Not Just Participants: Youth as Co-Governors of the Internet

Date: Sunday, Oct 12

Time: 14:15 - 15:15 (60 mins)

Session Types: Roundtable

This session explores the role of youth as equal stakeholders and active co-governors in shaping inclusive, rights-based digital futures. While digital inclusion efforts have advanced infrastructure and connectivity, youth, especially from the Asia Pacific’s underserved and marginalized communities, remain underrepresented in digital policy-making and governance spaces. The session will unpack barriers that prevent youth from engaging meaningfully in Internet governance dialogues, including limited access to decision-making platforms, lack of capacity-building opportunities, tokenistic involvement, and cultural or political constraints.

We will also explore how digital equity is not just about access, but about agency, ensuring that young people have the tools, platforms, and power to influence digital governance decisions. Participants will share regional experiences where youth-led initiatives have impacted policy or bridged local digital gaps. The discussion will further highlight how co-governance models, where youth are treated not as beneficiaries but as partners, can drive more sustainable, inclusive, and innovative Internet futures. Specific attention will be given to challenges and opportunities related to emerging technologies, digital literacy, and community-rooted solutions.

Moderators/Speakers: Amrita Choudhury, Ashirwad Tripathy, Bea Guevarra, Nawal Munir, Sana Nisar