One year before the conclusion of the global Internet Governance Forum (IGF) (2006-2010), and shortly before the expiration of one of the most important and contentious global agreements shaping the current global Internet governance structure, namely the Joint Project Agreement (JPA) between the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) and the United States Department of Commerce, ESCWA published this study to support the Arab region in its efforts to develop a regional framework for Internet governance. The study provides an overview of the Internet governance evolution and debate, an analysis of current global arrangements for Internet governance and the distinct and sometimes conflicting viewpoints held by the wide array of stakeholders regarding Internet governance. Specific Internet governance priority issues with particular relevance to the Arab region are also presented and analysed in depth, including critical Internet resources, Internet access and Internet diversity. The study provides a set of recommendations on the development of a regional framework for Internet governance that enhances the prospects of the Arab region vis-à-vis the global community.