Professionals interested in shaping the future of the internet now have an opportunity to gain hands-on experience within the United Nations system. The IGF 2026 Fellowship Programme offers skilled individuals from developing regions the chance to contribute to global discussions on internet governance while working closely with international experts.
Hosted at the United Nations Office in Geneva, the program allows fellows to deepen their expertise, participate in policy research, and strengthen internet governance capacity in their home countries.
Quick Facts
- Host Country: Switzerland (Geneva)
- Opportunity Type: Fellowship / Professional Development
- Funding Type: Supported by the IGF Trust Fund (UN DESA)
- Eligible Countries: Developing countries, LDCs, LLDCs, and transitional economies
- Deadline: 31 March 2026
About the Opportunity
The IGF 2026 Fellowship Programme is designed to strengthen capacity in internet governance by engaging professionals from developing countries in the work of the global Internet governance community.
The fellowship operates under the Internet Governance Forum, a multistakeholder platform established by the United Nations in 2006 to facilitate dialogue on public policy issues related to the internet. If you are interested in more tech opportunities, you can also check the Deep Learning Indaba 2026 in Lagos.
Selected fellows will work with the IGF Secretariat at the United Nations Office in Geneva, supporting activities such as research on internet governance issues, preparation of the annual IGF meeting agenda, and collaboration with governments, civil society organizations, technical experts, and industry stakeholders.
The fellowship typically lasts six months, with program cycles running during different parts of the year. Participants gain practical experience in global policy processes and contribute to projects aimed at improving internet governance in developing regions.
This opportunity is officially offered by the Internet Governance Forum, and applicants should apply through the official application process.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants interested in the IGF 2026 Fellowship Programme must meet the following requirements:
- Hold a university degree in ICT, international affairs, telecommunications policy, or a related field
- Have at least two years of professional experience in internet governance or related policy areas
- Demonstrate strong knowledge of internet governance and digital policy issues
- Show ability to conduct research, draft reports, and analyze policy developments
- Be fluent in English (spoken and written)
- Working knowledge of French is considered an advantage
- Be able to commit full-time to the fellowship during the program period
Applicants should also possess strong communication, teamwork, and analytical skills.
Benefits
The IGF 2026 Fellowship Programme provides an opportunity for professionals to gain international policy experience and expand their professional networks.
Key benefits include:
- Professional experience working with the IGF Secretariat at the United Nations Office in Geneva
- Participation in research and policy discussions on global internet governance
- Exposure to international organizations, governments, and civil society networks
- Development of skills in policy analysis, research, and multilateral cooperation
- Opportunities to contribute to the organization of the IGF annual meeting
Through this experience, fellows strengthen their ability to support internet governance initiatives within their own countries and regions.
Who Should Apply
The IGF 2026 Fellowship Programme is ideal for professionals who are already involved in internet policy, digital governance, or telecommunications regulation.
Strong candidates may include:
- Policy professionals working on internet governance issues
- Researchers in digital policy, ICT regulation, or technology governance
- Government officials involved in digital policy development
- Civil society professionals advocating for internet policy issues
- Academics studying digital governance and global internet systems
Individuals from developing countries and emerging economies are particularly encouraged to apply.
Application Process
Candidates must submit their applications via email before the official deadline.
The application package should include:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Motivation letter explaining interest in the fellowship
- Completed nomination form
Applications will be reviewed by the IGF Secretariat in consultation with national and regional IGF coordinators.
How to Apply
Professionals interested in advancing their careers in internet governance are encouraged to apply for the IGF 2026 Fellowship Programme before the deadline.
Prepare your application documents carefully and submit them according to the instructions provided by the IGF Secretariat.
For more details, visit IGF 2026 Fellowship Programme.
