Agargaon:Bangladesh The 21st Bangladesh Internet Governance Forum has commenced, aiming to address the challenges and opportunities of internet governance in the era of artificial intelligence (AI). The event is taking place at the BTRC Bhaban in Agargaon, with Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) Chairman Major General (retd) Md Emdad Ul Bari attending as the chief guest.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the three-day event is jointly organized by the BTRC and the Bangladesh Internet Governance Forum (BIGF), featuring over 200 participants from various sectors, including policymakers, telecom experts, academics, technologists, entrepreneurs, and students. The forum includes 12 sessions that will tackle issues such as AI policy, digital public infrastructure, and cyber security.
During the inaugural ceremony, Emdad Ul Bari highlighted the progress of Bangladesh's telecommunications sector and the importance of effective AI application. He emphasized the need for more quality Bangla content online as the current presence is only 0.1 percent of total content. He also stressed the significance of inclusive digital development, particularly for rural populations.
Brigadier General (retd) Mohammad Khalil Ur Rahman discussed the importance of national cyber security and the threats posed by AI-driven cyber threats such as deepfakes and automated phishing. Joyce Chen from the Asia Pacific Network Information Centre and Anja Gengo from the UN Internet Governance Forum Secretariat highlighted the need for coordinated initiatives to ensure online safety and increase digital participation.
Dr. Md Munjur E Khoda Tarafder and A H M Bazlur Rahman both called for inclusive policymaking and cooperation among stakeholders to build a safe and inclusive digital future. The forum, continuing until October 17, seeks to foster a resilient digital environment for Bangladesh through strengthened cooperation among government, industry, educational institutions, and civil society.