Good news for everyone around the world who is committed to free and open networks:
The Internet Society (ISOC) has confirmed a new Special Interest Group (SIG) as part of the 2025 member vote — Community Networks & Community Infrastructures.
Community networks unite! (Logo of the campaign with an additional check mark)
Over a period of six months, ISOC members could vote for their preferred SIGs for the 2026–2027 term.
The voting took place from October 17 to October 31, 2025.
The five selected topics are:
- Affordable Internet Access
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Community Networks & Community Infrastructures
- Cybersecurity
- Internet for Education
While four of these groups are continuing existing SIGs, our “Community Networks & Community Infrastructures” SIG marks a revival — a strong signal that community-driven networks are once again gaining attention.
A huge thank-you goes out to everyone who supported the process — to Monic for the idea and the initial spark at Battlemesh, and especially to Adam and Mathias for their dedication that made this new SIG possible.
Why this matters
The Internet Society has long supported community networks and has, among other things, backed Battlemesh in the past.
With the new SIG, an international platform is being created to connect initiatives such as Freifunk, Ninux, Sarantaporo, and many others.
The goal is to bring together knowledge and experience around:
- community-driven infrastructure,
- local digital sovereignty, and
- sustainable connectivity,
while also strengthening the political and social visibility of such initiatives.
How to get involved
Membership in the SIG is free and open to everyone interested in community networks, open infrastructures, and digital inclusion.
Registration will open in January 2026 via the Internet Society Community Portal.
Those who want to stay updated can soon sign up for a mailing list or follow our channels via Freifunk — details will be announced shortly.
Looking ahead
We look forward to bringing this new SIG to life together with other international communities.
Whether it’s about technical development, policy frameworks, or hands-on local projects — community networks are living examples of a self-determined Internet.
Let’s carry this energy forward — locally, regionally, and globally!
This post is also available in: German
