Reflections from the Libya Internet Governance Forum 2026
On 17 May 2026, I had the privilege of participating in the Libya Internet Governance Forum (Libya IGF) 2026, an event that continues to strengthen Libya's growing digital governance ecosystem. Building on the success of its inaugural edition, this year's forum brought together a diverse community of stakeholders committed to shaping the country's digital future through dialogue, collaboration, and shared responsibility.
I participated in the forum in my capacity with the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), where I shared insights from our work supporting digital policy, digital governance, and digital transformation across the African continent. My contribution focused on the importance of connecting Libya's national digital initiatives with regional African frameworks and global Internet governance processes, ensuring that the country's digital development is both locally relevant and internationally aligned.
One of the most encouraging aspects of the forum was witnessing the continued growth of Libya's multistakeholder model. Representatives from government institutions, the technical community, academia, civil society, and the private sector engaged in constructive discussions around some of the country's most pressing digital priorities. Topics such as Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), smart cities, digital identity, cybersecurity, governance frameworks, and digital inclusion highlighted both the opportunities and the responsibilities that accompany Libya's digital transformation journey.
The conversations also demonstrated a growing recognition that effective digital governance cannot be achieved by a single institution alone. It requires sustained collaboration, evidence-based policymaking, and meaningful participation from all sectors of society. This collaborative spirit is essential not only for developing sound digital policies but also for fostering trust, innovation, and long-term resilience.
On a personal level, it was particularly rewarding to reconnect with colleagues, partners, and many familiar faces from across Libya's digital ecosystem. It was equally inspiring to see increasing interest in information governance and collaborative policymaking, reflecting the country's expanding engagement with global conversations on digital development.
As digital technologies continue to reshape economies and societies, forums such as Libya IGF play an increasingly important role in creating inclusive spaces where diverse perspectives can inform national priorities. They provide a valuable platform for exchanging ideas, strengthening partnerships, and ensuring that digital transformation is guided by principles of openness, inclusion, and sustainable development.
I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to the organisers, speakers, and participants who made this year's forum possible. Their dedication has helped establish the Libya Internet Governance Forum as an important platform for dialogue and cooperation, and it is encouraging to see the initiative continue to grow in both participation and impact.
I look forward to contributing to future editions and continuing to support efforts that advance an open, secure, inclusive, and people-centred digital future for Libya and the wider African region.
