Internet Society Chapters

Internet Society chapters are voluntarily organised by members who reside in a particular geographic region (e.g., a city, country, or larger area) and share an interest in an Internet related subject.

Chapters are approved by ISOC under procedures developed to empower locally meaningful activity while retaining an overall commitment to the joint achievement of ISOC's common mission. They are expected to serve the interests of their specific geographic or non- geographic segment of the global Internet community in a manner that is consistent with the mission and core values of the Internet Society.

The role of chapters within the Internet Society is both to locally and regionally amplify efforts to achieve ISOC's mission and to infuse ISOC with local and regional perspectives on developments and issues that could affect the evolution of the Internet. The chapter relationship is therefore very much a “two- way street” : chapters are effective local and regional agents, and are also an important source of the information that informs that mission. Like the ISOC members, the chapters are partners of ISOC.

Chapters enable members to be more personally involved in the future of the Internet through initiatives that meet the needs of local or issue specific Internet communities. They bring a sharper and more personal focus to local and regional issues affecting the Internet, and provide opportunities for those issues to be recognised and included in the discussion of global issues.

Chapters also provide opportunities for members to network with other Internet oriented people, and to participate in locally organised programs and events that promote the core values of ISOC.

Geographic Distribution of Active Chapters

Regional Bureaus

The Internet Society is establishing regional bureaus as a focal point for ISOC regional activities including education, capacity building and policy initiatives. The regional bureaus will work with ISOC Chapters, members and the regional Internet community to understand and address local issues relating to the development of the Internet.

• African Bureau
• Latin America and Carribbean Bureau