Thematic: Youth Shaping a Safe, Responsible, and Inclusive Internet
This year’s theme, “Youth Shaping a Safe, Responsible, and Inclusive Internet,” emphasizes the important role of young people not only as users of digital technologies but also as active participants in shaping Cambodia’s digital future and Internet governance. YIGF Cambodia 2026 aims to provide young people with opportunities to better understand emerging digital challenges, develop critical knowledge and digital citizenship, exchange perspectives, and contribute to discussions on how the Internet should develop in Cambodia.
The forum will bring together youth, policymakers, industry, civil society, academia, and the technical community to explore practical challenges and opportunities related to digital safety, trust, responsible innovation, and inclusion. Through multistakeholder dialogue and participatory activities, participants will examine how different stakeholders can work together to strengthen online safety, promote responsible AI, protect digital rights, and ensure that everyone can meaningfully participate in the digital society.
Sub-Themes
Safe Internet
- Addressing Cybersecurity: Risk reduction for digital services and safety.
- Combating Scams: Multi-stakeholder approaches to combat online fraud.
- Digital Trust: Privacy protection, data literacy, and public confidence.
- Digital Identity: Responsible approaches to data protection and privacy.
Responsible AI
- Responsible Innovation: AI’s role in education, business, and employment.
- AI Governance: Establishing ethical guidelines and policy frameworks.
- AI Literacy: Identifying AI deepfakes and combating misinformation.
- Inclusive Access: Equal access to artificial intelligence knowledge.
Inclusive Internet
- Digital Citizenship: Empowering safe, ethical digital behaviors.
- Digital Inclusion: Overcoming connectivity and device access barriers.
- Youth Governance: Active youth participation in policymaking.
Core Elements of YIGF Cambodia 2026
Learning Course
Participants will engage with learning videos to build a foundational understanding of Internet Governance and digital issues.
Debate
A structured platform for participants to present and argue perspectives on critical topics, from preliminary to final rounds.
Topic Presentation
Speakers present on issues relevant to the forum’s theme, aiming to deepen understanding and encourage informed dialogue.
Panel Discussion
Diverse panels of experts engage in dialogue on the challenges and opportunities shaping Cambodia’s digital future.
Youth Statement
Participants exchange views to develop a collective YIGF Cambodia 2026 Youth Statement based on recommendations.
Youth Target, Eligibility, and Benefits
Target Audience
- Cambodian youth aged 18–35.
- University students, young professionals, and aspiring leaders.
- Individuals from diverse backgrounds, including those from underrepresented communities, who are passionate about shaping the future of the Internet.
Eligibility
- Must have a keen interest in digital issues and Internet governance.
- Participants should be committed to engaging in pre-event online preparation sessions.
- Availability to attend the full duration of the event on October 31 – November 1, 2026.
- Demonstrated leadership potential or experience in community engagement, advocacy, or related activities.
Benefits
- Networking Opportunities: Engage with a diverse range of stakeholders, including policymakers, civil society organizations, and other young leaders, fostering valuable connections for future collaboration.
- Enhanced Understanding: Gain in-depth insights into key issues of Internet governance, responsible AI, and digital rights, through online preparation before the event, as well as workshops, panels, and discussions.
- Empowerment: Develop the skills and knowledge necessary to influence digital policy at local and international levels. Participants will leave equipped to advocate for a safe, secure, and inclusive digital future.
- Free Participation: Participation is free of charge, and participants will receive lunch and refreshments during the event.
Event Timeline
| Date | Key Descriptions |
|---|---|
| 01 Sep – 20 Sep 2026 | Call for Volunteer |
| 03 Sep – 23 Sep 2026 | Call for YIGF 2026 Debate Participants |
| 05 Sep – 01 Oct 2026 | Call for YIGF 2026 Participants |
| 20 Sep 2026 | Volunteer Deadline |
| 23 Sep 2026 | Shortlisted Volunteer |
| 26 Sep 2026 | Interview Volunteer |
| 27 Sep 2026 | Successful Debate Candidates |
| 28 Sep 2026 | Successful Volunteers |
| 03 Oct 2026 | Debate Online Training Course |
| 15 Oct – 30 Oct 2026 | Participants undertake Learning Course via EBC |
| 18 Oct 2026 | Debate Online Training Course |
| 31 Oct 2026 (Sat) | Event Day 1 of YIGF Cambodia 2026 |
| 01 Nov 2026 (Sun) | Event Day 2 of YIGF Cambodia 2026 |