The Internet works best when it is governed by many.
The Internet works best when it is governed by many.
Simply put, Internet governance is how the Internet is managed. We advocate for a multistakeholder approach, which means that all interested actors can participate in inclusive, consensus-driven processes, so that decisions about the Internet are never made by one party alone.
The Internet has evolved into the global resource it is today due to collaboration between multiple groups and individuals who make it run smoothly. Nonprofits, policymakers, educators, technical communities, standards setters, and dedicated users all play a critical role in running the Internet.
Internet Governance
The Internet works best when it is governed by many.
Simply put, Internet governance is how the Internet is managed. We advocate for a multistakeholder approach, which means that all interested actors can participate in inclusive, consensus-driven processes, so that decisions about the Internet are never made by one party alone.
The Internet has evolved into the global resource it is today due to collaboration between multiple groups and individuals who make it run smoothly. Nonprofits, policymakers, educators, technical communities, standards setters, and dedicated users all play a critical role in running the Internet.
Key Internet Governance Links
Key Internet Governance Links
Who Runs the Internet
The Internet is a global resource, so who actually runs it? Dive into the different groups that play key roles in Internet governance.
Internet Governance and WSIS
Learn more about Internet governance, the multistakeholder approach, and how they’re practiced.
Why the Multistakeholder Approach Works
The multistakeholder approach to Internet governance has grown from the Internet’s own DNA and is what allows it to thrive.
Internet Governance Processes and Events
Explore key local, regional, and global events and processes, where stakeholders debate Internet policy issues.
Footprints of 20 Years of the Internet Governance Forum
Learn more about how the Internet Governance Forum has enabled open, inclusive, and informed discussions that influence global Internet policy.
A Pivotal Moment for Global Digital Cooperation
This year is the 20th anniversary of the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS). We believe the best way to navigate today’s challenges is to build upon the success of the WSIS framework.
How to Create an Impact Brief
Use our Internet Impact Assessment Toolkit to analyze legislative proposals, business decisions, or technological developments and their impact on the Internet.
Internet Governance Online Course
Expand your knowledge of Internet governance, the multistakeholder model, Internet policy, and more.
A Once-Overlooked Tool: How Community Networks Connected Haiti and the World
A Once-Overlooked Tool: How Community Networks Connected Haiti and the World
Community networks are a by-the-people, for-the-people approach to connectivity. They connect us across towns, across borders, and across the globe, enabling people to access new opportunities.
Their role in the broader Internet governance ecosystem has evolved over time. But when multiple stakeholders—governments, local institutions, technical communities—collaborate, community networks can make meaningful change.
Learn more about community networks’ journey to mainstream acceptance and how they are making a difference worldwide—such as in Haiti, where our local chapter has used them to connect thousands.
The Internet technical community helps to build and maintain infrastructure, and enables us to communicate safely, affordably, and efficiently online …
Why is multistakeholder Internet governance important?
Different groups have unique perspectives and expertise. The multistakeholder approach to Internet governance enables all interested parties to have their voices heard and considered, thereby fostering a stronger Internet. The community of global Internet users is incredibly diverse, and so too should be the people working to shape it.
The Internet works best when it is not controlled by any one person or entity. When multiple groups work together to help run the Internet, it prevents the Internet from being steered too heavily by commercial or political interests. This model helps keep the Internet a tool for good in society.
What are the main issues of Internet governance?
One of the primary concerns in Internet governance is ensuring that all interested parties are involved in a collaborative decision-making process. While powerful entities, such as governments, may sometimes make unilateral and uninformed decisions without considering other viewpoints or all possible perspectives, the Internet Society will always strive to uphold the multistakeholder model.
While counteracting threats to the Internet is a large priority for the Internet governance community, there is also a focus on sharing information and policy changes that empower governments, organizations, and individuals to close the digital divide. Showcasing the benefits of community-centered connectivity solutions helps increase understanding of these solutions and how governing bodies can make positive policy shifts to connect more people to the Internet.
What is WSIS+20?
The World Summit on the Information Society 20-Year Review (WSIS+20) is a process driven by the United Nations to assess the effectiveness of global actions in using information and communication technologies to advance development since 2005.
The result of this review will guide the UN’s actions in the coming years, including how non-governmental stakeholders will be involved in Internet governance. We will defend the participation of all stakeholders, drawing on expertise from the technical community, and continue to advocate for an open, globally connected, secure, and trustworthy Internet that is a force for good.
What is the Global Digital Compact?
The Global Digital Compact is a proposed framework to set shared principles for a safe, inclusive, open, and human-centered digital future. The compact was developed by the United Nations and aims to guide the global governance of digital technologies, particularly the Internet.
This matters because it might influence the future of the Internet and your access to it, influencing digital connectivity, Internet fragmentation, data protection, human rights online, and the promotion of a trustworthy Internet. In January 2025, we shared our decision not to endorse the compact.
What is the Internet Governance Forum (IGF)?
The Internet Governance Forum (IGF) serves as a global multistakeholder platform dedicated to facilitating discussions on public policy matters pertaining to Internet governance. It provides an open forum for engaging in dialogue among governments, civil society, the private sector, the technical community, and international organizations.
We support the IGF (through donations to the Trust Fund) and its network of national, regional, sub-regional, and youth IGFs (through the Internet Society Foundation’s IGF funding program).
