UN reviews global digital progress at WSIS+20

The UN General Assembly’s 66th plenary meeting marked the twentieth anniversary review of the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS), taking stock of global progress on digital transformation and the challenges that remain. Delegations highlighted how digital technologies have become central to development, governance, and economic growth, while warning that deep inequalities continue to limit who can benefit from them.

Speakers repeatedly pointed to stark connectivity gaps between and within countries. While internet access is nearly universal in high-income states, less than a quarter of people in low-income countries are connected, with persistent rural-urban and gender divides.

Representatives from the least developed countries and small island states emphasised that limited digital access has a direct impact on education, healthcare, economic opportunities, and effective public administration.

Internet governance was another focal point, with broad support for formally establishing the Internet Governance Forum as a permanent UN body. Many countries defended the multistakeholder model as essential to keeping the internet open and resilient, although some raised concerns about the need for stronger participation by developing countries and questioned whether the current framework provides states with sufficient influence.

AI emerged as a defining issue for the next phase of digital cooperation. While several countries outlined national and regional AI strategies, others warned that the concentration of computing power and infrastructure in a few countries could create new global divides. Calls grew for ethical, responsible, and inclusive AI governance, alongside stronger international dialogue and cooperation.

Human rights in the digital space featured prominently throughout the debate. Delegations reaffirmed that the rights people enjoy offline must be protected online, raising concerns about internet shutdowns, surveillance, online violence, and threats to journalists and civil society.

Cybersecurity was also framed as a development and trust issue, with warnings about cybercrime, attacks on critical infrastructure, and risks to children and young people online.

Looking ahead, speakers emphasised the need to align WSIS outcomes with the sustainable development goals and the Global Digital Compact while addressing financing, capacity development, and environmental sustainability. The review highlighted both the progress made in global digital development and to significant challenges that remain, as governments grapple with the rapid pace of technological change and the increasing political, social, and economic stakes of the digital future.

Diplo and the Geneva Internet Platform will provide just-in-time reporting from the high-level meeting. Bookmark this page.

For more details about WSIS and the 20-year review, consult our WSIS+20 process dedicated page.

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