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A new report from ICANN and the Internet Society details how the Internet Governance Forum has supported a stable and secure Internet—and why that model is now under strain.
PRAGUE, June 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- As global discussions intensify around the future of Internet governance, two of the Internet's long-standing technical institutions—the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) and the Internet Society (ISOC)—are urging renewed focus on what has kept the Internet open and operational for more than two decades: collaborative coordination across borders and sectors.
Released today, the joint report Footprints of 20 Years of the Internet Governance Forum illustrates how cooperation among governments, engineers, civil society, and businesses has helped maintain a single, secure, and globally accessible Internet. The report draws from a range of technical, policy, and infrastructure outcomes that have emerged through the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) and its broader network.
"The Internet didn't stay unified by chance. Its resilience is the result of people and institutions working across borders and sectors," said Kurtis Lindqvist, ICANN President and CEO. "This report underscores that the Internet's success is not accidental; it's coordinated. If we value a single, secure, and interoperable Internet, then we must recommit to the model that made it possible."
"For twenty years, the IGF has shown that multistakeholder governance delivers," said Sally Wentworth, President and CEO of the Internet Society. "Its footprint spans infrastructure, security, access, and policy—often in places where conventional governance falls short. But the gains we've made are only as strong as our commitment to keep investing in them."
Key Findings
- Infrastructure Impact
Internet Exchange Points (IXPs), which allow local Internet traffic to be exchanged more efficiently, more than doubled in Africa over the past decade. This growth has reduced latency, improved service quality, and cut operational costs for providers. - Global Reach
More than 4.4 million domain names are now registered in non-Latin scripts, significantly expanding digital access for communities using Arabic, Cyrillic, Chinese, and other scripts. Universal Acceptance Day 2025 was marked by over 50 international events promoting full linguistic functionality across the Internet ecosystem. - Internet Security at Scale
Today, 93 percent of top-level domains are protected using Domain Name System Security Extensions (DNSSEC), a protocol that helps prevent DNS-based cyberattacks by verifying data authenticity. In parallel, more than 1,000 networks around the world have adopted the Mutually Agreed Norms for Routing Security (MANRS), an initiative that promotes responsible routing practices and mitigates systemic vulnerabilities. - Policy Engagement
Over 180 National and Regional Internet Governance Forums (NRIs) are active worldwide. Youth IGFs have brought new perspectives into national and international policy dialogues, while the IGF Parliamentary Track has helped shape legislative thinking on digital trust, rights, and inclusion.
A Pivotal Moment
The report is being launched ahead of the 20-year review of the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS+20), a milestone that is expected to influence how global digital cooperation evolves in the coming decade. Against this backdrop, ICANN and ISOC are calling for renewed attention to the institutions and frameworks that have supported a unified, secure, and open Internet.
Rather than offering abstract conclusions, the report is structured around practical and globally sourced examples. It aims to inform current debates by showing what has worked and what could be at risk if support for distributed, collaborative governance falters.
Download the full report.
About ICANN
ICANN's mission is to help ensure a stable, secure, and unified global Internet. To reach another person on the Internet, you need to type an address – a name or a number – into your computer or other device. That address must be unique so computers know where to find each other. ICANN helps coordinate and support these unique identifiers across the world. ICANN was formed in 1998 as a nonprofit public benefit corporation with a community of participants from all over the world. For more information, please visit: icann.org.
About the Internet Society
Founded in 1992 by Internet pioneers, the Internet Society is a global non-profit organization working to ensure the Internet is for everyone. Through its community of members, special interest groups, and 130+ chapters around the world, the organization defends and promotes Internet policies, standards, and protocols that keep the Internet open, globally connected, and secure. For more information, please visit: Internetsociety.org.
A new report from ICANN and the Internet Society details how the Internet Governance Forum has supported a stable and secure Internet—and why that model is now under strain.
PRAGUE, June 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- As global discussions intensify around the future of Internet governance, two of the Internet's long-standing technical institutions—the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) and the Internet Society (ISOC)—are urging renewed focus on what has kept the Internet open and operational for more than two decades: collaborative coordination across borders and sectors.
Released today, the joint report Footprints of 20 Years of the Internet Governance Forum illustrates how cooperation among governments, engineers, civil society, and businesses has helped maintain a single, secure, and globally accessible Internet. The report draws from a range of technical, policy, and infrastructure outcomes that have emerged through the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) and its broader network.
"The Internet didn't stay unified by chance. Its resilience is the result of people and institutions working across borders and sectors," said Kurtis Lindqvist, ICANN President and CEO. "This report underscores that the Internet's success is not accidental; it's coordinated. If we value a single, secure, and interoperable Internet, then we must recommit to the model that made it possible."
"For twenty years, the IGF has shown that multistakeholder governance delivers," said Sally Wentworth, President and CEO of the Internet Society. "Its footprint spans infrastructure, security, access, and policy—often in places where conventional governance falls short. But the gains we've made are only as strong as our commitment to keep investing in them."
Key Findings
- Infrastructure Impact
Internet Exchange Points (IXPs), which allow local Internet traffic to be exchanged more efficiently, more than doubled in Africa over the past decade. This growth has reduced latency, improved service quality, and cut operational costs for providers. - Global Reach
More than 4.4 million domain names are now registered in non-Latin scripts, significantly expanding digital access for communities using Arabic, Cyrillic, Chinese, and other scripts. Universal Acceptance Day 2025 was marked by over 50 international events promoting full linguistic functionality across the Internet ecosystem. - Internet Security at Scale
Today, 93 percent of top-level domains are protected using Domain Name System Security Extensions (DNSSEC), a protocol that helps prevent DNS-based cyberattacks by verifying data authenticity. In parallel, more than 1,000 networks around the world have adopted the Mutually Agreed Norms for Routing Security (MANRS), an initiative that promotes responsible routing practices and mitigates systemic vulnerabilities. - Policy Engagement
Over 180 National and Regional Internet Governance Forums (NRIs) are active worldwide. Youth IGFs have brought new perspectives into national and international policy dialogues, while the IGF Parliamentary Track has helped shape legislative thinking on digital trust, rights, and inclusion.
A Pivotal Moment
The report is being launched ahead of the 20-year review of the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS+20), a milestone that is expected to influence how global digital cooperation evolves in the coming decade. Against this backdrop, ICANN and ISOC are calling for renewed attention to the institutions and frameworks that have supported a unified, secure, and open Internet.
Rather than offering abstract conclusions, the report is structured around practical and globally sourced examples. It aims to inform current debates by showing what has worked and what could be at risk if support for distributed, collaborative governance falters.
Download the full report.
About ICANN
ICANN's mission is to help ensure a stable, secure, and unified global Internet. To reach another person on the Internet, you need to type an address – a name or a number – into your computer or other device. That address must be unique so computers know where to find each other. ICANN helps coordinate and support these unique identifiers across the world. ICANN was formed in 1998 as a nonprofit public benefit corporation with a community of participants from all over the world. For more information, please visit: icann.org.
About the Internet Society
Founded in 1992 by Internet pioneers, the Internet Society is a global non-profit organization working to ensure the Internet is for everyone. Through its community of members, special interest groups, and 130+ chapters around the world, the organization defends and promotes Internet policies, standards, and protocols that keep the Internet open, globally connected, and secure. For more information, please visit: Internetsociety.org.
** The press release content is from PR Newswire. Bastille Post is not involved in its creation. **
What Holds the Internet Together and Why It's Now at Risk
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ABU DHABI, UAE, Dec. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Miral, the leading creator of immersive destinations and experiences in Abu Dhabi, has announced the Miral Impact Fund, in partnership with the Authority of Social Contribution – Ma'an, Abu Dhabi Government's official channel to receive social contributions. This fund strengthens Miral's commitment to delivering measurable social and environmental impact across Abu Dhabi and marks an evolution of its CSR strategy while reinforcing Ma'an's role in advancing sustainable social responsibility throughout the community.
To view the Multimedia News Release, please click:
https://www.multivu.com/miral/9373451-en-impact-fund-launched-partnership-with-authority-of-social-contribution
Attended by H.E. Dr. Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili, Chairman of the Department of Community Development - Abu Dhabi, and H.E. Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of Miral, the agreement for the Fund's establishment was signed by H.E. Abdullah Al Ameri, Director General of the Authority of Social Contribution – Ma'an, and Dr. Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, Group CEO of Miral.
The Fund is designed to be a catalyst for responsible growth and community development. It will focus on four key pillars: Conservation, Art & Culture, Health & Wellbeing, and Education & Skills Development, each delivering measurable social impact through dedicated programmes and initiatives. Representing a key step in addressing Abu Dhabi's evolving priorities, the Fund embodies Miral's commitment to shaping a sustainable and inclusive future. It also provides a transparent platform for corporate and community contributions, creating lasting value.
Dr. Mohammad Abdalla Al Zaabi, Group CEO of Miral, said: "Launching the Miral Impact Fund marks a defining moment in our journey to shape destinations and create a positive legacy. Over the years, we have embedded social responsibility within our business, and this fund is the natural next step in turning our CSR strategy to measurable action. Aligning with Abu Dhabi's Vision 2030, our partnership with The Authority of Social Contribution – Ma'an will channel collective contributions towards real social and environmental impact, from conserving our marine life and environment to empowering our communities and inspiring future generations."
The Fund's inaugural initiative, 'Guardians of the Arabian Gulf' will be led by the Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Center Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, aiming to protect marine ecosystems and endangered species while training future conservation leaders.
His Excellency Abdullah Humaid Al Ameri, Director General, Authority of Social Contribution – Ma'an, said: "As the official channel to receive social contributions, the Authority of Social Contribution – Ma'an raises and deploy funds to partners to support projects across various sectors including the environment sector to directly impact the community. We are dedicated to working with the private sector to support them in achieving their Corporate Social Responsibility goals by connecting them with projects that address social priorities and support community development. Through this partnership, we continue to direct community contributions toward initiatives that empower communities, preserve our environment, and advance Abu Dhabi's vision for a sustainable and inclusive future."
The Fund is governed by a joint Miral and Ma'an Steering Committee, supported by an advisory group that ensures transparency and the effective use of contributions. Members include Dr. Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, Group CEO of Miral, as Chair; Taghrid Alsaeed, Executive Director of Marketing, Communications & Events at Miral, as Vice Chair; Mahmoud Abu Alhaija, Executive Director of Finance, Miral; H.E. Maysa Alnuwais, Executive Director of Community Engagement and Volunteering, Ma'an; H.E. Faisal Alhmoudi, Executive Director of the Social Investment Fund, Ma'an; and Elie Daher, Committee Secretary.
The Miral Impact Fund invites partners, organisations, and individuals to join in building a more sustainable future.
Contributions and proposals can be made through the fund's webpage: miral.ae/miral-impact-fund
IMPORTANT NOTES TO EDITORS:
Pillars of the Fund:
- Conservation: Protecting natural ecosystems and promoting sustainable practices including seagrass research, sea-turtle and bird-of-prey rescue and rehabilitation, and fostering future conservation leaders under the Guardians of the Arabian Gulf initiative, while strengthening community awareness and environmental stewardship across Abu Dhabi.
- Art & Culture: Nurturing local talent, preserving heritage, and strengthening creative communities to enrich Abu Dhabi's cultural identity.
- Health & Wellbeing: Enhancing community health through preventative care, active lifestyles, and mental health awareness.
- Education & Skill Development: Developing future talent and capabilities, needed for a knowledge-based economy and lifelong learning.
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ABU DHABI, UAE, Dec. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Miral, the leading creator of immersive destinations and experiences in Abu Dhabi, has announced the Miral Impact Fund, in partnership with the Authority of Social Contribution – Ma'an, Abu Dhabi Government's official channel to receive social contributions. This fund strengthens Miral's commitment to delivering measurable social and environmental impact across Abu Dhabi and marks an evolution of its CSR strategy while reinforcing Ma'an's role in advancing sustainable social responsibility throughout the community.
To view the Multimedia News Release, please click:
https://www.multivu.com/miral/9373451-en-impact-fund-launched-partnership-with-authority-of-social-contribution
Attended by H.E. Dr. Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili, Chairman of the Department of Community Development - Abu Dhabi, and H.E. Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of Miral, the agreement for the Fund's establishment was signed by H.E. Abdullah Al Ameri, Director General of the Authority of Social Contribution – Ma'an, and Dr. Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, Group CEO of Miral.
The Fund is designed to be a catalyst for responsible growth and community development. It will focus on four key pillars: Conservation, Art & Culture, Health & Wellbeing, and Education & Skills Development, each delivering measurable social impact through dedicated programmes and initiatives. Representing a key step in addressing Abu Dhabi's evolving priorities, the Fund embodies Miral's commitment to shaping a sustainable and inclusive future. It also provides a transparent platform for corporate and community contributions, creating lasting value.
Dr. Mohammad Abdalla Al Zaabi, Group CEO of Miral, said: "Launching the Miral Impact Fund marks a defining moment in our journey to shape destinations and create a positive legacy. Over the years, we have embedded social responsibility within our business, and this fund is the natural next step in turning our CSR strategy to measurable action. Aligning with Abu Dhabi's Vision 2030, our partnership with The Authority of Social Contribution – Ma'an will channel collective contributions towards real social and environmental impact, from conserving our marine life and environment to empowering our communities and inspiring future generations."
The Fund's inaugural initiative, 'Guardians of the Arabian Gulf' will be led by the Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Center Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, aiming to protect marine ecosystems and endangered species while training future conservation leaders.
His Excellency Abdullah Humaid Al Ameri, Director General, Authority of Social Contribution – Ma'an, said: "As the official channel to receive social contributions, the Authority of Social Contribution – Ma'an raises and deploy funds to partners to support projects across various sectors including the environment sector to directly impact the community. We are dedicated to working with the private sector to support them in achieving their Corporate Social Responsibility goals by connecting them with projects that address social priorities and support community development. Through this partnership, we continue to direct community contributions toward initiatives that empower communities, preserve our environment, and advance Abu Dhabi's vision for a sustainable and inclusive future."
The Fund is governed by a joint Miral and Ma'an Steering Committee, supported by an advisory group that ensures transparency and the effective use of contributions. Members include Dr. Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, Group CEO of Miral, as Chair; Taghrid Alsaeed, Executive Director of Marketing, Communications & Events at Miral, as Vice Chair; Mahmoud Abu Alhaija, Executive Director of Finance, Miral; H.E. Maysa Alnuwais, Executive Director of Community Engagement and Volunteering, Ma'an; H.E. Faisal Alhmoudi, Executive Director of the Social Investment Fund, Ma'an; and Elie Daher, Committee Secretary.
The Miral Impact Fund invites partners, organisations, and individuals to join in building a more sustainable future.
Contributions and proposals can be made through the fund's webpage: miral.ae/miral-impact-fund
IMPORTANT NOTES TO EDITORS:
Pillars of the Fund:
- Conservation: Protecting natural ecosystems and promoting sustainable practices including seagrass research, sea-turtle and bird-of-prey rescue and rehabilitation, and fostering future conservation leaders under the Guardians of the Arabian Gulf initiative, while strengthening community awareness and environmental stewardship across Abu Dhabi.
- Art & Culture: Nurturing local talent, preserving heritage, and strengthening creative communities to enrich Abu Dhabi's cultural identity.
- Health & Wellbeing: Enhancing community health through preventative care, active lifestyles, and mental health awareness.
- Education & Skill Development: Developing future talent and capabilities, needed for a knowledge-based economy and lifelong learning.
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** The press release content is from PR Newswire. Bastille Post is not involved in its creation. **
Miral Impact Fund Launched in Partnership with the Authority of Social Contribution - Ma'an to Champion Environmental Stewardship and Social Impact
