Sharing Global Youth Perspectives on the Digital Future
After completing the NetMission Academy, I was honored to receive support from DotAsia to attend the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) 2025 in Norway. This was my second time participating in the IGF — the first being in 2023 in Japan as an attendee. But this time, I had the amazing opportunity to join as a speaker in a workshop session!
A New Role, A New Experience
Being a speaker was a completely different experience. I was a bit nervous at first, but mostly excited and proud. I felt empowered to share youth perspectives and engage with global experts on pressing digital issues.
Topics That Sparked My Curiosity
At IGF 2025, I explored many sessions that opened my mind and inspired me deeply. Each topic felt relevant, urgent, and full of real-world impact. One session that stood out was the “Global Youth Summit: Age Verification and Social Media Regulation.” As someone passionate about youth rights and digital spaces, I felt this discussion was essential. Balancing safety with privacy for young users is a delicate but necessary challenge. It was inspiring to see other young leaders sharing their views, pushing for a better, safer Internet for our generation.
I also attended “Applying International Law Principles in the Digital Space.” This session helped me understand how international human rights law applies online. For example, how can we fight hate speech and protect freedom of expression at the same time? I learned that non-state actors, like big tech companies, also have responsibilities under global human rights frameworks. It was especially powerful to hear speakers talk about how digital platforms are used to silence marginalized voices — and how international law needs to catch up.
Finally, the discussion on “Truth Under Siege: Tools to Counter Digital Censorship” was incredibly timely. With the rise of misinformation, online censorship, and disinformation campaigns, this session focused on protecting the public’s right to information and promoting information integrity. As someone who believes in the power of digital truth and education, this session really hit home.
Compared to IGF 2023 in Japan, this year’s forum had many more sessions on digital rights, AI, and governance, which shows how these topics are becoming even more important globally. I felt thrilled and energized just being there and listening to such bold, future-facing ideas.
Looking Ahead: Why This IGF 2025 Mattered
The opening ceremony set the tone for the entire event. This year marks 20 years of the Internet Governance Forum, and it was held together with the WSIS+20 review, making it a milestone moment. Leaders from the UN and various governments emphasized a shared message: Digital cooperation is no longer optional — it’s essential.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres talked about the urgent need to connect the 2.6 billion people still offline. He called for universal Internet access by 2030, fairer distribution of digital power, and a renewed commitment to trust, diversity, and justice in digital spaces. I felt a sense of shared purpose in his words — that the Internet must be for everyone, not just the privileged few.
Karianne Tung, Norway’s Minister of Digitalization, made a powerful point that digital governance isn’t just about infrastructure or technology — it’s about values. Trust, freedom, and inclusion are human issues, not just technical ones. I really related to that. As a young person, I want to help build a digital world that reflects these values.
From the European Union’s digital strategy to UNICEF’s view on Digital Public Goods, I was amazed by how much collaboration is already happening. These partnerships between countries, private sectors, and civil society show that change is possible — if we all work together.
The concept of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), combined with DPGs, made me realize the potential for scalable and affordable solutions, especially in developing countries. It’s not just about innovation, but about equity, accessibility, and local empowerment.
Finally, I was left thinking deeply about accountability in digital spaces — how we need better enforcement of laws that already exist, and how corporations must be held responsible for protecting human rights. As one speaker said, “Human rights are interrelated, and every right is now impacted by technology.”
This IGF reminded me why I’m passionate about digital rights and governance. I left with more questions, more curiosity, and more hope. I believe youth voices have the power to shape the future, and I’m grateful to be part of this global conversation. My goal now is to keep learning, keep sharing, and keep working toward a digital world that’s inclusive, fair, and safe for all.
By Ji won Oh