Over the past two years, the 20-year review of the World Summit on the Information Society outcomes (WSIS+20) Outreach Network demonstrated the value of a dedicated space for the ICANN community and interested stakeholders to exchange information. The network brought together over 600 participants from across the Internet ecosystem to share updates, highlight developments, and compare perspectives as the WSIS+20 review progressed. These exchanges helped participants better understand the landscape, the range of viewpoints, and engage more constructively in the process.
Building on that experience and following the conclusion of the WSIS+20 review, ICANN is launching the Internet Governance Network.
The Network creates a space where community members can engage on Internet governance discussions connected to ICANN's remit and stay informed as these processes evolve. It enables ICANN to continue engaging with stakeholders around key global processes in a focused and effective manner. This work supports ICANN's FY2026–2030 Strategic Plan, particularly Strategic Objective 1, to evolve and promote the multistakeholder model and sustain its inclusive approach to Internet governance.
The Internet Governance Network is designed to be practical and focused. Discussions will be organized around specific processes or milestones. As each process concludes, its discussion space will close, and new ones may be created as future milestones emerge.
The initial areas of focus include developments related to the Internet Governance Forum (IGF), now a permanent forum of the United Nations, and preparations leading up to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Plenipotentiary Conference 2026 (PP–2026). Both are expected to shape discussions on the future of Internet governance and the broader policy environment surrounding the Internet.
Community members interested in following discussions and exchanging perspectives with others across the Internet ecosystem are invited to participate.
Learn more about the Network and subscribe to the current discussion lists on the Internet Governance Network page.