Uncategorized

Arguments

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is simple and based on patterns and probability

Supporting facts:

• AI discovers patterns in a huge amount of data and makes predictions based on probabilities.

• Cites an example of how this works with flags of different nations.

Topics: AI, Patterns, Probability

---

Ownership and provenance of AI knowledge should be fair, transparent, and shared.

Supporting facts:

• AI should point to the intellectual or writing source on which it is built.

• Example of how Diplo uses AI for constructive teaching and learning.

Topics: AI, Knowledge, Ownership, Provenance

---

Scaling up the annotation and weights is technically feasible

Supporting facts:

• Parminder’s question was if it can be scaled up or can it become

• Jovan believes it is the question of the societal and political will

• Big players like Meta IBM are realizing that it’s not a good idea to centralize knowledge in the hands of a few companies

Topics: NetMundial, Artificial Intelligence, scaling, annotation, weights

---

Preserving knowledge through annotation is important, especially for Ministries of Foreign Affairs

Supporting facts:

• Way of thinking about problems, framing the problems, solving the problems is also an asset and ought to be preserved

Topics: annotation, knowledge preservation

---

The United Nations will soon face the question of which AI system to use

Supporting facts:

• The selection of AI can have significant implications, which was illustrated with UNDP’s supposed support for an AI system predicting the Israel-Palestinian conflict

Topics: AI technology, UN

---

Report

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is highly praised for its ability to discover intricate patterns in vast amounts of data and make accurate predictions based on probabilities. This advancement is possible due to the simplicity of AI, which relies on patterns and probability.

The application of AI in various industries, such as healthcare, finance, and transportation, has brought about significant advancements and improvements. Competition in AI development is deemed necessary to prevent exclusive control and dominance by large companies. It is argued that when a few major players have complete control over AI development, it can hinder innovation and limit access to AI technologies and resources.

To address this, there is a growing call for the growth of open-source AI models, which would promote collaboration, knowledge sharing, and inclusivity in AI development. The ownership and provenance of AI knowledge have emerged as critical considerations. It is argued that AI should clearly point to the intellectual or writing source upon which it is built.

This ensures fairness, transparency, and shared ownership of AI knowledge. An example of this is demonstrated by Diplo’s use of AI for constructive teaching and learning, highlighting the importance of attributing the sources of AI knowledge. In the realm of education, AI is shown to have a positive impact on individual learning.

By assisting students in understanding how it thinks, AI enables them to grasp complex subjects more effectively. However, there have been concerns regarding the ban of AI in education. Instead, it is suggested that academic institutions focus on promoting critical thinking while utilizing AI as a beneficial tool for enhancing the learning process.

The scalability of AI annotation and weights is considered technically feasible. Experts believe that expanding the annotation and weight systems can contribute to the accuracy and usability of AI models. This advancement has the potential to further enhance the effectiveness of AI technologies across different sectors.

However, the computerization of political processes raises significant concerns. There is a belief that politics, being a fundamentally human activity, requires a human touch. Caution is urged regarding the quantification and use of AI as an additional tool in political processes, emphasizing the need to preserve the integrity and human element of political decision-making.

Preserving knowledge through annotation is particularly emphasized for Ministries of Foreign Affairs. The way of thinking about and solving problems is considered an asset that should be preserved. By properly annotating and documenting knowledge, Ministries of Foreign Affairs can ensure the continuous development and improvement of their policies and actions.

The selection of AI systems is an important decision that the United Nations will face. The implication of this choice was demonstrated with UNDP’s supposed support for an AI system predicting the Israel-Palestinian conflict. This highlights the significance and potential consequences that come with choosing the right AI technology.

In conclusion, AI’s ability to discover patterns and make predictions based on probabilities has revolutionized various industries. Nonetheless, there are important considerations related to competition, ownership, and provenance, education, politics, and knowledge preservation. The expanded summary provides a comprehensive overview of these key points, emphasizing the essential role and potential impact of AI in our society.

Arguments

Concerns on the annotation and weighting of information in political documentation

Supporting facts:

• The NetMundial final document was created by reading through the contributions and weighting them

• These weights were shown in the final text

Topics: NetMundial, political movements

---

Report

The NetMundial final document has raised concerns regarding the annotation and weighting of information in political documentation. This has shed light on the challenges involved in annotating and weighting information within political environments. While this process is considered crucial for determining the significance and influence of different contributions, it is also fraught with difficulties due to the subjective nature of political decision-making and the potential for bias.

To create the NetMundial final document, various contributions were carefully read through and assigned weights. These weights were then taken into account in the final text. However, the specifics of the weighting process remain unclear. Workers and participants have emphasized the need to be part of the working groups to ensure that their views are properly represented and given appropriate weight.

They recognized the significance of having their perspectives incorporated into the final document and wanted to ensure they were given fair consideration. The sentiments surrounding this issue are negative and concerned. The negative sentiment stems from the challenges and potential pitfalls associated with annotating and weighting information in political environments.

The concerns are likely due to the subjective nature of political decision-making and the lack of transparency and fairness surrounding the process. It is important to note that the NetMundial final document touches on related topics such as political movements and the importance of political participation.

These topics are linked to the broader objective of SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), which promotes fair and inclusive governance systems. In conclusion, the NetMundial final document highlights concerns about the annotation and weighting of information in political documentation.

It acknowledges the significance of including diverse perspectives but also underscores the challenges and potential biases involved in the process. The negative and concerned sentiments reflect the need for transparency, fairness, and inclusivity in political decision-making.

Arguments

Concern on relying on pre-trained models due to bias

Supporting facts:

• Generative AI learns to learn patterns which get trained on big data even if finally it deals with small data

• Pre-trained models can contain certain biases

Topics: AI, Bias, Data

---

Interest in the magnitude of reliance on external knowledge systems

Topics: AI, Knowledge systems

---

Implication of small AI systems being dominated by larger systems

Supporting facts:

• Despite the value in small AI or small data systems, big systems generally conquer

Topics: AI, Market dominance

---

Intrest in policy interventions for preserving identity of small AI systems

Topics: AI, Policy, Governance

---

Preservation of data and source provenance in AI important

Supporting facts:

• Diplo is an AI node to be preserved

• Foreign Ministry should preserve its knowledge

• Nodes have the responsibility to protect the further sources within the system

Topics: Artificial Intelligence, Data Preservation, Provenance

---

Report

In this analysis, the speakers explored several significant concerns and interests regarding artificial intelligence (AI). One of the primary concerns raised was the potential bias present in pre-trained AI models. They highlighted that generative AI learns patterns from extensive amounts of data, even though it ultimately deals with smaller datasets.

This phenomenon has raised concerns about the accuracy and objectivity of the patterns identified by pre-trained models. Additionally, they noted that these models can inadvertently perpetuate certain biases present in the training data, which can have serious ethical implications. Another topic of discussion was the dominance of big AI systems over smaller ones.

Despite the value that small AI or small data systems may offer, there is a general trend towards larger systems dominating the AI landscape. This has sparked concerns about the potential stifling or marginalisation of small AI systems. The implications of such dominance raise questions about innovation, diversity, and competition in the AI field.

The importance of policy interventions to preserve the identity of small AI systems was also highlighted. The speakers argued that without such interventions, small AI systems may struggle to maintain their individuality and distinctiveness in the face of larger, more powerful systems.

They proposed policy measures to ensure that small AI systems are adequately supported and given the opportunity to flourish. Another noteworthy aspect discussed was the preservation of data and source provenance in AI. The speakers emphasised the significance of retaining the knowledge generated by AI nodes and protecting the sources within the AI system.

They urged that AI nodes should be designated and that they have a responsibility to safeguard the underlying sources of data. This approach ensures the integrity and traceability of the information produced by AI systems. It aligns with a collectivist notion of preservation, where the responsibility lies with the nodes themselves.

Overall, the analysis covered concerns related to biases in pre-trained AI models, the dominance of big AI systems, the need for policy interventions to support small AI systems, and the importance of preserving knowledge and source provenance in AI. The speakers concluded that addressing these concerns and interests is crucial for the ethical and sustainable development of AI technology.

Arguments

Outsourcing the highlighting of important information to third-party tools risks misinterpretation and lack of control

Supporting facts:

• Many commercial tools offer text summarization and generation, and these tools are based on the work of other annotators.

• If an institute outsources to a third-party tool, they are allowing others to decide what is important for them.

Topics: AI, Data Annotation, Commercial Tools, Diplo, Outsourcing, Institutional Thinking

---

Report

The debate centres around the outsourcing of important information highlighting to third-party tools. One speaker argues that this practice risks misinterpretation and a lack of control. They highlight that many commercial tools offer text summarisation and generation, but their reliance on other annotators could lead to inaccurate interpretation.

This suggests that when an institute outsources to a third-party tool, they are relinquishing control over what is considered important, and the process becomes vulnerable to potential misinterpretation. Furthermore, the speaker expresses a negative sentiment towards outsourcing, emphasising the potential risks involved.

By depending on third-party tools, the speaker argues that there is an increased risk of misinterpretation and a lack of control over the summarisation and highlighting of information. The argument suggests that important details may be overlooked, or not given the appropriate emphasis, potentially leading to misunderstandings or an incomplete understanding of the information at hand.

On the other side of the debate, another speaker takes a different stance, arguing that institutional thinking can only be strengthened by the individuals within the institute. They assert that institutional thinking is enhanced through the active participation of its members.

To support this claim, they provide an example from Diplo, which exemplifies how institutional thinking is nurtured when individuals within the institute are involved in decision-making and interpretation processes. From the analysis of these arguments, it can be inferred that while third-party tools offer convenience and efficiency in text summarisation and generation, there are inherent risks associated with outsourcing important information.

This can result in a loss of control over interpretation and the emphasis placed on certain details. Conversely, the importance of institutional thinking is highlighted as a means to strengthen decision-making and understanding within the institute. In conclusion, both sides present valid points in the debate.

The negative perspective emphasises the need for control and highlights potential risks associated with outsourcing important information to third-party tools. Conversely, the positive perspective underscores the value of institutional thinking and the role of individual participation in making informed decisions.

Ultimately, this debate reveals the significance of carefully considering the pros and cons of outsourcing when it comes to the highlighting of important information.

Arguments

Brazil has reached almost universal connectivity with more than 84% of the population online.

Supporting facts:

• Brazil has achieved a significant percentage of internet users, but meaningful use remains a challenge.

---

Disparities exist in Brazil’s internet usage based on socioeconomic status, location, device availability, and digital skills.

Supporting facts:

• In Brazil, high-income households have virtually universal connectivity, whereas low-income households still face challenges in access. Majority of users are mobile only users, particularly in low-income households.

---

Data and indicators are crucial in revealing and addressing digital inequalities.

Supporting facts:

• Brazil has been utilizing a range of indicators to track and monitor meaningful connectivity and digital inequalities, with data revealing significant disparities in access and use. Only 22% of internet users in Brazil have meaningful connectivity.

---

Meaningful connectivity is more important than just bridging the digital divide

Supporting facts:

• Both regulator and Minister of Communication in Brazil embrace the idea of meaningful connectivity.

• Looking at the conditions and context of internet usage is important in the context of digital transformation and digital economy

---

Quality and context of connectivity is important beyond achieving 100% connectivity

Supporting facts:

• Even if 100% population has connectivity, the type of connectivity and use is important

• Information on type of use and context can influence technology investment and capacity building decisions

---

Brazil does not have a specific public policy for improvement of meaningful connectivity and equality for the older population

Supporting facts:

• Brazil has different ministries such as the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Education, that are working on ICT-related initiatives in their areas

• There are civil society organizations in Brazil that have taken up the responsibility of engaging the older population in internet use

---

Small internet service providers (ISPs) are key to promoting inclusion and connectivity

Supporting facts:

• In Brazil, small enterprises are going into areas where big telecoms are not interested in offering services

• The growth of internet access in Brazil is linked to very small ISPs providing connectivity

---

Report

Brazil has achieved significant progress towards universal connectivity, with over 84% of the population online. However, there are challenges in ensuring meaningful use of the internet. Disparities in access exist based on socioeconomic factors, location, device availability, and digital skills. While high-income households have almost universal connectivity, low-income households face difficulties accessing the internet.

The majority of internet users in Brazil rely on mobile-only access, particularly in low-income households. It is crucial to utilise data and indicators to address digital inequalities, as only 22% of internet users in Brazil have meaningful connectivity. Alexandre, an advocate for data-driven policy-making, emphasises the importance of quality and disaggregated data in identifying and addressing inequalities.

The regulator and the Minister of Communication in Brazil have shown support for meaningful connectivity and the incorporation of data into policy. The idea of meaningful connectivity being more important than just bridging the digital divide is supported, with an understanding of the contextual factors of internet usage.

Brazil currently lacks a specific public policy targeting meaningful connectivity and equality for the older population. However, various ministries and civil society organisations are working to engage the older population in internet use. Promoting meaningful connectivity requires a multi-stakeholder approach involving the government, private sector, academia, and civil society.

The role of small internet service providers (ISPs) in promoting inclusion and connectivity is recognised. These small ISPs have expanded their services into areas not covered by larger telecom operators, contributing to the growth of internet access in Brazil. Alexandre Barbosa argues for reducing entry barriers for small ISPs to enhance internet accessibility.

In summary, Brazil has made significant progress in achieving connectivity, but meaningful use of the internet remains a challenge. Disparities in access exist based on socioeconomic factors, location, device availability, and digital skills. Data and indicators are crucial in addressing these inequalities.

Collaboration among stakeholders is required to promote meaningful connectivity, and reducing entry barriers for small ISPs can enhance internet accessibility in Brazil.

Arguments

Introducing new technology like 5G can increase the digital divide, especially among developing and less developed countries

---

Concern about significant need to improve digital connectivity and equality among older age group in Brazil

Supporting facts:

• Older age groups have lower meaningful connectivity in Brazil as shown in the presentation

---

ICT is a cross-cutting enabler in different areas in Brazil

Supporting facts:

• ICT is seen as an enabler in fields like education, health, public safety in Brazil

• Specific plans are being developed for capacity-building among students, teachers, and healthcare professionals through the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Education

---

Needs for digital inclusion among older population in Brazil

Supporting facts:

• No specific public policy in place, but civil society programs are being implemented to engage older population in using the internet

• The older population faces barriers in making meaningful use of the internet

---

Enforcing meaningful connectivity in small-scale ISPs

Supporting facts:

• Brazil has 11,000 internet service providers companies working all over the territory.

• The majority of these are small business, micro enterprise with up to nine persons employed.

---

Report

The analysis of technology and connectivity in Brazil identifies several key points. One concern raised is the potential increase in the digital divide with the introduction of new technology, such as 5G. This issue is particularly relevant for developing countries, including Brazil.

It is argued that without proper measures in place, the introduction of new technology can further exacerbate existing inequalities. The need for a balance between development and controlling the digital divide is emphasized as crucial when introducing new technologies in developing and less-developed countries.

Another significant issue highlighted is the need to improve digital connectivity and equality among older age groups in Brazil. The analysis reveals that older age groups have lower rates of meaningful connectivity in the country, which raises concerns about the inclusion and access to technology for this demographic.

This issue is deemed essential and requires attention both domestically and internationally. Strategies to improve equality and digital connectivity for older age groups are recommended. The analysis also points out that ICT is seen as a cross-cutting enabler in various areas in Brazil, such as education, health, and public safety.

It is viewed as a tool that can contribute to achieving goals related to good health and well-being, as well as quality education. To realize the potential of ICT, specific plans for capacity-building among students, teachers, and healthcare professionals are being developed through the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Education.

Furthermore, the need for digital inclusion among the older population in Brazil is acknowledged. Although no specific public policy is in place, civil society programs are being implemented to engage the older population in using the internet. However, barriers to making meaningful use of the internet are identified for this demographic, indicating the need for further initiatives and support.

The analysis argues for a multi-stakeholder approach in policy-making to effectively address these issues. It is suggested that policies require actions from different stakeholders, including the private sector, academia, and civil society. Such an approach can lead to more comprehensive and inclusive policies.

Another noteworthy observation is the presence of a large number of internet service providers (ISPs) in Brazil, with approximately 11,000 companies operating throughout the country. However, the majority of these ISPs are small businesses or micro enterprises, employing a limited number of individuals.

Therefore, ensuring meaningful connectivity in small-scale ISPs becomes a relevant focus area. A question is raised regarding the role of telecom operators in enforcing quality connection and meaningful connectivity. The analysis suggests that strategies for quality connection enforcement should be examined, with a focus on the role of telecom operators in this regard.

In conclusion, the analysis of technology and connectivity in Brazil highlights concerns about the potential increase in the digital divide, particularly with the introduction of new technology. There is a significant need to improve digital connectivity and equality among older age groups.

ICT is viewed as a crucial enabler across various sectors, while digital inclusion and a multi-stakeholder approach in policy-making are advocated for. Attention is also drawn to the role of small-scale ISPs and the responsibilities of telecom operators in ensuring quality connection enforcement.

Arguments

Importance of universal and meaningful connectivity

Supporting facts:

• Digital economy is dependent on digital connectivity

• Digital connectivity is a necessity for global and sectoral digital transformation

• Every human being should have a choice to be online and be safe when online

• 119 out of 169 sustainable development goals are driven directly by ICTs

---

Digital Transformation’s impact on economic development

Supporting facts:

• Testimonial of a young woman from Burundi whose business thrived after taking it online

• Digital economy can provide global and sectoral transformation

• Digital economy is real, powerful and expected to grow rapidly

---

Report

The importance of universal and meaningful connectivity in the digital economy is emphasised in the analysis. It is argued that digital connectivity plays a vital role in the functioning of the digital economy. In fact, the digital economy is heavily dependent on digital connectivity.

For the digital economy to thrive, it is crucial to ensure that every individual has the choice to access the internet and can do so safely. This highlights the significance of providing universal access to the internet. Furthermore, it is noted that ICTs (Information and Communication Technologies) directly drive a significant number of sustainable development goals.

In fact, out of the 169 sustainable development goals, 119 are driven directly by ICTs. This underscores the transformative potential of digital connectivity in achieving various development goals, particularly in areas such as industry, innovation, and infrastructure, as well as quality education.

However, the analysis also raises concerns about the digital divide. Despite the advancements in technology, 2.6 billion people still remain offline. This digital divide is further exacerbated by various divides based on factors such as gender, location, age, and demographic. These divides create barriers to access and hinder the ability of certain populations to benefit from digital connectivity.

Lack of digital skills and limited coverage in remote areas are identified as significant reasons contributing to the digital divide. The need for enhanced security and awareness in the digital realm is another noteworthy point raised in the analysis. It is highlighted that during the COVID-19 pandemic, a majority of young women and women in general faced online harassment.

This underscores the importance of addressing issues related to cybersecurity and online abuse. Additionally, the analysis notes that many individuals are unaware of the potential benefits the internet can bring to their lives, and affordability remains a challenge for some.

Unstable and unreliable connectivity further hampers the ability of individuals to fully utilize the internet for their needs. On a positive note, a testimonial is presented in the analysis, illustrating the impact of digital transformation on economic development. The case of a young woman from Burundi is highlighted, who experienced the growth of her business after taking it online.

This serves as evidence for the potential of the digital economy to drive global and sectoral transformation. The analysis acknowledges the real and powerful nature of the digital economy, which is expected to grow rapidly in the future. In conclusion, the analysis highlights the importance of universal and meaningful connectivity in the digital economy.

It emphasizes the need to ensure that every individual has the choice to access the internet and can do so safely. The analysis also raises concerns about the digital divide, highlighting various divides based on factors such as gender, location, age, and demographic.

Furthermore, the need for enhanced security and awareness in the digital realm is underscored. Overall, the analysis presents a balanced view of the potential benefits and challenges associated with digital connectivity and transformation, contributing to a better understanding of the subject.

Arguments

Indonesia has ‘Digital Indonesia Vision 2045’ for connecting the country

Supporting facts:

• Indonesia aims to be one of the developed countries by 2045

• The Vision consists of four pillars: digital government, digital economy, digital society, and digital infrastructure, and places an emphasis on fiber optic cables, satellite technology, and wireless network

• They have spent $30 billion on fibre optic cable networks that stretch 26,000 kilometers across Indonesia, providing high-speed connectivity to 440 regions

• They launched a satellite, Satria 1, in June to provide connectivity, especially in the field of public infrastructure, education, and health facilities

---

Aims for meaningful digital connectivity that is inclusive and empowering

Supporting facts:

• They provide trainings in three levels of digital literacy for the Indonesian people

• They ensure availability of access to digital space for all groups including children

• They are working towards providing a safe digital space for children

• They have plans to establish fair and transparent data governance to safeguard people from the misuse or abuse of digital technologies

---

For Indonesia, 5G technology is mainly being used for industries and ‘Internet of Things’, while 4G continues to be the primary connectivity for regular connectivity needs such as students and small-medium enterprises (MSMEs).

Supporting facts:

• 5G is used mainly for industrial purposes

• Connectivity issues are distributed all over Indonesia, with 4G serving as the main focus.

---

Report

Indonesia aims to achieve developed nation status by 2045 through its “Digital Indonesia Vision 2045” initiative. This comprehensive plan focuses on four pillars: digital government, digital economy, digital society, and digital infrastructure. With a budget of $30 billion, Indonesia has invested in a 26,000-kilometer fiber optic cable network, delivering high-speed connectivity to 440 regions.

Additionally, the launch of the Satria 1 satellite in June will further enhance connectivity, particularly in public infrastructure, education, and healthcare. The “Digital Indonesia Vision 2045” initiative has a positive sentiment as it prioritizes inclusivity and empowerment. Promoting digital literacy and skills development, Indonesia provides training in three levels of digital literacy and ensures equal access to digital spaces for all, including children.

The country also aims to establish fair and transparent data governance to safeguard individuals from digital technology misuse. Acknowledging the importance of connectivity skills and literacy, Indonesia strives to offer equitable, affordable, safe, and secure access to digital resources alongside the necessary skills.

While 4G remains the primary focus for regular connectivity needs like students and small-medium enterprises (SMEs), Indonesia recognizes the potential of 5G technology for industrial purposes and the Internet of Things. While fixed broadband is not a primary focus, Indonesia is committed to expanding 4G connectivity nationwide to ensure widespread and reliable connectivity.

By doing so, Indonesia can cater to the connectivity requirements of the general population while utilizing 5G technology for specific industrial applications. In conclusion, Indonesia’s “Digital Indonesia Vision 2045” initiative prioritizes connecting the country and achieving developed nation status by 2045. Through investments in digital infrastructure, including fiber optic cables and satellite technology, Indonesia demonstrates its commitment to improving connectivity.

The initiative also emphasizes digital literacy, skills development, and fair data governance in order to create an inclusive and empowering digital environment. By balancing 4G connectivity for regular users with the potential of 5G technology, Indonesia aims to meet immediate connectivity needs while harnessing the opportunities of emerging technologies.

Arguments

Universal and meaningful connectivity is imperative for digital transformation and meeting sustainable development goals

Supporting facts:

• Universal and meaningful connectivity enables access to educational resources, healthcare, government services and job opportunities

• Collaboration with the United Nations Office of the Secretary General’s Envoy on Technology and the European Commission

---

Data is crucial for monitoring and making better decisions towards achieving universal and meaningful connectivity

Supporting facts:

• International Telecommunication Union and the Office of the United Nations Secretary General’s Envoy on Technology established aspirational targets for universal and meaningful connectivity

• There is a measurement challenge to assess the progress

• Online dashboard to track progress

---

Report

Universal and meaningful connectivity is imperative for achieving digital transformation and meeting sustainable development goals. It allows individuals to access educational resources, healthcare, government services, and employment opportunities. Collaboration is taking place between the United Nations Office of the Secretary General’s Envoy on Technology and the European Commission to address this crucial issue.

In order to support the goal of universal and meaningful connectivity, data plays a crucial role. It is essential for monitoring progress and making informed decisions towards achieving connectivity targets. The International Telecommunication Union and the Envoy on Technology have established aspirational targets and implemented an online dashboard to track progress.

However, accurately measuring progress remains a challenge due to the complexity of the task. Advocacy is deemed necessary alongside measurement and capacity building efforts to ensure universal and meaningful connectivity. The project encompasses three main work streams: advocacy, measurement, and capacity building.

The expected outcomes of this initiative include increasing awareness, improving data dissemination, building statistical capacity, and developing better policies. Overall, universal and meaningful connectivity has the potential to facilitate digital transformation and effectively address sustainable development goals. Collaboration, data-driven decision-making, and advocacy are key components in achieving this important objective.

Arguments

South Africa has a history of economic disparity. Post 1994, the Government had to bring the majority of the population to participate in the broader and mainstream economic activities

Supporting facts:

• Underdevelopment in tier three towns, where majority of the population still resides

---

Reliable electricity supply is crucial for effective internet connectivity.

Supporting facts:

• Unavailability and unreliable electricity supply has impacted negatively on consumers, especially students dependent on e-learning.

• Service providers need to put up backup equipment in their base stations to maintain network during electricity outages.

---

Small and medium internet service providers are driving the expansion of fiber networks in underdeveloped regions in South Africa

Supporting facts:

• The layout of fiber networks infrastructure in the underdeveloped and tier two areas has been driven by the small and medium internet service providers

• These providers are also moving into developed areas at competitive prices which has driven big companies to reduce their prices

---

Small enterprises have the potential to grow into medium-sized enterprises

Supporting facts:

• Small companies start by focusing on a particular region and then expand into districts and metropolitan areas becoming visible across the country

• As these small enterprises grow into bigger ones, they open up opportunities for new ones to fill the gap they leave behind in the rural areas

---

Report

South Africa has a longstanding issue with economic inequality, and since 1994, the government has been making efforts to bring the majority of the population into mainstream economic activities. This has become a crucial goal for the country, given that underdevelopment is still prevalent in tier three towns where the majority of the population resides.

The South African government recognizes the key role it plays in promoting connectivity and economic parity. To achieve this, they have implemented various initiatives. One of these is the SA Connect program, which aims to ensure that every citizen has access to quality connectivity.

Additionally, they have introduced the Broadband Access Fund, which offers subsidized internet services in outlying and rural areas. Furthermore, the government provides subsidies to the private sector to encourage them to provide network infrastructure in underdeveloped areas. These efforts are seen as positive steps towards bridging the connectivity gap in the country and promoting economic equality.

Competition in the telecommunications sector is also seen as desirable to reduce the costs of internet access. Currently, high data costs are driven by a limited number of dominant telecommunications companies, resulting in a polystic market. However, there has been progress in this regard.

The release of Spectrum to the private sector in 2022 has led to a decrease in data costs. This development is seen as positive, as it indicates that increased competition can indeed lead to more affordable internet access for all South Africans.

However, it is important to note that the availability and reliability of electricity supply have a significant impact on internet connectivity. Unavailability and unreliable electricity supply negatively affect consumers, especially students who heavily rely on e-learning. Service providers have to implement backup equipment in their base stations to maintain network connectivity during electricity outages.

Therefore, it is crucial to have reliable electricity supply to ensure effective internet connectivity. In terms of infrastructure development, small and medium internet service providers are driving the expansion of fiber networks in underdeveloped regions. These providers are also moving into developed areas and offering competitive prices, which has compelled larger companies to reduce their prices.

This expansion of fiber networks is positive, as it brings improved connectivity to previously underserved areas, contributing to economic growth and development. Furthermore, the growth of small enterprises in the telecommunications sector can have a positive impact. These enterprises often start by focusing on a specific region and then expand into districts and metropolitan areas, becoming more visible across the country.

As they grow into medium-sized enterprises, they create opportunities for new enterprises to fill the gap they leave behind in rural areas. This trend not only promotes economic growth but also contributes to the development of a diverse and competitive market.

In conclusion, the South African government’s efforts to promote connectivity and economic parity are commendable. Initiatives such as the SA Connect program, subsidies for network infrastructure in underdeveloped areas, and increasing competition in the telecommunications sector are all steps in the right direction.

However, challenges related to electricity supply and the high costs of data still need to be addressed to ensure effective internet connectivity and economic equality for all. The growth of small and medium enterprises in the telecommunications sector presents an opportunity for further development and competition, fostering economic growth and inclusion.

Overall, there is room for all internet service providers in the market, and their growth from regional dominance to national visibility encourages healthy competition.

Arguments

Connectivity is essential for the digital economy.

Supporting facts:

• There is no digital economy without connectivity.

---

The session will include practitioners sharing their experiences.

Supporting facts:

• In this session, we will hear from practitioners committed to advancing the digital agenda and connectivity in their respective roles.

---

Thierry Geiger highlights the challenges faced by Indonesia in ensuring universal and meaningful connectivity due to its geographical diversity and large population.

Supporting facts:

• Indonesia has over 270 million people

• Over 17,000 islands compose Indonesia, 6,000 of which are inhabited

• Two-thirds of the adult population in Indonesia is already connected

---

Thierry Geiger emphasizes the critical enablers of connectivity around skills, and safety and security.

Supporting facts:

• Ishwan describes the Digital Indonesia Vision 2045, which includes efforts to improve digital governance, extend digital economy, promote digital literacy and competence among the society, and develop digital infrastructure.

• Indonesia is investing heavily in fiber optic cables, satellite technology and wireless network to facilitate connectivity across the country, including remote and rural areas.

• Literacy and skill development programs have been initiated to make sure citizens can effectively use and benefit from digital connectivity.

---

Thierry Geiger supports the importance and need for data in digital infrastructure policy implements and interventions

Supporting facts:

• The level of detail achievable through data measurements makes a strong case for investing in data infrastructure

• With rich data sets, policy and efficiency can be improved in interventions

• Geiger believes average numbers at country level do conceal disparities and urges for disaggregated data

---

Importance of quality connectivity and meaningful access to digital services

Supporting facts:

• Mentioned that the quality of connectivity matters and just connecting everyone is no longer enough

• Mentioned the shift in global mindset towards quality of connectivity

---

Progress in providing meaningful connectivity globally

Supporting facts:

• Acknowledges traction on the concept of meaningful connectivity

• Heard about solutions, financing, and interventions is improving things

---

Report

During the session, multiple speakers reiterated the importance of connectivity for the digital economy. It was unanimously agreed that without connectivity, there can be no digital economy. The significance of achieving universal meaningful connectivity was highlighted, with a specific focus on the challenges faced by Indonesia due to its geographical diversity and large population.

Practitioners committed to advancing the digital agenda and connectivity in their respective roles shared their experiences, adding a positive aspect to the session. Dr. Cosmas Lokissensavasava, the Director of ITU’s Telecommunication Development Bureau, delivered the opening remarks. Efforts to improve connectivity and promote digital literacy in Indonesia were discussed, including the Digital Indonesia Vision 2045 and investments in digital infrastructure.

The critical enablers of connectivity, such as skills and safety and security, were emphasized by Thierry Geiger. The potential negatives of an over-connected society, such as data misuse or abuse and cyber security concerns, were acknowledged. The Indonesian government is actively addressing these issues through a fair and transparent data governance structure and investments in cyber security measures.

The importance of data in digital infrastructure policy implementation and interventions was highlighted, along with the need for disaggregated data to accurately assess progress in connectivity. The focus on quality connectivity, rather than only connecting everyone, was emphasized. The session concluded by acknowledging the progress made in providing meaningful connectivity globally and the emerging solutions, financing, and interventions.

Ongoing efforts and collaboration among stakeholders are necessary to ensure universal and meaningful connectivity for all.

Arguments

The EU’s Global Gateway to support investments in different kinds of infrastructures, including digital infrastructure.

Supporting facts:

• Global Gateway is expected to mobilize up to 300 billion euros in investments between 2021 and 2027.

• It covers both investments in hard connectivity, such as infrastructure, data centers, but also the enabling environment, the soft connectivity, which means investments into e-government, digital entrepreneurship, digital skills, the connection of schools, academia, data governance.

---

The Global Gateway is designed for the needs of local people and economies, prioritizing undeserved regions.

Supporting facts:

• The Global Gateway is designed for local people, for the local economies and prioritizes undeserved regions.

• Countries should always keep ownership of it, and it should really be based on what they need and they feel important.

---

Report

The EU’s Global Gateway is a comprehensive initiative aimed at supporting investment in various types of infrastructure, with a particular emphasis on digital infrastructure. It seeks to mobilise approximately 300 billion euros in investments between 2021 and 2027. These investments will encompass not only physical aspects like infrastructure and data centres but also the enabling environment, known as soft connectivity.

Soft connectivity encompasses investments in e-government, digital entrepreneurship, digital skills, and the connection of schools, academia, and data governance. This approach ensures a holistic development of both physical and digital infrastructure, which is crucial for sustainable economic growth. An important aspect of the Global Gateway is its commitment to addressing regional disparities and catering to the needs of underserved regions.

The initiative is designed to meet the specific requirements of local communities and economies. It emphasizes that countries should retain ownership of their infrastructure projects to ensure that they align with their priorities and aspirations. The Global Gateway also recognizes the significance of international cooperation in enhancing connectivity and promoting development.

It aims to strengthen partnerships between the EU, Latin America, the Caribbean, and Africa through the establishment of digital alliances and the implementation of strategic projects. For instance, the EU-Latin American-Caribbean digital alliance builds upon existing cooperation between Europe and Latin America, notably through the Bella cable, a 6,000-kilometer-long submarine fiber-optic cable.

The Bella cable project aims to connect academic research centres in Latin America, fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing. Similarly, the Euro-Africa Gateway cable project aims to enhance digital sovereignty, infrastructure, and cybersecurity standards between the EU and Africa along the Atlantic coast.

The cable will facilitate the exchange of information, encourage collaboration, and contribute to the digital development of both continents. To conclude, the EU’s Global Gateway is an ambitious initiative focused on supporting investment in different infrastructure domains, particularly in digital infrastructure.

It aims to mobilise substantial funding, prioritize underserved regions, and foster international cooperation. Through digital alliances and strategic projects like the Bella cable and the Euro-Africa Gateway cable, the Global Gateway aims to enhance connectivity and promote development while ensuring digital sovereignty and cybersecurity.

Arguments

The African Union, AFCFTA, aims to boost digital trade to help the African economy.

Supporting facts:

• Digital trade is considered essential for the future of the African economy.

Topics: Digital Trade, Economy, African Union, AFCFTA

---

AFCFTA aims to increase access to affordable digital devices.

Supporting facts:

• In the AFCFTA digital trade protocol, they are including aspects of digital inclusion, like access to affordable devices.

Topics: Digital Devices, AFCFTA, Digital Inclusion

---

Digital trade is essential for the future of the African economy and it has the potential to transform economies.

Supporting facts:

• Digital trade facilitates economic growth and innovation.

• Digital trade can lead to job creation and new business opportunities.

• Digital trade can help in overcoming geographical barriers.

Topics: Digital Trade, Digital Economy, African Economy

---

Collaborative efforts are needed to fully integrate digital trade.

Supporting facts:

• Digital trade cannot be done individually; it requires a collaborative approach.

• Public-private partnerships are necessary for successful digital trade implementation.

• Constant communication between countries and between governments and small businesses is crucial.

Topics: Digital Trade, Collaboration, Integration

---

Accessible and affordable devices are needed for people to take full advantage of the digital economy.

Supporting facts:

• Accessibility to affordable devices enables people to transact business, educate themselves, and be a part of the digital economy.

• Africa has a youthful population who need affordable devices for their growth and development.

Topics: Affordable Devices, Digital Economy, Accessibility

---

Report

The African Union and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AFCFTA) are collaborating to enhance digital trade in Africa, supporting the continent’s economy. Digital trade is considered essential for the future of Africa’s economy, and this collaboration aims to leverage digital technologies to drive job creation, overcome geographical barriers, and stimulate business opportunities.

The initiative includes increasing access to affordable digital devices, essential for individuals to participate fully in the digital economy. The AFCFTA’s digital trade protocol incorporates aspects of digital inclusion, focusing on providing affordable devices for transacting business, accessing educational resources, and contributing to economic growth.

The initiative also emphasizes developing indigenous value chains and intra-African cooperation in manufacturing, leveraging the unique strengths of African countries to create wholly African products. It aims to empower women and youth entrepreneurs by enabling them to utilize affordable digital devices to establish a digital presence and conduct cross-border transactions.

Collaboration and constant communication between countries, governments, and small businesses are essential for successful digital trade implementation. The African Union and AFCFTA are working on the digital trade protocol and establishing regulatory frameworks at the continental and regional levels, collaborating with regional economic communities and national governments.

Digital trade is essential for Africa’s future economy, and the collaborative efforts of the African Union and AFCFTA are crucial for its successful implementation. Accessible and affordable digital devices are integral to ensuring full participation in the digital economy, particularly for women and youth entrepreneurs.

By embracing digital technologies and fostering intra-African cooperation, Africa can establish sustainable indigenous value chains and drive economic growth.

Arguments

The age of digital transformation requires building blocks like connectivity and computing power

Supporting facts:

• First mobile phone call in Africa was made in 1987

• Devices need to have computing power to take advantage of AI, blockchains and other emerging technologies

Topics: connectivity, computing power, digital age

---

Low levels of smartphone adoption in Africa are hindering inclusive growth for sustainable development

Supporting facts:

• High levels of smartphone adoption elsewhere but very low in Africa

• Only 25% of African population have access to mobile internet

Topics: Smartphones, Inclusive growth, Sustainable development

---

Closing the mobile internet usage gap in Africa will take a significant amount of time

Supporting facts:

• Only 17% of mobile internet users in Africa use a smartphone

• Closing the gap could take between 35 to 70 years

Topics: Mobile internet usage gap, Digital divide

---

A large divide exists in the technology used in Africa compared to the rest of the world

Supporting facts:

• While the rest of the world is shutting down 3G, 70% of Africans are still using 3G devices

• Only two thirds of the globe use 4G devices

Topics: Technology divide, Internet connectivity

---

The telecom sector has carried the burden of building connectivity and stimulating demand for services, contributing to a late or delayed return on investment.

Supporting facts:

• GSMA has been dealing with this issue with their members

• The delay in Return on Investment is a challenge for Investors

Topics: Telecommunication, Investment, Connectivity, GSMA

---

The youth, constituting the majority population in Africa, are digital natives with specific preferences for devices.

Supporting facts:

• 19 years is the average age of the continent, resulting in a majority under 19 population

• These Digital natives demand devices with larger storage (64 GB and above) to hold multiple applications

Topics: Africa, Digital Natives, Youth

---

There is a balance to strike between affordability and demand satisfaction in manufacturing local devices.

Supporting facts:

• Survey revealed that youth need devices that are fit for purpose and not just cheap

• Initiatives to launch low cost smart feature phones were not successful as they just remain on the shelf

Topics: Affordability, Manufacturing, Local Devices

---

Africa should not be left behind in the next 10 years.

Supporting facts:

• There’s a need for urgency in action to prevent Africa from being left behind.

Topics: Digital Divide, Africa Development

---

Accelerate efforts to close the gap in terms of population with available devices.

Supporting facts:

• Cannot wait for 35 to 70 years to close the technological gap in Africa.

Topics: Digital Inclusion, Technology

---

Adopt innovative and collaborative approaches.

Topics: Innovation, Partnership

---

Report

The age of digital transformation necessitates the presence of crucial building blocks such as connectivity and computing power. However, Africa faces challenges in this regard. Low levels of smartphone adoption in the continent are impeding inclusive growth and sustainable development.

Currently, smartphone adoption rates in Africa are significantly lower compared to other parts of the world, with only 25% of the African population having access to mobile internet. This limitation restricts the ability of Africans to take advantage of emerging technologies like AI and blockchains, which rely on devices with computing power.

In addition, a significant mobile internet usage gap exists in Africa, with only 17% of mobile internet users in the continent having access to smartphones. It is estimated that closing this gap could take anywhere from 35 to 70 years. This time frame highlights the significant effort required to bridge the digital divide in Africa.

Furthermore, Africa lags behind the rest of the world in terms of technology adoption. While the global trend is shifting towards shutting down 3G networks in favor of 4G, around 70% of Africans still use 3G devices. This stark contrast underscores the technology divide present in the continent.

The telecom sector has played a vital role in building connectivity and stimulating demand for services in Africa. However, this has also posed challenges, with delays in return on investment hindering progress. This highlights the need for robust investment in the sector to ensure the development and expansion of infrastructure.

The youth population in Africa, which constitutes the majority, are digital natives with specific device preferences. They demand devices with larger storage capacity (64 GB and above) to accommodate multiple applications. Catering to the needs of this demographic is crucial for driving digital innovation and development.

When it comes to manufacturing, a delicate balance needs to be struck between affordability and demand satisfaction. Survey results indicate that the youth in Africa require devices that are fit-for-purpose, rather than simply cheap alternatives. Despite efforts to launch low-cost smart feature phones, these initiatives have proved unsuccessful, with such devices remaining unused on shelves.

To prevent Africa from being left behind in the next decade, urgent action is needed. Efforts to close the technological gap and increase the availability of devices for the population must be accelerated. Adopting innovative and collaborative approaches will be essential in driving progress and achieving developmental goals.

The African Union’s future development plan and the concept of co-creation by Africans for Africa’s development are positively reinforced. These initiatives highlight the importance of self-reliance and Africans taking ownership of their own development. In conclusion, Africa faces several challenges in the digital age.

Low levels of smartphone adoption, the existence of a significant technology divide, and the need to balance affordability and demand satisfaction pose obstacles to inclusive growth and sustainable development. However, by prioritising connectivity, investing in infrastructure, and adopting innovative approaches, Africa can bridge these gaps and ensure its development in the digital era.

Arguments

Affordability of services and devices is one of the main obstacles to universal meaningful connectivity

Supporting facts:

• 2.6 billion people still remain offline

• An entry-level data-only mobile broadband baske costs about 4.5% of the monthly income per capita

• The average cost of a smartphone in sub-Saharan Africa amounted to about 39% of the average monthly income in 2022

Topics: Affordability, Connectivity, ICT

---

Link between capable devices and internet access is important for achieving affordable connectivity

Supporting facts:

• Not all mobile phones are smartphones or are capable of accessing the internet, limiting internet access figures

• Some networks in Africa and parts of Asia and the Pacific are still in 2G

Topics: Devices, Internet Access, Affordability

---

ITU is working on making devices affordable to ensure more effective participation in the digital age

Supporting facts:

• ITU organizes the Global Symposium for Regulators to discuss important issues such as the cost of digital devices

• ITU promotes innovation and entrepreneurship as key elements to drive affordability

• ITU has started discussions on collaborative regulation

Topics: Digital inclusion, Affordable technology

---

ITU promotes domestic empowerment and capacity development to avoid import dependency and make devices more affordable

Supporting facts:

• ITU is working with universities and has launched a project on acceleration centers for innovation and entrepreneurship

• IU encourages south-south and north-south knowledge transfer

• ITU looks to successful cases like India and China as models to follow

Topics: Domestic empowerment, Capacity development

---

The Universal Service Fund subsidizes operators to bridge the urban-rural digital divide

Supporting facts:

• The fund is collected from licensed operators and used to subsidize operators who go to rural areas

• This is one of the measures ITU employs to make the devices more affordable for rural communities

Topics: Universal Service Fund, Urban-rural digital divide

---

Not every individual must necessarily own a device for digital access

Supporting facts:

• Smart Village and Smart Islands projects are providing communal digital access

Topics: Smart Village, Smart Islands, technology accessibility, community-based technology

---

Space technology plays a significant role in providing internet access

Supporting facts:

• Low earth orbit satellites are increasingly common and competition is driving down costs

Topics: Space technology, Low earth orbit satellites, Elon Musk’s star links

---

Cybersecurity issues deter people from going online

Supporting facts:

• During COVID, many young women and girls fell victim to online harassment leading to offline harassment

Topics: Cybersecurity, Online harassment, Online safety

---

Affordability remains a challenge for digital access

Topics: Affordability, Digital divide

---

Government has a responsibility to stimulate digital demand and provide public services online

Topics: Government policies, Public services, Digital services

---

Report

Affordability is identified as a significant obstacle to achieving universal meaningful connectivity. The cost of services and devices proves to be a major challenge, hindering access to the internet for many people. For instance, it is reported that 2.6 billion people still remain offline.

Moreover, an entry-level data-only mobile broadband basket costs around 4.5% of the monthly income per capita. Additionally, the average cost of a smartphone in sub-Saharan Africa amounts to approximately 39% of the average monthly income in 2022. The link between capable devices and internet access is highlighted as crucial for achieving affordable connectivity.

Not all mobile phones are capable of accessing the internet, which limits the figures for internet access. Furthermore, some networks in Africa and parts of Asia and the Pacific only have access to 2G technology, further hindering internet access. The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) is taking steps to address these challenges.

ITU organises the Global Symposium for Regulators, which discusses important problems like the cost of digital devices. They also promote innovation and entrepreneurship as key elements to drive affordability, recognising their significance in making devices more accessible to individuals by ensuring effective participation in the digital age.

In addition, ITU has initiated discussions on collaborative regulation, emphasising that it is not solely the responsibility of ICT sector regulators to ensure affordability. The entire ecosystem should be involved in promoting affordability. These discussions even touch upon the idea of allowing people to have their devices without being taxed.

To further reinforce affordability, ITU stresses the importance of domestic empowerment and capacity development. They are actively working with universities and have launched a project on acceleration centres for innovation and entrepreneurship. The aim is to avoid import dependency and make devices more affordable.

Successful cases like India and China are considered as models to follow. Encouraging young people to become entrepreneurs is a key strategy emphasised by ITU. They recognise that young people aged 15 to 24 are the most active online users. By fostering entrepreneurship, ITU aims to empower and engage the youth not only as users but as creators and contributors in the digital space.

To bridge the urban-rural digital divide, ITU employs measures such as the Universal Service Fund, which is collected from licensed operators and used to subsidise operators who extend services to rural areas. Additionally, projects like Smart Village and Smart Islands provide communal digital access, proving that not every individual needs to own a device to have digital access.

Space technology, particularly low earth orbit satellites, plays a significant role in providing internet access. The increased prevalence of low earth orbit satellites and competition within the industry have led to reduced costs, making internet access more accessible and affordable.

Nevertheless, cybersecurity issues pose a hindrance to online participation. During the COVID-19 pandemic, many young women and girls fell victim to online harassment, which also resulted in offline harassment. Such incidents deter people from going online and highlight the need for improved cybersecurity measures.

Overall, while ITU’s efforts and various strategies have aimed to address the challenge of affordability and promote universal meaningful connectivity, it is acknowledged that more work needs to be done. Affordability remains a significant challenge for digital access. Government policies are also seen as crucial in stimulating digital demand and providing public services online.

Arguments

Lack of affordability is a key barrier to internet access in Africa

Supporting facts:

• According to the ITU, 37% of Africans are now online, showing a clear digital divide across the continent.

• The same United Nations report indicates that by 2050, Africa will have about 2.5 billion of the population, meaning that about 25% of the world’s population will be in Africa.

Topics: Digital Divide, Internet Access, Affordable Devices

---

Report

According to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), only 37% of Africans have access to the internet, highlighting a significant digital divide across the continent. This finding raises concerns as lack of affordability is identified as a primary barrier to internet access in Africa.

The high cost of internet services and devices presents challenges for many individuals and communities in Africa, hindering their ability to connect to the digital world. Furthermore, a United Nations report predicts that Africa’s population will reach approximately 2.5 billion people by 2050, accounting for around 25% of the world’s population.

This projection underscores the increasing importance of addressing the digital divide and ensuring equitable internet access in Africa. It also suggests that the impact of the digital divide in Africa will have global implications. Amidst these challenges, there is a positive sentiment towards fostering global cooperation and digital transformation through policy dialogues.

It is suggested that engaging in policy dialogues between African stakeholders and their counterparts worldwide could pave the way for advancing ideas and partnerships that drive prosperity. These dialogues hold significant potential for addressing key issues such as affordability, infrastructure development, and improving digital literacy in Africa.

By bringing together diverse perspectives and sharing best practices, policymakers can formulate strategies that prioritize accessible and affordable internet connectivity for all Africans. This approach would help bridge the digital divide and promote socio-economic development. In conclusion, the digital divide in Africa remains a pressing concern, with lack of affordability playing a crucial role in limiting internet access across the continent.

However, there is optimism regarding the potential of policy dialogues to foster global partnerships and cooperation towards digital transformation in Africa. By collaborating and finding innovative solutions, stakeholders can work towards overcoming the challenges hindering internet access and ensuring that all Africans can benefit from the opportunities brought about by the digital age.

Arguments

Kenya is focusing on enhancing connectivity as part of its transformation agenda

Supporting facts:

• Kenya has embarked on an accelerated transformation agenda focusing on five key areas, one of which being the digital superhighway and creative economy.

Topics: Digital Superhighway, Connectivity, Transformation Agenda

---

Kenya has made significant progress in connectivity and diversity.

Supporting facts:

• Kenya has Abadan submarine capitals with six submarine capitals, the latest having capacity more than all the existing capitals.

• The country has over 55,000 kilometers of terrestrial capital, both by private and the public sector.

• 98% of the country’s land being covered by broadband, that is 4G coverage.

• Kenya became one of the first countries to launch 5G in the continent.

• In respect to mobile subscription, there are almost 66 million subscribers in the country.

Topics: Connectivity, Digital Superhighway

---

There exists a gap in the availability and capability of digital devices among the Kenyan population.

Supporting facts:

• There is still a gap in terms of what kind of devices people are using in Kenya.

Topics: Digital Devices, Digital Gap

---

Kenya plans to add 100,000 kilometers of fiber and manufacture affordable smart devices locally to boost digital access.

Supporting facts:

• Kenya is looking to unlock the digital superhighway potential by adding an additional 100,000 kilometers of fiber.

• Mobile network operators and partners have established an assembly plan in the country towards manufacturing world-class smartphones.

• The President launched the smartphone manufacturing initiative a few weeks before.

Topics: Digital Access, Manufacturing, Local Production, Smart Devices

---

The electronic manufacturing industry will not only enhance accessibility but also create jobs and facilitate knowledge transfer.

Supporting facts:

• The device or electronic manufacturing industry will open up opportunities for job creation and wealth generation.

• The initiative will facilitate technology transfer within the continent.

Topics: Electronic Manufacturing, Job Creation, Knowledge Transfer

---

Kenya is working to digitize government services and increase access to digital platforms

Supporting facts:

• By end of last year, December 2022, we had about 350 services from government being available to the citizens online

• We have since embarked on digitization and ensuring that citizen-facing interfaces are addressed so that we have citizens engaging government through their mobile phones

Topics: Digital Economy, Digitization, Kenya, Government Services

---

Kenya has taken the initiative to provide affordable smart devices to its population, with special emphasis on the youth.

Supporting facts:

• Kenya has partnered with mobile network operators to facilitate the availability of affordable smartphones.

• A package that includes a $40 smartphone and an additional $20 for connectivity has been launched.

• The average age in the African continent is 19-20, making it a youthful population with potential to take advantage of the digital space.

Topics: Affordable smart devices, Youth engagement, Digital space

---

Connectivity continues to be a key factor.

Supporting facts:

• Kenya facilitated private sector, particularly MNOs, through policy and incentives to manufacture and assemble devices within the country.

Topics: Digital Connectivity, Technology, Infrastructure

---

Device manufacturing has been launched in Kenya with partnerships within the African continent.

Supporting facts:

• Private sector availed devices at an attractive price.

• Kenya’s universal service fund has been focused on connectivity in economically unviable areas.

Topics: Manufacturing, Digital Devices, Partnerships

---

Affordable devices are the last link to enable connectivity.

Topics: Digital Connectivity, Affordability, Technology

---

Taxes on devices is a conversational issue.

Supporting facts:

• Digital economy component not yet growing in Kenya.

• More significant contribution to GDP from traditional corridors like Mombasa, Nairobi, Malabar Road but digital platform contributions are less now.

Topics: Taxes, Digital Devices, Economy

---

Kenya’s commitment to the digital space

Supporting facts:

• Sector working group initiated to update laws

• Enhancement of broadband connectivity using fiber and low-orbiting satellites

Topics: Digital economy, Regulatory and legislative environment

---

Building digital hubs for skilling, jobs, and entrepreneurship.

Supporting facts:

• Plan to erect one digital hub in every ward, eventually increasing to four in every ward

Topics: Digital hub, Digital skilling, Digital jobs

---

Report

Kenya is placing a strong emphasis on enhancing connectivity as part of its transformation agenda. The country is prioritising the development of its digital superhighway and creative economy, recognising their potential for driving economic growth and innovation. Kenya has already achieved significant progress in expanding connectivity and diversity.

In terms of connectivity, Kenya boasts an extensive network of terrestrial and submarine cables. It has six submarine cables, with the latest having greater capacity than all the existing ones combined. Additionally, the country has over 55,000 kilometres of terrestrial fibre optic cables, provided by both the private and public sectors.

Furthermore, broadband coverage, including 4G, spans across 98% of the country’s land area. This extensive coverage ensures that a large portion of the population has access to high-speed internet. Kenya has also made notable advancements in mobile connectivity. The country became one of the first in Africa to launch 5G, showcasing its commitment to staying at the forefront of technological advancements.

Currently, there are almost 66 million mobile subscriptions in Kenya, highlighting the widespread use of mobile devices for communication and accessing digital services. To further enhance digital access, Kenya has plans to add an additional 100,000 kilometres of fibre optic cables. This expansion will help bridge the connectivity gap in underserved areas and improve internet access for more people.

Additionally, the country is strategically focusing on manufacturing affordable smart devices locally. Mobile network operators and partners have established an assembly plant in Kenya to support the production of world-class smartphones. This initiative not only aims to increase the availability of affordable devices but also contributes to job creation and facilitates technology transfer within the continent.

The government of Kenya is actively digitising services to enhance accessibility to digital platforms. By the end of 2022, approximately 350 government services were already available online. The aim is to allow citizens to engage with the government through their mobile phones, streamlining processes and increasing convenience.

This digital transformation of government services will not only improve efficiency but also empower citizens by providing easier access to important resources and information. Recognising the importance of affordable internet connectivity and devices, Kenya is working towards providing them in public spaces.

Affordable connectivity options are being made available in markets and public spaces, and public Wi-Fi is being installed in marketplaces and broadcast stages. The goal is to have digital hubs – approximately 1,450 – in every ward, ensuring that people have access to digital resources and opportunities.

The initiative to provide affordable smart devices, with a particular emphasis on the youth, is another notable aspect of Kenya’s efforts. Through partnerships with mobile network operators, Kenya has facilitated the availability of affordable smartphones. A package including a $40 smartphone along with an additional $20 for connectivity has been launched, making these devices more accessible to a wider population.

This focus on the youth is significant as the average age in Africa is between 19-20, indicating the potential for this youthful population to leverage the digital space for economic and personal growth. In conclusion, Kenya’s transformation agenda places a high importance on enhancing connectivity and leveraging the digital landscape for economic development.

Through the expansion of fibre optic infrastructure, manufacturing affordable smart devices, and digitising government services, Kenya aims to increase digital access and empower its citizens. The initiatives also have the potential to create employment opportunities, facilitate knowledge transfer, and drive economic growth.

By ensuring affordable internet connectivity and devices, particularly in public spaces, Kenya is taking steps to bridge the digital divide and enable its population to fully benefit from the advantages of digitisation.

Arguments

Local manufacturing and good policy is key to making affordable devices

Supporting facts:

• 30 to 40 percent of a device cost is usually taxes when it’s being shipped into the country

• India has been able to reduce the cost of a smartphone dramatically, while increasing the number of smartphones people have access to

• They’ve done that by following the same pattern that Kenya is starting on, which is accelerating local manufacturing and then putting in the right policies

Topics: Local Manufacturing, Policy, Affordable Devices

---

Latiff Cherono believes that it is possible for Africa to manufacture its own devices

Supporting facts:

• Many other countries have followed this path of manufacturing their own devices.

• Latif suggests building unique African devices.

Topics: Manufacturing, Technology

---

The pace at which the capacity for building devices in Africa (outside of South Africa and Egypt) is growing rapidly and shows promise.

Supporting facts:

• Five years ago, hardly anyone on thecontinent was doing device manufacturing outside of South Africa and Egypt, but in the past two years capacity has grown.

Topics: Technology Development, Economic Growth

---

With the right policies, this growth in capacity could be accelerated even faster.

Topics: Policy Making, Technology Development

---

Report

The analysis highlights the importance of local manufacturing and good policies in making affordable devices in Kenya and Africa. It references the success story of India, which has managed to dramatically reduce the cost of smartphones while increasing accessibility through a focus on local manufacturing and appropriate policies.

This success serves as a model for Kenya, which has taken positive steps towards incorporating local manufacturers and implementing favourable policies. The speaker expresses optimism about the acceleration of great policies in Kenya, aimed at bringing local manufacturers into the value chain sector and ensuring cost-effective manufacturing.

The analysis also mentions the growth in capacity for building devices in Africa, specifically outside of South Africa and Egypt. Just five years ago, only a small number of countries on the continent were involved in device manufacturing, but in the past two years, there has been a rapid expansion in capacity.

This bodes well for the future and demonstrates the potential the continent holds in the field of technology development. One of the speakers, Latiff Cherono, believes that Africa has the potential to manufacture its own devices. However, he suggests that the focus should be on creating affordable, value-added devices that are tailored to the African context.

He emphasizes the need for devices that may not be identical to those used in the USA or Japan, but rather offer relevant features at the right price. Building capacity over time is seen as a crucial part of this journey.

The analysis concludes on an optimistic note, highlighting the panel’s discussions and their shared belief in the future of technological development and capacity growth in Africa. It points out that the key to accelerating this growth lies in implementing the right policies.

It suggests that with the right approach, Africa has the potential to become a major player in the global technology market. However, a “spark” in the form of innovation and support is required to ignite this potential. Overall, the analysis emphasises the significance of local manufacturing, favourable policies, and context-specific solutions in making affordable devices in Kenya and Africa.

It also underscores the rapid growth in capacity for device manufacturing in Africa and the need for the right policies to further accelerate this progress. The analysis concludes optimistically, foreseeing a promising future for technological development and capacity growth in Africa, provided the necessary support and policies are in place.

Arguments

There is wide support for the establishment of a global digital compact resting on the UN Charter and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the Agenda 2030

Supporting facts:

• Issue paper was circulated in the beginning of September

• The compact should aim at strengthening digital cooperation, closing the digital divide, and ensuring an inclusive, open, safe, and secure digital future for all

• Digital development benefits and risks of digitalization were emphasized

• The compact should enable the attainment of the sustainable development goals

---

Importance of a bottom-up approach to digital cooperation with link to the policy and to the member states

Supporting facts:

• Experience from the IGF in Kyoto shows the effectiveness of a bottom-up approach

---

Addressing the weaknesses and gaps in the existing system

Supporting facts:

• Identifying and filling these gaps is an important part of the GDC discussion

---

Role of regional organizations like the Eurasian Economic Union in driving economic growth using digital tools

Supporting facts:

• The Eurasian Economic Union is already working on these issues

---

Interconnection between digitalization and climate change

Supporting facts:

• Recognizes the need to include the sustainability of the digitalization and its impact on climate as a cross-cutting issue in the GDC

---

Anna-Karin Eneström expresses agreement and inspiration from the deep dives and proposals

Supporting facts:

• Mentioned looking into details that Chula discussed

• Emphasized on committing to multi-stakeholder process and appreciating interaction with all these stakeholders

---

AI will be integrated into the entire global digital compact and the council will work with the Secretary General’s advisory body on it

Supporting facts:

• Advisory Body met for the first time physically and will come up with predictions and proposals to help them develop the global digital compact.

---

Report

The establishment of a global digital compact is gaining widespread support. The aim of this compact is to strengthen digital cooperation, bridge the digital divide, and ensure a secure and inclusive digital future for all. It should be based on the UN Charter, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and the Agenda 2030, which outlines the SDGs.

It is important to note that the compact should not duplicate the work of existing organisations such as the Internet Governance Forum (IGF), the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), and United Nations World Summit on the Information Society (WISIS).

The discussion also highlighted the importance of a bottom-up approach to digital cooperation, drawing from the experiences and effectiveness of the IGF in Kyoto. This approach should be linked to policy and member states to ensure their active participation and input.

Addressing weaknesses and gaps in the current digital system was another key aspect raised in the discussion. It is crucial to identify and fill these gaps as part of the global digital compact discussion in order to enhance and improve the existing system.

The role of regional organisations, such as the Eurasian Economic Union, in driving economic growth through the use of digital tools was emphasised. These organisations are already working on these issues and their involvement can contribute significantly to achieving the SDGs.

Furthermore, the discussion recognised the interconnection between digitalisation and climate change. The sustainability of digitalisation and its impact on climate change should be considered as a cross-cutting issue within the global digital compact. A bold and innovative approach to the global digital compact was deemed necessary.

Switzerland’s active participation and input in the discussions further highlighted the need for this approach to drive effective digital cooperation. Commitment to a multi-stakeholder process is essential, involving continuous proposals and engagement from various stakeholders. The past multi-stakeholder events in Geneva and Kyoto were mentioned as examples, emphasising the invitation and encouragement of good proposals.

Artificial intelligence (AI) will play an integral role in the global digital compact. The Secretary General’s advisory body, which met physically for the first time, will provide predictions and proposals to aid in the development of the compact. In conclusion, there is strong support for the establishment of a global digital compact that aims to bridge the digital divide and ensure a secure and inclusive digital future for all.

This compact should be based on established international frameworks, while avoiding duplication of existing work. A bottom-up approach to digital cooperation, addressing weaknesses and gaps, and involving regional organisations are crucial aspects. The interconnection between digitalisation and climate change should be considered, and a bold and innovative approach is needed.

Furthermore, a commitment to a multi-stakeholder process, including the integration of AI, will be pivotal in achieving the goals of the global digital compact.

Arguments

AI firms should not be self-regulating, governments and intergovernmental organizations must intervene without stifling innovation

Supporting facts:

• UK’s Prime Minister mentioned that AI firms cannot be left to mark their own homework

---

Need to shift focus from prevention of harms to addressing major issues like digital and physical divide

---

Report

During the discussion on AI regulation, the speakers emphasised the importance of government intervention to prevent self-regulation by AI firms. The Prime Minister of the UK expressed the view that AI firms cannot be left to mark their own homework, implying that an external entity, such as the government or intergovernmental organisations, should step in to regulate them.

In addition to government intervention, the speakers advocated for civil society and expert community-driven initiatives. They highlighted the need for these initiatives to play a significant role in regulating AI, as they bring together a wide range of stakeholders and encourage transparency and accountability.

Furthermore, the establishment of a global trusted third-party AI assurance market was proposed as a way to ensure that AI systems are evaluated and tested for safety and ethical considerations. The speakers also addressed the need to shift the focus from merely preventing harms to addressing major issues such as the digital and physical divide.

They argued that while preventing harm is crucial, there is a broader impact of AI on society that needs to be addressed. In particular, they highlighted the digital and physical divide, which refers to the inequalities and disparities in access to technology and infrastructure.

The speakers asserted that it is essential to bridge these divides to ensure that the benefits of AI are distributed more evenly. Moreover, there was a strong call for the transformation of organisational structures and practices of public sectors and multilateral organisations.

The speakers advocated for changes that promote collaboration, innovation, and responsiveness to the challenges posed by AI. They emphasised that these changes would enable public sectors and multilateral organisations to effectively adapt and utilise AI technologies to achieve their goals.

In conclusion, the discussion on AI regulation stressed the importance of government intervention to prevent self-regulation by AI firms. The need for civil society involvement, expert community-driven initiatives, and a global trusted third-party AI assurance market was also highlighted. Additionally, the speakers underscored the significance of addressing major issues like the digital and physical divide and transforming organisational structures and practices in the public sector and multilateral organisations.

The overall message conveyed by the speakers was the necessity of a balanced approach that ensures the responsible and ethical use of AI while fostering innovation and societal progress.

Arguments

Chola Milambo emphasizes the significance of the current period in which dramatic technological changes are taking place.

Supporting facts:

• Mentions developments like quantum computation and miniaturization of the transistor. Argues that such changes could forever alter the world’s trajectory.

---

Chola Milambo acknowledges the risks of this digital transition.

Supporting facts:

• Points out the concentration of data in a few centers and the existence of a digital divide with 2.7 billion people still unconnected.

• Warns that these risks could potentially result in a wider digital divide.

---

Chola Milambo calls for a global framework to collaborate on digital matters.

Supporting facts:

• Argues that to harness the benefits of the digital transition and guard against its risks, a collaborative global framework is necessary.

• Emphasizes that the global digital compact process is set to start in earnest, involving all stakeholders.

---

Chola Milambo makes an appeal for wide participation in the Global Digital Compact process, emphasizing involvement of all stakeholders.

Supporting facts:

• Emphasises the need for involvement of all stakeholders, including those from the Global South, Global North, tech communities, women, youth, and disabled individuals.

---

Recognition of existing work and build upon it

Supporting facts:

• Mentions the need to build upon the hard work that has gotten to the current point

• Implicit need for collaboration and knowledge transfer

---

Requirement of global political will at the highest level

Supporting facts:

• Political will is identified as a key factor in the implementation of the Global Digital Compact and its enforcement mechanisms

---

Dynamic nature of digital technological innovation

Supporting facts:

• Mentioned Eurasia Economic Union’s practice of updating laws to keep up with technological changes

---

Balance between possessing safeguards and fostering innovation in laws

Supporting facts:

• Discussed the challenge of lawmaking in step with innovation

---

Regional approach to data infrastructure is efficient

Supporting facts:

• Eurasia Union’s statement on using a regional approach to data infrastructure

---

Wants the issues on the successor to IGF post-2025 and data governance discussed

Supporting facts:

• States that these issues are debated in the negotiation process

---

The digital development tax proposed by Global Digital Justice Forum is an interesting idea to finance infrastructure in a sustainable way

Supporting facts:

• Taxes are a political question

• Taxation in the digital space is difficult due to cross-border issues and determining where value is created

---

AI governance could be a unifying factor if done right

Supporting facts:

• Other areas of governance could piggyback on a successful AI governance framework

• AIH Lab is working on creating such a framework

---

Report

Chola Milambo argues that the current period is of significant importance due to the technological changes taking place, such as quantum computation and miniaturisation of the transistor. These developments have the potential to forever alter the trajectory of the world.

Milambo acknowledges the risks associated with this digital transition, including data concentration and the existence of a digital divide with 2.7 billion people still unconnected. It is important to address these risks in order to prevent a wider digital divide from forming.

To effectively harness the benefits of the digital transition and mitigate its risks, Milambo calls for a collaborative global framework. This framework should involve all stakeholders, including those from the Global South and Global North, tech communities, women, youth, and disabled individuals.

The aim is to foster inclusivity and ensure that the digital transition benefits everyone. Political will is identified as a key factor in the implementation of the Global Digital Compact and its enforcement mechanisms. It is crucial to build upon the existing work that has already been done to make progress in digital matters.

Milambo recognises the dynamic nature of digital technological innovation and the challenge of creating laws that strike a balance between possessing safeguards and fostering innovation. Inefficiency through the duplication of tasks should be avoided. Rather, an open, transparent, and inclusive engagement process should be embraced.

This will ensure that diverse perspectives are taken into account and that decisions are made collectively. Milambo highlights the efficiency of a regional approach to data infrastructure, as demonstrated by the Eurasia Economic Union’s practice of updating laws to keep up with technological changes.

It is believed that this approach can be replicated in other regions to enhance data infrastructure. While digitisation is often associated with the digital economy, Milambo states that its ultimate goal is to improve life. It should contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, such as good health and well-being, and the eradication of poverty.

Milambo also advocates for the discussion of important issues such as the successor to IGF post-2025 and data governance. These topics should be debated, taking into account the negotiations that have already taken place. The proposal for a digital development tax by the Global Digital Justice Forum is seen as an interesting idea to finance infrastructure in a sustainable way.

This could help address the challenges posed by cross-border issues and determining where value is created in the digital space. AI governance is viewed as an important factor, with the potential to serve as a unifying factor if implemented correctly.

Additionally, the concept of AI insurance is seen as having potential, and a multi-stakeholder process is supported to ensure that diverse perspectives are heard and considered in decision-making. In conclusion, Chola Milambo emphasises the significance of the ongoing technological changes and the need to address the risks associated with the digital transition.

Collaboration, inclusivity, efficient infrastructure, and effective governance are highlighted as crucial elements in navigating this transformative period. The aim is to use technology to improve lives and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.

Arguments

Indonesia extends congratulations on the co-facilitator’s appointment for the Global Digital Compact

---

In light of the Tunis agenda and Paris Agreement, Indonesia seeks insight into the vision for the negotiation processes of the GDC

Supporting facts:

• Tunis Agenda was the result of multi-stakeholder negotiations

• Paris Agreement had prolonged negotiation processes

---

Indonesia is curious if GDC or any future framework for digital cooperation could act as a potential successor to the IGF?

Supporting facts:

• IGF mandate is concluding in 2025

---

Indonesia enquires how GDC role would be? Is it going to be a moral compass of all existing digital cooperations?

---

Report

Indonesia has extended its congratulations on the appointment of the co-facilitator for the Global Digital Compact, showing their support for the upcoming negotiation process. They are particularly interested in the vision for the negotiation processes, taking into account the Tunis Agenda and the Paris Agreement as important benchmarks.

Understanding that the Tunis Agenda resulted from multi-stakeholder negotiations and that the Paris Agreement underwent lengthy negotiation processes, Indonesia seeks insights into how these agreements can inform the negotiation processes of the Global Digital Compact. Indonesia is also curious about the potential role of the Global Digital Compact or any future framework for digital cooperation in relation to the Internet Governance Forum (IGF), especially since the IGF’s mandate is concluding in 2025.

They wonder if the Global Digital Compact, or a similar initiative, could serve as a successor to the IGF. Moreover, Indonesia is interested in understanding how the Global Digital Compact fits into the landscape of existing digital cooperations. They inquire about whether the Global Digital Compact would act as a moral compass for all existing digital cooperations, providing guidance and direction.

Lastly, Indonesia expresses a positive stance and a desire to contribute to the inclusive process of the Global Digital Compact. They believe in ensuring inclusivity and aligning with the goals of reducing inequalities, promoting peace and justice, and fostering partnerships for the goals.

In summary, Indonesia’s engagement with the Global Digital Compact demonstrates their interest in the negotiation processes, curiosity about the future of digital cooperation, and commitment to an inclusive and equitable approach.

Arguments

There is a need for new paradigm to control corporations that have become too powerful and protect democratic structures.

Supporting facts:

• The technology leap, when driven by profits, can threaten the democratic structures.

---

UN ECOSOC’s decision of July 21 should support and reinforce the ‘unfinished agenda’ of enhanced cooperation.

Supporting facts:

• The ‘unfinished agenda’ of enhanced cooperation is both distinct and complementary to the IGF.

---

There should be a digital development tax to finance public digital infrastructure in developing countries.

Supporting facts:

• This financing can be done from the compulsory contributions from large corporations.

---

Interoperability of digital platforms and investment in alternative platform data and AI models are crucial.

Supporting facts:

• Interoperability and investment in AI models ensure information integrity and plural credible media.

---

Report

In this analysis, several important points are raised by the speakers. The first speaker argues that the power of corporations threatens democratic structures and calls for new measures to control these powerful entities. This issue is of particular concern when technology advancements driven by profits contribute to the erosion of democratic processes.

The speaker suggests the need for a new paradigm to protect democratic structures from the undue influence of corporations. The second speaker emphasizes the importance of supporting and reinforcing the “unfinished agenda” of enhanced cooperation. This agenda is regarded as distinct yet complementary to the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) and requires the support of the United Nations Economic and Social Council (UN ECOSOC).

The speaker asserts that the decision of UN ECOSOC on 21st July should be directed towards endorsing and strengthening the “unfinished agenda” of enhanced cooperation. The third speaker proposes the implementation of a digital development tax to finance public digital infrastructure in developing countries.

It is suggested that this financing could be obtained through compulsory contributions from large corporations. By levying a digital development tax, resources can be directed towards addressing the digital divide and promoting inclusive digital development, in line with the goals of reduced inequalities and industry, innovation, and infrastructure.

The fourth speaker underscores the importance of interoperability and investment in alternative platform data and AI models for information integrity and credible media. Interoperability of digital platforms ensures the seamless sharing and exchange of information, while investment in AI models supports the creation of reliable and diverse sources of information.

This approach can contribute to the promotion of plural credible media and ensure the accuracy and integrity of information. The final speaker contends that the Global Digital Cooperation (GDC) follow-up processes should be clear, transparent, and foster genuine multi-stakeholder participation.

By establishing clear guidelines and promoting transparency, these processes can help distinguish and clarify the roles, responsibilities, and powers of non-state actors. This approach is essential to prevent corporate dominance and maintain a balanced and inclusive digital ecosystem. In conclusion, this analysis highlights various perspectives on critical issues in digital governance and cooperation.

The speakers emphasize the need to protect democratic structures from corporate influence, advance enhanced cooperation, finance digital infrastructure, promote information integrity, and ensure multi-stakeholder engagement. By addressing these challenges effectively, it is believed that a more equitable and inclusive digital landscape can be achieved.

Arguments

The CSTD can continue to make a useful contribution to the Global Digital Compact as negotiations move forward

Supporting facts:

• The CSTD provided input to the open consultations on the GDC and has accumulated knowledge about digitalization over 20 years of WSIS implementation

---

Previous discussions and declarations have provided a solid basis for navigating the complexities of the digital world of the future

Supporting facts:

• The WSIS and the follow-up WSIS-10 affirmed the multi-stakeholder model of Internet Governance and identified strategies for digital cooperation

---

Internet has shown significant growth since the start of the WSIS, indicating the success of the current governing model

Supporting facts:

• When WSIS concluded in 2005, there were 1 billion Internet users around the globe. Today, there are more than 5 billion users.

---

IGF could be used to mobilize the entire Internet community

Supporting facts:

• The Kyoto IGF held in Kyoto last month had more than 9,000 registered participants and discussed nearly every topic on the global digital agenda

---

Report

The analysis highlights several key points regarding the Global Digital Compact (GDC) and the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS). Firstly, it emphasizes the contribution that the Commission on Science and Technology for Development (CSTD) can make to the GDC as negotiations progress.

With over 20 years of WSIS implementation, the CSTD has accumulated knowledge about digitalisation, making it a valuable resource in shaping the future of the GDC. This positive sentiment is supported by the fact that the CSTD has provided input to open consultations on the GDC.

Furthermore, the analysis underscores the significance of the multi-stakeholder model of Internet Governance and strategies for digital cooperation. Previous discussions and declarations, such as the WSIS and the follow-up WSIS-10, have endorsed and affirmed this model. These discussions and declarations have laid a solid foundation for navigating the complexities of the digital world of the future.

This positive sentiment is based on the fact that the multi-stakeholder model has proven effective in addressing the challenges of Internet Governance. The analysis also highlights the remarkable growth of Internet usage since the establishment of WSIS. Starting with just 1 billion Internet users in 2005, the number has now exceeded 5 billion users globally.

This exponential growth demonstrates the success of the current governing model and affirms the positive impact of the WSIS. This evidence strengthens the argument that the WSIS has played a crucial role in the expansion and accessibility of the Internet.

Another noteworthy observation is the potential of the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) to mobilize the entire Internet community. The recent Kyoto IGF, with over 9,000 registered participants, covered a wide range of topics on the global digital agenda. This illustrates the IGF’s capacity to gather stakeholders and foster dialogue on key issues related to Internet governance.

The analysis suggests leveraging the IGF as a platform for mobilization and collaboration in addressing the challenges of the digital world. Additionally, the analysis suggests that the Global Digital Compact and future summits aim to align the WSIS process more closely with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

By linking these two entities, it is believed that progress towards achieving the SDGs can be accelerated. Looking ahead, the analysis proposes WSIS plus 20 in 2025 as an opportunity to delve into the details of digital cooperation. This suggests that future discussions will focus on addressing the specific challenges and opportunities associated with digital cooperation.

In conclusion, the analysis highlights the CSTD’s potential contribution to the GDC, the endorsement of the multi-stakeholder model of Internet Governance, the remarkable growth of Internet usage since the start of WSIS, the mobilization potential of the IGF, and the importance of aligning the WSIS process with the SDGs.

These insights shed light on the significance of the WSIS and its ongoing efforts to shape the digital landscape towards a more inclusive and sustainable future.

Arguments

Shift to digital economy is seen as a driver for economic growth in Eurasian Economic Union.

Supporting facts:

• Outlining main areas for implementing digital agenda until 2025.

• Planning to use a regulatory sandbox framework for controlled experimentation.

---

Personal data protection is handled at a national level within Union’s member states.

Supporting facts:

• Adjusting laws and approaches to address digital issues.

---

Internet establishment seen as crucial infrastructure in the global information society.

Supporting facts:

• Discusses the need for an impartial governance system for the internet.

---

Report

The Eurasian Economic Union regards the transition to a digital economy as a crucial driver for economic growth. To achieve this objective, the Union has outlined key areas for implementing a digital agenda until 2025. This demonstrates the Union’s commitment to embracing digitalization and capitalizing on its potential benefits for economic development.

To facilitate innovation and progress in the digital sector, the Union plans to adopt a regulatory sandbox framework for controlled experimentation. This approach allows for the testing of new technologies and business models in a controlled environment, fostering innovation while ensuring consumer protection and market stability.

Regarding personal data protection, responsibility lies at the national level within the Union’s member states. This indicates a decentralized approach, where individual countries within the Union possess the flexibility to tailor their laws and approaches to address digital issues while safeguarding personal data.

Recognizing the internet as a critical infrastructure in the global information society, the Union emphasizes the requirement for an impartial governance system. This aims to ensure equitable and unrestricted internet access, and to prevent discriminatory practices that may hinder its potential as a tool for social and economic development.

The digitization and establishment of a digital economy are not only seen as drivers of economic growth but are also expected to contribute to the enhancement of socio-economic well-being. By harnessing the power of digital technologies and promoting their adoption across various sectors, the Union aims to create a more inclusive and economically prosperous society.

Addressing the issue of the digital divide is also a priority for the Union. It recognizes the necessity to reduce the gap between those who have access to digital technologies and those who do not. Additionally, to promote responsible conduct in the digital sphere, the Union emphasizes the need to develop criteria for regulating the activities of digital giants.

This implies the need for stricter oversight and regulations to ensure fair competition and consumer protection. In conclusion, the Eurasian Economic Union actively embraces the digital economy, acknowledging its potential for economic growth. Through the outline of a digital agenda, the adoption of a regulatory sandbox framework, and an emphasis on personal data protection, internet governance, and socio-economic well-being, the Union takes steps towards creating a more inclusive, innovative, and responsible digital landscape.

Arguments

Maxime Stauffer is curious about the place of AI governance in the GDC

Supporting facts:

• AI governance is mentioned in the policy brief and in consultations

---

Report

The analysis examines the perspectives of two individuals, Maxime Stauffer and an unidentified person, on the role of AI governance in the GDC (Global Governance of Data, Algorithms, and Compute). Maxime Stauffer expresses curiosity about the place of AI governance in the GDC and believes it could be a unifying thread encompassing governance of data, algorithms, compute, development of principles for safe AI, and preserving space for innovation.

AI governance is mentioned in the policy brief regarding the GDC, highlighting its importance in global governance. Consultations also address the significance of AI governance, confirming its relevance in GDC discussions. The unidentified person supports Maxime Stauffer’s stance and emphasizes that AI governance is crucial for achieving Goal 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure.

This indicates that effective governance of AI has a direct impact on advancements in these areas. Furthermore, the analysis lacks specific supporting evidence for Maxime Stauffer’s perspective. However, it is noteworthy that Maxime Stauffer suggests comprehensive AI governance, covering dimensions such as data, algorithms, compute, and principles for safe AI development.

This implies that AI governance should address various aspects and concerns related to AI. Overall, the analysis underscores the importance of AI governance within the GDC context. The inclusion of AI governance in the policy brief and consultations highlights its significance in global governance discussions.

The viewpoints presented support the idea of comprehensive AI governance to ensure safe and responsible AI development while promoting innovation.

Arguments

Mia appreciates ITU’s arrangement of meetings and UNCTAD for hosting the meeting which gathered members and multi-stakeholders

---

Global Digital Compact is an integral part of chapter 3, Pact of the Future, but will be negotiated separately and annexed later

Supporting facts:

• The Global Digital Compact is part of the Chapter 3, and will have a reference in that chapter, but it will be negotiated separately as a separate process, and then be annexed to the Pact of the Future.

---

Negotiations and consultative part of the negotiations will start in February, with a timeline extending to end of June

---

Report

The analysis delves into various topics, starting with the appreciation expressed towards the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) for organizing meetings and the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) for hosting them. These meetings successfully brought together members and multiple stakeholders.

Additionally, the analysis highlights the significance of the Global Digital Compact, which is part of Chapter 3, referred to as the Pact of the Future. Although it is an integral part of the chapter, it will undergo separate negotiations and be annexed to the Pact of the Future at a later stage.

This distinct negotiation process ensures focused discussions and proper attention to the Global Digital Compact. The analysis also mentions that negotiations and consultative components are scheduled to commence in February and conclude by the end of June. This timeline provides a structured framework for discussions and decision-making.

Furthermore, the importance of striking a balance between data protection and governance and the free flow of data for economic growth and progress is highlighted. The argument put forth suggests that data protection and governance should be balanced to support economic growth while allowing individuals to have control over the collection, processing, and storage of their data.

This approach acknowledges the need for data protection while considering the potential benefits of open data flows for innovation and development. The supporting evidence underscores the notion that individuals should have control over the collection, processing, and storage of their data, aligning with the principles of privacy and personal autonomy.

Overall, the analysis provides valuable insights into the appreciation for ITU’s meeting arrangements, UNCTAD’s hosting of the meetings, the separate negotiation process for the Global Digital Compact, the timelines for negotiations and consultations, and the importance of balancing data protection with the free flow of data.

These insights contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the discussed topics and their implications for the stakeholders involved in these processes.

Arguments

Data governance is essential to achieve the objectives of the Global Digital Compact

Supporting facts:

• Data governance is expected to outline shared principles for an open, free, and secure digital future for all

---

Data governance should offer a balance between protection and desirable openness

Supporting facts:

• Data governance should position between necessary protections of sensitive data and personal data, but also a desirable openness

---

Global data governance should be achieved through a distributed system

Supporting facts:

• Global data governance should be achieved with a distributed system, similar to the technical infrastructure of the internet

---

Report

Data governance is considered crucial in achieving the goals set forth by the Global Digital Compact. The aim of data governance is to establish a set of shared principles that will ensure an open, free, and secure digital future for all.

It involves implementing guidelines and mechanisms to govern the use, access, and protection of data. The sentiment surrounding the importance of data governance is generally positive, and there are several arguments supporting its significance. One argument is that data governance should strike a delicate balance between safeguarding sensitive and personal data while also encouraging openness.

It is essential to protect data to ensure privacy and security, while also allowing for transparency, access, and innovation. By finding this equilibrium, data governance can create an environment where individuals and organisations can rely on data for various purposes, while having their privacy and security concerns addressed.

Another key point is that global data governance should be achieved through a distributed system, similar to the technical infrastructure of the internet. A distributed system can promote inclusivity and flexibility, enabling participation from multiple stakeholders across different geographical locations.

This approach fosters collaboration and partnership, which are crucial in addressing the complex challenges associated with global data governance. Additionally, the Datasphere Initiative, a non-profit organisation working on data governance, wants to contribute its views and insights to the ongoing data governance process.

This initiative recognises the importance of incorporating diverse perspectives and expertise to ensure effective and comprehensive data governance. Their positive sentiment towards inputting their views indicates a desire for collaboration and inclusivity in shaping data governance policies and practices. In conclusion, data governance plays a vital role in realising the objectives of the Global Digital Compact.

It is perceived as an essential framework for guiding the responsible use and management of data, ensuring a balance between protection and openness. By adopting a distributed system and involving various stakeholders like the Datasphere Initiative, a more comprehensive and effective approach to global data governance can be achieved, paving the way for a secure and sustainable digital future.

Arguments

The governance of data must look beyond privacy and data protection of the individual to include questions of data and the intelligence derived from it, group privacy, and ownership and value of aggregate data

Supporting facts:

• Aggregate data, for instance, the transactions data that Amazon collects, enables companies to make business decisions

• Insights from large swathes of data can affect people who may not have even been involved in that particular data collection exercise

---

The consultative process in the run-up to the GDC and beyond should ensure actual participation and not become a proxy for multinational entities

Supporting facts:

• Accountability measures for big tech platforms, including their financing and taxation, needs to be established

---

The GDC should become the moment to ensure the right kind of digitalization and that it should become entrenched in global policy discussions for a shared vision

---

Report

The governance of data must go beyond concerns about individual privacy and data protection. It is necessary to consider broader issues such as group privacy, ownership, and the value of aggregate data. This includes recognizing the significance of aggregate data, such as the transaction data collected by companies like Amazon, which enables businesses to make informed decisions.

The argument is that the governance of data should incorporate questions surrounding the intelligence derived from data and its impact on individuals who may not have been directly involved in its collection. The consultative process leading up to the establishment of the Global Data Commons (GDC) and beyond should prioritize genuine participation and avoid being influenced by multinational entities.

The aim is to ensure that the process does not become a mere proxy for these entities but rather actively involves stakeholders from various backgrounds. This is particularly important to establish accountability measures for big tech platforms, including issues related to their financing and taxation.

It is believed that the GDC should serve as a platform to address these concerns and foster transparency and responsibility within the digital landscape. The GDC is seen as an opportunity to shape the future of digitalization in a way that aligns with global policy discussions and shared visions.

It is suggested that the GDC should play a key role in promoting the right kind of digitalization, ensuring that it is in line with the values and goals of various international initiatives. By embedding the principles of shared vision, the GDC can help foster a more inclusive and equitable digital ecosystem.

However, there are some concerns about the potential for private corporations to enclose data, especially aggregate data. The argument is made for shared ownership and value of data to prevent the monopolization and exclusive control of data by private entities.

It is important to address these concerns to protect the interests of both individuals and society as a whole. In conclusion, the governance of data should encompass a wider range of considerations beyond individual privacy and data protection. The consultative process leading up to the establishment of the GDC should prioritize genuine participation and avoid being influenced by multinational entities.

The GDC should strive to promote the right kind of digitalization and ensure alignment with global policy discussions and shared visions. Additionally, the shared ownership and value of data, particularly aggregate data, should be emphasized to prevent the exclusive control and monopolization of data by private corporations.

Establishing accountability measures for big tech platforms is crucial in ensuring responsible and transparent practices within the digital realm.

Arguments

The ITU has been actively engaged and supportive in the digital and space issues sector, contributing to the UN Secretary General’s Common Agenda Report and roadmap for digital cooperation

Supporting facts:

• In September of 2021 attention was given to digital and space issues in the UN Secretary General’s Common Agenda Report

---

There is already a lot of successful and productive work happening within the WSIS ecosystem including the IGF and the WSIS Forum that can be utilized as we move towards the summit of the future

---

There are new digital divides opening up with the adoption of new technologies which emphasizes the importance of work on infrastructure, capacity building, and access to services

Supporting facts:

• 2.6 billion people remain offline today

• In high-income countries 89% of people have 5G coverage while it is nearly absent in low-income countries

---

Report

The analysis provides a comprehensive overview of key points related to digital and space issues, highlighting the active engagement and support of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) in these sectors. The ITU has contributed to the UN Secretary General’s Common Agenda Report and the roadmap for digital cooperation, demonstrating its commitment to promoting global collaboration in addressing these challenges.

Additionally, the analysis acknowledges the successful work within the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) ecosystem, including the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) and the WSIS Forum. These platforms have facilitated productive discussions and fostered partnerships in digital cooperation, serving as potential models for future summits.

However, the analysis also highlights the emergence of new digital divides associated with the adoption of new technologies. The disparities in infrastructure, capacity building, and access to services are exacerbated by technological advancements. The importance of addressing these issues, particularly in low-income countries, is emphasised.

Investments in infrastructure development, knowledge sharing, and enabling access to digital services are crucial to ensure inclusive and equitable digital development. The analysis includes statistics showing that 2.6 billion people still lack online access and 5G coverage is significantly uneven between high and low-income countries.

Lastly, the analysis showcases the ITU’s commitment to supporting the Global Digital Cooperation (GDC) process. It demonstrates the ITU’s readiness to contribute and collaborate with co-facilitators and Member States. Overall, the analysis provides a comprehensive understanding of the current landscape of digital and space issues, emphasising the ITU’s role, successful work within the WSIS ecosystem, emerging digital divides, and the ITU’s commitment to global digital cooperation.

Bridging the digital divide through infrastructure development, capacity building, and enhanced access to services is crucial, particularly in low-income countries.

Arguments

Digitalization is a prerequisite for inclusive and sustainable development, crucial for bringing the 2030 agenda back on track.

Supporting facts:

• The pact of the future offers an opportunity to recommit to existing principles and amplify the uptake of the main building blocks of an inclusive policy framework.

---

The Global Digital Compact (GDC) should reiterate member states’ commitment to bridge digital gaps and promote internet connectivity.

Supporting facts:

• Flexible and forward-looking policy and regulatory approaches can help enable investments across the digital value chain.

---

The GDC should encourage the maintenance of an open, interconnected, and interoperable internet.

---

Establishing trust and minimizing disruptions in data flows are important for leveraging benefits of digitalization.

Supporting facts:

• The GDC should call for unjustified obstacles to cross-border data flows to be removed while addressing privacy and data protection.

---

Inquiry about the interaction between the broader Chapter 3 title that includes science, technology, and innovation and digital cooperation, and the GDC process.

---

Report

The Global Digital Compact (GDC) aims to drive inclusive and sustainable development through digitalization. It emphasizes the need for member states to bridge digital gaps and promote internet connectivity to ensure universal access to digital resources and opportunities. To achieve this, the GDC calls for flexible and forward-looking policy and regulatory approaches that enable investments across the digital value chain.

The GDC also supports the maintenance of an open, interconnected, and interoperable internet, promoting information exchange and collaboration. In the digital age, data flows are crucial for leveraging the benefits of digitalization. The GDC recognizes the significance of establishing trust and minimizing disruptions in cross-border data flows, while also addressing privacy and data protection concerns.

The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) strongly supports the GDC and advocates for a multistakeholder governance model. Acknowledging the global nature of the internet, the ICC believes that an effective governance model should be open, inclusive, and transparent, allowing diverse voices and perspectives to contribute to policy processes.

Additionally, the GDC process explores the interaction between science, technology, and innovation, and digital cooperation. Understanding this relationship is essential for shaping policies and strategies that promote sustainable development in the digital era. Overall, the GDC presents a vital opportunity to foster inclusive and sustainable development through digitalization.

By addressing digital gaps, promoting internet connectivity, ensuring an open and interoperable internet, and facilitating data flows while considering privacy aspects, the GDC aims to enhance people’s lives and contribute to the achievement of the 2030 agenda. The support for a multistakeholder governance model further strengthens the GDC’s commitment to transparency and inclusivity.

Arguments

United Nations provides a very appropriate platform to develop a global digital compact

Supporting facts:

• Switzerland has been very actively engaging in this process

• Switzerland is convinced about the role of UN

---

The multi-stakeholder approach is more relevant than ever

Supporting facts:

• We are really living in an age of digital interdependence where silo thinking and top-down approaches are inadequate.

---

Avoid creation of any duplications in institutions and processes in the digital world

Supporting facts:

• Switzerland supports the development of the GDC based on existing work streams and fora

---

Appropriate digital governance, including of AI and data governance

Supporting facts:

• Switzerland identified the GDC as an opportunity to gain this

• There is also a need for a responsible handling of new technologies

---

GDC should build on already existing agreements

Supporting facts:

• The work of the high-level panel on digital cooperation and the UN Secretary-General’s roadmap for digital cooperation are recommended

---

Report

Switzerland actively supports the development of a Global Digital Compact (GDC) through the United Nations (UN). The country firmly believes that the UN provides an appropriate platform for developing a global digital compact. Switzerland recognizes the importance of addressing the challenges and opportunities of the digital age on a global scale, and it has actively engaged in this process.

In today’s age of digital interdependence, the multi-stakeholder approach is seen as more relevant than ever. Switzerland emphasizes the need to move away from silo thinking and top-down approaches, as they are inadequate for addressing the complexities of the digital world.

Involving multiple stakeholders from different sectors and backgrounds is essential for finding comprehensive and effective solutions. However, Switzerland advises caution to avoid creating duplications in institutions and processes within the digital world. It believes that efforts should be made to harness and build upon existing workstreams and fora, thereby preventing unnecessary overlaps and ensuring a streamlined and efficient approach to digital governance.

Switzerland sees the GDC as an opportunity to address not only the overall governance of the digital sphere but also the specific areas of artificial intelligence (AI) and data governance. The country recognizes the significance of these emerging technologies and the need for responsible handling.

It views the GDC as a means of fostering appropriate digital governance that takes into account the ethical and societal implications of AI and data usage. Furthermore, Switzerland emphasizes the importance of building upon already existing agreements and initiatives to avoid reinventing the wheel.

The work of the high-level panel on digital cooperation and the UN Secretary-General’s roadmap for digital cooperation are seen as valuable resources that can inform the development of the GDC. This approach ensures coherence and compatibility with existing global efforts, facilitating collaboration and progress.

Additionally, Switzerland advocates for a strong focus on human rights online. It underscores the importance of ensuring broad access to new technologies and promoting sustainable development in the digital era. By placing human rights at the forefront of discussions and decision-making processes, Switzerland believes that the GDC can contribute to reducing inequalities and empowering individuals in the digital space.

In conclusion, Switzerland actively supports the development of a Global Digital Compact through the United Nations. It advocates for a multi-stakeholder approach that recognizes the challenges and opportunities of the digital age. Switzerland advises against creating duplications and emphasizes the need for appropriate digital governance, including AI and data governance.

Building upon existing agreements and focusing on human rights online are seen as crucial elements for a successful GDC. By fostering collaboration and addressing ethical considerations, the GDC has the potential to drive positive change in the digital world.

Arguments

Digital infrastructure can be more effective with a regional approach

Supporting facts:

• A regional approach to data infrastructure could lead to economies of scale and use of shared strengths and infrastructure

• Eurasia Union is considering this approach

---

The ultimate goal of digitization is to improve life

Supporting facts:

• The statement made by the Eurasia Union puts emphasis on improving life rather than just focusing on the digital economy

• Putting people at the center is core to the digitization process

---

The upcoming digital economy report will focus on the environmental footprints of the emerging digital economy

Supporting facts:

• UNCTAD’s next digital economy report is set to launch in May

• There is a lack of data on this important issue

---

Report

The Eurasia Union is considering a regional approach to data infrastructure, which has the potential to bring about economies of scale and maximize the utilization of shared strengths and infrastructure. This collaborative effort aims to enhance the effectiveness of digital infrastructure in the region, fostering improved connectivity and technological advancements.

The primary goal of digitization is to enhance the quality of life. The Eurasia Union’s statement emphasizes the importance of prioritizing life improvement rather than solely focusing on the digital economy. Placing people at the center of the digitization process ensures that technology is effectively leveraged to improve quality of life, support well-being, and address societal needs.

The Global Digital Council (GDC) is committed to reducing duplication and efficiently filling gaps in the digital infrastructure system. Their agenda includes identifying and addressing areas of duplication, enhancing efficiency, and ensuring optimal utilization of resources. Involving high-level policymakers is crucial for the success of these initiatives, highlighting the importance of effective collaboration.

UNCTAD is set to launch its upcoming digital economy report in May, with a focus on the environmental footprints associated with the emerging digital economy. This inclusion demonstrates a commitment to responsible consumption and production. The report seeks to address the lack of available data on this important issue and shed light on the environmental impact of the digital economy.

In conclusion, the Eurasia Union’s consideration of a regional approach to data infrastructure has the potential to enhance its effectiveness by capitalizing on economies of scale and shared infrastructure. Furthermore, prioritizing life improvement in digitization efforts ensures that technology serves to improve people’s lives and address societal needs.

The GDC’s commitment to reducing duplication and filling gaps efficiently highlights the importance of collaboration and resource optimization. Lastly, UNCTAD’s upcoming digital economy report emphasizes the need for responsible consumption and production by focusing on the environmental footprints of the emerging digital economy.

Report

I apologise for the confusion. Here is an edited and corrected version of the expanded summary: The objective is to create a comprehensive summary that presents a detailed analysis of a given text or topic. The extended summary aims to provide a thorough overview by incorporating additional information about the main points, arguments, evidence, and conclusion presented in the original text.

To achieve this, the extended summary will delve deeper into the key points discussed, offering a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter. It will highlight the supporting arguments and evidence presented by the author, strengthening their viewpoint and credibility. Furthermore, the extended summary will focus on noteworthy observations or insights gained from the analysis, providing a unique perspective and highlighting significant aspects that may have been overlooked in a shorter summary.

This will contribute to a holistic overview and a more comprehensive understanding of the topic. Throughout the extended summary, British spelling and grammar rules will be followed, ensuring accuracy and consistency in language usage. This will enhance the overall readability and clarity of the summary, making it accessible and easy to comprehend for the intended audience.

In conclusion, the aim of this extended summary is to provide a comprehensive analysis of the text or topic, incorporating additional details, supporting arguments, evidence, and significant observations. It adheres to British spelling and grammar rules while maintaining the quality and accuracy of the main analysis text.

Arguments

André Simha argues that collaboration is essential for digital transformation in the maritime industry

Supporting facts:

• Simha believes the maritime industry is interconnected and the transition to digital should be carried out collectively

• Simha stresses that digital transformation is more about transformation, less about digital and it starts and ends with people

• Simha mentions the concept of symbiosis in relation to collaboration

• Simha advocates for industry standards to ensure better communication and collaboration

• Simha cites the example of virtual watchtower and the need for standards for effective communication and collaboration

Topics: Digital Transformation, Collaboration, Maritime Industry

---

Data sharing is not only essential but is critical

Supporting facts:

• In the past 20 years, only two platforms were built for data sharing – Intra and TradeLens, but they have not developed as expected.

• Issues like decarbonisation and sustainability can’t be tackled without data sharing.

Topics: Data sharing, Platform development, Decarbonisation, Sustainability

---

Change begins and ends with people

Supporting facts:

• The key stakeholders need to understand the value and necessity of data sharing.

• If we don’t change, we might have to carry on this conversation in 20 years with a mask due to bad air quality.

Topics: Change Management, Stakeholder Engagement

---

Report

André Simha, a prominent figure in the maritime industry, emphasises the importance of collaboration when it comes to achieving digital transformation. Simha argues that a collective approach is necessary, considering the interconnected nature of the industry. He believes that digital transformation is not solely about technology, but about transforming the industry as a whole, placing people at its core.

Simha also advocates for the adoption of industry standards to ensure effective digital transformation. He highlights the significance of collaboration and adoption in making these standards the norm. Simha cites the efforts of the Digital Container Shipping Association in pushing the industry forward through the creation of strong, open-source standards.

Furthermore, Simha stresses the criticality of data sharing in digital transformation within the maritime industry. He notes that though two platforms, Intra and TradeLens, have been developed for data sharing over the past two decades, they have not progressed as expected.

Simha argues that addressing key issues, such as decarbonisation and sustainability, necessitates extensive data sharing. Additionally, Simha underscores the importance of trust and the need for a neutral, non-profit, and legally compliant platform to facilitate efficient data sharing. He acknowledges trust as a significant concern in data sharing and highlights the sometimes vague nature of legally compliant platforms.

Simha suggests the establishment of a transparent and neutral platform that adheres to legal requirements. Moreover, Simha highlights change management and stakeholder engagement as crucial factors in driving digital transformation. He stresses the need for key stakeholders to understand the value and necessity of data sharing in order to facilitate meaningful change.

Simha warns that without embracing change, conversations about digital transformation in the next 20 years may require face masks due to the detrimental effects of air pollution. In summary, Simha’s viewpoints emphasize the importance of collaboration, industry standards, data sharing, trust, and stakeholder engagement in achieving digital transformation in the maritime industry.

He asserts that this transformation goes beyond technology and demands a holistic change that involves the cooperation of individuals across the industry.

Arguments

The collaboration and digitalization are interdependent in order to make progress in the field of resilience and sustainability in shipping

Supporting facts:

• The collaboration is necessary to make digitalization work in shipping sector

• Digitalization enhances the efficiency of collaboration

Topics: Collaboration, Digitalization, Resilience, Sustainability, Shipping

---

The work on the ship and ashore is blurring due to digital and communication technologies

Supporting facts:

• The digital and communication technologies allow the captain and the officers and the staff to know what is happening ashore

• Management ashore can track the engine’s heat, condition of cargo, speed and other details of the ship

Topics: Digitalization, Communication Technologies

---

Measuring and then taking decisions on emissions is very close to the work done at ANGTAT in collaboration with IMO

Supporting facts:

• The estimates were usually based on average but now there’s a focus on accurate emissions

• These estimates were good enough for understanding emissions on different trade routes

Topics: emissions, collaboration, IMO, ANGTAT

---

Importance of shared data and standards for industry collaboration

Supporting facts:

• IATA and ICAO have demonstrated successful data collaboration in the aviation industry

• Shared data can help respond to disruptions in real-time

• Data sharing can build trust and a sense of obligation within the industry

• Data insights can generate both economic and societal benefits

Topics: Data sharing, Industry collaboration, Digital collaboration tools, Supply chain resilience

---

Addressing challenges for data sharing

Supporting facts:

• Competition between the carrier and the freight forwarders may pose challenges for data sharing

• Concerns about anti-competition laws and private commercial knowledge can be barriers

Topics: Data sharing, Industry collaboration, Competition concerns

---

The need for a trusted, neutral entity to manage data sharing

Supporting facts:

• Private data owners would be more willing to share their data if they could trust the custodian.

• A trade program for member ports that involves sharing of confidential KPIs with feedback was discussed.

Topics: data sharing, shipping performance, port performance, business operations

---

Report

During the discussion, the speakers emphasized the significance of collaboration and digitalization in the shipping industry to enhance resilience, sustainability, and overall efficiency. They acknowledged that these two factors are interdependent, recognizing that progress in the field of resilience and sustainability can only be achieved through effective collaboration supported by digitalization.

The speakers commended the efforts of individuals, particularly Wolfgang and Michael, who organized sessions and actively promoted collaboration. They believed in the power of collaboration and its potential to drive positive change in the industry. Jan Hoffmann, in particular, highlighted the importance of collaboration and advocated for it.

The integration of digital and communication technologies on ships and ashore was discussed as a key factor blurring the boundaries between work environments. These technologies allow captains, officers, and staff on board to stay informed about activities occurring ashore, such as tracking the ship’s engine condition, cargo status, and speed.

This integration is seen as vital for improving communication and enhancing operational efficiency. Dialogues were also deemed crucial for addressing challenges and finding solutions related to digitalization in the shipping industry. The rapid advancements in digital and communication technologies are transforming the way the industry operates, and ongoing dialogues are essential to ensure that these changes are effectively harnessed for positive outcomes.

The estimation and measurement of emissions were highlighted as critical elements of climate action. The speakers emphasized the need for accurate data in this process, moving away from average-based estimates towards more precise measurements. Collaboration with organizations like ANGTAT, in conjunction with the International Maritime Organization (IMO), was seen as fundamental to effectively address emissions and make informed decisions.

The importance of data sharing and collaboration was further exemplified by successful models observed in other industries. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) demonstrated how shared data can enable real-time response to disruptions, build trust among industry stakeholders, and generate both economic and societal benefits.

The positive externalities associated with shared data, such as reduced risk and improved safety, were also highlighted. However, the discussion also identified challenges related to competition and concerns about anti-competition laws and the protection of private commercial knowledge, which may hinder data sharing initiatives.

The speakers stressed the need to address these challenges to foster successful collaboration and achieve the desired outcomes. Another key point raised was the importance of having a trusted and neutral entity to manage data sharing. Establishing such an entity was seen as crucial for ensuring trust between data owners and custodians.

Additionally, trust was highlighted as a critical element in the overall process of data sharing. In conclusion, the speakers expressed strong support for collaboration, digitalization, and shared data in the shipping industry. They recognized the interconnected nature of these factors and praised individuals who have actively promoted collaboration.

The integration of digital and communication technologies was emphasized as crucial for improved efficiency and effective communication. Dialogues were considered essential for addressing challenges and finding solutions. The accurate measurement and management of emissions were highlighted as central to climate action.

The discussion also identified successful data sharing models in other industries and the challenges that need to be overcome. Overall, the speakers emphasized the need for collaboration, digitalization, and shared data to drive positive change and promote sustainability in the shipping industry.

Arguments

Data insights can achieve economic, societal and environmental benefits

Supporting facts:

• Without the effort of many folks who have a sense of purpose in work, we cannot see that value creation

• Data insights across multiple entities sharing data has resulted in the aviation sector becoming safest form of transport on earth

Topics: data analytics, value creation, economic development, societal benefits, environmental benefits

---

Co-opetition, a move beyond the competitive mindset is essential for innovation

Supporting facts:

• Once the innovation has been discovered and can be scaled, we can all rely in the private sector on our ability to reach global markets through the capital access we have

Topics: innovation, competition, business collaboration, co-opetition

---

Supply chains face numerous challenges leading to wide impacts

Supporting facts:

• Supply chains today are facing a wide and growing number of challenges from natural disasters, labour shortages, inflation, geopolitical tensions and global conflicts

Topics: supply chain, challenges, disruptions

---

A digital platform in supply chain is vital

Supporting facts:

• What IATA together with ICAO have achieved in aviation has resulted in the safest form of transport on earth

• data insights across multiple entities sharing data has led to value creation

Topics: digital platform, supply chain, IATA, data aggregation

---

Companies would be more willing to contribute data if the process is managed by an objective neutral party, preferably a reputable NGO or a UN organization

Supporting facts:

• Ensuring a neutral entity that is credible globally may increase trust in data sharing processes

• There exists concern over data being sold or used for unintended purposes

Topics: data sharing, United Nations, non-governmental organizations

---

Report

The analysis explores a range of topics relating to data insights, innovation, supply chains, digital platforms, and data sharing. It highlights the positive impact that data insights can have on achieving economic, societal, and environmental benefits. The analysis underscores the crucial role of individuals with a sense of purpose in their work in unlocking the full potential of value creation.

Furthermore, the analysis discusses the significant advancements in safety within the aviation sector, which can be attributed to data insights obtained through the sharing of information among multiple entities. The importance of co-opetition, which involves collaboration between businesses while maintaining a competitive mindset, is emphasised as essential for driving innovation.

The analysis argues that once an innovation is discovered and can be scaled, the private sector can rely on accessing global markets through available capital. This highlights the need for a shift in mindset beyond pure competition to foster successful innovation.

Challenges faced by supply chains are also addressed, illustrating their wide-ranging impacts. These challenges include natural disasters, labour shortages, inflation, geopolitical tensions, and global conflicts. The analysis emphasises that supply chains encounter numerous obstacles, resulting in significant consequences that extend beyond individual sectors.

Moreover, the analysis stresses the importance of digital platforms in supply chain management. It points out the achievements of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) in the aviation industry, which have led to it being acknowledged as the safest form of transport globally.

This safety record is directly attributed to data insights obtained through data aggregation and sharing among multiple entities. Thus, the analysis highlights the critical role digital platforms play in ensuring the efficient and safe operation of supply chains. The analysis also discusses the issue of data sharing, emphasising the requirement for a neutral and credible entity to oversee the process.

It suggests that companies would be more willing to contribute data if the process is managed by an unbiased party, preferably a reputable non-governmental organization (NGO) or a United Nations (UN) organization. The establishment of trust and credibility is deemed crucial for successful data sharing, considering concerns over the misuse or unintended use of data.

Having a neutral entity, ideally one with global recognition, could help build trust among companies and encourage extensive data sharing for economic, societal, and environmental benefits. In conclusion, the analysis underscores the positive impact of data insights on achieving economic, societal, and environmental benefits.

It highlights the significance of co-opetition in driving innovation, examines the challenges faced by supply chains and their wide-ranging impacts, stresses the importance of digital platforms in supply chain management, and advocates for a neutral and credible entity to oversee data sharing.

The analysis concludes that trust and credibility are essential for successful data sharing and that their establishment is key to unlocking the full potential of data-driven advancements in various sectors.

Arguments

Mikael Lind is in Singapore demonstrating the Virtual Watchtower Network initiative and discussing collaboration with Singapore for better supply chains.

Supporting facts:

• Met with the management of PSA in Singapore

• Sweden and Singapore exploring collaboration for better supply chains.

Topics: Virtual WatchTower Network, Supply Chains, Collaboration, Singapore

---

Virtual Watchtower Network (VWT-Net) aims to improve global supply chain visibility and risk management.

Supporting facts:

• Aims to co-create a digital middleware for improved supply chain visibility

• Focuses on private and public data-driven analytics and collaboration

Topics: Virtual WatchTower Network, Supply Chains, Risk Management

---

It’s crucial to empower the self-organized ecosystem of multimodal transports.

Supporting facts:

• Actors are reluctant to share data

• A minimalistic approach to digital data sharing is beneficial

Topics: Multimodal Transports, Self-organization, Autonomous Actors

---

Report

Mikael Lind, an advocate of supply chain improvement and risk management, is currently in Singapore to showcase and promote the Virtual Watchtower Network (VWT-Net) initiative. The primary goal of this initiative is to enhance global supply chain visibility, particularly in relation to risk management.

This is achieved through the use of digital middleware and data-driven analytics. During his visit, Lind has engaged in discussions with the management of PSA in Singapore, exploring potential collaborations for the improvement of supply chains. Sweden and Singapore are actively exploring ways to work together on this front.

One of the key factors highlighted by Lind is the power of client engagement in bringing about change in the multimodal transport industry. Lind firmly believes that by actively involving clients in the decision-making process, significant improvements can be made in this industry.

In terms of the impact of adopting VWT-Net, Lind points out that it can greatly contribute to effectively managing disruptions and maintaining a balance between cost, reliability, and sustainability. By promoting better risk management practices across the industry, VWT-Net addresses the issue of containers or cargo missing their connections, leading to more efficient and reliable supply chains.

Furthermore, Lind emphasises the importance of empowering the self-organized ecosystem of multimodal transports. Currently, actors within this ecosystem are reluctant to share data. However, Lind suggests that a minimalist approach to digital data sharing can be beneficial, enabling the ecosystem to thrive and operate optimally.

Sharing data between watchtowers is another area of focus for Lind, as it can provide valuable insights for efficient operation and decision-making within the transport sector. By establishing a distributed environment for watchtowers to share data, more comprehensive and accurate insights can be obtained to guide operations.

In conclusion, Mikael Lind’s visit to Singapore highlights the importance of collaboration, client engagement, and the adoption of innovative solutions like VWT-Net for the improvement of supply chains and risk management in the transport industry. By embracing these principles, the industry can achieve enhanced visibility, better deal with disruptions, and achieve a balance between cost, reliability, and sustainability.

Arguments

Accurate emission calculations are necessary for cleaner transportation and to incentivize stakeholders in the shipping industry.

Supporting facts:

• Changes in conditions, such as navigating through ice, greatly affect average consumption and actual consumption.

• Better data enables wiser decision making around emission reduction both for businesses and regulators.

Topics: Emission Calculation, Clean Transportation, Digitalization

---

Teemu Manderbacka supports the idea of a trusted, independent organization collecting and sharing data, following the same rules for everyone

Supporting facts:

• He seconds Margi on the importance of a trusted organization in data sharing

• Believes that such an organization could enable a collaborative work environment

Topics: Data Sharing, Trust, Collaboration, Independence

---

Report

Accurate emission calculations play a crucial role in promoting cleaner transportation and incentivising stakeholders in the shipping industry. This is because changes in conditions, such as navigating through ice, can greatly affect average consumption and actual consumption. Therefore, having precise emission calculations enables businesses and regulators to make more informed decisions regarding emission reduction.

One key aspect that contributes to accurate emission calculations is having better data. The availability of reliable and comprehensive data enables wiser decision-making when it comes to reducing emissions. By harnessing high-quality data, businesses and regulators can identify areas for improvement and implement measures that effectively align with emission reduction goals.

This is especially important for the shipping industry, which is seeking to achieve the greenhouse gas goals set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). Teemu Manderbacka, a prominent figure in the field, promotes digitalization and collaboration as significant enablers for managing and reducing emission production.

Through the implementation of programmes, systems, and collaborations, data can be aligned and its availability can be increased. This, in turn, allows for better decision-making and more effective strategies to be devised in order to achieve the IMO greenhouse gas goals.

Teemu’s positive stance highlights the potential of digitalization and collaboration to drive positive change in the industry. Furthermore, Teemu supports the idea of establishing a trusted and independent organization responsible for collecting and sharing data. This organization would follow the same rules for everyone, ensuring fairness and transparency in the data-sharing process.

Teemu emphasizes the importance of trust when it comes to data sharing and believes that establishing such an organization would facilitate a collaborative work environment. In addition, Teemu advocates for the industry to adopt a broader perspective when considering data sharing.

Instead of solely focusing on daily operations and immediate stakeholders, he urges the industry to recognize the mutual benefits of data sharing. By looking beyond competitive threats, businesses can explore opportunities for strategic partnerships and derive value from shared information.

This approach encourages a more cooperative and forward-thinking mindset. In conclusion, accurate emission calculations are essential for promoting cleaner transportation and incentivising stakeholders in the shipping industry. Improving data quality leads to more informed decision-making, enabling businesses and regulators to effectively reduce emissions.

Teemu Manderbacka’s vision of digitalization and collaboration as enablers for emission reduction highlights the potential for positive change. Furthermore, his support for a trusted and independent organization for data sharing, as well as his call for a broader perspective on data sharing, emphasizes the importance of transparency, cooperation, and strategic thinking in driving sustainable practices within the industry.

Arguments

Digitalization cannot exist without close collaboration, large-scale collaboration cannot exist without broader digitalization.

Supporting facts:

• Research from UNCTAD Transport and Trade Facilitation Newsletter

• Digital symbiosis refers to the mutual dependence of digitalization and collaboration for economic fitness.

• Businesses in the digital age must coevolve their collaboration through cooperative digitalization.

Topics: Digitalization, Collaboration

---

Collaboration and digitalization impact economic and societal value and success.

Supporting facts:

• The CDES formula (Collaboration and Digitalization for Economic and Societal capital creation) ensures durable wealth and well-being.

• Suboptimal results may arise when focus is placed on only one dimension of the CDES pair.

Topics: Collaboration, Digitalization, Economic value

---

People often look for reasons not to take action

Topics: Proactivity, Barriers to action, Social patterns

---

Large platforms and companies have enough leverage to provide ‘sandbox’ for experimentations

Supporting facts:

• Mentions UNCTAD, the World Economic Forum, and large corporations

Topics: Corporation influence, Experimentation, Learning by doing

---

Report

After analysing the given arguments, it becomes apparent that digitalisation and collaboration are closely intertwined and crucial for economic fitness. The argument posits that digitalisation cannot exist without close collaboration, while large-scale collaboration cannot exist without broader digitalisation. This symbiotic relationship between digitalisation and collaboration is referred to as digital symbiosis.

In today’s digital age, businesses must coevolve their collaboration through cooperative digitalisation in order to thrive. The second argument highlights the importance of capital creation or value creation for every organisation. It emphasises that organisations generate various types of capital, including economic, human, social, and symbolic capitals.

However, the winners in the digital age are the organisations that create the highest level of productivity in their competitive spheres over the long run. This implies that productivity plays a significant role in determining success in the digital era.

Furthermore, collaboration and digitalisation have a profound impact on economic and societal value and success. The CDES formula, which stands for Collaboration and Digitalisation for Economic and Societal capital creation, ensures the creation of durable wealth and well-being. The argument suggests that suboptimal results may arise when the focus is placed solely on one dimension of the CDES pair, highlighting the importance of considering both collaboration and digitalisation to maximise economic and societal value.

Additionally, closer collaboration is argued to enhance visibility and situational awareness across global supply chain networks. Improved visibility and situational awareness are deemed critical for enhancing supply chain resilience and sustainability. In particular, the argument points out that decarbonisation of shipping necessitates a high level of alignment between industries, marine fuel ship building, and shipping operational value chains.

Thus, closer collaboration among supply chain stakeholders is crucial to achieve these objectives. It is worth noting that some arguments relate to proactivity, barriers to action, and the importance of direct action and learning through doing. One argument acknowledges that people often look for reasons not to take action, suggesting a negative sentiment towards proactivity.

However, another argument favours direct action and learning through doing, citing an example of a company poster that reads, “simply do it.” This highlights a positive sentiment towards taking proactive steps and emphasises the value of learning by actively engaging in action.

Furthermore, the analysis reveals that large platforms and companies have the necessary influence to provide a “sandbox” environment for experimentation. This not only implies the potential for innovation and progress but also highlights the role of partnerships and collaborations, as mentioned in SDG17: Partnerships for the Goals.

In conclusion, the analysis of the given arguments underscores the interplay between digitalisation and collaboration in achieving economic fitness, capital creation, and the generation of economic and societal value. The importance of proactive actions, direct engagement, and learning through doing is also emphasised.

Additionally, the arguments shed light on the significance of closer collaboration within global supply chain networks for enhancing visibility, situational awareness, resilience, and sustainability.

Arguments

The speaker appreciates the efforts of the European Union and the United States in regulating the digital economy from a competition policy perspective, specifically mentioning the Digital Market Act.

Supporting facts:

• The speaker acknowledges the long years of discussion and debates regarding the usefulness and potential role of the DMA and its interaction with competition law.

Topics: Digital Economy, Competition Policy, Digital Market Act

---

The audience thinks there is a global consensus that a handful of companies can act as gatekeepers in the digital economy.

Supporting facts:

• The audience works on the task force of the DMA

• There was agreement on this point during the adoption of the DMA

Topics: digital market, company power, digital gatekeepers, competition laws

---

Companies acting as gatekeepers can also be gate openers, providing benefits for small and medium enterprises.

Supporting facts:

• Companies can provide revenue opportunities for small and medium enterprises through online advertising

Topics: company power, digital economy, digital advertising, economic growth

---

Forums like those mentioned can have an impact in building consensus on global issues, even if they don’t have decision-making power.

Topics: global forums, consensus building

---

The filtering of best practices itself establishes a norm that could potentially turn against those who are supposed to be privileged by the disseminated norms.

Supporting facts:

• Chris’s intervention about the filtering of best practices

• Establishing a norm that could potentially undermine those who are supposed to be privileged by the disseminated norms.

Topics: Best Practices, Filtering Norms, Creation of Norms

---

Competition law can incorporate values beyond consumer welfare

Supporting facts:

• Christopher Townley mentions the possibility of altering societal norms within an organization.

• Mention of South Africa incorporating the aid of historically disadvantaged people in their competition law.

Topics: Competition law, Values, Consumer Welfare

---

Rich and powerful entities can potentially misuse values-based arguments for self-interest.

Supporting facts:

• There is mentioned possibility of businesses using environmental arguments to promote their interests.

Topics: Competition law, Powerful entities, Misuse

---

Public interest provisions vary greatly between different countries and cultures

Supporting facts:

• In the Comesa region, the issue of public interest came up in discussions related to the African Continental Free Trade Area

• Public interest provisions in South Africa are based on cultural values, while in countries like Kenya, Botswana, Namibia they are based on issues like employment

Topics: Public Interest, Trade Policies, Competition Laws

---

The debate on the intersection of geopolitics and competition law is timely and relevant

Topics: Geopolitics, Competition Law

---

Report

In the analysis, several speakers discuss different aspects of regulating the digital economy and competition policy. Firstly, the efforts of the European Union and the United States in regulating the digital economy through the Digital Market Act are praised. This act is specifically mentioned as a valuable tool from a competition policy perspective.

In regards to developing and least developed economies, the speakers raise a question regarding the approach these economies should take in developing their own policy regulations involving the digital economy. They suggest considering guidance from regional organizations such as the OECD, UNCTAD, or the international network of competition authorities.

This highlights the importance of seeking advice and expertise when formulating regulations to ensure effective policies. The analysis also highlights a global consensus, agreed upon by the audience, that a small number of companies can act as gatekeepers in the digital economy.

This recognition is crucial in understanding the influence and power that these companies hold. However, it is also emphasized that these gatekeepers can have a positive impact by providing revenue opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises through online advertising. This duality of the gatekeepers’ role is important to consider in discussions surrounding competition policy and the digital economy.

The role of global forums is deemed essential in building consensus on global issues, even if they do not have decision-making power. Their ability to bring together different stakeholders and perspectives contributes to the development of effective policies. An interesting observation from the analysis is the questioning of the prominent role of law firms and the limited say of consumers in matters related to the regulation of the digital economy.

This highlights the need for increased consumer involvement and a more balanced representation of various stakeholders in decision-making processes. The analysis also explores the filtering of best practices and highlights a potential concern. The filtering itself may establish a norm that could inadvertently disadvantage those who were intended to benefit from the disseminated norms.

This observation sheds light on the potential unintended consequences of implementing certain practices. Transparency and disclosure are suggested as possible solutions to address concerns regarding the influence of affiliations, dependencies, investments, and strategic positions of speakers or writers in conversations related to the digital economy and competition policy.

These measures would help foster trust and accountability among stakeholders. Additionally, the analysis emphasizes that competition law can encompass values beyond consumer welfare. Christopher Townley mentions the possibility of altering societal norms within organizations, and South Africa is cited as an example of incorporating historically disadvantaged people in their competition law.

This broader consideration of values in competition law highlights the potential for positive social impact. It is noted that rich and powerful entities can potentially misuse values-based arguments for their own self-interest, presenting a concern in the context of competition policy.

The analysis also draws attention to how public interest provisions vary greatly between different countries and cultures. Cultural values, employment, and other relevant factors influence the development of public interest provisions by different nations. The intersection of geopolitics and competition law is mentioned as a timely and relevant debate.

This observation highlights the expanding scope of competition law to include international political dynamics. Finally, the analysis recognizes the crucial role of governments and their institutions in shaping policies related to the digital economy and competition. Policies are driven by recommendations from institutions based on their market findings or respective spheres of expertise.

Overall, the speakers in the analysis provide insights into various aspects of regulating the digital economy and competition policy. The analysis encourages seeking guidance, considering different perspectives, and recognizing the potential influence of powerful entities. It emphasizes the importance of transparency, consumer input, and the incorporation of values beyond consumer welfare in competition law.

The varying approaches to public interest provisions and the intersection of geopolitics and competition law are further areas of consideration. The role of governments and institutions in shaping policies is also underscored.

Arguments

Competition laws are a product of their history, culture, and values of the jurisdiction

Supporting facts:

• EU competition rules work towards the goal of a single market

• South African competition rules intentionally address the power balance issues raised by past apartheid

Topics: Competition laws, Jurisdiction

---

Global solutions might benefit if competition authorities worked together

Supporting facts:

• Multinational firms might face one set of rules that make it cheaper to do business

• Collaboration could benefit especially the developing countries by learning from more established authorities

Topics: Competition authorities, Global collaboration

---

The International Competition Network (ICN) operates in an informal and unusual manner, allowing multinationals to draft proposed rules and practices

Supporting facts:

• Large multinationals, primarily from the EU and the US, are heavily involved in helping to draft the ICN’s recommended practices

• Political science theory highlights how initiating the drafting process can give considerable power to these multinationals

• While national competition authorities also contribute to this process, the most powerful ones (from the EU, US and UK) tend to have the most say

Topics: International Competition Network, multinationals, regulation

---

Power distribution in the ICN can disproportionately affect developing countries

Supporting facts:

• The ICN’s norms and practices tend to be based on the interests of the most powerful states, mostly from the EU and the US

• Developing countries don’t usually drive the ICN’s agenda

• The most powerful and influential voices in these discussions tend to come from richer states

• Best practices selected for promotion by the ICN typically align with EU or US norms

Topics: International Competition Network, developing countries, inequality

---

Law firms have a more prominent role in influencing competition law compared to consumer organizations

Supporting facts:

• Law firms benefit massively from getting inside the room and making rules or best practices.

• International Competition Network was originally organized by the International Lawyers Association.

Topics: Competition Law, Consumer Organizations, Law Firms

---

Consumers face a coordination problem making it difficult for them to stand against something

Supporting facts:

• Individual losses for consumers are so small that it doesn’t provoke them to fight against it.

• Firms collectively benefit from all these small losses from consumers.

Topics: Consumers, Coordination Problem, Political Salience

---

The narrative around competition law has successfully been depoliticized and made uninteresting.

Supporting facts:

• Competition law is portrayed as value neutral, preventing it from becoming a topic for mainstream political debate.

• This depoliticization works in favor of competition authorities aiming to preserve their independence.

Topics: Competition Law, Depoliticization

---

An asymmetry of power and finances exists between big business and consumer organizations.

Supporting facts:

• Big businesses have lots of interest in getting access to law making due to the massive gains to be made.

• Consumer organizations are underfunded, making it difficult for them to participate.

Topics: Big Businesses, Consumer Organizations, Power Asymmetry

---

The norms can definitely change and could totally be the answer

Supporting facts:

• An organization’s norm could be not to monolithically say, there’s just one thing to talk about

• South Africans think that helping historically disadvantaged people in their competition law is a good way to do it

Topics: Competition Law, ICN rules, Organization norms

---

More space and time should be opened up for discussion

Supporting facts:

• Marianne mentioned the importance of informed divergence in the early days of the ICN

Topics: Open discussion, ICN

---

Report

Competition laws are shaped by the unique history, culture, and values of each jurisdiction, which means that rules and regulations can vary significantly across countries. For example, EU competition rules aim to establish a single market, while South African competition rules address power imbalances resulting from apartheid.

Collaboration among competition authorities globally can benefit developing countries, allowing them to learn from more established jurisdictions. However, creating one set of rules may conflict with individual countries’ aims and values. The International Competition Network (ICN) is an informal platform where multinational firms participate in drafting proposed rules.

While national competition authorities also contribute, the most powerful players tend to have the most influence. This raises concerns about fairness and whether multinationals have an advantage in shaping competition policies. The power dynamics within the ICN can disproportionately affect developing countries, as the norms and practices often align with the interests of the most powerful states.

This can perpetuate inequalities in global competition. Exposure to the ICN can influence national competition authorities’ allegiance, potentially leading to a divergence from their state’s interests. This highlights the need for a balance between international collaboration and safeguarding jurisdictional interests.

Law firms have a more significant role in shaping competition law compared to consumer organizations, primarily due to their resources and knowledge. Consumers face a coordination problem in standing against competition issues, as individual losses are often small and distributed across a large population.

The depoliticization of competition law favors competition authorities, preserving their independence. An inherent asymmetry of power and finances exists between big businesses and consumer organizations, with big businesses exerting more influence. Organizational norms within competition law can change over time and provide potential solutions, but there are also risks associated with changing norms.

Big businesses can exploit environmental arguments to support cartels. Understanding and discussing the values that impact competition law is crucial to tailor it to specific needs. Encouraging open discussion and informed divergence within the ICN is essential for innovation and better decision-making.

Striking a balance between global collaboration and preserving jurisdictional interests is key. In conclusion, competition laws are influenced by history, culture, and values. Collaboration should respect individual aims and values, and concerns should be addressed regarding power dynamics, influence, and fairness.

Attention must be given to the imbalance of power and finances between big business and consumer organizations. Understanding values and promoting open dialogue can lead to more effective and equitable competition practices.

Arguments

Competition rules differ across countries due to varying cultures, histories and values; global or regional collaborations could provide effective solutions, while simultaneously posing challenges in respecting individual states’ unique goals

Supporting facts:

• The EU’s competition rules aim towards a single market, taking into account their separate nations’ barriers

• South Africa’s competition rules directly address the power imbalance caused by apartheid

Topics: Competition Law, International Collaboration, Globalization

---

Collaborations between competition authorities can provide beneficial learning opportunities, particularly for developing countries with less resources and experience

Supporting facts:

• Collaboration between more established bodies and younger competition authorities can provide chances for growth and improvement

Topics: Collaboration, Developing Countries, Learning Opportunities

---

Need to question the role of large multinationals in the ICN

Supporting facts:

• Large multinationals are heavily involved in drafting the ICN recommended practices, giving them a significant amount of influence.

Topics: International Competition Network, Large Multinationals

---

State actors should be involved in policy discussions in the ICN

Supporting facts:

• Discussions on competition policy are not simply about enforcement, but also about legislation making. Thus, it is important for state actors to have a say in these discussions.

Topics: ICN Policy, State Actors

---

Need for better support for developing countries in ICN participation

Supporting facts:

• Participating in the ICN requires a lot of resources, which could be challenging for developing countries. Support from organizations like UNCTAD can be very helpful.

Topics: Developing Countries, ICN Participation, UNCTAD

---

The issues in terms of digital markets competition of developing countries starts from a different ground from developed countries

Supporting facts:

• A start point for understanding competition in the digital markets for developing countries is to observe the infrastructure such as the implementation of telecom providers.

• The role of digital platforms in developing countries could be different than that in developed countries.

Topics: Digital Economy, Competition Law

---

Report

The discussion focuses on differing perspectives regarding global collaboration in competition law. One perspective suggests that collaborations between competition authorities can offer valuable learning opportunities, especially for developing countries with limited resources and experience. By partnering with more established bodies, these developing countries can gain insights and knowledge to improve their competition laws and contribute to SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, SDG 4: Quality Education, and SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure.

However, there are concerns about potential conflicts arising from differing norms and rules resulting from global collaborations, specifically those related to SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions. Multinational firms may prefer simplified rules for cost-effective operations, but this may undermine individual countries’ aims and values.

Another viewpoint questions the ability of the International Competition Network’s (ICN) “best practices” to accommodate diverse jurisdictional goals. While the ICN consistently presents recommended practices, their suitability for all jurisdictions with varying competition law goals is debatable. There is also concern about the influence of large multinationals in shaping ICN recommended practices.

This raises questions about the influence of these corporations on global competition policies and regulations, potentially impacting SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities. In contrast, the importance of involving state actors in policy discussions within the ICN is emphasized. Such discussions are not only about enforcement but also about legislation-making, so state actors’ involvement ensures diverse perspectives and inclusive decision-making processes.

Furthermore, support for developing countries’ participation in the ICN is considered crucial. Participating in global collaborations often requires significant resources, making it challenging for developing countries. Organizations like the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) can play a helpful role in providing support to ensure equal opportunities for these countries, aligning with the goal of reducing inequalities (SDG 10).

In the context of digital markets, it is recognized that the competition challenges faced by developing countries differ from those in developed countries. Factors such as infrastructure, specifically telecom provider implementation, play a significant role. Hence, a tailored approach is essential to address the unique challenges of developing countries in the digital space.

The Digital Market Act (DMA) and other solutions should be studied and customized to suit the specific needs of each country. For example, the DMA’s success in Europe was influenced by specific political and historical conditions that may not be applicable elsewhere.

Additionally, the role and usage of digital platforms in developing countries may differ due to infrastructure issues, such as unreliable postal services. In conclusion, the discussion highlights the range of perspectives and debates on global collaboration in competition law. Collaborations between competition authorities can offer learning opportunities for developing countries, but concerns about conflicting norms and the influence of large multinationals persist.

Skepticism surrounds the adaptability of “best practices” to diverse jurisdictions, while the involvement of state actors and support for developing countries’ participation are seen as positive steps. Furthermore, the importance of studying and customizing solutions, like the DMA, to suit the specific needs of each country in the digital markets is emphasized.

Overall, this analysis underscores the complexity and challenges involved in achieving effective global collaborations in competition law, while also recognizing the potential benefits and opportunities for learning and growth.

Arguments

E-commerce can transcend national borders, making it challenging for national competition authorities to effectively regulate and enforce competition laws on their own

Topics: E-commerce, Cross-border regulation, Competition law enforcement

---

International cooperation in competition law and policy, and specifically enforcement, can help to reduce these challenges

Topics: International cooperation, Competition law and policy, Law enforcement

---

UNCTAD has been working on this important issue of facilitating international cooperation between competition authorities

Supporting facts:

• A recent ANCTAD survey cited major obstacles for developing countries in international cooperation

• Guiding policies under Section F of UN were adopted by ANCTAD members in 2020 to assist lesser experienced authorities

Topics: UNCTAD, International cooperation, Competition authorities

---

UNCTAD is the focal point for competition law and policy within the United Nations system and provides the largest platform for exchange of information and knowledge.

Supporting facts:

• UNCTAD has 195 member states, providing a large platform for exchange

Topics: Competition law, United Nations system, Information exchange, Knowledge sharing

---

It’s crucial to expose less experienced competition authorities from developing countries to the most advanced competition authorities’ knowledge and practices.

Supporting facts:

• UNCTAD provides technical cooperation trying to provide options for countries according to their specificities

Topics: Developing countries, Competition authorities, Best practices

---

The growing power of developing countries is counterbalancing the influence of the most developed countries in competition law and policy.

Supporting facts:

• Countries such as Brazil, the Russian Federation, India, China, South Africa have established themselves in the field of competition law and policy for development

Topics: Developing countries, Competition law and policy

---

Regional cooperation is important and acts as a platform for young and less resourced countries to interact and benefit.

Supporting facts:

• Seven regional economic organizations in the African continent have elected competition law and policy at regional level

• The Africa Continental Free Trade Area is an example of regional cooperation

Topics: Regional cooperation, Developing countries, Competition law and policy

---

Consumer organizations play a crucial role in representing the interests of consumers who might otherwise struggle due to inertia or unawareness of their rights

Supporting facts:

• Consumer groups as a way of representing faceless consumers and ensuring their interests

Topics: Consumer Rights, Consumer Protection

---

Competition authorities are becoming more attentive to non-efficiency related goals

Supporting facts:

• Competition authorities are considering sustainability concerns and cost of living crisis

• Significant discussions on rethinking the consumer welfare standard since pandemic

Topics: Competition Law, Economic Efficiency, Consumer Welfare Standard

---

The International Competition Network (ICN) annual conference launched project on food sector

Supporting facts:

• The project was largely driven by academia and competition authorities of developing countries

Topics: Food Security, International Competition Network (ICN)

---

Report

E-commerce presents a significant challenge for national competition authorities, as it transcends national boundaries and makes it difficult for them to regulate and enforce competition laws effectively. International cooperation in competition law and policy enforcement is crucial to address this challenge.

UNCTAD (United Nations Conference on Trade and Development) actively facilitates international cooperation between competition authorities. As the focal point for competition law and policy within the United Nations system, UNCTAD provides a substantial platform for information and knowledge exchange. This enables competition authorities to learn from each other and apply best practices in their jurisdictions.

Supporting competition authorities from developing countries is essential, as they may have less experience dealing with the complexities of competition law and policy. UNCTAD plays a significant role in offering tailored technical cooperation to meet the specific needs of these authorities.

By exposing them to advanced knowledge and practices, competition authorities from developing countries can enhance their ability to address competition issues effectively. Regional cooperation is also vital in promoting interaction and mutual benefit among countries. For example, several regional economic organizations in Africa have established competition law and policy frameworks at a regional level.

The Africa Continental Free Trade Area is an excellent example of regional cooperation, providing opportunities for less-resourced countries to engage and benefit from shared experiences. Consumer organizations are crucial for safeguarding consumer rights and representing their interests. They provide a platform for consumers to stand against potential exploitation and ensure their voices are heard.

These organizations play a vital role, especially for consumers who may lack awareness or face barriers in asserting their rights. Competition authorities are evolving and considering goals beyond efficiency-related concerns. They are increasingly aware of sustainability issues and the cost of living crisis.

This broad understanding demonstrates the impact of competition on various aspects of society and the economy. The International Competition Network (ICN), in collaboration with academia and competition authorities from developing countries, launched a project focusing on the food sector. This highlights the growing recognition of competition’s role in ensuring food security and responsible consumption and production.

In summary, international cooperation, knowledge sharing, and empowering consumer organizations are crucial in addressing the challenges faced by competition authorities in regulating and enforcing competition laws. UNCTAD’s efforts in facilitating international cooperation, providing technical support, and sharing knowledge significantly contribute to enhancing competition law and policy worldwide.

The evolving nature of competition law and policy, with a focus on specific sectors such as the food sector, reflects the changing landscape of competition regulation. Collaboration and shared learning among competition authorities are key to effectively navigating the complexities of the digital age.

Arguments

Digital trade presents significant opportunities for more trade and more inclusive trade in Africa

Supporting facts:

• Digital trade has changed the sources of comparative advantage, making transport infrastructure constraints less important and digital connectivity more significant for African countries

• Improved connectivity and regulatory framework can significantly reduce trade costs

Topics: Digital trade, Africa, Inclusive trade

---

Although digital trade in Africa is growing, the continent’s share in digital trade remains very small

Supporting facts:

• Digital trade in Africa accounts for only one percent of digitally delivered services

• African countries like Ghana, South Africa and Morocco have shown faster growth in digital services exports

Topics: Digital trade, Africa

---

To harness the benefits of digital trade, a supportive ecosystem is required, which includes infrastructure, skills, e-payments and a suitable legal and regulatory framework

Supporting facts:

• African countries suffer from an affordability issue, indicating a need for a more competitive telecommunication service provision

• The World Bank’s digital acceleration project in Rwanda is facilitating last mile connectivity and skills development

Topics: Digital trade, Africa, Supportive ecosystem

---

Eight African countries are showing interest in being part of the pilot study.

Supporting facts:

• The eight countries are Benin, Cote d’Ivoire, Ghana, Kenya, Mauritius, Nigeria, Rwanda, and Togo.

Topics: African Countries, Pilot Study

---

Market openness needs to take place with supportive and flanking regulatory policies in place.

Supporting facts:

• Unilateral market liberalization alone doesn’t guarantee outcomes in all services sectors

• Predictability and certainty that certain conditions are not going to change might foster investment and trade

Topics: Market liberalization, Regulatory policies

---

Countries are not necessarily reluctant to undertake new commitments.

Supporting facts:

• There hasn’t been a negotiation led or that was even close to a conclusion where we would have seen more commitments

Topics: Trade commitments, WTO negotiations

---

The need for more collaboration and information sharing among various sectors, especially with regards to UNECA’s initiatives

Supporting facts:

• UNECA’s initiatives were mentioned as something to look forward to and joining forces with.

Topics: Collaboration, Information Sharing, UNECA’s initiatives

---

Lowering tariffs on mobile phones and IT equipment should be considered to increase their affordability

Supporting facts:

• Some countries have joined the IT agreement whereby they don’t impose tariffs on the importation of IT goods, enabling better access and affordability.

Topics: Trade Policy, Mobile phones, IT equipment, Tariffs

---

Considering the heterogeneous nature of the market and demand-driven approach in their joint initiative with the bank

Supporting facts:

• In the joint initiative with the bank, countries ask to be piloted and involved in the exercise. The initiative hasn’t received requests from particularly successful countries like Ghana or South Africa

Topics: Heterogeneity, Demand-driven Approach, Joint initiative

---

Report

This shift allows African countries to compete globally based on their digital capabilities rather than geographic proximity. Improved connectivity and regulatory frameworks can substantially lower trade costs, facilitating greater participation of African businesses in global trade. However, digital trade in Africa currently contributes only one percent to the global market for digitally delivered services, highlighting the continent’s limited share.

Despite this, countries such as Ghana, South Africa, and Morocco have experienced faster growth in digital services exports. To fully leverage the potential of digital trade, a supportive ecosystem is essential. This entails investing in high-speed internet access, enhancing digital skills and literacy, enabling e-payment systems, and establishing appropriate legal and regulatory frameworks.

For example, the World Bank’s digital acceleration project in Rwanda aims to enhance last-mile connectivity and skills development, creating a conducive environment for digital trade. Eight African countries, including Benin, Cote d’Ivoire, Ghana, Kenya, Mauritius, Nigeria, Rwanda, and Togo, have expressed interest in participating in a pilot study.

However, it is unclear whether these countries are part of the Joint Study Group (JSL). The pilot study could offer valuable insights into fostering digital trade in Africa and devising strategies to overcome barriers. Market openness must be accompanied by supportive regulatory policies.

Relying solely on unilateral market liberalization does not guarantee favorable outcomes across all service sectors. To encourage investment and trade, predictability and certainty regarding unchanging conditions are crucial. Thus, a balanced approach that combines market openness with appropriate regulatory frameworks is necessary.

Highlighting trading partners’ commitments to market openness is vital for accessing export opportunities. Although countries have unilaterally liberalized their markets, they have not formally bound these commitments. Open markets may not remain open, but they can present export opportunities if trading partners’ commitments are consistently upheld.

Countries are not necessarily resistant to undertaking new commitments in WTO negotiations. However, there haven’t been negotiations that have resulted in substantial commitments. This indicates the need for further discussions and agreements to promote digital trade and create a conducive environment for global trade.

Collaboration and information sharing are essential, particularly through initiatives like the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA). Increased collaboration among various sectors can generate innovative ideas and policies to address the challenges and opportunities of digital trade. Lowering tariffs on mobile phones and IT equipment should be considered to enhance their affordability.

Some countries have already joined the IT Agreement, which eliminates tariffs on IT goods’ imports, leading to improved access to technology and the promotion of digital trade. Given the heterogeneous nature of the African market, utilizing a demand-driven approach is crucial.

Tailoring digital trade strategies to accommodate each country’s unique requirements and preferences can yield better outcomes. The joint initiative with the bank recognizes the need for a demand-driven approach and the involvement of diverse countries in the exercise. Market contestability is encouraged under the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) as a necessary condition for a competitive environment.

However, while competition policy may not be available in the World Trade Organization (WTO), it emphasizes the importance of fair competition and reducing inequality. In conclusion, digital trade in Africa presents significant opportunities for increased trade and inclusivity. To fully capitalize on these opportunities, African countries must develop a supportive ecosystem encompassing improved connectivity, skills development, e-payment systems, and appropriate legal and regulatory frameworks.

Collaborating with international organizations like UNECA, promoting market openness with supportive regulatory policies, and adopting demand-driven approaches are key to harnessing the benefits of digital trade and fostering economic growth in Africa.

Arguments

WTO rules and services limit a country’s ability to regulate in the public interest

Supporting facts:

• Many development experts note that a lot of supporting regulation, like privacy, consumer protection, labor rules, rule of law, and other infrastructure, are necessary to gain from digital trade.

Topics: WTO, Regulation, Public Interest

---

Commitments to WTO don’t automatically increase the readiness for digital trade

Supporting facts:

• If countries liberalize their services without building up their domestic production, they’re actually going to be swarmed by imports. This doesn’t help their exports to join WTO services commitments. It does not help their exports just because they open their services to foreign providers. They actually get more foreign providers without increasing their exports.

Topics: WTO, Digital Trade, Commitments

---

Africa’s share in global digital trade is very low

Supporting facts:

• 80% of African marketplaces operate within a single country, 14% dominated by global players, only 6% operate within several countries

• Only 37% of people in Africa have internet access, mostly concentrated in urban areas

Topics: Digital Trade, E-commerce, Cybersecurity, Digital Infrastructure, Connectivity

---

Challenges faced by Africa in terms of digital trade include issues related to logistics, accessibility, affordability, and data governance

Supporting facts:

• Infrastructure and road network are main challenges

• 35 countries have some low data protection laws

• High costs of access and lack of trust in digital transactions due to cybersecurity concerns are other issues

Topics: Digital Trade, E-commerce, Data Governance, Cybersecurity

---

Need for basic infrastructure like electricity to enable digital trade

Supporting facts:

• Digital trade requires digital infrastructure and electricity.

• Without electricity, development is hindered.

Topics: Digital Trade, Infrastructure, Electricity

---

The informal market in Africa contributes significantly to the GDP

Supporting facts:

• The informal market in Africa is key contributor to GDP.

Topics: Informal Market, GDP, Africa

---

The need for the informal market to use digital trade

Supporting facts:

• If more of the informal market were using digital trade, Africa will progress.

Topics: Digital Trade, Informal Market

---

Importance of assisting all African countries, not just the technologically advanced ones

Supporting facts:

• Countries like Ghana and South Africa are progressing because of their technological advancements.

• Assisting all countries, irrespective of their current technological standing, would help the entire continent progress.

Topics: Technology, Infrastructure, Equity, Africa

---

Need for accessible public education, particularly for the informal market

Topics: Public Education, Informal Market

---

The AFCFTA has a chapter on digital trade and they are developing protocols on that, as well as on competition policy.

Supporting facts:

• AFCFTA integrates the whole Africa continent as to one market

• There are many regional competition authorities in Africa.

Topics: AFCFTA, Digital Trade, Competition Policy

---

The challenges facing digital economy in Tanzania is the ownership of smartphones

Supporting facts:

• The best for digital economy is to have a smartphone

Topics: Digital economy, Smartphone ownership, Tanzania

---

Report

Discussions on digital trade in Africa have raised several important points. Development experts argue that supporting regulations, such as privacy, consumer protection, labor rules, and the rule of law, are crucial for reaping the benefits of digital trade. However, it has been expressed that the rules and services of the World Trade Organization (WTO) limit a country’s ability to regulate in the public interest.

This sentiment stems from the belief that WTO commitments do not automatically enhance readiness for digital trade, as countries that liberalise their services without simultaneously developing domestic production may find themselves overwhelmed by imports. This imbalance hinders their ability to engage in digital trade effectively.

In addition, concerns have been raised about the origins and intentions of digital trade rules. It is argued that such rules were created by US-based big tech corporations and do not prioritise the support of African Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

The suggestions put forward by African representatives in the Joint Statement Initiative have reportedly been overlooked, leading to the perception that the digital trade rules predominantly serve the profit-driven interests of US-based big tech companies. On the other hand, it is highlighted that developing countries, like the United States, also require the flexibility to regulate policy in order to address their own unique challenges and goals.

This indicates that developing countries need policy space to adapt and respond to the demands of digital trade effectively. Africa’s low share in global digital trade is another pressing concern. Several challenges hinder Africa’s participation in this evolving landscape. Issues of infrastructure, accessibility, affordability, data governance, and cybersecurity weigh heavily on the continent’s ability to engage in digital trade.

For instance, it is noted that 80% of African marketplaces operate within a single country, with only 6% operating across several countries, which limits their participation in global digital trade. Furthermore, internet access is limited to just 37% of the African population, primarily concentrated in urban areas.

These challenges must be addressed to unlock Africa’s potential in the digital trade arena. To address these challenges, there is an advocacy for collective work and information sharing among organisations. Collaboration can help identify effective solutions to ensure Africa’s proper representation in global digital trade.

The United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) has taken steps in this direction by developing a trade exchange platform to support the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), which integrates the entire African continent into a single market. The importance of basic infrastructure, such as electricity, is emphasised for enabling digital trade.

Without access to reliable electricity, the development of digital trade is severely hindered. The informal market in Africa, which contributes significantly to the continent’s GDP, holds great potential for progress through the utilisation of digital trade. By encouraging more participants from the informal market to engage in digital trade, Africa can achieve further economic growth.

It is stressed that assistance should be extended to all African countries, regardless of their technological advancements. By providing support and resources to all nations, Africa as a whole can progress, and the continent’s overall development will be enhanced. The need for accessible public education, particularly for those involved in the informal market, is an important consideration.

Adequate education will empower individuals and businesses to leverage digital trade opportunities and contribute to economic growth. The African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) recognises the importance of digital trade and includes a specific chapter on it, as well as the development of protocols on competition policy.

In terms of enforcing competition and addressing digital trade issues, it is suggested that a joint approach by the Africa Competition Forum, which comprises various competition authorities across the continent, would be more effective and impactful. Moreover, the limited ownership of smartphones poses a significant challenge to the digital economy in Tanzania.

Increasing access to smartphones is seen as a viable solution to boost the digital economy and enable wider participation in digital trade. In conclusion, the discussions surrounding digital trade in Africa touch on critical issues such as regulatory limitations, the role of big tech companies, infrastructure challenges, and the potential of the informal market.

Collaboration, policy flexibility, investment in infrastructure, and the adoption of digital technologies are key factors that will enable Africa to fully realise the benefits of digital trade.

Arguments

There is a need for more regional digital market integration as enablers for digital trade

Supporting facts:

• The World Bank has been engaged in fostering digital development across Africa for many years.

• New generation of regional projects are starting to look at more regional digital market integration.

Topics: Digital Trade, Digital Market Integration, Digital Development

---

Though digital coverage has increased in Africa, more emphasis is needed on usage, cost, and digital skills

Supporting facts:

• By 2021, 84 percent of people on average across countries in Sub-Saharan Africa lived in areas where 3G service was available.

• Africa East is lagging behind other regions, both in terms of coverage and in terms of usage.

• Africa East is, after Africa West, is still the most costly in terms of digital access.

Topics: Digital Coverage in Africa, Digital Usage, Digital Skills

---

Smartphones are part of the affordability challenge that requires different interventional steps

Supporting facts:

• Looking at taxation regimes and regulatory and enabling environment

• Specific schemes targeting specific population segments

• Working with operators

Topics: Smartphones, Affordability, Intervention

---

Emphasizing integrated planning in terms of infrastructure

Supporting facts:

• World Bank has projects on transport logistics and electrification

• Coordination along infrastructure lines to ensure interoperability

Topics: Infrastructure, Integrated Planning

---

Countries in Eastern and Southern Africa show heterogeneity

Supporting facts:

• Noted variation amongst countries like Kenya, South Africa, South Sudan and DRC

• Recognition of interdependency among these countries

Topics: Countries Difference, Eastern and Southern Africa

---

Micro-enterprises are not really seeing the value of digital

Supporting facts:

• Affordability is a factor with both cost of data and devices

• Part of the problem is not recognizing the value of digital technologies

Topics: Micro-enterprises, Digital Value

---

Importance of enhancing competition in the sector

Supporting facts:

• Existence of policy instruments outside of these lending programmatics

• Recognition of vertical and horizontal challenges in the sector

Topics: Competition, Technology Sector

---

Report

The World Bank has been actively involved in fostering digital development across Africa for many years. However, there is a pressing need to further enhance regional digital market integration in order to enable digital trade. While digital coverage has increased in Africa, there is still a lack of emphasis on usage, cost, and digital skills, particularly in Africa East which lags behind other regions in terms of coverage and usage.

Additionally, Africa East remains one of the most costly regions in terms of digital access. On a positive note, digital trade has the potential to improve inter-regional trade, create new types of jobs, and enhance productivity. Enabling cross-border payments and implementing digital solutions at border points and logistics systems can greatly facilitate trade.

However, it is important to ensure that individuals possess the necessary skillset to participate effectively in the digital economy. Harmonisation of regulations and coordination are crucial for facilitating digital market integration. The Eastern Africa Regional Digital Integration Project places a heavy emphasis on regional regulatory and policy harmonisation and coordination.

Efforts are being made to develop e-commerce strategies in the Eastern Africa Community (EAC) in order to ensure that such initiatives are harmonised. The affordability of smartphones poses a challenge that requires intervention. This includes examining taxation regimes, regulatory frameworks, and creating specific schemes that target different population segments.

Collaboration with mobile network operators is also important in addressing this issue. Emphasising integrated planning in terms of infrastructure development is crucial. The World Bank is actively engaged in various projects related to transport logistics and electrification, with a focus on coordination to ensure interoperability.

There is notable variation among countries in Eastern and Southern Africa, such as Kenya, South Africa, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is important to recognise the interdependency among these countries and tailor digital development efforts accordingly.

Micro-enterprises are not fully realising the value of digital technologies. Affordability, both in terms of data and devices, is a significant factor hindering their adoption. Additionally, there seems to be a lack of recognition of the value that digital technologies can bring to micro-enterprises.

Enhancing competition in the technology sector is also of great importance. The existence of policy instruments outside of traditional lending programmatics and the recognition of vertical and horizontal challenges in the sector emphasise the need to address competition issues. In conclusion, while the World Bank has made significant efforts in promoting digital development in Africa, there are several areas that require further attention.

These include regional digital market integration, usage, cost, and digital skills, smartphone affordability, integrated planning, harmonisation of regulations, variation among countries, micro-enterprises’ utilisation of digital technologies, and competition in the technology sector. Addressing these challenges can help unlock the full potential of digital development in Africa.

Arguments

Pierre Sauvé notes how African economies are making stead progress in leveraging digital technologies and digital trade for sustainable development

Supporting facts:

• Overall, developing countries are becoming significant players in digitally delivered services

• African countries account for less than 1% collectively of digitally delivered services, although the trend is very much one of growth

Topics: Digital Trade, African Development

---

Sauvé highlights the necessity and central role of technical assistance to play in making sure that the benefits of the digital revolution is shared more broadly

Supporting facts:

• Least Developed Economies account collectively for 0.2% of digitally delivered services in 2022, half of which is from Bangladesh

• Technical cooperation missions are common in the WTO staff nowadays

Topics: Technical Assistance, Digital Trade

---

The World Bank has a focus on regional solutions and digital market integration

Supporting facts:

• The World Bank has been fostering digital development across Africa for many years.

• They have a comprehensive set of interventions, investments and policy reforms.

• Recent projects are aiming to develop digital markets through a regional lens.

Topics: Digital Development, Digital Market Integration, World Bank, Regional Harmonization

---

Harmonization in the digital realm is challenging

Supporting facts:

• Pierre Sauvé pointed out that it is difficult to achieve complete harmonization in other areas of trade.

• He questions whether the digital realm is easier for achieving harmonization.

• He referred to the European Union’s experience with harmonisation in services trade as an illustration of the difficulties in achieving harmonisation.

Topics: Digital Market Integration, Standardization, Regulatory Divergence, Harmonization

---

Pierre Sauve acknowledges the reluctance of several developing countries to make WTO commitments.

Supporting facts:

• Only one opportunity to make such commitments ended in 1994, and 1997 for the basic telecoms negotiations.

• Many of these countries prefer preferential or unilateral agreements.

Topics: WTO, Trade, Developing countries

---

Sauve emphasised the difference in how countries operate within WTO and how they behave unilaterally or under preferential agreements.

Supporting facts:

• Several developing countries have revealed their preference for market opening commitments in preferential agreements.

Topics: WTO, Trade

---

Report

In his discussion, Pierre Sauvé examines the progress of African economies in leveraging digital technologies and digital trade for sustainable development. While developing countries are making significant strides in digitally delivered services, African countries collectively account for less than 1%. However, there is a positive trend of growth in this area.

Sauvé emphasizes the crucial role of technical assistance in ensuring that the benefits of the digital revolution are shared more broadly. He highlights the need to address technical and connectivity gaps that hinder the adoption and utilization of digital technologies in Africa.

The World Bank is actively involved in fostering digital development across Africa. They have implemented various interventions, investments, and policy reforms to support this goal. Specifically, the World Bank is focused on developing digital markets through a regional lens, recognizing the importance of regional solutions and digital market integration.

Harmonization in the digital realm presents several challenges. Sauvé refers to the European Union’s experience with harmonization in services trade as an illustration of this difficulty. He questions whether achieving harmonization in the digital space is easier than in other areas of trade.

Sauvé acknowledges the reluctance of several developing countries to make commitments within the World Trade Organization (WTO). Instead, these countries often prefer preferential or unilateral agreements. This reflects a different approach to trade negotiations compared to operating within the framework of the WTO.

Lastly, Sauvé asserts that the level of investment attraction is determined by the value assigned to binding commitments. The willingness to make and uphold such commitments influences investors’ confidence and their decisions to invest in a particular country or region.

In conclusion, Sauvé’s analysis highlights the progress made by African economies in leveraging digital technologies and digital trade. However, he recognizes the challenges of technical gaps, connectivity, and harmonization that need to be addressed. The involvement of institutions like the World Bank and the importance of technical assistance are emphasized.

The hesitation of several developing countries to make WTO commitments and their preference for preferential agreements are also noted. Overall, Sauvé’s insights shed light on the complexities and opportunities associated with digital development and trade in Africa.

Arguments

The gap between men and women entrepreneurs in terms of access to capital is large

Supporting facts:

• In the UK, women start and scale their businesses with 50% less capital than men

Topics: Gender gap, Entrepreneurship, Access to Capital

---

Differentiating between supply side factors and demand side factors can help understand and address the gap

Supporting facts:

• On the supply side, the struggle is in providing the right type of funding according to the unique needs of women

• On the demand side, there is a lack of women who are actively seeking funding

Topics: Gender gap, Entrepreneurship, Supply and Demand

---

Community building is a very effective government initiative to support women in digital entrepreneurship

Supporting facts:

• Having a sense of community can stimulate the development of a more inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem

• Successful women can share their stories to inspire others

• Community platforms provide a space to exchange experiences

Topics: Digital Entrepreneurship, Government Initiatives, Women Empowerment

---

Report

The analysis highlights a significant gender gap in access to capital for women entrepreneurs in the UK. It reveals that women start and scale their businesses with 50% less capital compared to their male counterparts. This disparity in funding opportunities between men and women clearly exists in the entrepreneurial landscape, suggesting a need for change.

The gap is influenced by both supply-side and demand-side factors. On the supply side, there is a challenge in providing the appropriate funding that meets the unique needs of women entrepreneurs. This indicates a lack of tailored financial support and resources available for women seeking to start or grow their businesses.

On the demand side, there is a lack of women actively pursuing funding. This may be due to limited awareness of available funding options, lack of confidence, or systemic barriers that discourage women from seeking financial support for their ventures.

Additionally, it is concerning that many women who run their own businesses do not identify themselves as founders or leaders. This self-perception issue significantly impacts their behavior and pursuits. By not recognizing themselves as entrepreneurs or leaders, women may not fully leverage opportunities, seek growth, or access networks that can support their entrepreneurial journey.

Addressing this issue is crucial for empowering women entrepreneurs and closing the gender gap. Unconscious biases also play a role in perpetuating the gender gap in funding. Personal relationships and networking are significant contributing factors. The analysis indicates that investors and business angels are typically male, and they tend to form relationships with individuals who are similar to them.

This creates a barrier for women entrepreneurs, as they may face challenges accessing networks, mentorship, and funding opportunities due to these biases. To address these challenges, community building emerges as an effective government initiative to support women in digital entrepreneurship.

Building a sense of community can stimulate a more inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem, allowing for the exchange of experiences, knowledge sharing, and inspiration. Successful women can play a crucial role in this by sharing their stories, as impactful stories can lead to systematic change and serve as a source of inspiration for aspiring women entrepreneurs.

In conclusion, the analysis sheds light on the gender gap in access to capital for women entrepreneurs in the UK. The unequal distribution of funding resources, coupled with self-perception issues, unconscious biases, and limited networking opportunities, contribute to this gap.

However, through community building and the sharing of success stories, policymakers, organizations, and communities can work towards creating a level playing field for women in entrepreneurship, encouraging their empowerment and economic growth.

Arguments

Investing funds into female-led businesses

Supporting facts:

• The query arises when investing funds into venture capital which later invests in startups.

• Differentiation between startups and SMEs.

• The challenge is finding the right vehicle to invest into female-led businesses.

Topics: Startups, SMEs, Venture Capital, Funding

---

Report

During a discussion about investing funds into female-led businesses, the main focus was on the challenge of finding the appropriate investment vehicle and integrating it into venture capital funds. The speakers emphasized the importance of identifying the right means of investment and differentiating between startups and SMEs.

They also stressed that investing in female-led businesses should be more than just a mandate; instead, it should be seamlessly integrated into the overall funding approach. Biram Sarkam, the E-Trade for Women Advocate representing Francophone Africa, contributed by highlighting the need for the right investment vehicle for female-led businesses.

This emphasized the importance of tailoring the investment strategy to meet the unique challenges and opportunities faced by these businesses. The discussion also highlighted the broader implications of investing in female-led businesses, aligning with several Sustainable Development Goals, including SDG 5 for gender equality, SDG 8 for decent work and economic growth, and SDG 10 for reduced inequalities.

The speakers argued that prioritizing and integrating these investment initiatives is essential to advance these goals. Overall, the sentiment of the discussion was neutral, with one speaker advocating for finding the appropriate investment vehicle for female-led businesses. This underscores the significance of actively addressing the challenges and barriers faced by female entrepreneurs and ensuring that their businesses receive the necessary support and funding.

Arguments

Digital economy in Africa is projected to significantly increase the GDP by 2050

Supporting facts:

• As of last year, the African economy was around $3 trillion in GDP.

• According to an IFC study, by 2050, the digital economy in Africa will reach close to a trillion dollars.

Topics: Digital economy, Africa, GDP

---

Venture capital funding in Africa is significantly network and trust based.

Supporting facts:

• When investing in a startup, one is investing in a team and an idea, meaning trust and personal perceptions play a big role.

• Women led companies attract less investor interest due to several factors.

Topics: Venture capital, Africa, Funding

---

Babacar Seck supports high potential entrepreneurs and MSMEs by ensuring that the assessment and screening process is not discriminatory and gives equal chance to female entrepreneurs.

Supporting facts:

• Babacar Seck works at the fund manager level

• Prioritize investing in funds that have a diverse senior management team

Topics: discrimination, equal opportunity, female entrepreneurs

---

Babacar emphasises on directly investing in businesses led by women, taking risks and constantly looking for performing businesses led by women.

Topics: Women in business, risk taking, direct investment

---

Report

The digital economy in Africa is projected to have a significant impact on GDP, with estimates suggesting it could reach nearly a trillion dollars by 2050. This reflects the potential for economic growth through digital technologies and innovation. Currently, Africa’s GDP stands at approximately $3 trillion.

These positive projections emphasize the importance of investing in and leveraging opportunities in the digital economy in Africa. However, venture capital funding in Africa relies heavily on networks and trust, which can lead to a lack of diversity and inclusivity.

Women-led companies tend to attract less investor interest due to various factors. This highlights the need for a more equitable approach to venture capital funding in Africa. To achieve gender equality and support economic growth, empowering women entrepreneurs through mentoring, coaching, and access to resources is critical.

Studies have shown that women often underestimate their potential, and it is crucial to ensure proper assessment of the quality of their businesses. By providing the necessary support, women entrepreneurs can be empowered to reach their full potential and contribute to Africa’s overall economic growth.

Additionally, it is vital for the venture capital sector in Africa to avoid fostering a culture that excludes diversity and supports a “tech-bro” mentality. Building diverse talent pipelines and providing coaching services alongside capital investments can help create a more inclusive investment landscape in Africa.

Ensuring an assessment and screening process that is fair and unbiased is essential. Babacar Seck, a fund manager, supports this by prioritizing investments in funds with diverse senior management teams. This approach aims to eliminate discrimination and provide equal opportunities for female entrepreneurs to succeed.

Increasing diversity in senior management teams within the venture capital sector has been shown to provide different perspectives and enhance decision-making processes. Female-led co-investments have shown success, reflecting the positive impact of having female senior investors. Babacar Seck also emphasizes the importance of direct investments in businesses led by women, promoting risk-taking, and actively seeking out performing businesses led by women.

This approach supports both gender equality and economic growth. Promoting female leadership in invested companies is crucial, as it fosters a diverse work environment and creates opportunities for women to become future founders. Encouraging female leadership within the venture capital sector in Africa helps create a supportive ecosystem for female entrepreneurship.

In conclusion, the digital economy in Africa presents significant opportunities for economic growth and increased GDP. However, addressing the challenges surrounding venture capital funding, empowering women entrepreneurs, promoting diversity, and eliminating discriminatory practices are essential. By doing so, Africa can foster a more inclusive and successful entrepreneurial ecosystem, leading to sustainable economic development and gender equality.

Arguments

MSMEs are important for growth and job creation in developing countries

Supporting facts:

• MSMEs account for more than 80% of net job origination in developing countries

Topics: MSMEs, Economic Growth, Job Creation

---

Access to credit is an issue for MSMEs due to perceived risk

Supporting facts:

• The global gab in SME funding is around $5 trillion

Topics: MSMEs, Credit Access, Risk Perception

---

Female entrepreneurs face a larger burden of the funding gap

Supporting facts:

• Funding gap for female entrepreneurs is estimated to be $1.7 trillion

Topics: Female Entrepreneurs, Funding Gap, Gender Bias

---

Several factors hinder women’s access to capital: limited collateral, lack of network and mentorship, and discriminatory legal environments

Topics: Women, Capital Access, Collateral, Network, Mentorship, Law, Discrimination

---

Financial products and services tailored to the needs of women MSMEs prove effective

Supporting facts:

• case flow-based lending and focus on the informal sector have proved effective

Topics: Financial Products, Services, Women MSMEs

---

it’s critical for women entrepreneurs to have access to private equity and venture capital

Supporting facts:

• only around 7% of PE and VC capital in emerging markets goes to female entrepreneurs, which is less than $12 billion in 2022 out of around $200 billion

• only around 20% of private equity employees at fund managers were women in 2022, and only 11% were senior employees of fund manager

Topics: Women Entrepreneurs, Venture Capital, Private Equity

---

Fund managers with a gender balanced team delivers higher fund returns

Supporting facts:

• funds with gender balanced senior investment team generated 10 to 20 percent higher returns than fund managers that did not have a gender balance in their management

Topics: Gender Equality, Investment, Fund Management

---

Venture capital asset class is not suited to everything

Supporting facts:

• There has to be the ability to scale fast for venture capital to be suitable

• Loans or micro loans could be more suited depending on the stage of the company

Topics: Venture Capital

---

Venture capital can be powerful when conditions are right

Supporting facts:

• Venture capital can allow companies to scale fast and achieve other rounds of funding

Topics: Venture Capital

---

Women do not get enough funding from venture capitalist funds

Supporting facts:

• If the venture capital funds, incubators, and accelerators are all men, women receive fewer funds

Topics: Gender Equality, Venture Capital

---

Report

The analysis explores the importance of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in developing countries, their role in economic growth and job creation, and the challenges they face in accessing credit. It also addresses the funding gap experienced by female entrepreneurs and the barriers they encounter in accessing capital.

The analysis underscores that MSMEs are crucial for economic development, accounting for over 80% of net job creation in developing countries. However, access to credit is hindered by the perceived risk associated with MSMEs, creating a global funding gap of approximately $5 trillion for SMEs.

Addressing this issue is imperative for promoting inclusive economic growth and reducing inequalities. The analysis highlights the significant funding gap of $1.7 trillion faced by female entrepreneurs. They face greater challenges than their male counterparts in accessing capital for their businesses.

Limited collateral, lack of networks, mentorship opportunities, and discriminatory legal environments contribute to the barriers faced by women entrepreneurs. On a positive note, tailored financial products and services have proven effective in supporting women MSMEs. Case flow-based lending and a focus on the informal sector have shown promise in meeting the specific needs of women entrepreneurs.

However, the analysis reveals the limited access to private equity and venture capital for women entrepreneurs. Only a small fraction, around 7%, of such funding in emerging markets is allocated to female entrepreneurs, amounting to less than $12 billion out of approximately $200 billion.

Bridging this gap is crucial for empowering women-owned businesses. Venture capital is recognized as a powerful tool for company growth and subsequent fundraising rounds, but it may not be suitable for every business. Alternative financing options like loans or micro loans should be considered based on the company’s stage of development.

Additionally, the analysis emphasizes the importance of gender balance in decision-making bodies within the private equity and venture capital industry. Increasing the representation of women on boards, investment committees, and in accelerator and incubator programs is seen as essential for promoting inclusivity and reducing inequalities.

Finally, the analysis advocates for the adoption of gender lens investing practices by venture capital fund managers. This involves prioritizing gender considerations in screening investment proposals to promote gender equality and reduced inequalities. Overall, the analysis provides valuable insights into the significance of MSMEs, the challenges faced by MSMEs in accessing credit, the funding gap experienced by female entrepreneurs, and the barriers to women’s access to capital.

It underscores the importance of tailored financial products, improved access to private equity and venture capital, gender balance in decision-making bodies, and the adoption of gender lens investing practices for inclusive and equitable economic development.

Arguments

Entrepreneurship is a pathway to economic empowerment for women in Cambodia, but several barriers prevent them from realizing their potential

Supporting facts:

• The history of women in STEM has historically favored men due to societal mindsets, technological advancements, and unequal opportunities.

• Many Cambodian women are unable to access education or capital, are bound by family responsibilities, and therefore struggle with utilizing digital platforms.

Topics: Women empowerment, Entrepreneurship, Digital market

---

Facing double standards as a female entrepreneur

Supporting facts:

• Difficulties in securing funding as a female entrepreneur

• Bias faced from investors even if they are women

Topics: Entrepreneurship, Gender Equality

---

Engage, Equip and Empower

Supporting facts:

• Importance of understanding problems faced by entrepreneurs through roundtable discussions

• Necessity of building skills and capacity

• Significance of empowering from within and setting role models

Topics: Entrepreneurship, Capacity Building, Public Speaking

---

Importance of Public Speaking

Supporting facts:

• First hand experience of struggling to pitch due to background in IT

• Believes public speaking should be imbued in education from a young age

Topics: Education, Girl’s Empowerment

---

Changing societal norms

Supporting facts:

• Traditionally women are expected to be submissive and not participate actively in discussions, which needs to change for business women

• Business women are considered to not adhere to the traditional norms if they are assertive

Topics: Gender Equality, Societal Norms

---

Increasing STEM Education

Supporting facts:

• Roadmap includes having 50% graduates in STEM of which 40% should be women

• Believes STEM education should begin at a young age including young mothers teaching their kids

Topics: STEM, Education, Girl’s Empowerment

---

STEM education can be taught using simple, everyday activities like cooking.

Supporting facts:

• Adding salt to water to make egg float can be used to engage kid’s interest in science

Topics: STEM Education, Parenting, Kitchen Science

---

Report

The analysis focuses on the barriers and opportunities for women’s economic empowerment in Cambodia, with particular emphasis on entrepreneurship, digital platforms, and STEM education. The speakers highlighted the historical disadvantage that women in STEM face due to societal mindsets, unequal opportunities, and a lack of access to education and capital.

This has resulted in a gender imbalance in STEM fields, with men being favoured. Similarly, in the realm of entrepreneurship, many Cambodian women struggle to access education and capital, are bound by family responsibilities, and face difficulties in utilising digital platforms.

Despite these challenges, there were positive examples and initiatives discussed during the analysis. One such example was the creation of Khmom eShop, an e-commerce platform, by H.E. Ratha to support women entrepreneurs. Additionally, during the COVID-19 pandemic, women were encouraged to use digital platforms to keep their businesses operational.

The Cambodian government also released the SME Bank, which provides women entrepreneurs with access to finance at low interest rates. These initiatives aim to encourage women’s participation in digital platforms and provide them with affordable loan facilities to boost their businesses.

The analysis also highlighted the importance of building skills and capacity for women in these fields. Roundtable discussions were mentioned as a means of understanding the specific problems faced by entrepreneurs. It was argued that empowering women from within and setting role models can contribute to their success.

Additionally, the analysis emphasised the importance of public speaking skills. One speaker shared their firsthand experience of struggling to pitch due to their background in IT and emphasised the need for public speaking to be included in education from a young age.

Societal norms and gender expectations were identified as important factors that need to be addressed for women’s economic empowerment. Traditionally, women are expected to be submissive and not actively participate in discussions, hindering their progress in business. Moreover, assertive business women are often seen as not adhering to traditional norms.

Thus, it was argued that changing societal norms and challenging gender expectations are crucial for women’s economic empowerment. STEM education was also highlighted as an area that can contribute to women’s economic empowerment. The analysis discussed a roadmap that includes a goal of having on 50% of STEM graduates being women, with a specific focus on young mothers teaching their children STEM skills.

The importance of introducing STEM education at a young age was emphasised in order to foster long-term interest and participation. Furthermore, the speakers discussed practical ways of promoting STEM education, including incorporating it into everyday activities. For example, simple kitchen science experiments, like adding salt to water to make an egg float, can engage children’s interest in science and serve as a starting point for STEM education.

The speakers advocated for women taking an active role in teaching their children and grandchildren about STEM, emphasising that learning can occur anywhere, even at the kitchen table. In conclusion, the analysis recognises the barriers that women face in entrepreneurship, digital platforms, and STEM education in Cambodia, but it also highlights positive initiatives and strategies that can empower women economically.

Encouraging women’s participation in digital platforms and providing them with affordable loan facilities were identified as key ways to boost their businesses. Building skills, changing societal norms, and increasing STEM education were emphasised as important steps towards achieving gender equality and economic growth.

Overall, it was argued that empowering women in these areas can lead to a more inclusive and prosperous society.

Arguments

Digital entrepreneurship is growing and offers opportunities for women

Supporting facts:

• Digital technologies are helping women break down educational and professional barriers

• The African Union’s digital transformation strategy can help further this aim if implemented

Topics: Digital entrepreneurship, Women empowerment, Access to resources

---

Digital gender divide is a challenge but also an opportunity to increase women’s participation and representation

Supporting facts:

• 88% of ICT patents are initiated or invented by men, 2% by women

Topics: Gender divide, Digital inclusion, Women’s representation

---

Inclusion of women in digital technologies can boost economic growth

Supporting facts:

• Women add value to the economy. Economies that exclude women are at a disadvantage

Topics: Women inclusion, Economic growth, Digital technologies

---

Zimbabwe targets 75% internet penetration by 2025, which can bring more women in rural areas into digital ecosystem

Supporting facts:

• Postal and Communications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (PORTRAS) report 2022

Topics: Zimbabwe, Internet penetration, Digital inclusion

---

Women’s participation in the economy is far behind

Supporting facts:

• In Zimbabwe, only 15% of women own their corporates

• Women are far behind in the participation of the economy generally

Topics: Women Empowerment, Economy

---

Deliberate policies are needed to promote participation of women

Supporting facts:

• Zimbabwe has a parastatal called potras which is the Postal and Communications Regulator Authority of Zimbabwe. The responsibilities that government has given it is not just to regulate, but also to train women specifically to participate in ICT

Topics: Policy Making, Women Empowerment

---

Awareness building and training of women in ICT is important

Supporting facts:

• In Zimbabwe, community information centers built, especially in rural areas

• Civil Society involved in the mobilization, awareness building, and training of women in ICT

Topics: ICT, Education, Women Empowerment

---

Promotion of girls in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields

Supporting facts:

• Zimbabwe government has put a scholarship to assist girls to go into STEM

• Participation in the International Girls in ICT Day

Topics: STEM, Education, Women Empowerment

---

Zimbabwe has a Venture Capital fund for financial support.

Supporting facts:

• The fund is run by the Ministry of Finance

Topics: Venture Capital fund, Finance, Zimbabwe

---

There is a women’s bank focusing on women’s financial challenges

Supporting facts:

• The bank specialises in addressing women’s financial challenges

Topics: Women empowerment, Finance, Zimbabwe

---

Solidarity funding and group lending have been established to aid women who lack security for bigger banks.

Supporting facts:

• Women discuss their plans in groups of three or five and guarantee each other for funding

Topics: Women empowerment, Group lending, Finance, Zimbabwe

---

Report

Digital entrepreneurship is growing and providing opportunities for women to overcome educational and professional barriers. This has positive implications for achieving gender equality and economic growth. However, the digital gender divide remains a challenge, with only 2% of ICT patents initiated or invented by women.

Bridging this gap is crucial in increasing women’s participation and representation in the digital sector. Inclusion of women in digital technologies is essential for boosting economic growth, as women contribute to the economy and excluding them puts economies at a disadvantage.

In Zimbabwe, women face significant challenges, with only 15% owning their own corporates and lagging behind in overall economic participation. To address these issues, deliberate policies and initiatives are required to promote women’s participation in ICT. Zimbabwe’s Postal and Communications Regulatory Authority (PORTRAS) not only regulates but also focuses on training women to participate in the ICT sector, demonstrating the government’s commitment to empowering women.

Increased awareness building and training for women in ICT is important. Zimbabwe has established community information centers in rural areas and civil society organizations are actively involved in mobilizing and providing training for women in ICT. Promoting girls in STEM fields is another avenue for empowering women in the digital space.

The Zimbabwean government has introduced scholarships to assist girls in pursuing STEM education, and initiatives like the International Girls in ICT Day encourage girls to explore careers in STEM. In terms of financial support, Zimbabwe has made positive strides. The government has established a Venture Capital fund to provide financial assistance to entrepreneurs, and a women’s bank addresses women’s financial challenges.

Solidarity funding and group lending have been established to assist women who lack security for traditional banks. Women form groups and guarantee each other for funding, providing an alternative for women facing obstacles in accessing financial services. Overall, efforts to promote women’s participation and economic empowerment in the digital sector are crucial.

By addressing the digital gender divide and implementing supportive policies, education, training, and financial aid, Zimbabwe can create a more inclusive environment. These efforts will contribute to the country’s overall development and progress.

Arguments

Women still struggle to break the so-called glass ceiling in the world of business, including the digital sector.

Supporting facts:

• Evidence of ingrained gender bias in the choices young girls make regarding their education

Topics: Women in business, Digital sector, Glass ceiling

---

Women entrepreneurs have difficulty accessing finance, building networks, and finding role models.

Topics: Women entrepreneurs, Access to finance, Professional networks, Role models

---

There is a significant gender financing gap for women digital entrepreneurs

Supporting facts:

• Women entrepreneurs have less chances to get approved for bank loans

• Less than one-third of the MSME finance gap is attributed to women-owned businesses

Topics: Gender equality, Entrepreneurship

---

There is an urgent need for action to address the gender financing gap

Supporting facts:

• More than 40% of formal MSMEs in developing countries have unmet financing needs

• Women-owned businesses represent 23% of MSMEs but they account for only one-third of the MSME finance gap

Topics: Gender equality, Finance

---

Governments, financial institutions, and the private sector can play a role in investing in women-owned businesses

Supporting facts:

• Government can partner with financial institutions and provide incentives or warranties to invest in women-owned businesses

• Private sector can use alternative metrics on credit data such as payment reliability for which women tend to score very well

Topics: Gender equality, Finance, Public-private partnerships

---

Trainings, mentorship programs, and collecting more gender-based data can help support women entrepreneurs

Supporting facts:

• Government can provide training and mentorship programs to help women entrepreneurs to become investment-ready

• There is a need to collect more data about the gender and gender-based discrimination in women-owned businesses

Topics: Gender equality, Business support, Data collection

---

Digital entrepreneurship is growing, and women should not be left behind

Supporting facts:

• 88% of the ICT patents are initiated or invented by men and only 2% by women. The remaining 10% are invented by both sexes

• Using digital technologies, women are breaking down educational and professional barriers

• Digital technologies are advancing gender equality by offering women and girls platforms to share their own stories and become visible in matters of policy, advocacy, and decision-making

• Zimbabwe targets at 75% internet penetration for all users by 2025

Topics: Gender Equality, Digital Entrepreneurship, Economic empowerment

---

Economies thrive when women are included

Topics: Female Inclusion, Economic growth

---

Staggering $5 trillion financing gap

Supporting facts:

• Only 2% of women get their patents

• Women have limited access to necessary collateral to secure loans

Topics: Women Entrepreneurs, Finance

---

Making an egg float in a glass of water

Topics: Science Experiment

---

The importance of preaparing groundwork for future

Supporting facts:

• Noted the need of unlocking finance and also preparing groundwork for future generations

Topics: funding for women, digital entrepreneurship, investment for women

---

Report

The analysis reveals a range of challenges faced by women in the digital entrepreneurship sector. One of the key challenges is the persistence of the glass ceiling in the world of business, including the digital sector. Despite progress in gender equality, women continue to struggle to break through this barrier.

There is evidence of ingrained gender bias in the choices young girls make regarding their education, which further perpetuates the gender gap in STEM fields. To address this issue, it is crucial to engage more women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education.

Currently, only 35% of STEM students in higher education globally are women, according to UNESCO. By encouraging more women to pursue STEM education, it can help bridge the gender gap in digital entrepreneurship and the larger tech industry. This requires a concerted effort from educational institutions, governments, and industry leaders to provide equal opportunities and create a supportive environment for women in these fields.

In addition to the glass ceiling and limited access to STEM education, women entrepreneurs face difficulties in accessing finance, building networks, and finding role models. Women entrepreneurs have a harder time getting approved for bank loans, and there is a significant gender financing gap for women digital entrepreneurs.

This financing gap is also reflected in the fact that women-owned businesses represent only one-third of the micro, small, and medium enterprise (MSME) finance gap. It is clear that urgent action is needed to address the gender financing gap. Women’s access to finance is crucial for their economic empowerment and the overall goal of achieving gender equality.

Currently, more than 40% of formal MSMEs in developing countries have unmet financing needs, and women-owned businesses account for a significant portion of this gap. Governments, financial institutions, and the private sector can play a role in closing this gap by partnering with women-owned businesses, providing incentives or warranties to invest in them, and using alternative metrics on credit data that highlight women’s payment reliability.

Moreover, governments can support women entrepreneurs through various initiatives. They can provide training and mentorship programs to help women entrepreneurs become investment-ready. By collecting more data about the gender and gender-based discrimination in women-owned businesses, policymakers can better understand the challenges they face and develop effective policies and support systems.

On a positive note, the analysis also highlights the positive impact of digital entrepreneurship in advancing gender equality. Digital technologies have provided women and girls with platforms to share their stories, break down educational and professional barriers, and become visible in matters of policy, advocacy, and decision-making.

In Zimbabwe, for example, the government aims to achieve 75% internet penetration for all users by 2025, which can further enhance digital entrepreneurship opportunities for women. The African Union’s digital transformation strategy is seen as a crucial step in addressing the exclusion of women in digital entrepreneurship.

By crafting a strategy that includes women who were previously excluded, the African Union aims to create more inclusive opportunities and tap into the potential of women in the digital economy. In conclusion, while there are significant challenges faced by women in the digital entrepreneurship sector, there is cautious optimism.

Models exist, and work is being done to address these challenges. By engaging more women in STEM education, providing support through training and mentorship programs, collecting gender-based data, and investing in women-owned businesses, economies can thrive. Governments, financial institutions, and the private sector all have a role to play in achieving gender equality and tapping into the untapped potential of women in digital entrepreneurship.

Arguments

Women entrepreneurs have less chances to get approved for bank loans

Supporting facts:

• Women receive smaller loans and with higher interest rates.

• The MSME finance gap for women-owned businesses is deeper.

Topics: Women Entrepreneurs, Bank loans, Gender Disparity

---

Digitalization is transforming economies and creating new opportunities

Supporting facts:

• Transformation is happening at lightning speed, boosting productivity.

• Digital technology is being used in a wide range of sectors including e-commerce, ed-tech, fintech, and agri-tech.

Topics: Digitalization, Economies, Opportunities

---

Report

The analysis provides insights into various perspectives on key issues related to women entrepreneurship, digitalization, and financing in developing countries. One argument highlighted is that women entrepreneurs face barriers when it comes to accessing bank loans. Supporting evidence shows that women receive smaller loans with higher interest rates, making it more difficult for them to grow their businesses.

This is a significant challenge as access to finance is crucial for the success and expansion of any business. The analysis concludes that women entrepreneurs have fewer chances of getting approved for bank loans, indicating a gender disparity in the financial sector.

On the other hand, the analysis presents a positive outlook on digitalization, emphasising its transformative effects on economies and the creation of new opportunities. Digital technology is rapidly driving productivity growth in various sectors such as e-commerce, ed-tech, fintech, and agri-tech.

This supports the argument that digitalization is leading to economic growth and providing avenues for innovation and development. Moreover, the analysis highlights the importance of bridging the gender financing gap to support women digital entrepreneurs. It points out that over 40% of formal Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in developing countries have unmet financing needs.

The financing gap is estimated to be around $5 trillion, underlining the significant financial challenges faced by women entrepreneurs. The analysis concludes that addressing this gap is crucial for empowering women in the digital entrepreneurship ecosystem. Additionally, the analysis suggests that action is needed in developing countries to develop venture capital markets, especially for women digital entrepreneurs.

It highlights the severity of the unmet financing needs faced by women entrepreneurs in developing countries and emphasizes the underdevelopment of venture capital markets in these regions. By improving access to venture capital, more opportunities can be created for women entrepreneurs to scale and grow their businesses.

Overall, the analysis sheds light on the gender disparities in accessing finance, the transformative power of digitalization, and the need for action in developing countries to support women entrepreneurs. These insights can inform policymakers, financial institutions, and relevant stakeholders in implementing effective strategies that promote gender equality, foster digital transformation, and address financing gaps for women entrepreneurs.

Arguments

Yasmine Abdel Karim raised $10 million for her startup in the logistics sector

Supporting facts:

• She managed to raise $3 million seed round while the product was not yet running

• She was selling her idea instead of an actual product

Topics: Fundraising, Startup, Logistics sector

---

Women entrepreneurs survive and do better during market downturn

Supporting facts:

• 60% of the businesses in their region that failed were run by men

• Women-led businesses were oftentimes undervalued compared to male-run companies achieving the same numbers

• Now investors are regretting not investing in women-led businesses

Topics: Women Entrepreneurs, Business sustainability

---

Yasmine is optimistic about women’s access to financing and sees improvement

Supporting facts:

• Access to financing for women was 1% two years ago and is now at 3%

Topics: Women Entrepreneurs, Access to Financing

---

Yasmine Abdel Karim speaks about the challenges and struggles in raising funds and pitching to investors

Supporting facts:

• Abdel Karim raised $10 million after speaking to 168 investors

• Some investors asked irrelevant questions to her pitch

• She needed therapy after raising the round due to the struggle

Topics: Fundraising, Investors, Business, Entrepreneurship

---

Report

Yasmine Abdel Karim, an entrepreneur in the logistics sector, achieved a remarkable feat by raising $10 million for her startup, even before the product was operational. This underscores the significance of selling ideas and highlights the potential for women-led businesses, particularly during market downturns.

Yasmine’s success serves as inspiration for other aspiring entrepreneurs and showcases the value of perseverance and innovative thinking. In terms of access to financing for women, Yasmine remains optimistic about the progress that has been made. She notes that the percentage of financing available to women has increased from a mere 1% to 3% in recent years.

This positive shift indicates a growing recognition of the capabilities and potential of women entrepreneurs. Yasmine’s positivity reflects a broader trend towards promoting gender equality and reducing inequalities outlined in the Sustainable Development Goals. Moreover, Yasmine discusses the unique approach that women entrepreneurs often bring to their businesses.

They exhibit a greater inclination towards valuing sustainability and carefully examining unit economics. This stems, in part, from the minority status that women entrepreneurs face, which drives them to be more cautious and meticulous in managing their businesses. Their efficiency with funds and emphasis on sustainability contribute to the long-term success and resilience of women-led enterprises.

Despite the progress made, Yasmine acknowledges the challenges and struggles that women entrepreneurs encounter in raising funds. She highlights the issue of investors asking irrelevant questions during pitches, which can hinder the fundraising process. Yasmine’s own experience emphasizes the necessity of mental resilience, as she admits to needing therapy after navigating the complexities and frustrations of securing investors.

To further address this issue, Yasmine stresses the importance of preparation and hard work in overcoming the challenges of fundraising. She reveals that she diligently prepared for her pitches by writing things down and maintaining a confident façade. Yasmine’s dedication and emphasis on the power of thorough preparation serve as valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs navigating the fundraising landscape.

Lastly, Yasmine advocates for the inclusion of more women in investing. She acknowledges that some investors struggle to understand or believe in business models presented by women entrepreneurs. By encouraging greater female representation in the investment landscape, Yasmine aims to bridge this gap and foster a better understanding of the unique value and potential of women-led ventures.

In conclusion, Yasmine Abdel Karim’s journey as an entrepreneur in the logistics sector exemplifies the possibilities and challenges faced by women in the business world. Her success in raising significant funds for her startup underscores the importance of selling ideas and the potential for women-led businesses to thrive, even in challenging market conditions.

Yasmine’s optimism about the improvement in access to financing for women, combined with her emphasis on the efficiency and sustainability-focused approach of women entrepreneurs, adds depth to the discussion. Furthermore, her acknowledgment of the struggles faced during the fundraising process and her recommendations for increased preparation and female inclusion in investing provide valuable insights and lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs.