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Libya IGF 2025: A Milestone for Inclusive Digital Governance

This year’s Libya Internet Governance Forum (IGF 2025) marked an important moment in the country’s digital transformation journey, and I was honoured to represent the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa – Subregional Office for North Africa (UNECA SRO-NA) at this pivotal gathering. With more than 180 participants from across Libya, the event reaffirmed the power of dialogue, collaboration, and collective vision in shaping the future of the Internet in our country.

A Truly Multi-Stakeholder Platform

What made Libya IGF 2025 exceptional was the impressive range of stakeholders coming together with a shared purpose. The forum welcomed contributions from the UN IGF Secretariat, North Africa IGF, and the Internet Society, offering global perspectives and strategic guidance.

On the national level, the presence of key Libyan institutions—including the Audit Bureau, Central Bank of Libya, Communications and Informatics Authority, General Information Authority, National Authority for Information Security and Safety, and the Government Communication Center at the Prime Minister’s Office—signaled growing institutional engagement in digital governance.

Civil society organizations, activists, academia, youth groups, and private-sector representatives also played a central role, reinforcing the spirit of multistakeholderism that lies at the heart of the global IGF model. The diversity in the room reflected Libya’s collective desire for a more inclusive and accountable digital ecosystem.

Shaping the Future: The Legal Reality of ICT Governance in Libya

During the main session, “The Legal Reality of ICT Governance in Libya,” I emphasized the need for Libya’s digital policymaking to evolve in a way that:

  • Champions a multi-stakeholder approach, ensuring that no single actor drives the agenda in isolation.

  • Frames governance as an enabler, not a barrier—one that empowers people, sectors, and the economy as a whole.

  • Integrates the economic growth impact of ICT laws and policies into national decision-making.

  • Strengthens access and digital inclusion, so that all Libyans can benefit from the Internet and emerging technologies.

  • Learns from and engages with global platforms—from the UN IGF to WSIS and the Global Digital Compact—to ensure Libya is not only aligned with international best practice but actively contributing to global discussions.

These principles are essential for ensuring that Libya’s digital governance evolves in a way that is forward-thinking, human-centred, and resilient.

Hope, Commitment, and a Shared Vision

What inspired me most throughout the forum was the motivation and determination of the participants—experts, students, policymakers, and community leaders—who showed that despite the complexities Libya faces, there is a strong will to move forward. The conversations were candid, constructive, and future-oriented, reflecting a national commitment to building a safe, open, and inclusive digital environment.

My sincere thanks go to the Libyan Technology Foundation, ISOC Libya, and the community-based Multistakeholder Advisory Group (MAG) for their exceptional organization and their continued dedication to strengthening Libya’s Internet governance ecosystem.

Looking Ahead

Libya IGF 2025 was more than an event; it was a testament to what collaboration can achieve. As Libya continues its digital transformation journey, forums like these will play a crucial role in shaping policies, advancing innovation, and amplifying voices from all corners of society.

I leave the forum optimistic. Libya’s digital future is being shaped by people who are committed, informed, and ready to engage—and that is our greatest strength.