Image Credit, Corentin Julliard
The United Nations has announced that Norway will host the 2025 Internet Governance Forum (IGF), a gathering recognized as the world’s most extensive platform for discussions on the future of the Internet. Scheduled for June 2025, the event will convene thousands of international stakeholders, including representatives from governments, businesses, civil society, academia, and global organizations.
The selection of Norway as the host signals confidence in its commitment to upholding an open and secure digital environment. Karianne Tung, Minister of Digitalisation and Public Governance, emphasized the need for nations to actively contribute to discussions on Internet freedoms, especially at a time when many countries are imposing greater restrictions on online expression. “In an era where some countries seek to restrict online freedoms, it is more vital than ever for nations like ours to engage in discussions on frameworks that govern the Internet,” Tung said.
Marking the 20th anniversary of the IGF, the 2025 forum will feature five days of discussions, workshops, and presentations focused on shaping digital public policy for the coming decade. With an anticipated 4,000 participants onsite and an additional 4,000 joining virtually, the event will tackle issues central to Internet accessibility, security, and inclusivity. Norwegian organizations will also have the opportunity to present local solutions to global challenges, contributing their perspectives on crucial policy issues.
Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide stressed that an unrestricted Internet is essential for democracy, human rights, and free speech, urging global cooperation to safeguard online spaces. “A free and open Internet is fundamental to democracy, human rights, and freedom of expression. International cooperation to ensure the Internet remains a safe and inclusive space for everyone is more crucial than ever,” Eide noted.
In the bid to host, Norway and Russia emerged as the top contenders, with the United Nations ultimately approving Norway’s offer. Under-Secretary-General Li Junhua formally accepted, solidifying plans for a forum that will foster collaborative policy discussions across a diverse range of global actors and regions.
This forum in 2025 reinforces Norway’s active role in digital governance and in supporting an Internet that serves as a space for open dialogue, creativity, and accessibility across borders.
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