Application Deadline: October 4th, 2026
Applications are now open for the 2026 Internet Governance Forum (IGF) Youth Mentorship Programme. The Internet Governance Forum brings people together from various stakeholder groups as equals, in discussions on public policy issues relating to the Internet. While there is no negotiated outcome, the IGF informs and inspires those with policy-making power in both the public and private sectors — helping delegates exchange information and share good practices, and facilitating a common understanding of how to maximize opportunities and address risks.
The IGF 2026 Youth Mentorship Programme, an initiative of the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) Multistakeholder Advisory Group (MAG) Working Group on Youth. The programme connects young Internet governance participants with experienced MAG members who can provide guidance, knowledge and support ahead of the IGF 2026 annual meeting.
The mentorship programme is designed to help emerging youth leaders better understand the Internet Governance Forum, develop their engagement in Internet governance discussions and build meaningful connections with experienced members of the global Internet governance community.
The IGF Youth Mentorship Programme
The Internet Governance Forum (IGF) is a United Nations-convened multistakeholder platform that brings together stakeholders from governments, the private sector, civil society, technical communities, academia and other groups to discuss public policy issues relating to the Internet.
Requirements
The opportunity is intended for young people involved or interested in Internet governance.
Applicants should have a genuine interest in Internet governance issues and demonstrate an interest in participating in the IGF community.
Relevant areas of interest may include:
- Digital policy and regulation
- Internet governance
- Digital rights
- Cybersecurity
- Artificial intelligence and emerging technologies
- Data governance
- Internet access and inclusion
- Online safety
- Human rights in the digital environment
- Technology policy
- Youth participation in Internet governance
- Digital development and innovation
Benefits
- Selected participants will be paired with experienced MAG mentors in preparation for IGF 2026.
- The mentorship relationship can help young participants gain a better understanding of the IGF ecosystem and develop their ability to participate meaningfully in Internet governance conversations.
- Potential areas of mentorship may include understanding the work of the IGF, preparing for participation in IGF activities, navigating multistakeholder spaces and developing professional connections within the Internet governance community.
- The programme also provides an opportunity for youth participants to interact with experienced professionals working within the IGF process.
How to Apply for the 2026 Internet Governance Forum (IGF) Youth Mentorship Programme
Applications are submitted through the official United Nations Internet Governance Forum website.
Applicants should follow the application process below:
Step 1: Create or access an IGF account
The official application page requires applicants to log in or register before accessing the application form.
New applicants should create an account through the registration option provided on the IGF website.
Step 2: Access the Youth Mentorship application
After logging in, applicants can access the Application for IGF 2026 Youth Mentorship Program.
Applicants should carefully review the questions and instructions before completing the form.
Step 3: Provide accurate information
Applicants should provide accurate information about their background, Internet governance interests and engagement with relevant issues.
The application should clearly communicate the applicant’s interest in Internet governance and why participation in a mentorship programme would be relevant to their development.
Step 4: Submit the application
After completing the required sections, applicants should submit the form through the official IGF platform.
For More Information:
Visit the Official Webpage of the Internet Governance Forum Youth Mentorship Programme
