2027 Board of Trustees Elections

Help us Preserve the Open, Global Internet

The Internet Society serves a pivotal role in the world as a global leader on Internet policy, technical, economic, and social matters, and as a strong supporter of the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF). Central to our success is the volunteer leadership provided by a dedicated and discerning Board of Trustees. We encourage qualified individuals to consider serving on the board.

The Opportunity

In 2027, the Internet Society’s Chapters will be asked to elect one member to the board, Organization Members will be asked to elect one member to the board, and the IETF will be asked to appoint two members to the board following the process documented in RFC 3677. The successful candidates will be asked to participate in a board orientation program after the elections, and all will begin their three-year terms on the board at the start of the Annual General Meeting.

The Role of the Board of Trustees

In support of the organization’s mission to promote the development of the Internet as a global technical infrastructure, a resource to enrich people’s lives, and a force for good in society, the board provides strategic direction, oversight, inspiration, support, and advice. The board’s role is strictly limited to governance, including the oversight of the organization’s operations and strategic direction. In consultation with the CEO, the board sets up strategic goals and helps devise a high-level strategic action plan to reach them. Once the goals and plans are approved, the board oversees management’s implementation and measures results of the actions taken in accordance with the plan.

The Role of Individual Trustees

• Become familiar with the many complex technology, policy, and development issues we face
• Bring diverse professional backgrounds and regional perspectives to board deliberations
• Attend board meetings* (four per year, see 2027 schedule) and monthly videoconferences
• Volunteer to lead or serve on one or more committees of the board
• Participate in online board discussions, polls, surveys and e-votes as required
• Trustees also currently serve as trustees of the Internet Society Foundation board

Requirements for board service include the ability to read and understand a balance sheet, and the ability to communicate effectively in English. See the Call for Nominations for more requirements and other information.

* Reimbursement for travel to board meetings and retreats is provided to trustees who request it. The Internet Society does not provide other compensation for board service.

• Board Member Agreement
• Board of Trustees and Officer Code of Ethics
• Call for Nominations (opens 2 November 2026)
• Committee Charters
• Conflict of Interest Policy
• Current Board of Trustees
• Elections Timetable
• FAQs about Internet Society Board service
• Procedures for Selecting Trustees (amended 10 June 2026 via Board Resolution 2026-13)
• Trustee Job Description
• 2027 Board Meeting Schedule

2026-2027 Elections Timetable

2026-2027 Nominations Committee

Ramanou Biaou, Chair
Hendrik Ike
Sharon Kent
Luis Martínez

2026-2027 Elections Committee

Caleb Ogundele, Chair
Victor Kuarsingh
David McAuley
Charles Mok
Frederic Taes
Brian Trammell
Sally Wentworth, ex officio