The 2024 Internet Governance Forum (IGF) in Riyadh wrapped up after five days of thought-provoking discussions, uniting a record-breaking 11,000 participants across governments, the private sector, civil society, and the technical community.
The event explored how the rapid rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other digital technologies can both revolutionize and challenge the world.
Held at the King Abdulaziz International Conference Center, this year’s IGF emphasized the need for collective action to seize the opportunities of the digital era while addressing its inherent risks, such as disinformation and inequality.
AI’s Dual Impact
Dubbed the “era of AI,” the discussions highlighted both the promise and peril of this transformative technology.
AI is poised to solve global challenges, from climate change to public health, but participants warned it could also exacerbate inequalities, undermine trust, and derail progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
“Urgent action is essential to mitigate these risks while harnessing AI’s full potential,” attendees emphasized.
A Vision of Digital Harmony
In his closing address, United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Economic and Social Affairs, Mr. Li Junhua, reaffirmed the enduring principles of the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS).
He called for an information society built on peace, equality, solidarity, and human dignity—values that should be upheld both online and offline.
“This aspiration remains at the heart of our collective efforts,” Mr. Li remarked, urging the global community to integrate these values into the ethical frameworks governing today’s digital innovations.
Milestones in Global Cooperation
The major focus of the Forum was the growing momentum for global digital governance. Participants celebrated recent achievements, including the adoption of the Global Digital Compact in September 2024 and the first universal agreement on AI governance, both critical steps toward ensuring technology serves humanity responsibly.
The Riyadh IGF Messages, a set of actionable policy recommendations, were unveiled as a guiding framework for the years ahead.
These messages tackled issues such as digital rights, innovation risks, and the role of technology in fostering peace and sustainable development.
“The Riyadh IGF Messages reflect the collective wisdom of this forum and will serve as a guiding light for our shared journey ahead,” said Mr. Li.
Bridging the Digital Divide
Despite the transformative potential of digital technology, the Forum spotlighted a sobering reality: 2.6 billion people worldwide remain offline. Speakers called for inclusive policies to ensure that the benefits of digital innovation extend to all communities, particularly marginalized populations.
“As one of the fastest-growing countries in the digital sector, Saudi Arabia is committed to enhancing digital cooperation with all nations,” said Eng. Abdullah Alswaha, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Communications and Information Technology.
From smart cities to sustainable agriculture, participants shared success stories demonstrating how digital tools are reshaping industries and improving lives.
However, they also warned that without equitable access, these advancements risk leaving millions behind.
A Critical Moment for Trust
The Forum underscored the fragility of digital trust in the face of rampant misinformation, disinformation, and the misuse of generative AI. These challenges, it was noted, disproportionately affect younger generations who depend heavily on digital platforms for information and interaction.
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, in his opening message, described the IGF as an essential platform for navigating these issues.
He hailed the Global Digital Compact as a “blueprint for humanity’s digital future” and called for collective action to build an open, safe, and inclusive Internet for all.
Looking Ahead
As the curtain closed on IGF 2024, Norway was announced as the next host of the Forum, scheduled for June 23-27, 2025. The milestone event will coincide with the 20th anniversary of WSIS, providing a moment to reflect on progress and chart a course for the future of digital governance.
About the IGF
Convened by the United Nations Secretary-General, the Internet Governance Forum is the world’s premier platform for dialogue on digital public policy. Each year, it brings together diverse stakeholders to share insights, best practices, and innovative ideas aimed at fostering a robust, sustainable, and inclusive Internet for all.
The 2024 IGF was a resounding call to action, urging stakeholders worldwide to collaborate in shaping a digital age that uplifts humanity while addressing its most pressing challenges.
