As the 20th Global Internet Governance Forum (IGF) kicks off today (Monday), leading pan-African organisation, Paradigm Initiative (PIN) is on the ground in Lillestrøm to engage with global stakeholders in shaping policies that uphold a free, open, and inclusive internet.

The forum, which runs from June 23 to 27 under the theme, “Building Digital Governance Together,” brings together civil society, governments, the private sector, and technical communities to address pressing digital issues, including equitable access, AI ethics, surveillance, and content moderation and build on the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS)+20 review process set for December 2025. The IGF is a global multi-stakeholder platform that facilitates the discussion of public policy issues regarding the Internet.

“This forum comes at a crucial time when digital governance decisions are shaping the future of billions of individuals. It is essential that the voices and solutions of grassroots communities are heard and integrated into these global conversations,” said ‘Gbenga Sesan, Executive Director of Paradigm Initiative. “At PIN, we believe that meaningful digital inclusion requires more than just connectivity. It demands inclusive, progressive and sustainable policies and frameworks built taking the realities of grassroots stakeholders into consideration.”

PIN’s participation reflects the organisation’s ongoing commitment to amplify digital inclusion, protect digital rights, and influence global internet governance frameworks that prioritise accountability and meaningful connectivity for marginalised communities. Representing the organisation at IGF 2025 alongside ‘Gbenga are Chief Operating Officer, Nnenna Paul-Ugochukwu; and Senior Manager for Partnerships and Engagements, Thobekile Matimbe.

They will contribute to various strategic sessions, such as: Bridging the Connectivity Gap for Excluded Communities, Human Rights & Emerging Tech: Key Product Developments and Building for Everyone, Protecting the Free Open Internet with Freedom House, and the AI Dilemma: Balancing Automation and Accountability in Content Moderation. The team will also participate in high-level coordination meetings with partners, including Meta, UNESCO, GPD, and the Freedom Online Coalition.

PIN remains committed to ensuring that digital rights are firmly rooted in grassroots realities and that global governance is inclusive of marginalised voices.