In a landmark move, the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) has announced its 80th Public Meeting, the ICANN80 Policy Forum, set to take place from June 10-13, 2024, at the Kigali Convention Centre in Kigali, Rwanda. This marks the first time ICANN will host an event in Rwanda, underscoring its dedication to global participation in Internet governance.
Bringing Global Internet Stakeholders Together
The ICANN80 Policy Forum is poised to gather a diverse array of stakeholders, including representatives from governments, businesses, civil society, academia, and the technical community. Over four days, these participants will dive into critical discussions on the Domain Name System (DNS), focusing on enhancing DNS security, supporting more languages and scripts, and evolving domain name registration policies. The forum’s goal is to foster international collaboration and set the stage for future advancements in Internet governance.
High-Level Government Meeting: A Prelude to ICANN80
Kicking off the events, the High-Level Government Meeting (HLGM) is scheduled for June 9, 2024. Chaired by the Hon. Paula Ingabire, Rwanda’s Minister of ICT and Innovation, this meeting will highlight the pivotal role of government bodies in shaping ICANN policies. Led by ICANN’s Governmental Advisory Committee, the HLGM will promote governmental engagement and collaboration to enhance global Internet governance efforts.
Minister Paula Ingabire expressed her enthusiasm: “We are excited to host the international community in Kigali for the ICANN80 Policy Forum and High-Level Government Meeting. This forum will lead efforts to maintain a secure, stable, and interoperable Internet and set the stage for future developments in global Internet governance. Our role as the local host for ICANN80 allows us to demonstrate our significant contributions toward global Internet governance and the advancement of meaningful Internet connectivity for all.”
Advancing Global Digital Inclusivity
ICANN Interim President and CEO Sally Costerton highlighted the significance of the meeting: “ICANN80 is a vital platform for advancing global digital inclusivity and strengthening cybersecurity measures. It will facilitate robust multistakeholder engagement and discussions on critical initiatives like the New Generic Top-Level Domain Program, with a particular focus on Internationalized Domain Names and the Applicant Support Program. The HLGM will further emphasize the essential role of governments in our collaborative efforts to address challenges such as data privacy and DNS abuse.”
Register Now for ICANN80
ICANN encourages all interested parties to register for ICANN80, with options for both in-person and virtual participation to ensure global accessibility. Early registration is recommended to secure your spot at this pivotal event.
ICANN’s mission is to help ensure a stable, secure, and unified global Internet. To reach another person on the Internet, you need to type an address – a name or a number – into your computer or other device. That address must be unique so computers know where to find each other. ICANN helps coordinate and support these unique identifiers across the world. Formed in 1998 as a nonprofit public benefit corporation, ICANN includes a community of participants from all over the world.
Don’t miss this historic event shaping the future of the Internet. Register today and join the global dialogue in Kigali, Rwanda! For more information, visit ICANN80 Registration.