Iraq Hosts First-Ever Internet Governance Forum to Shape the Country’s Digital Future
The first-ever Iraq National Internet Governance Forum (IGF Iraq 2025) concluded today in Baghdad, marking a historic step in Iraq’s digital transformation journey. Held over two days at the Babylon Rotana Hotel, the forum brought together more than 500 participants from government, business, civil society, academia, and international organizations to address the opportunities and challenges shaping Iraq’s internet landscape.
The event, organized by Tech4Peace under the umbrella of the United Nations–convened Internet Governance Forum, took place under the patronage of the Prime Minister, with support from key national institutions including the Ministry of Communications, the Communications and Media Commission, and the Central Bank of Iraq.
Sessions explored how Iraq can position itself as a regional hub for telecom infrastructure, while also addressing urgent issues such as combating digital fraud, improving access to internet services, and advancing protections for women in digital spaces.
Alongside the main stage, two workshops were delivered: one by Meta on Best Practices for Content Creators and another by Google on generative AI, equipping Iraq’s next generation of professionals with practical skills. The program also featured Tiktok participation in private round table on misinformation, as well as Lighting Talks where Asiacell, Digital Zone, and Wayl presented innovations that highlighted the potential of the country’s growing tech ecosystem.
The forum’s outcomes showcased Iraq’s growing commitment to building a shared digital future. Speaking at the opening session, H.E. Dr. Hayam Al-Yasiri, Minister of Communications of Iraq, said: “The internet has become an urgent and essential need, one of the most important requirements of life. Therefore, its governance and regulation in accordance with the constitution, the law, and societal norms is a major responsibility that falls on all relevant parties.”
Reflecting on the achievement, Aws Al-Saadi, Founder of Tech4Peace and organizer of IGF Iraq 2025, added: “From the very beginning, our mission has been clear: no digital transformation has value unless it is safe, inclusive, and fair for everyone. With this first national forum, we are building trust, shaping policy, and ensuring that every Iraqi can feel secure and empowered in the digital space.”
The success of IGF Iraq 2025 was made possible with the support of its sponsors. Asiacell served as Diamond Sponsor, with Tarik Al Thuraya as Platinum Sponsor. Trade Bank of Iraq and Masarat Al-Iraq joined as Gold Sponsors, while iQ Networks, Hilal Al-Rafidain, and Nukhba FTTH supported as Silver Sponsors. In addition to the support SherHub as the Creative Partner, and iNews as the Media Partner.
The outcomes of IGF Iraq 2025 will contribute to Iraq’s evolving digital policies and encourage continued cooperation between the public and private sectors. Building on this year’s milestone, the organizers aim to establish IGF Iraq as an annual platform for shaping the country’s digital future.
About the Internet Governance Forum (IGF)
The Internet Governance Forum, convened by the United Nations Secretary-General, is the global multistakeholder platform for dialogue on digital public policy. Its annual meeting brings together thousands of participants from governments, civil society, business, academia, and the technical community to exchange knowledge, share good practices, and collaborate on solutions to the world’s most pressing digital governance challenges.
