The Industry Innovation Cluster (IIC) continues to strengthen its engagement in international discussions on digital transformation, data governance and emerging technologies.
On 7–9 September 2026, IIC President Martina Le Gall Maláková participated in the Second Open Consultations and Multistakeholder Advisory Group (MAG) Meeting of the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) 2026, held at the Geneva International Conference Centre in Switzerland.
The Internet Governance Forum is a United Nations-convened global multistakeholder platform dedicated to dialogue on public policy issues related to the Internet and digital technologies. Importantly, following a decision of the United Nations General Assembly in December 2025, the IGF has now been established as a permanent forum of the United Nations, marking a major milestone in the evolution of global digital governance.
IIC contributing to global digital policy dialogue
As a member of the IGF Multistakeholder Advisory Group, Martina Le Gall Maláková contributes to the international process of shaping the agenda and priorities of the Forum. The MAG brings together representatives from governments, the private sector, civil society, the technical community and academia, reflecting the multistakeholder nature of the IGF.
The September consultations in Geneva focused on preparations for the 21st annual IGF meeting, which will take place in Nairobi, Kenya, from 14–18 December 2026 under the theme “Governing the Internet in the Age of Intelligence: Our Shared Responsibility.” Discussions addressed the programme priorities and key digital governance challenges that will shape this year’s global dialogue.
Among the central topics are artificial intelligence, digital inclusion, data governance, cybersecurity, online safety, digital infrastructure, human rights and the sustainable development of the digital economy.
From global dialogue to practical impact
For IIC, participation in the IGF represents an important opportunity to connect European innovation ecosystems with global discussions on the future of digital governance.
The Forum provides a unique environment where different stakeholder groups can exchange experience, identify emerging challenges and develop a common understanding of how digital technologies can be governed in a way that supports innovation while addressing associated risks.
IIC’s involvement also reflects its broader commitment to trusted data sharing, digital sovereignty, responsible innovation and the development of collaborative digital ecosystems. Through its engagement in international initiatives such as the IGF, IIC contributes perspectives from the European innovation ecosystem and brings international knowledge and opportunities back to its network of partners and stakeholders.
The establishment of the IGF as a permanent United Nations forum further underlines the growing importance of inclusive, transparent and multistakeholder approaches to digital policy. As artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies continue to transform economies and societies, platforms such as the IGF play an increasingly important role in connecting policymakers, industry, researchers and civil society.
IIC is proud to contribute to this global dialogue and to support the development of a digital future that is innovative, trusted, inclusive and sustainable.
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