Internet Governance Forum (IGF) Fellowship Programme 2026 @Unknown

The Internet Governance Forum Fellowship Programme offers professionals from developing regions the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in global Internet governance processes. The programme is hosted by the Internet Governance Forum, an initiative of the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs.

The fellowship aims to strengthen capacity in Internet governance by integrating professionals from developing countries into the work of the IGF Secretariat, based at the United Nations Office at Geneva in Geneva, Switzerland.

Selected fellows participate directly in the research, planning, and coordination of global Internet governance activities, gaining valuable experience within the United Nations system.

Programme Overview

The Internet Governance Forum Fellowship Programme contributes to strengthening global participation in Internet policy discussions and multistakeholder governance processes.

Key programme details include:

• Fellowship duration: Six months
• Location: Geneva, Switzerland
• Programme cycle: May – November 2026
• Possible cycles each year: Two six-month cycles

The fellowship is funded through the IGF Trust Fund and administered by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs.

Purpose of the Fellowship

The programme aims to strengthen participation from developing regions in global digital governance discussions.

Its core objectives include:

• Building capacity in Internet governance policy and research
• Enhancing participation from developing countries, least developed countries (LDCs), landlocked developing countries (LLDCs), and transitional economies
• Supporting professionals working on technology policy, telecommunications, and digital governance

Through this initiative, fellows gain the knowledge and experience needed to support Internet governance initiatives within their own countries and regions.

Fellowship Responsibilities

During the programme, fellows work directly with the Internet Governance Forum Secretariat under the supervision of the Head of Office.

Primary responsibilities include:

• Providing organizational and research support for IGF projects
• Drafting programme papers, reports, and documentation
• Conducting research on Internet governance issues affecting developing countries
• Supporting the preparatory process for the annual IGF meeting

Fellows also assist in the work of the Multistakeholder Advisory Group (MAG), which helps shape the IGF agenda and programme.

Key Work Areas

Participants contribute to multiple aspects of the IGF’s global activities.

These may include:

• Research on Internet governance policy and development issues
• Supporting the programme development for Internet Governance Forum Annual Meeting
• Collaborating with international organizations, civil society groups, governments, and technical communities
• Liaising with donors and partner institutions supporting IGF activities

The fellowship involves regular interaction with stakeholders from across the global digital ecosystem.

Learning Outcomes

At the end of the programme, fellows are expected to develop a deeper understanding of global Internet governance systems.

Key learning outcomes include:

• Understanding multilateral cooperation and multistakeholder governance processes
• Strengthening knowledge of global Internet governance challenges
• Developing skills in policy research and analysis
• Drafting studies, reports, and position papers related to Internet policy

Participants also gain experience collaborating with governments, civil society organisations, technical experts, and private sector stakeholders.

Supervision and Reporting

The fellowship includes structured supervision and performance monitoring.

Participants must:

• Attend regular programme meetings
• Submit monthly progress reports
• Participate in weekly or ad-hoc discussions with supervisors

At the end of the fellowship, participants must submit a final report summarising their work and achievements.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet the programme’s educational and professional requirements.

Education

Applicants must hold a university degree in ICT, international affairs, or a related field with a focus on technology policy or telecommunications.

Work Experience

Applicants must have:

• At least two years of relevant professional experience in Internet governance-related work
• Experience in policy development or digital governance processes is considered an advantage.

Language Requirements

Applicants must demonstrate:

• Fluency in English (spoken and written)
• Working knowledge of French is considered beneficial.

Required Skills and Competencies

Applicants should demonstrate strong professional competencies, including:

• Research and analytical skills related to Internet governance
• Clear and concise policy writing abilities
• Data collection and analysis skills
• Strong planning and organisational abilities
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills

Candidates should also demonstrate the ability to work in multicultural environments and collaborate with diverse stakeholders.

Fellowship Conditions

Participants must dedicate full-time commitment to the fellowship.

Important programme conditions include:

• Fellows may not accept other employment or fellowships during the programme.
• Participation in unrelated political or commercial activities is prohibited.
• Fellows are not considered United Nations staff members and therefore do not receive UN staff benefits.

Leave policies are limited to sick leave supported by a medical certificate.

Living and Working in Switzerland

The fellowship is based in Geneva, one of the world’s major international diplomacy hubs.

Key highlights of living in Switzerland include:

• Efficient public transportation networks
• Safe and stable living environment
• Multilingual culture with four national languages

Although English is widely used in international organizations, Switzerland’s official languages include German, French, Italian, and Romansh.

Application Process

Interested candidates must submit their application directly to the Internet Governance Forum Secretariat.

Required application materials include:

• Curriculum vitae (CV)
• Motivation letter
• Completed nomination form

Applications should be sent via email to the IGF Secretariat.

Application Deadline

• Deadline: 31 March 2026

Applicants are encouraged to apply early to ensure all documents are properly submitted and reviewed.

Conclusion

The Internet Governance Forum Fellowship Programme provides an exceptional opportunity for professionals from developing regions to gain direct experience in global digital governance.

Through engagement with the Internet Governance Forum and the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs, fellows contribute to shaping international discussions on Internet policy while strengthening their ability to support digital governance initiatives in their home countries.

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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering the fellowship. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.