ICANN Relocates Global Internet Forum to Bali from Oman

ICANN Shifts Global Internet Governance Forum to Bali Amid Middle East Security Concerns

ICANN Relocates Global Internet Forum to Bali - TEMPO.CO, Jakarta — In a significant strategic move, the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) has officially transferred its global internet governance forum from Muscat, Oman, to the resort destination of Nusa Dua in Bali. This decision marks a notable shift in the organization's annual event planning, reflecting the growing impact of geopolitical instability on international collaboration. The relocation aims to safeguard the safety of participants while maintaining the forum’s critical role in shaping internet policies worldwide.

Decision Driven by Regional Tensions

The choice to host ICANN87 in Bali was made in response to the intensifying regional tensions in the Middle East, which have created a climate of uncertainty for global delegates. Security concerns, particularly around the potential for conflict escalation, prompted ICANN to seek an alternative location. The Bali venue was selected not only for its logistical advantages but also for its symbolic representation of Indonesia’s growing influence in digital governance. The event is slated to take place from October 17 to 22, 2026, bringing together stakeholders from around the world to address pressing issues in internet infrastructure.

Behind the Scenes: A Diplomatic Meeting in Seville

The relocation decision was finalized during a closed-door session held in Seville, Spain, on June 9, 2026, local time. This meeting, which took place on the sidelines of ICANN86, featured high-level discussions between ICANN representatives and an Indonesian delegation. The delegation included key figures from the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs (Komdigi) and the Indonesian Domain Name Administrator (PANDI). Their presence underscored Indonesia’s commitment to hosting the forum and its strategic partnership with ICANN.

ICANN was represented by Vice President Samiran Gupta, Asia Pacific Stakeholder Engagement Manager Athena Foo, and Maya, who highlighted the importance of securing a stable environment for the AGM. The Indonesian team, led by PANDI Supervisory Board Chair Hammam Riza and PANDI Chair Isnawan Aslam, emphasized their readiness to collaborate. Teguh Arifiyadi, Director of Digital Space Supervision at Komdigi, pledged to coordinate with the Communications and Digital Affairs Minister, Meutya Hafid, to ensure seamless event organization.

Quotes from Key Officials Highlight Confidence and Collaboration

“We are confident that PANDI, under its new leadership, will rise to the challenge and work closely with ICANN to deliver a successful AGM in Bali,” said Samiran Gupta during the meeting in Seville.

This statement reflects the optimism surrounding the partnership between ICANN and Indonesia. Teguh Arifiyadi further noted that the event’s success would rely on the combined efforts of PANDI and Komdigi, along with local partners and the broader internet community in Indonesia. “The collaboration between our institutions and the support from the national digital ecosystem will be vital to making this meeting a landmark occasion,” he added.

Hammam Riza, the head of PANDI’s supervisory board, expressed unwavering faith in the team’s ability to meet deadlines. “With the new PANDI management and full backing from Komdigi, we are determined to deliver a high-quality event that meets international standards,” he stated. The time constraints of the transition, however, have required a rapid mobilization of resources, showcasing the agility of the Indonesian delegation.

A Major Event for Internet Governance

The ICANN Annual General Meeting (AGM) serves as the organization’s flagship event, overseeing the management of the Domain Name System (DNS) and the allocation of IP addresses. These systems form the backbone of global internet connectivity, making the AGM a crucial platform for discussing technological advancements and policy reforms. The Bali meeting is anticipated to attract participants from at least 150 countries, with an expected attendance of 1,500 individuals. This diverse group will engage in dialogues that shape the future of online infrastructure and digital standards.

Ashwin Sasongko Sastrosubroto, Indonesia’s representative to ICANN’s Governmental Advisory Committee (GAC), praised the move as a testament to the country’s ability to host such a significant event. “The AGM is ICANN’s most critical annual gathering, embodying the multistakeholder model that defines internet governance,” he explained. The model, which balances input from governments, private sector entities, civil society, and technical experts, will be central to discussions in Bali. Sasongko, a former director general of Komdigi now affiliated with BRIN, emphasized that the forum will address a wide range of topics, from foundational internet technologies to emerging challenges.

One of the AGM’s standout sessions is the Open Forum, where global stakeholders can directly engage with the ICANN Board. This segment is designed to amplify voices from underrepresented regions and ensure that decision-making remains inclusive. The Bali event will also feature workshops, working groups, and plenary sessions focused on cybersecurity, data privacy, and the expansion of the internet’s infrastructure.

Indonesia’s Growing Role in Global Digital Leadership

Indonesia’s selection as the host country highlights its increasing prominence in the international arena of digital governance. The country has demonstrated a strong commitment to fostering internet innovation, with initiatives such as the establishment of PANDI and the development of national digital policies. Hosting the AGM in Bali not only positions Indonesia as a key player in global internet standards but also provides an opportunity to showcase its capabilities in event management and technical expertise.

“This is a pivotal moment for our nation,” said Teguh Arifiyadi, who will report the mandate to Meutya Hafid, the Communications and Digital Affairs Minister. “The forum will not only strengthen our ties with ICANN but also elevate Indonesia’s profile in global digital conversations.” The collaboration between Komdigi and PANDI is expected to leverage the country’s digital infrastructure, including its expanding broadband network and vibrant tech startup ecosystem, to support the event’s logistical and operational needs.

Indonesia’s digital community has already begun preparations for the AGM, with local organizations and universities contributing to the planning process. The event’s success will depend on the seamless integration of these efforts, ensuring that participants from around the world can access the latest advancements and engage in meaningful dialogue. The Bali venue, known for its world-class facilities and cultural appeal, is anticipated to create a conducive environment for such exchanges.

Implications for Global Internet Governance

The decision to relocate the AGM underscores the need for flexibility in international collaboration. As geopolitical risks continue to evolve, organizations like ICANN must adapt to ensure the continuity of critical meetings. The Bali event will also serve as a platform for addressing the long-term sustainability of the internet, including topics such as the expansion of the domain name system and the allocation of IP addresses.

While the Middle East conflict remains a primary factor in the relocation, the decision also aligns with ICANN’s broader goals of promoting inclusivity and regional representation. By choosing Bali, ICANN is reinforcing its commitment to involving stakeholders from diverse geographical backgrounds, particularly in regions with growing digital economies. This approach ensures that internet governance remains a truly global endeavor, responsive to the needs of all participants.

As the dates for ICANN87 approach, anticipation is building for the event’s impact. The forum is expected to generate actionable insights and foster partnerships that will shape the internet’s future. With the