UN internet Governance Forum calls for ‘safe and equitable digital future’

By Anjali Sharma

UNITED NATIONS –The 19th UN Internet Governance Forum on Monday has convened in Riyadh, under the theme “Building Our Multi stakeholder Digital Future” as the world navigates rapid digital transformation.

Over 170 countries are taking part in the forum at a pivotal moment following the recent adoption of the Global Digital Compact.

The comprehensive framework, adopted as part of the Pact for the Future, aims to ensure digital technologies serve humanity’s best interests.

UN head António Guterres underscored the transformative power of digital technology.

He stated: “Digital technology has fundamentally reshaped our world and holds enormous potential to accelerate human progress.

“But unlocking this potential for all people requires guardrails, and a collaborative approach to governance,” he emphasized.

The participants will tackle key issues such as digital inclusion, artificial intelligence governance and countering online misinformation.

He said that despite the rapid expansion of digital technology, 2.6 billion people worldwide remain offline with the majority residing in developing countries.

The forum addressed fostering trust and security in the digital realm, the central to the Forum’s discussions.

Abdullah Alswaha, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Communications and Information Technology said that IGF Riyadh 2024 “offers a global platform to promote international digital cooperation in the era of AI”.

He encouraged stakeholders to deeply engage in the Forum in Riyadh, to help “shape innovative Internet governance and support a prosperous and sustainable digital future for the benefit of humanity”.

The participants will explore diverse topics, including AI governance, online safety, and sustainable digital practices.

Sessions will highlight innovative solutions for underserved communities, while advancing strategies to combat the spread of hate speech and misinformation online.

The Forum aims to reinforce human rights in digital spaces, with a focus on equitable data use and privacy protections.

The concluding Riyadh IGF Messages will synthesize discussions into actionable recommendations for policymakers.

The collaborative efforts led by the IGF and the GDC will be essential in ensuring that technology serves humanity and promotes a future where no one is left behind.