Egypt has assumed the presidency of the 2026 World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) Forum, with Minister of Communications and Information Technology Raafat Hindi pledging to steer global efforts towards practical, measurable outcomes that would advance inclusive digital transformation and bridge the global digital divide.
The handover of the presidency from South Africa took place during the opening session of the forum in Geneva, where Egypt officially assumed leadership of the United Nations-backed platform.
As Forum President, Hindi will chair the high-level sessions and ministerial tracks, guide strategic discussions, oversee the forum’s proceedings in coordination with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Secretariat.
In his inaugural address, Hindi said Egypt was honoured to lead the forum at a pivotal moment for global digital governance. He expressed appreciation to ITU, UNESCO, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), and other UN partners for their continued support in advancing the WSIS process.
He also praised South Africa’s stewardship of the 2025 forum, pledging to build on its achievements as the international community enters a new phase following the 20-year review of the Tunis Agenda.
“The challenge is no longer defining a vision for the information society, but accelerating its implementation amid unprecedented technological transformation,” Hindi said.
He highlighted the transformative potential of digital technologies, particularly artificial intelligence, to accelerate sustainable development, improve public services, expand access to education and healthcare, and unlock new opportunities for innovation and economic growth.
Hindi said Egypt would work closely with all stakeholders to ensure that the forum delivers practical, measurable outcomes through an open, inclusive and multistakeholder dialogue involving governments, businesses, academia, civil society and international organisations.
“Egypt’s role as forum president is to listen, build consensus and create opportunities for stronger cooperation across regions and sectors,” Hindi said.
Held annually under the auspices of the ITU and other UN agencies, the WSIS Forum has become the leading global platform for shaping digital policy and international cooperation. This year’s edition is the first to convene following the completion of the WSIS+20 review process and will focus on translating its recommendations into concrete actions through 2035.
Egypt’s selection to chair the forum reflects its growing role within the ITU and its longstanding contribution to international discussions on digital transformation, artificial intelligence and sustainable development.
