IGF Support for Global South Journalists

The Internet Governance Forum (IGF)’s first-ever support to journalists from the Global South is an initiative to promote insightful, balanced, and impactful journalism on digital governance and its dynamics, as they are discussed at the IGF. It aims to attract journalists from the Global South who have experience with digital issues to cover the 19th Annual IGF on Building Our Multistakeholder Digital Future”, scheduled for 15-19 December 2024 in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Recognizing the critical role of journalism in shaping the global digital discourse, this initiative seeks to amplify Global South voices. Selected journalists will have the opportunity to highlight key issues such as digital inclusion, cybersecurity, data governance, digital economy, human rights online, and the ethical implications of emerging technologies. The initiative is supported by the IGF Secretariat and subject to availability of funding.

Narratives on digital governance often lack localized insights and the perspectives of those most affected. Enhanced journalistic focus through a local, national or regional lens can elevate coverage of urgent issues, foster more inclusive policy discussions, and ensure that global digital policies are informed by diverse voices and community contexts.

Benefits of Global South

• Network – Participate in all IGF has to offer and connect with fellow journalists, policymakers, and experts on the digital issues of the day.
• Learn – Gain insights into priority and emerging issues, including the development of digital cooperation frameworks like the Global Digital Compact (GDC).
• Impact – Your reporting can drive positive change within the global digital discourse.

Eligibility for Global South

• Participants must be nationals of Least Developed Countries (LDCs), Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs), Small Island Developing States (SIDS), Low Income Countries (LICs), Lower Middle Income Countries (LMICs) or Economies in Transition.
• Be at least 18 years old.
• Participants must be currently employed or freelancing as a journalist with at least three years of experience in journalism, including coverage of tech or digital issues, working for a recognized media outlet or freelancing, whose work has been regularly published by a recognized media outlet.

Application

Apply for this opportunity by 18 October 2024, 23:59 UTC.