Dear colleagues, The first Arab Internet Governance Forum (IGF) event will take place in Kuwait, running from 9-11 October. Based on the model of multi-stakeholder dialogue and governance that has underpinned the global IGF over six years, this event marks a significant new opportunity for all Internet stakeholders in the region to participate more fully in Internet governance, and to focus on issues of specific relevance to the Arab region. The RIPE NCC is proud to be a major supporter and sponsor of the Arab Internet Governance Forum. We strongly encourage members of the Internet technical community to take an active role in this event and help to ensure that the fundamental concerns of those who have developed and operate networks are represented. The RIPE NCC is working with industry partners, including AFRINIC, to organise several sessions as part of the event, on topics including Critical Internet Resources (CIR), IPv6 deployment and best practices for Internet capacity building. Even if you are unable to attend, there will be opportunities for you to contribute remotely to these discussions. All relevant information, including online registration, can be found on the website of the host organisation, the Kuwait Information Technology Society (KITS): http://arabigf.kits.org.kw/ Fellowship program ------------------------- The Arab IGF Secretariat is offering fellowships covering airfare or accommodation for a number of attendees. If you are interested in applying for one of these fellowships, please read the attached document on eligibility, and complete the attached application form. If you are interested in contributing to any of the sessions listed in the draft agenda, you can contact the local host organisation or the RIPE NCC. Industry sponsorship is also welcome, and we encourage anyone with an interest in sponsoring to make contact with the local host organisation. Best regards, Paul Rendek Director of External Relations, RIPE NCC