Riyadh, December 21, 2024 – The 19th United Nations Internet Governance Forum (IGF), which concluded yesterday in Riyadh, has set a new benchmark in the forum’s history with the largest-ever confirmed attendance, surpassing 11,000 in-person participants. This year’s event, which drew experts and specialists from 170 countries, stood as a monumental occasion for digital transformation and governance, showcasing Riyadh’s growing role as a global hub for technology and innovation.
The IGF, which serves as a platform for discussing critical issues surrounding internet governance, digital policy, and the future of technology, featured more than 1,000 international speakers from a wide array of sectors, including government, business, academia, and civil society. Over 300 sessions and workshops were conducted during the event, covering a broad spectrum of topics ranging from cybersecurity and digital inclusion to the future of artificial intelligence (AI) and the ethical implications of emerging technologies.
A key moment at the forum was the launch of the Riyadh Declaration, a groundbreaking roadmap that sets out a framework for fostering international partnerships and collaborative efforts to harness the full potential of digital technologies and AI for the greater good of humanity. The declaration emphasizes the need for global cooperation to address the complex challenges posed by digital transformation, ensuring that these advancements are used to promote sustainable development, inclusivity, and equitable growth across regions.
The Riyadh Declaration marks a significant milestone in Saudi Arabia's commitment to driving technological innovation and digital transformation on a global scale. As the world grapples with the opportunities and risks presented by AI and other disruptive technologies, the declaration calls for a collective effort to ensure that the benefits of these advancements are shared equitably, while also addressing concerns related to privacy, security, and ethical standards in the digital space.
Saudi Arabia’s leadership in hosting the IGF reflects its broader vision to position itself as a leader in the digital economy and as a key player in shaping the future of internet governance. The Kingdom has increasingly been at the forefront of global discussions on technology and digital policy, with initiatives such as the Riyadh Declaration underscoring its commitment to advancing sustainable development both regionally and globally.
The forum’s success in Riyadh, with record-breaking attendance and a high level of engagement from international stakeholders, signals the growing importance of the Middle East in global technology discussions. As the digital landscape continues to evolve rapidly, the IGF 2024 provided an essential platform for dialogue and cooperation, laying the groundwork for future collaboration in shaping the digital future in a way that benefits all of humanity.
Looking ahead, the insights and agreements that emerged from this year's IGF are expected to influence global digital policy for years to come. The Riyadh Declaration stands as a testament to the power of collective action in ensuring that the rapid pace of digital transformation aligns with the principles of sustainable development, ethics, and global cooperation.