• 2023.07.31

    Accomodation registration is now available.

  • 2023.07.07

    Registration for IGF Kyoto 2023 is now open!

  • 2023.07.07

    Website is open.

For those who visit the KICC

  • Please make sure to bring the government-issued ID with the photo (passport, driver's license card, etc.) which you used to register. You may not be able to enter if you do not bring it.
  • Throughout the Forum, please wear your ID budge which you received at the registration desk at the visible position.
  • If you see an emergency case or other troubles, please do not call 119, but notice to the nearest staff member first.

IGF Kyoto 2023

IGF (The Internet Governance Forum) is one of the most important fora in the field of Internet policy, where diverse stakeholders discuss a wide range of issues related to the Internet on an equal footing under the auspices of the United Nations. The first annual meeting of IGF has been held in 2006.The 18th meeting will be held in Kyoto, Japan, under the overall theme of "Internet We Want - Empowering All People -. The meeting will feature approximately 300 sessions organized by a diverse range of stakeholders to discuss a variety of Internet issues.

Message from Minister for Internal Affairs and Communications

Minister for Internal Affairs and Communications, SUZUKI Junji
Minister for Internal Affairs and Communications
SUZUKI Junji

Along with the spread of the Internet, Digital transformation is happening everywhere in our life, which fundamentally changes everything. Every individual enjoys benefits of cutting-edge technologies, such as generative AI, with smartphones. Through the information and communication infrastructures, vast amounts of data are being distributed and processed across language barriers, and human beings are entering a new stage where possibilities are eminently expanded based on the foundation of the Internet. Under these circumstances, Japan is pleased to host the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) Kyoto 2023, where varied stakeholders of the Internet will come together to discuss various issues related to the Internet.

The overarching theme of this year's IGF is "Internet We Want - Empowering All People -". I am confident that lively discussions among participants from all over the world will lead to a better future for the Internet, for the future of all of us and for the development of the free and open Internet which leaves no one behind.

It is no exaggeration to say that virtually all services and technologies are now connected to the Internet. While bringing tremendous benefits, the Internet also has negative aspects such as unknown risks and harmful content. To cover all such issues relevant to the Internet for discussions, IGF Kyoto 2023 sets the following eight sub-themes.

  • (1) AI and Emerging Technologies
  • (2) Avoiding Internet Fragmentation
  • (3) Cybersecurity, Cybercrime and Online Safety
  • (4) Data Governance and Trust
  • (5) Digital Divides and Inclusion
  • (6) Global Digital Governance and Cooperation
  • (7) Human Rights and Freedoms
  • (8) Sustainability and Environment

I hope that fruitful discussions will be shared with the world on the various issues that we are faced with; Emerging technologies, such as generative AI, the free, open and inclusive Internet, as well as negative side including cybercrime and harmful content, also covering common issues and universal values such as freedom, human rights, sustainability, and the environment.

Kyoto, the host city, is rich in history and culture. It is of significant meaning that the IGF Kyoto 2023 on technologies and future of the world is held in this historic city of Kyoto, as we consider the past, present, and future of the humanity. I sincerely hope that all participants will take a stroll around Kyoto to enjoy its history, culture, and foods as much as possible besides the discussions.

The Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications of Japan will make every effort to ensure the success of the IGF Kyoto 2023. I would highly appreciate it if you could participate in this IGF Kyoto 2023. I am looking forward to seeing you all at the venue. Your understanding and cooperation are highly appreciated.