Youth IGF at IGF 2025

At the IGF 2025, Youth Delegates had a rich and impactful experience that combined hands-on training in media, policy, and diplomacy with meaningful participation in global digital cooperation discussions. Our young representatives, including Swiss youth, not only secured seats at major workshops—where they actively contributed their vision for the future of the Internet—but also engaged in bilateral meetings with senior leaders to address pressing digital issues and propose concrete solutions. As the final IGF before the anticipated renewal of its mandate, this year marked a significant milestone for the Youth IGF: we achieved true integration of youth into the fabric of the forum. This was not just about visibility, but about equipping the next generation of digital leaders with real-world skills, confidence, and a sense of purpose.

It was not only a moment of skills-building—it was a moment of identity-building, of shaping a generation we can all be proud of. What we have achieved—from the very beginning of our journey to where we stand today—is the establishment of a meaningful and lasting youth presence in global digital governance. We have proven that youth are not just participants, but essential contributors and leaders in shaping a more inclusive digital future.

Without the IGF, the Internet Could Change Forever

Without the Internet Governance Forum — ICANN probably could not exist.

This was discussed in the frank conversation led by Youth IGF founder Yuliya Morenets with ICANN CEO Kurtis Lindqvist. In 2025, the United Nations will decide whether to renew the mandate of the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) — the world’s only truly multistakeholder space for global internet policy dialogue. The outcome of this decision will define who gets to shape the future of the internet. Kurtis calls the IGF’s role “phenomenal” — and warns that losing it could push us toward a fragmented, state-controlled internet.

But what happens if we lose it? And his challenge to all of us:
“Join the Youth IGF, come to an ICANN meeting, get engaged — that’s how all of us started.” Whether you’re a coder, policymaker, or law student — your internet is on the line.

YOUTH IGF OPEN FORUM 2025

European Parliament Delegation to the IGF & the Youth IGF

PRESENT

Digital Governance Reimagined: Bridging Youth Ambitions with Policy Vision

The session will address how to build digital trust and infrastructure resilience in the face of cybersecurity threats, misinformation, and growing geopolitical tensions. Discussions will also explore strategic digital sovereignty, including the role of future network technologies (such as 5G/6G and open‑source systems) in shaping a secure, inclusive digital future. Special attention will be given to aligning youth‑driven ideas with long‑term policy frameworks that strengthen Europe’s capacity for open, democratic, and sovereign digital leadership.

Stay connected with IGF 2025, the UN’s premier platform for global digital dialogue.
This daily briefing delivers expert insights, key debates, and highlights from across the Forum. IGF 2025 focuses on five core themes: AI ethics, digital trust and resilience, sustainable innovation, universal access and rights, and digital cooperation.

Get updates on pressing issues like inclusive tech policy, responsible AI, cybersecurity, and multistakeholder governance - plus special coverage of the WSIS+20 review and the evolving future of the IGF itself.

Whether you’re a policymaker, technologist, or engaged citizen, this podcast keeps you informed and connected to the conversations shaping our digital future.

FROM THE
YOUTH IGF

FOLLOW YOUTH IGF at IGF 2025

Come to chat with us at the booth A02-04

WED25 to THU26 exclusive video shooting DIGITAL FUTURES IN OUR HANDS

Booth A02-04 - ONLY BY APPOINTMENT

THIS IS BIG!

Organised by the Youth IGF
In cooperation with the Swiss Government, the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA)

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR ACTIVITIES
AT THE IGF 2025

FROM THEYOUTH IGF