Digital Future Kurdistan guided the Kurdistan Regional Government as it launched the first Internet Governance Forum Kurdistan on Sunday. The forum marked a pivotal moment for the Region’s technological and administrative development. Moreover, the event introduced a bold vision for a connected and secure future.
Minister of Transport and Communications Ano Jawhar delivered the keynote address on behalf of Prime Minister Masrour Barzani. He stressed that this forum signaled a new beginning for the Region’s digital trajectory and described the event as a transformation rather than a simple conference. He noted that the Region now embraces openness, innovation, global collaboration, and firm digital security.
The Minister addressed diplomats, UN IGF representatives, industry actors, and civil society leaders, emphasizing Kurdistan’s shift from observation to active participation in global digital governance. He also highlighted the event’s formal recognition by the UN IGF Secretariat in Geneva, a milestone that affirmed the Region’s rising role in international cyber policy.
The Minister reviewed the Region’s progress over the past year and noted the KRG’s role in the 2024 IGF in Riyadh. Kurdish officials engaged global leaders on technology and digital rights during that event. He also previewed the 2025 UN IGF in Norway, which will focus on digital development and AI governance. These priorities now guide the KRG’s domestic agenda.
He introduced four strategic pillars driving IGF Kurdistan. First, the forum elevates regional voices in global decision-making. Second, it aims to grow the digital economy and attract innovation. Third, it prioritizes inclusive digital development for women, youth, rural regions, and marginalized groups. Fourth, it protects resilience and digital rights in alignment with UN standards.
Jawhar then addressed the Region’s urgent security needs. He warned that cyber threats accompany daily instability and detailed missile attacks, drone incursions, and hacking attempts targeting critical infrastructure and linked digital transformation to survival and resilience.
He then highlighted ongoing projects that strengthen national capacity. Moreover, he pointed to the Ronaki program, the wider fiber network, and new digital services. Together, these efforts increase efficiency under Prime Minister Barzani’s leadership.
Furthermore, he affirmed the Prime Minister’s plan for a diverse digital economy with strong cyber security. He also stressed that youth drive innovation, and Digital Future Kurdistan supports that goal.
In addition, the Minister introduced a new Family Internet Package. He said it shields homes from harmful online content. Finally, he added that a parental supervision app will help families guide children responsibly.
Jawhar also outlined the internet’s role in supporting human rights. He argued that a secure online space empowers women and protects children. It also strengthens Kurdistan’s rich cultural identity.
He closed with a call for multi-stakeholder governance. He urged federal cooperation and global partnership and declared that Kurdistan stands ready to serve as a digital bridge for the region and the world. Digital Future Kurdistan embodies this mission.
