Representatives from the U.S. Department of State are set to attend the 19th Internet Governance Forum (IGF) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from December 15-19, 2024. Among those traveling are Jennifer Bachus, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Bureau of Cyberspace and Digital Policy; Allison Peters, Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor; and Jaisha Wray, Assistant Administrator for the Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration.
The IGF is recognized as a leading platform for global stakeholders to engage in discussions about public policy issues related to the internet. The United States has been a proponent of a multi-stakeholder approach in internet governance and digital policy processes that aim to enhance global connectivity while promoting interoperability, inclusiveness, and a rights-respecting framework.
"The United States will use its participation at the IGF to continue urging governments in the region and globally to ensure all persons can express themselves freely and without fear of prosecution, surveillance, censorship or other reprisal," consistent with international law obligations.
This year's forum presents an opportunity for U.S. representatives to engage with diverse stakeholders worldwide on digital policy issues such as technology governance approaches that respect rights, countering ransomware threats, fostering digital solidarity, promoting multilingualism online, and ensuring child safety on digital platforms.
For further information regarding this participation at IGF 2024, inquiries can be directed to CDP-Press@state.gov.
