights Saudi Arabia’s leadership in global digital dialogue and commitment to Vision 2030 goals.
Q20. What is the expected outcome of the forum for the MENA region?
A20. The forum is expected to enhance digital inclusion and cybersecurity cooperation across the Middle East and North Africa.
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