The Internet Governance Forum's Multistakeholder Advisory Group (MAG) has been instrumental in planning the programme of the annual meetings of the IGF.

We would like to express our gratitude to all members of MAG, who have donated their time, effort and valuable guidance in ensuring the smooth running of the IGF.

In light of the established principles and practices of MAG on the rotation and selection of its members, the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA), therefore, requests all stakeholder groups –government, private sector, civil society, and technical and academic communities- to submit names of candidates from developed and developing countries, as well as from economies in transition,  to be considered to become part of MAG to contribute to the multistakeholder process bringing  the perspectives on Internet governance from their respective group for a period of one year. It is recommended that group nominees be members who have actively participated in IGF meetings and activities in the past.

Owing to the fact that the renewal process was not done in 2011, it is suggested that two thirds of each group’s membership be renewed in 2012 along the guidelines provided in the table below. Please note that groups can resubmit names of current MAG members for re-election.

It would be appreciated if respective groups could submit the names of the potential candidates to the IGF Secretariat by 31 January 2012 via email: [email protected] using the attached submission template.

It should be noted that plans are underway to have the next Open Consultation and MAG Meeting take place on 14 - 16 February 2011. In the event that the renewed MAG is not on board by then, the current MAG will convene at this time and the renewed MAG will convene in May.

(i) Members of MAG are selected to achieve balance among all stakeholder groups, representing all regions and attaining gender equality; Accordingly to the established principles and practices;

(ii) All MAG members serve in their personal capacity, but are expected to have extensive linkages with their respective stakeholder groups;

(iii) The main task of MAG is to provide advice on the programme and main themes of the next meeting of the Internet Governance Forum;

(iv) MAG members are expected to attend two to three MAG meetings in Geneva, Switzerland, in addition to the annual IGF meeting, as well as to participate actively in the preparatory process throughout the year through continuous engagement in the online multilateral dialogue among MAG members in between such meetings;

(v) MAG meetings are open to Intergovernmental organizations to participate.

Thank you and I look forward to the continuous success of the Internet Governance Forum.