ICANN, the global organization responsible for coordinating the internet’s domain name system, has disclosed its upcoming community forum meetings in Mumbai and Lisbon. These forums are integral to ICANN’s operations, offering a platform for stakeholders to discuss policies, address challenges, and shape the future of the internet.

The 2026 forum is slated to occur in Mumbai, India, at the Jio World Convention Centre from March 7-12. Subsequently, in 2027, the forum will convene in Lisbon, Portugal, at the Lisbon Congress Center from March 13-18. These gatherings play a pivotal role in fostering collaboration and consensus within the internet governance community.

ICANN’s decision to host these meetings in Mumbai and Lisbon underscores the organization’s commitment to global inclusivity and engagement. By rotating the forum locations across different continents, ICANN aims to facilitate participation from a diverse range of stakeholders worldwide.

Prior to the Mumbai event, ICANN has scheduled two other significant meetings. In June 2025, the organization will conduct its policy forum in Prague, Czechia, followed by the annual general meeting in Muscat, Oman, in October 2025. These events serve as crucial platforms for discussing key issues affecting the domain name industry and internet governance landscape.

The choice of Mumbai and Lisbon as forum locations holds strategic significance, offering participants the opportunity to immerse themselves in vibrant cultural settings while engaging in substantive policy discussions. Mumbai, a bustling metropolis known for its thriving tech industry, and Lisbon, a historic European capital, provide unique backdrops for these crucial conversations.

As ICANN continues to navigate the evolving digital landscape, the upcoming meetings in Mumbai and Lisbon are poised to shape the trajectory of internet governance and domain name policies for years to come. Stakeholders, industry experts, and policymakers are encouraged to participate actively in these forums to contribute to the development of a secure, stable, and inclusive internet ecosystem.

In conclusion, ICANN’s announcement of the Mumbai and Lisbon meetings signifies a significant milestone in the organization’s efforts to foster collaboration and dialogue among global stakeholders in the domain name ecosystem. These forums serve as vital platforms for shaping the future of internet governance and ensuring the continued growth and stability of the digital infrastructure that underpins our connected world.