2020 IGF Annual Report

In 2020, The IGF Secretariat was undoubtedly affected by the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic that brought health and economic adversities across the globe. While the first months of the year unfolded normally, the Secretariat's offices shuttered in March, and IGF staff had to adopt new ways of operating with physical gatherings and international travel restricted.

Fortunately, our transition to a digital-only mode of operating was met with the enthusiastic participation of our community of 76 member countries and other stakeholders. While convening virtually has its limitations, our colleagues embraced the change, with many appreciating the increased accessibility that came with it.

Throughout 2020 the IGF delivered on its core activities of providing guidance, technical assistance, and capacity building while launching our COVID-19 Response Series to offer crisis-specific resources and events. We also hosted our 16th Annual General Meeting virtually for the first time. By some measures the event was our most successful yet.

The 2020 IGF Annual Report is a testament to the Secretariat's continued commitment to our 76 members and the continued relevance of our mission to help countries leverage mining for sustainable development to ensure negative impacts are limited and financial benefits are shared.