On 22 September 2024, the United Nations member states took a significant step towards shaping our global digital landscape by adopting the Global Digital Compact as a part of the Pact for the Future during the Summit of the Future. This landmark agreement establishes a comprehensive framework for international digital cooperation, aiming to foster an inclusive, open, sustainable, and secure digital future for all.
The actions include a number of initiatives, including:
- The Compact emphasises the critical importance of universal and meaningful connectivity. It sets forth ambitious commitments, including connecting all persons to the Internet by 2030 and developing innovative financing mechanisms to bridge the digital divide.
- Recognising the transformative potential and risks of AI, the Compact calls for the establishment of an Independent International Scientific Panel on AI. This multidisciplinary body will promote scientific understanding through evidence-based assessments of AI’s impact, risks, and opportunities.
- The agreement underscores the need for responsible and interoperable data governance. It commits to strengthening support for countries to develop effective national data governance frameworks and to advance consultations on facilitating cross-border data flows with trust.
As CEE Digital Democracy Watch we welcome the Global Digital Compact as a crucial step towards a more equitable digital future.