PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, CMC – The Trinidad-based Caribbean Telecommunications Union (CTU) says it will host the 19th edition of the Caribbean Internet Governance Forum (CIGF) here early next week.
It said that the August 22-24 event coincides with the second Caribbean Youth Internet Governance Forum (CYIGF).
The events are also being co-hosted by the American Registry for Internet Numbers (ARIN), the Latin American and Caribbean Internet Addresses Registry (LACNIC), the Internet Society (ISOC), and the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN).
The CTU said the forum “promises to be an unparalleled gathering of minds, ideas, and possibilities.”
Initiated in 2005 by the CTU and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretariat, the CIGF, the first such forum worldwide, has stood as a steadfast pillar in regional Internet Governance (IG).
“From its inception, it has played a pivotal role in shaping a regional approach to IG, catalyzing achievements such as the Caribbean Internet Governance Policy Framework, the proliferation of Internet Exchange points (IXPs), and, importantly, it has increased Caribbean influence on the global stage of IG. The CIGF also holds the distinction of being the world’s longest, continuously running Internet Governance Forum,” the CTU said.
It said that the second CYIGF will set its sights on empowering the youth of the Caribbean to become the torchbearers of tomorrow’s digital world. Designed by youth, for youth, the CYIGF aims to close the gaps in youth representation and participation in regional Internet governance initiatives.
“This vibrant platform allows young minds to have their voices heard, engage with thought leaders, and champion digital inclusion and innovation.”
Under the overarching theme of “Evolving Caribbean Internet Governance Priorities for Sustainable Development,” the 19th CIGF will delve into the vital components of Internet governance, which were brought into sharp focus by the lessons learned during the global pandemic.
“A major objective is to approve issuing a significant update of the Policy Framework, last issued in 2016, to account for technical and service developments in the interim. This year’s event will be in-person and online and will spotlight the 2nd CYIGF, amplifying youth perspectives and aspirations.”
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