The Global Encryption Day Summit 2026 explored the role of encryption in protecting online privacy and security, and the pressures facing tools such as VPNs and encrypted messaging. Held on 21 October, the event featured five sessions with 20 speakers and 573 participants, according to the organizers.
Hosted by the Global Encryption Coalition Steering Committee—made up of the Internet Society, the Center for Democracy & Technology, Global Partners Digital and Mozilla—the summit focused on the theme “Imagine a World Without Encryption: Defending the Foundation of Digital Trust.”
The sessions examined how encryption protects communications, financial transactions, sensitive information and access to online services. Speakers also discussed proposals to weaken encryption in the name of law enforcement and public safety, warning that reduced protections could put users at greater risk.
The opening session considered the role of virtual private networks. Christian Dawson, executive director of the i2Coalition and VPN Trust Initiative, presented findings from the VPNs at Risk report and discussed restrictions on VPN access and their potential effects on privacy and Internet freedom.
Global Partners Digital presented an updated World Map of Encryption, based on research covering 40 countries. The session examined a range of government approaches, including VPN bans, content-scanning requirements and traceability measures, as well as differences in how proposed regulations could affect encryption.
A session hosted by the Center for Democracy & Technology compared public opinion with policy proposals, drawing on polling in Canada, the United Kingdom, Ireland, France, Poland and Sweden. The discussion highlighted a gap between public attitudes and proposals to give authorities access to private communications.
The Internet Society-led session looked at growing scrutiny of both encrypted messaging and VPNs. Participants raised concerns that treating privacy tools as suspicious could push legitimate users toward less secure alternatives, and discussed advocacy to defend technologies that protect privacy.
The final session, hosted by Mozilla, focused on preparations for “Q-Day,” when quantum computers could compromise some encryption systems currently in use. Speakers said the transition to quantum-resistant encryption will require coordination among technology companies, governments and the public sector, alongside technical advances.
Global Encryption Day is held annually on 21 October and is organized by the Global Encryption Coalition. The Internet Society Foundation said it awarded 28 grants in 2026 to coalition members supporting events and advocacy to promote strong encryption.
Sources: Internet Society.