This discussion took place at the annual WSIS Action Line facilitators meeting , where facilitators from various UN agencies reported on their work implementing the WSIS Action Lines and shared priorities for the period leading to 2035 .
Denis Suzar (UNDESA) reported that Action Lines C1, C7 e-government, and C11 focused on developing roadmaps to be presented to the CSTD in 2027, as requested by the WSIS+20 outcome document , and highlighted work on indicators to measure progress across WSIS Action Lines through the Partnership on Measuring ICT for Development . He also noted that IGF 2026 will take place in Nairobi, Kenya in December under the theme 'Governing the Internet in the Age of Intelligence' , and stressed the importance of using existing forums such as WSIS and IGF to avoid duplication, particularly in the context of the upcoming GDC review . Scarlett Fondeur Gil (UNCTAD) reinforced this point, inviting all stakeholders to contribute to an online consultation on measurement indicators for WSIS implementation .
On thematic action lines, Carla Licciardello (ITU) highlighted the importance of investing in soft skills and public-private partnerships in capacity building under Action Line C4 . Preetam Maloor (ITU) reported on cybersecurity momentum under C5, including child online protection coalitions and the conclusion of the International Advisory Body on Submarine Cable Resilience . Derek Muneene (WHO) noted that the global strategy on digital health underpinning Action Line C7 e-health is due for renewal, with interoperability, cybersecurity, and AI remaining key challenges . Maria Prieto (ILO) emphasised the need for data-driven, fit-for-purpose policies to address the labour market impacts of digitalisation and AI .
On environmental and agricultural themes, Enrico Fucile (WMO) stressed the role of open data, open standards, and open source in supporting early warning systems , while Maritza Delgado (ITU) highlighted work on measuring ICT's environmental footprint, addressing e-waste, and supporting regulatory frameworks . Angelique Uwimana (FAO) underscored the need for trusted data and inclusive AI to advance food security and reach rural communities .
The meeting concluded with facilitators each offering a single word encapsulating their aspirations for 2035, with responses including 'together,' 'cooperation,' 'partnerships,' and 'collaboration' , reflecting a shared conviction that cross-agency and multi-stakeholder collaboration is central to the future of WSIS implementation .
Overall Purpose
- The discussion is the annual WSIS Action Line Facilitators Meeting, held during the WSIS Forum. Its primary goal is to bring together representatives from various UN agencies to report on progress made across the different WSIS Action Lines, celebrate collaborative achievements, and look ahead to delivering roadmaps and measurable indicators for the period leading up to 2035.
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Major Discussion Points
- Roadmaps and Measurement Frameworks for WSIS Action Lines Post-2025: A central theme was the need to develop clear roadmaps and measurable indicators for all WSIS Action Lines, as mandated by the WSIS Plus 20 outcome document. Member states are requesting these roadmaps to be presented to the CSTD in 2027, and a Partnership on Measuring ICT for Development has been tasked with proposing a measurement framework. Stakeholders were invited to contribute via an online consultation form.
- AI Governance, Internet Governance, and Avoiding Duplication: Several speakers highlighted the strategic importance of connecting AI governance discussions with broader internet policy through existing fora such as WSIS and the Internet Governance Forum (IGF), rather than creating new mechanisms. IGF 2026 in Nairobi was cited as a key opportunity, and the upcoming GDC review was noted as a moment where the effectiveness of existing WSIS mechanisms could be demonstrated.
- Digital Inclusion, Capacity Building, and Reaching the Last Mile: Multiple Action Line facilitators emphasised the need to ensure digital transformation reaches marginalised groups, including rural communities, farmers, youth, people with disabilities, and indigenous peoples. Capacity building - particularly soft skills development and public-private partnerships - was identified as essential to keeping pace with rapidly evolving technologies.
- Cybersecurity, Digital Trust, and Critical Infrastructure Resilience: The facilitator for Action Line C5 reported strong momentum around building confidence and safety online, including the protection of children, the finalisation of recommendations from the International Advisory Body on Submarine Cable Resilience, and a deep dive into space communication security. These discussions underscored the expanding and cross-cutting nature of digital security challenges. - Environmental Sustainability, E-Waste, and Disaster Preparedness: The e-environment action line, co-facilitated by ITU, WMO, and UNEP, addressed the environmental footprint of ICTs, the growing problem of e-waste, and the use of technology for early warning systems and disaster management. Open data, open standards, and open-source tools were highlighted as critical enablers for delivering timely warnings and supporting climate resilience.
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Overall Tone
- The overall tone of the discussion is collaborative and forward-looking. It opens on a warm and ceremonial note, with certificates being awarded to Action Line facilitators in recognition of 20 years of work . As the meeting progresses into substantive reporting, the tone becomes informative and constructive, with each speaker conveying a sense of shared purpose and institutional pride. There is a consistent undercurrent of urgency - particularly around AI governance, measurement, and inclusion - but this is balanced by optimism about the strength of existing multilateral frameworks. The closing exercise, in which each participant offered a single word summarising their hopes for the future, reinforces the collegial and unified spirit that characterises the meeting throughout.
WSIS Action Line Facilitators Meeting: Expanded Summary
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Opening and Certificate Ceremony
The annual WSIS Action Line Facilitators Meeting opened with a ceremonial dimension, as Gitanjali Sah welcomed participants to a gathering mandated by the WSIS outcome documents and reinforced by the WSIS Plus 20 UNGA overall review resolution . Framing the occasion as one of celebration, she noted that the meeting - taking place in 2026 - marked more than two decades of collaborative work, with facilitators being recognised for their contributions over the past 20 years and looking ahead to continued efforts until 2035 . The ITU's Deputy Secretary-General, Thomas Lamanauskas, presided over a certificate ceremony honouring Action Line facilitators from across the UN system, including representatives from UNDESA, ITU, UNESCO, UNCTAD, WHO, ILO, WMO, FAO, and others . The ceremony was characterised by warmth and informality, with Davide Storti of UNESCO collecting multiple certificates on behalf of absent colleagues across several UNESCO-related action lines, prompting light-hearted exchanges about luggage space . Gitanjali Sah concluded the ceremony by describing the assembled group as working as one UN family, ensuring no duplication and maintaining strong collaboration at both the institutional and personal level .
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Roadmaps, Indicators, and the Measurement Framework
A central theme of the substantive reporting was the urgent need to develop clear roadmaps and measurable indicators for all WSIS Action Lines, as formally required by the WSIS Plus 20 outcome document. Denis Suzar of UNDESA, facilitating Action Lines C1 (promotion of ICT), C7 e-government, and C11 (international and regional cooperation), explained that sessions this week had focused on the roadmaps that the WSIS Plus 20 outcome document requires all Action Line facilitators to present to the CSCD in the upcoming 2027 session . He noted that member states had been requesting these roadmaps, and that all facilitators completed them by April of the current year, while also calling for indicators to measure progress across the Action Lines . To this end, a dedicated session on indicators was organised in collaboration with the Partnership on Measuring ICT for Development, with UNDESA serving on the steering committee, where participants brainstormed approaches to measuring WSIS Action Line progress .
Scarlett Fondeur Gil of UNCTAD reinforced this point, confirming that 14 organisations have been formally tasked by the WSIS Plus 20 review to propose a measurement framework and indicators for WSIS going forward . She invited all Action Line facilitator agencies and other stakeholders to contribute to an online consultation form, noting that this process would continue over approximately nine months rather than being limited to the sessions held during the current week . Gitanjali Sah underscored that this exercise is open to all stakeholders, not only UN agencies, emphasising the multi-stakeholder character of the measurement process . Carla Licciardello of ITU added that the WSIS Plus 20 process outcomes are now providing the means for proper measurement of capacity development activities, representing a significant step forward for accountability in this area .
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AI Governance, Internet Governance, and Avoiding Duplication
Denis Suzar introduced one of the meeting's most strategically significant themes: the importance of connecting AI governance discussions with broader internet policy through existing fora, rather than creating new and potentially duplicative mechanisms. He noted that the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) has become a permanent forum of the UN, while remaining open and multi-stakeholder in character , and that IGF 2026 will take place in Nairobi from 14 to 18 December under the theme "Governing the Internet in the Age of Intelligence, Our Shared Responsibility" . He described this as a strategic opportunity to connect AI governance discussions with broader internet policy , noting that the Global AI Dialogue had met during the same week in Geneva but that its next meeting would follow the WSIS Forum in May, serviced by UNDESA . He indicated that the incoming President of the General Assembly from Bangladesh would appoint new co-facilitators for the Global AI Dialogue, and that these co-facilitators would be invited to Nairobi to continue discussions .
Denis was explicit that all resolutions in the WSIS Plus 20 outcome document call on member states not to duplicate but to use existing fora , and that this approach would send a clear message to member states reviewing the Global Digital Compact (GDC) during the 82nd session of the General Assembly, which will run from September 2027 to September 2028 . He argued that the roadmaps, the financing gap work led by ITU, and the youth task force building a financing mechanism - all of which will be reported to the CSCD next year - collectively demonstrate that existing WSIS mechanisms are functioning effectively and should be taken into consideration during the GDC review . Davide Storti of UNESCO reinforced this perspective from a different angle, concluding his remarks by stating that action lines cannot work in isolation and that bridges must be created between different WSIS processes, tracks, and other international fora dealing with these important issues .
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UNESCO: Ethics, Human Rights, Openness, and Inclusion
Davide Storti delivered a wide-ranging contribution to the meeting, covering several UNESCO-related action lines. He opened by noting that openness should encompass everything, before turning to the question of indigenous peoples' participation, arguing that discussions had highlighted the need to move beyond consultation and towards co-design of digital content and language technology initiatives . He also addressed the embedding of universal acceptance into digital transformation policy discourse, encouraging member states to formally reference universal acceptance readiness in their international digital strategies and government modernisation plans .
On the question of private sector engagement, Storti noted the need to develop targeted outreach to software vendors, platforms, and service providers such as email and domain providers, which remain both means of access and potential bottlenecks for universal acceptance compliance . Turning to digital ethics, he observed that the regulation of digital communication during crises represents an emerging policy field requiring new governance approaches, and that existing regulatory models are often insufficient to address the transnational nature of contemporary digital communication ecosystems . He called for strengthened international multi-stakeholder cooperation, including through the WSIS framework, to develop shared norms, evidence, and governance approaches . Most fundamentally, he argued that human rights must remain at the core of international governance frameworks, and that future policy frameworks must ensure humanitarian communication remains grounded in international human rights principles .
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Capacity Building: Soft Skills, Public-Private Partnerships, and Measurement
Carla Licciardello of ITU, the sole facilitator of Action Line C4 on capacity building, reported that the most recent session had examined how capacity development programmes at national, regional, and international levels are being impacted by the rapid evolution of technologies . She noted that ITU had teamed up with UNESCO as co-facilitator this year, with a particular focus on understanding how capacity development is affecting the digital learning ecosystem, including the work of schools and public institutions with young learners who will form the future workforce . The panel's key conclusion was that regardless of how fast technology evolves, there is a fundamental need to invest in soft skills, because young people equipped with soft skills are better placed to address the challenges arising from implementing technology in capacity development and digital skills contexts .
A second major theme from the C4 session was the importance of public-private partnerships, which Licciardello noted had emerged consistently across multiple workshops, alongside the welcome development that the WSIS Plus 20 process outcomes are now providing the means for proper measurement of capacity development activities, enabling facilitators to assess the impact of their work more rigorously .
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Cybersecurity, Trust, and Critical Infrastructure Resilience
Preetam Maloor of ITU, facilitating Action Line C5 on building confidence and security in the use of ICTs, reported strong momentum around security, trust, and safety across the Geneva Digital Week . He highlighted the protection of children online as an important area, noting the launch of various new coalitions, including one involving France, Spain, Kenya, and the EU, with ITU, OHCHR, UNICEF, and other UN agencies joining . More concrete conversations on this topic had also taken place at the business forum .
Maloor drew particular attention to the conclusion of the International Advisory Body on Submarine Cable Resilience, noting that 99 per cent of international data traffic travels on subsea cables . The advisory body, comprising 40 members and co-chaired by the Minister of Communications from Nigeria and the regulator of Portugal, had been launched at WSIS Forum 2024 and concluded its work at the current forum . It produced concrete recommendations on risk assessment, repairs, and areas where connectivity through subsea cables is insufficient . Additionally, the C5 session had included a deep dive into space communication security, conducted with Washington University, ITU, and the Global Cyber Forum, reflecting the expanding scope of digital security challenges across different modalities and technologies .
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E-Business and the E-Trade for All Initiative
Scarlett Fondeur Gil of UNCTAD, co-facilitating the e-business action line alongside the Universal Postal Union and the International Trade Centre, highlighted the decision to bring Tunisia - described explicitly as a common beneficiary of technical assistance from the co-facilitating agencies - as a keynote presenter to share its digital transformation journey . This journey had been co-facilitated by the three agencies but also involved many other players, including the private sector and development partners, reflecting the growing and cross-cutting nature of digitalisation in the economy . She described the E-Trade for All initiative, coordinated by UNCTAD with participation from ITC, UPU, and 27 other organisations, as an excellent example of cooperation in the area of the digital economy and e-commerce for development . As noted above, she also reinforced the call for stakeholder contributions to the measurement framework consultation .
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E-Health: Resilience, Interoperability, and Strategy Renewal
Derek Muneene of WHO, co-facilitating the e-health action line with ITU, reported that the C7 e-health session had been an extension of a broader session hosted under the Global Initiative on Digital Health, the multi-stakeholder mechanism being used to implement this action line . The session focused on building resilience in e-health implementation and in health systems more broadly, with additional dimensions covering learning partnerships and capacity building . Key challenges identified included interoperability, cybersecurity, and the integration of emerging technologies such as AI into the health sector . Muneene noted that recommendations from these discussions are being folded into the next global strategy on digital health . Critically, the current global strategy on digital health, which serves as the basis for implementing the action line, is due to expire next year, and a renewal process will take place at the next World Health Assembly . He invited stakeholders to visit the WHO website to submit comments on the key elements they would like to see in the next strategy, and to access the Global Initiative on Digital Health platform .
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E-Employment: Labour Markets, Data, and Normative Standards
Maria Prieto of ILO, facilitating Action Line C7 e-employment, reported that the session had examined how the labour market is being impacted by digitalisation and AI, considering not only how jobs are being influenced but also how different groups - including youth, women, and people with disabilities - are affected differently across countries and regions . She emphasised the importance of having correct data and good research to underpin policies that are fit for purpose, and noted that WSIS collaboration is essential for ensuring policy coherence at the national level . Beyond research, she stressed the need to support good governance and provide capacity building, noting that the session had included ITU's capacity building team and identified multiple areas for continued collaboration . She also highlighted ILO's normative role, drawing attention to the recently developed International Labour Standard on the platform economy as a relevant framework for addressing the digital transformation of work .
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E-Environment: ICT Footprint, E-Waste, and Disaster Preparedness
The e-environment action line, co-facilitated by ITU, WMO, and UNEP, was presented by two speakers. Enrico Fucile of WMO, described as the newest addition to the WSIS Action Line facilitator family , reported that WMO is strongly supporting the Early Warning for All initiative and increasing its focus on providing timely warnings and tools to its members . He noted that AI is advancing rapidly in this area but cannot function without data, making real-time data sharing and long-term archiving - covering 30 years or more - essential for training AI systems . He emphasised that WMO is pursuing open data, open standards, and open source solutions as foundational principles, noting that open source is particularly important for covering the last mile of delivering warnings on the ground .
Maritza Delgado of ITU addressed the three components of the e-environment action line: governance and policy of ICTs, the environmental footprint of ICTs, and the use of technology for disaster preparedness . On the environmental footprint, she described ongoing work with UNEP on developing better data, standards, and greening procurement, as well as measuring the impact of data centres and energy consumption . She highlighted e-waste as one of the fastest-growing pollution streams and noted the need to support countries in developing legal and regulatory frameworks to promote circular economy principles . On disaster preparedness, she stressed that technologies alone are insufficient and that enabling environments - including political commitment and specific institutional structures - must be in place for technologies to be used effectively for disaster management .
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E-Agriculture: Trusted Data, Inclusive AI, and Reaching the Last Mile
Angelique Uwimana of FAO, facilitating Action Line C7 e-agriculture, argued that trusted data, geospatial intelligence, early warning systems, digital public goods, and inclusive AI can help countries strengthen food security, climate resilience, and rural transformation . However, she stressed that these tools cannot achieve their potential if they do not reach the last mile - specifically, farmers and rural communities . The session had brought together Smart Africa, WFP, ITU, and others to discuss advancing trusted data governance, inclusive AI, and digital public goods to enable scalable digital public infrastructure and collaborative approaches . FAO committed to continuing to support solution-oriented and cross-cutting initiatives for the action line, advancing AI as a bridge between data, digital cooperation, and sustainable development . Uwimana concluded with a clear statement of principle: digital transformation must work for food security, rural communities, and those at risk of being left behind .
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Closing Reflections and Shared Aspirations
The meeting concluded with a brief but symbolically significant exercise in which Gitanjali Sah invited each facilitator to offer a single word summarising their hopes and aspirations for the period to 2035 . The responses were strikingly convergent: Davide Storti chose "together" , Enrico Fucile "cooperation" , Maritza Delgado "cross-sector collaboration" , Preetam Maloor "partnerships" , Carla Licciardello "co-implementation" , Scarlett Fondeur Gil "community" , Maria Prieto "collaboration" , Denis Suzar "people" , and Derek Muneene "skill" . The near-unanimous convergence on themes of collective effort and human-centredness, chosen independently by participants from across the international organisations covering diverse action line areas, reflected a broadly shared vision for the future of WSIS implementation.
Before closing, Gitanjali Sah also took a moment to acknowledge Ruth Sidhubadar, who coordinates the WSIS action lines within the WSIS team, as well as Vladimir, who oversees the implementation of the action lines through the prizes and the stock, recognising their essential behind-the-scenes contributions to the work of the facilitators .
Gitanjali Sah brought the meeting to a close with a concise but resonant summary: "WSIS is UN in action" . This formulation encapsulated the collective and coordinated character of the work described throughout the meeting, and reinforced the importance - articulated most explicitly by Denis Suzar - of demonstrating the strength and coherence of existing WSIS mechanisms to member states as they approach the GDC review .
Roadmaps for WSIS Action Lines required by WSIS Plus 20 outcome document to be presented to CSCD in 2027
Arg. 1Denis Suzar explained that the WSIS Plus 20 outcome document requires all WSIS Action Line facilitators to develop and present roadmaps to the CSCD in 2027. Sessions on Action Lines C1 and C11 were specifically focused on gathering inputs for these roadmaps. Member states are requesting clear roadmaps to be completed by April.
The C1 and C11 sessions focused on the roadmaps that the WSIS Plus 20 outcome document asks for all WSIS Action Line facilitators to present to the CSCD in the upcoming session in 2027 . Member states are asking for clear roadmaps to be completed by April .
on: Measurement frameworks and indicators for WSIS Action Lines are urgently needed, and all stakeholders are invited to contribute to the ongoing consultation process
Development of indicators to measure progress in WSIS Action Lines, in collaboration with the Partnership on Measuring ICT for Development
Arg. 2Denis Suzar highlighted that member states are requesting indicators to measure progress across WSIS Action Lines. A dedicated session was organised in collaboration with the Partnership on Measuring ICT for Development, with UNDESA on the steering committee, to brainstorm appropriate indicators.
Member states are asking for indicators alongside roadmaps . A session on indicators was organised together with the Partnership on Measuring ICT for Development, with UNDESA in the steering committee, to brainstorm about indicators to measure progress in WSIS Action Lines .
on: Measurement frameworks and indicators for WSIS Action Lines are urgently needed, and all stakeholders are invited to contribute to the ongoing consultation process
IGF 2026 in Nairobi presents a strategic opportunity to connect AI governance discussions with broader internet policy, under the theme "Governing the Internet in the Age of Intelligence"
Arg. 3Denis Suzar noted that the IGF Secretariat has become a permanent forum of the UN, and that IGF 2026 will take place in Nairobi in December under a theme directly linking AI and internet governance. He argued this represents a strategic opportunity to connect AI governance discussions with broader internet policy debates.
The IGF Secretariat became a permanent forum of the UN, while remaining open and multi-stakeholder . IGF 2026 will take place in Nairobi from 14-18 December under the theme 'Governing the Internet in the Age of Intelligence, Our Shared Responsibility' . The Global AI Dialogue met during the same week, and co-facilitators will be invited to Nairobi to continue discussions .
Member states are asking existing fora such as WSIS and IGF to be used rather than duplicating efforts, and the GDC review during the 82nd GA session should reflect the effectiveness of existing WSIS mechanisms
Arg. 4Denis Suzar argued that all resolutions in the WSIS Plus 20 outcome document call on member states not to duplicate but to use existing fora. He suggested that the ongoing work on roadmaps, financing mechanisms, and indicators will send a clear message during the GDC review that existing WSIS mechanisms are functioning effectively.
All resolutions in the WSIS Plus 20 outcome document ask member states not to duplicate but to use existing fora such as WSIS and IGF . The GDC review will take place during the 82nd session of the GA from September 2027 to September 2028 . Work on roadmaps, a financing gap task force led by ITU, and a report to CSTC are all intended to demonstrate that existing WSIS mechanisms are working .
on: Existing WSIS mechanisms and fora should be used rather than duplicating efforts through new processes, particularly in the context of AI governance and the GDC review
on: Emphasis on existing fora versus new mechanisms for AI governance
Placing people at the centre of all WSIS action line work remains the fundamental purpose
Arg. 5When asked to summarise his hopes for the future in one word, Denis Suzar chose 'people', underscoring that the ultimate purpose of all WSIS action line work is to serve and benefit people.
Denis Suzar offered 'people' as his single word summarising his aspirations for the WSIS process until 2035 .
on: The need for collective action, cooperation, and working together is the overarching theme uniting all WSIS Action Line facilitators
UNCTAD actively contributing to the Partnership on Measuring ICT for Development, with an online consultation form open to all stakeholders for input on meaningful indicators for the future of WSIS implementation
Arg. 1Scarlett Fondeur Gil highlighted that UNCTAD, along with 13 other organisations (14 in total), has been tasked by the WSIS Plus 20 review to propose a measurement framework and indicators for WSIS going forward. She invited all Action Line facilitator agencies and other stakeholders to contribute via an online consultation form, noting this is an ongoing process lasting approximately nine months.
UNCTAD is an contributor to the Partnership on Measuring ICT for Development, and 14 organisations have been tasked by the WSIS Plus 20 review to propose a measurement framework and indicators for WSIS going forward . An online consultation form is available on the session webpage for stakeholders to provide feedback, and the process will continue over the next nine months .
on: Measurement frameworks and indicators for WSIS Action Lines are urgently needed, and all stakeholders are invited to contribute to the ongoing consultation process
The E-Trade for All initiative, coordinated by UNCTAD with 27 other organisations, exemplifies effective cooperation in the digital economy and e-commerce for development
Arg. 2Scarlett Fondeur Gil described the E-Trade for All initiative as a strong example of multi-agency cooperation in the digital economy space. The initiative is coordinated by UNCTAD and involves participation from ITC, UPU, and 27 other organisations, demonstrating the breadth of collaboration possible within the WSIS framework.
The E-Trade for All initiative is coordinated by UNCTAD with participation from ITC, UPU, and 27 other organisations, serving as an excellent example of cooperation in the area of the digital economy and e-commerce for development .
Bringing beneficiary countries such as Tunisia to present their digital transformation journeys reflects the cross-cutting and collaborative nature of digitalisation
Arg. 3Scarlett Fondeur Gil noted that UNCTAD made a deliberate effort this year to include a beneficiary country, Tunisia, as a keynote presenter to share its digital transformation journey. This journey was co-facilitated by three agencies and involved many other players including the private sector and development partners, illustrating the cross-cutting nature of digitalisation.
Tunisia was brought in to present a keynote and a slideshow on their digital transformation journey, which was co-facilitated with three agencies and involved many other players including the private sector and development partners .
on: The scope and nature of private sector engagement in WSIS action lines
Building a sense of community among all stakeholders underpins the WSIS process
Arg. 4When asked to summarise her hopes for the future in one word, Scarlett Fondeur Gil chose 'community', reflecting her view that a shared sense of community among all stakeholders is the foundation of the WSIS process.
Scarlett Fondeur Gil offered 'community' as her single word summarising her aspirations for the WSIS process until 2035 .
on: The need for collective action, cooperation, and working together is the overarching theme uniting all WSIS Action Line facilitators
Measurement frameworks for capacity development outcomes are now being enabled by WSIS Plus 20 process results
Arg. 1Carla Licciardello noted that the outcomes of the WSIS Plus 20 process are providing the means for proper measurement of capacity development activities. This is seen as a significant step forward in being able to assess and demonstrate the impact of capacity building work.
The outcomes of the WSIS Plus 20 process are giving the means for proper measurement to be put in place to impact and measure what is being done in terms of capacity development .
on: Measurement frameworks and indicators for WSIS Action Lines are urgently needed, and all stakeholders are invited to contribute to the ongoing consultation process
Capacity development programmes at national, regional, and international levels are being impacted by rapid technological change, requiring investment in soft skills regardless of the pace of technology evolution
Arg. 2Carla Licciardello explained that ITU's Action Line C4 session examined how rapidly evolving technologies are affecting capacity development programmes at all levels. The key conclusion was that investment in soft skills is essential, as young people equipped with soft skills will be better able to address the challenges arising from implementing new technologies.
The session discussed how capacity development programmes at national, regional, and international levels are being impacted by rapid technological change . The panel concluded that no matter how fast technology evolves, there is a need to invest in soft skills so that young people can address the different challenges that come from implementing technology in capacity development and digital skills .
Public-private partnerships are essential for effective capacity building in the digital skills ecosystem
Arg. 3Carla Licciardello highlighted that the importance of public-private partnerships emerged consistently across multiple workshops and sessions. This reflects a broader recognition that neither the public nor private sector alone can address the scale of capacity building needed in the digital skills ecosystem.
The importance of public-private partnerships came across quite often in several workshops developed under Action Line C4 .
on: The scope and nature of private sector engagement in WSIS action lines
Co-implementation across agencies and stakeholders is necessary for meaningful capacity development outcomes
Arg. 4When asked to summarise her hopes for the future in one word, Carla Licciardello chose 'co-implementation', emphasising that meaningful capacity development outcomes require joint implementation efforts across agencies and stakeholders.
Carla Licciardello offered 'co-implementation' as her single word summarising her aspirations for the WSIS process until 2035 .
on: The need for collective action, cooperation, and working together is the overarching theme uniting all WSIS Action Line facilitators
Interoperability, cybersecurity, and capacity building remain key challenges for the health sector in implementing e-health solutions
Arg. 1Derrick Muneene identified interoperability, capacity building, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies such as AI as ongoing challenges for the health sector. These issues were discussed in the context of building resilience in health systems and making them more robust through e-health implementation.
Issues around interoperability, capacity building, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies like AI remain challenges for the health sector . The session looked at building resilience in the implementation of e-health and the resilience of health systems, as well as learning partnerships and capacity building .
The Global Initiative on Digital Health serves as a multi-stakeholder vehicle for implementing the e-health action line, with a renewal of the global strategy on digital health forthcoming
Arg. 2Derrick Muneene explained that the Global Initiative on Digital Health is the mechanism being used to implement the e-health action line, involving multiple stakeholders. He noted that the current global strategy on digital health expires next year and that a renewal process will take place at the next World Health Assembly, inviting stakeholders to contribute their views.
The Global Initiative on Digital Health is the mechanism used to implement the e-health action line, involving multiple stakeholders . The global strategy on digital health that serves as the basis for implementing the action line expires next year, and a renewal process will take place at the next World Health Assembly . Stakeholders are invited to visit the WHO website to make comments on the key elements for the next global strategy .
on: Enabling environments, including political commitment, legal and regulatory frameworks, and institutional structures, are necessary for digital technologies to deliver their potential
Developing skills is the key human-centred outcome that WSIS action lines must deliver
Arg. 3When asked to summarise his hopes for the future in one word, Derrick Muneene chose 'skill', reflecting his view that developing human skills is the most important human-centred outcome that WSIS action lines must deliver.
Derrick Muneene offered 'skill' as his single word summarising his aspirations for the WSIS process until 2035 .
on: The need for collective action, cooperation, and working together is the overarching theme uniting all WSIS Action Line facilitators
Regulation of digital communication during crises is an emerging policy field, and existing regulatory models are often insufficient to address the transnational nature of contemporary digital communication ecosystems
Arg. 1Davide Storti highlighted that the regulation of digital communication during crises has emerged as a new and complex policy field. He noted that existing regulatory models frequently fail to adequately address the transnational character of contemporary digital communication ecosystems, necessitating new governance approaches.
The discussions highlighted that the regulation of digital communication during crises represents an emerging policy field requiring new governance approaches, and that existing regulatory models are often insufficient to address the transnational nature of contemporary digital communication ecosystems .
Human rights must remain at the core of international governance frameworks, ensuring humanitarian communication is grounded in international human rights principles
Arg. 2Davide Storti argued that human rights should never be forgotten as the foundation of international governance frameworks. He specifically emphasised that future policy frameworks must ensure humanitarian communication remains grounded in international human rights principles, and that translating theory into practice requires clear governance regimes.
Human rights must be placed at the core of international governance frameworks, and future policy frameworks should ensure that humanitarian communication remains grounded in international human rights principles . Translating theories into practice with clear governance regimes is the way to strengthen institutional preparedness .
Indigenous peoples' participation should move beyond consultation towards co-design of digital content and language technology initiatives
Arg. 3Davide Storti reported that discussions highlighted the need to deepen indigenous peoples' participation in digital content and language technology initiatives. The argument is that participation should move beyond mere consultation to genuine co-design, giving indigenous communities a more and meaningful role.
There was a good discussion on the need to deepen indigenous peoples' participation in action lines, moving beyond consultation and towards co-design of digital content and language technology initiatives .
Universal acceptance should be embedded into digital transformation policy discourse, with member states formally referencing it in international digital strategies
Arg. 4Davide Storti raised the importance of embedding universal acceptance into digital transformation policy discourse. He argued that member states should formally reference universal acceptance readiness within their international digital strategies and government modernisation plans.
There was discussion about embedding universal acceptance into digital transformation policy discourse and encouraging member states to formally reference universal acceptance readiness within international digital strategies and government modernisation plans .
Action lines cannot work in isolation; bridges must be created between different WSIS processes, tracks, and other international fora
Arg. 5Davide Storti concluded by emphasising that no action line can work in isolation and that bridges must be built between different WSIS processes, tracks, and other international fora dealing with the same issues. This interconnected approach is essential for coherent and effective outcomes.
The discussion this week led to the fundamental conclusion that action lines cannot work in isolation and that ways must be found to interact across different WSIS processes and tracks, and to create bridges between WSIS and other fora dealing with these important issues .
on: Existing WSIS mechanisms and fora should be used rather than duplicating efforts through new processes, particularly in the context of AI governance and the GDC review
on: The scope and nature of private sector engagement in WSIS action lines
The overarching theme uniting all action line facilitators is the need for togetherness, cooperation, partnerships, and collaboration to achieve WSIS goals by 2035
Arg. 6When asked to summarise his hopes for the future in one word, Davide Storti chose 'together', explaining that joint effort is more important now than ever before. This reflects the overarching theme of collective action that runs through all WSIS action line work.
Davide Storti offered 'together' as his single word summarising his aspirations for the WSIS process until 2035, noting that joint effort is needed to succeed .
on: The need for collective action, cooperation, and working together is the overarching theme uniting all WSIS Action Line facilitators
Capacity building and good governance are necessary to support labour markets impacted by digitalisation and AI, with policy coherence at national level being critical
Arg. 1Maria Prieto explained that the ILO's Action Line C7 e-employment session discussed how digitalisation and AI are impacting labour markets across different groups and regions. She stressed that good research and correct data are needed to develop fit-for-purpose policies, and that WSIS collaboration is essential for ensuring policy coherence at the national level.
The session discussed how jobs are being influenced by digitalisation and AI, and how different groups such as youth, women, and people with disabilities are affected differently across countries and regions . The importance of having correct data and good research to respond with fit-for-purpose policies was highlighted, and WSIS collaboration was identified as essential for policy coherence at national level .
WSIS collaboration ensures policy coherence at national level across labour market, employment, and digital skills issues, with ILO's normative role and International Labour Standards being relevant
Arg. 2Maria Prieto highlighted that the ILO's normative role and its International Labour Standards are directly relevant to the digital employment agenda. She specifically mentioned the recently developed standard on the platform economy as an example, and emphasised that ILO stands ready to continue collaborations through WSIS.
The ILO is a normative organisation, and the recently developed International Labour Standard on the platform economy was highlighted as relevant to the digital employment agenda . The ILO stands ready to continue collaborations through WSIS .
Collaboration across organisations ensures coherent and effective responses to the impact of digitalisation on employment
Arg. 3When asked to summarise her hopes for the future in one word, Maria Prieto chose 'collaboration', reflecting her view that collaboration across organisations is essential for coherent and effective responses to the impact of digitalisation on employment.
Maria Prieto offered 'collaboration' as her single word summarising her aspirations for the WSIS process until 2035 .
on: The need for collective action, cooperation, and working together is the overarching theme uniting all WSIS Action Line facilitators
Strong momentum exists around security, trust, and safety, including the protection of children online, with new coalitions being launched by multiple countries and UN agencies
Arg. 1Preetam Maloor reported strong momentum around security, trust, and safety across the Geneva Digital Week. He highlighted the launch of new coalitions for protecting children online, involving multiple countries and UN agencies, as a concrete example of this momentum.
Various coalitions for protecting children online were launched, including one by France, Spain, Kenya, and the EU with ITU, OHCHR, UNICEF, and other UN agencies joining . More concrete conversations on the topic took place at the business forum across several sessions .
The International Advisory Body on Submarine Cable Resilience concluded its work with concrete recommendations on risk assessment and repairs, addressing the fact that 99% of international data traffic relies on subsea cables
Arg. 2Preetam Maloor described the conclusion of the International Advisory Body on Submarine Cable Resilience as an important milestone. The body, co-chaired by Nigeria and Portugal, produced concrete recommendations on risk assessment, repairs, and connectivity gaps, addressing the critical fact that 99% of international data traffic travels via subsea cables.
99% of international data traffic is on subsea cables, making their resilience critically important . The conversation was launched at WSIS Forum 2024, and the final meeting took place in 2026 . The advisory body had 40 members co-chaired by the Minister of Communications from Nigeria and the regulator of Portugal, and produced concrete recommendations on risk assessment, repairs, and areas where connectivity through subsea cables is insufficient .
Space communication security is an emerging area requiring attention alongside traditional cybersecurity threats
Arg. 3Preetam Maloor noted that the C5 session included a deep dive into space communication security, reflecting the expanding scope of the security and resilience agenda. He emphasised that security threats now span different modalities and technologies beyond traditional cybersecurity concerns.
A deep dive into space communication security was held at the C5 session with Washington University, ITU, and the Global Cyber Forum . The discussion covered not just traditional security threats but security across different modalities and technologies .
Partnerships are central to building confidence, security, and trust in the digital environment
Arg. 4When asked to summarise his hopes for the future in one word, Preetam Maloor chose 'partnerships', reflecting his view that partnerships are central to building the confidence, security, and trust needed in the digital environment.
Preetam Maloor offered 'partnerships' as his single word summarising his aspirations for the WSIS process until 2035 .
on: The need for collective action, cooperation, and working together is the overarching theme uniting all WSIS Action Line facilitators
AI is advancing rapidly in early warning systems, but requires open data, open standards, and open source tools to function effectively and reach the last mile
Arg. 1Enrico Fucile explained that WMO is strongly supporting the Early Warning for All initiative and that AI is advancing rapidly in this area. However, he stressed that AI cannot function without data, and that open data, open standards, and open source tools are all essential to ensure that early warning systems can reach the last mile and support all member states.
AI is advancing fast in the area of early warning systems, but AI does not work without data . WMO is increasing its focus on data sharing in real time and long-term archiving of 30 years or more of data for training AI systems . Open data is essential to fuel AI and traditional systems, open standards are needed to enable technical collaboration across countries, and open source is needed to cover the last mile of delivering warnings on the field .
on: Enabling environments, including political commitment, legal and regulatory frameworks, and institutional structures, are necessary for digital technologies to deliver their potential
on: The relative priority of technical tools versus enabling environments for digital transformation
Data sharing in real time and long-term archiving of data are essential for training AI systems used in early warning for all initiatives
Arg. 2Enrico Fucile emphasised that data is the foundation upon which AI-driven early warning systems are built. Real-time data sharing and long-term archiving of at least 30 years of data are both necessary to train AI systems effectively and to ensure accurate and timely warnings reach populations.
Data sharing in real time is key, and long-term archiving of 30 years and more of data for training AI is important, with WMO focusing on these areas . The aim is to help members have data and systems to get accurate and timely information and to reach out to their populations on time with precise warnings .
Cooperation across sectors and organisations is the foundation for delivering on WSIS commitments
Arg. 3When asked to summarise his hopes for the future in one word, Enrico Fucile chose 'cooperation', reflecting his view that cooperation across sectors and organisations is the essential foundation for delivering on WSIS commitments.
Enrico Fucile offered 'cooperation' as his single word summarising his aspirations for the WSIS process until 2035 .
on: The need for collective action, cooperation, and working together is the overarching theme uniting all WSIS Action Line facilitators
Trusted data, geospatial intelligence, early warning systems, and inclusive AI can help countries strengthen food security, climate resilience, and rural transformation
Arg. 1Angelique Uwimana argued that a range of digital tools and technologies, including trusted data, geospatial intelligence, early warning systems, digital public goods, and inclusive AI, have the potential to help countries strengthen food security, climate resilience, and rural transformation. However, she stressed that these tools must reach the last mile to be effective.
FAO is convinced that trusted data, geospatial intelligence, early warning systems, digital public goods and data public infrastructure, and responsive and inclusive AI can help countries strengthen food security, climate resilience, and rural transformation . However, this cannot happen if these tools are not reaching the last mile, particularly farmers and rural communities .
Digital transformation must reach the last mile, particularly farmers and rural communities who risk being left behind
Arg. 2Angelique Uwimana emphasised that digital transformation in agriculture is only meaningful if it reaches those who need it most — farmers and rural communities. She stressed that FAO is committed to ensuring that digital transformation works for food security and for those at risk of being left behind.
FAO's session was focused on the component of reaching the last mile, particularly farmers and rural communities . FAO is committed to ensuring that digital transformation works for food security, rural communities, and those at risk of being left behind .
on: The relative priority of technical tools versus enabling environments for digital transformation
Cross-cutting and solution-oriented initiatives are needed to advance the e-agriculture action line and bridge data, digital cooperation, and sustainable development
Arg. 3Angelique Uwimana called for more solution-oriented and cross-cutting initiatives to support the e-agriculture action line. She expressed FAO's commitment to working with all action line facilitators and partners to advance AI as a bridge between data, digital cooperation, and sustainable development.
FAO encourages more solution-oriented and cross-cutting initiatives and dialogue for supporting the e-agriculture action line . FAO remains committed to working with all action line facilitators and partners to advance AI as a bridge between data, digital cooperation, and sustainable development .
on: Enabling environments, including political commitment, legal and regulatory frameworks, and institutional structures, are necessary for digital technologies to deliver their potential
Inclusive and responsible AI, combined with trusted data governance and digital public goods, can help countries strengthen food security and climate resilience
Arg. 4Angelique Uwimana argued that inclusive and responsible AI, when combined with trusted data governance and digital public goods infrastructure, offers a powerful set of tools for addressing food security and climate resilience challenges. The session with Smart Africa, WFP, and ITU focused on advancing trusted data governance and inclusive AI for scalable digital public infrastructure.
The session with Smart Africa, WFP, ITU, and others discussed advancing trusted data governance, inclusive AI, and public goods to enable scalable digital public infrastructure and collaborative cooperation . The recommendation was to keep supporting solution-oriented and cross-cutting initiatives for advancing AI as a bridge between data, digital cooperation, and sustainable development .
on: Emphasis on existing fora versus new mechanisms for AI governance
Countries need support to measure and manage the environmental footprint of ICTs, including data centres and energy consumption, with UNEP and ITU working on standards and greening procurement
Arg. 1Maritza Delgado explained that one of the key components of the e-environment action line is supporting countries to measure and manage the environmental footprint of ICTs. ITU and UNEP are working together on better data, standards, and greening procurement, with ongoing studies on data centres and energy consumption.
Together with UNEP, ITU is working on having better data, having standards in place, and greening procurement, as well as measuring what is being done with data centres and energy consumption .
E-waste is one of the fastest-growing pollution streams, and countries need legal and regulatory frameworks to promote circular economy and manage e-waste
Arg. 2Maritza Delgado highlighted that e-waste is one of the fastest-growing pollution streams and that countries need support in managing it. She emphasised the need for legal and regulatory frameworks that promote circular economy principles and address e-waste specifically.
E-waste is one of the fastest-growing streams polluting the environment . Countries need support in managing e-waste and promoting circular economy, including having specific regulations on e-waste and strong political commitment and legal and regulatory frameworks on this topic .
Technologies must be supported by enabling environments, including political commitment and specific structures, to be effectively used for disaster management and preparedness
Arg. 3Maritza Delgado argued that technologies alone are insufficient for effective disaster management and preparedness. Enabling environments, including political commitment and specific institutional structures, are necessary to ensure that technologies can be deployed and used effectively for disaster management.
Technologies are used for disaster preparedness, but enabling environments must be in place, including political commitment and specific structures, so that technologies can be used for disaster management .
on: Enabling environments, including political commitment, legal and regulatory frameworks, and institutional structures, are necessary for digital technologies to deliver their potential
on: The relative priority of technical tools versus enabling environments for digital transformation
Cross-sector collaboration is essential for addressing the multidimensional challenges of digital transformation
Arg. 4When asked to summarise her hopes for the future in one word, Maritza Delgado chose 'cross-sector collaboration', reflecting her view that addressing the multidimensional challenges of digital transformation requires collaboration across different sectors.
Maritza Delgado offered 'cross-sector collaboration' as her single word summarising her aspirations for the WSIS process until 2035 .
on: The need for collective action, cooperation, and working together is the overarching theme uniting all WSIS Action Line facilitators
The WSIS Action Line facilitators meeting is mandated by WSIS outcome documents and reinforced by the WSIS Plus 20 UNGA overall review resolution
Arg. 1Gitanjali Sah opened the meeting by explaining its formal mandate, noting that it is required by the WSIS outcome documents and further reinforced by the WSIS Plus 20 UNGA overall review resolution. This establishes the institutional legitimacy and continuity of the annual gathering of Action Line facilitators.
The meeting is mandated in the WSIS outcome documents and reinforced in the WSIS Plus 20 UNGA overall review resolution .
on: Measurement frameworks and indicators for WSIS Action Lines are urgently needed, and all stakeholders are invited to contribute to the ongoing consultation process
The WSIS Forum evolved from a cluster of WSIS-related events into a full Forum in 2009, with Action Line facilitators reporting being a traditional and central part of this process
Arg. 2Gitanjali Sah explained the historical evolution of the WSIS Forum, noting that it transformed from a cluster of WSIS-related events into the Forum in 2009. She identified the practice of hearing from each Action Line facilitator as a traditional and defining feature of the Forum.
The WSIS Forum evolved from a cluster of WSIS-related events into the Forum in 2009, and hearing from each Action Line facilitator is described as the traditional part of the WSIS Forum .
All stakeholders, not just UN agencies, are invited to contribute to the Partnership on ICT for Development's measurement form to ensure comprehensive input on WSIS implementation
Arg. 3Gitanjali Sah reinforced the call made by Denis Suzar and Scarlett Fondeur Gil by emphasising that the measurement exercise is not limited to UN agencies but is open to all stakeholders. She invited everyone present to fill in the information form prepared by the Partnership on ICT for Development.
Gitanjali Sah noted that what Denis and Scarlett described is important because it is not only about what UN agencies are doing but what all stakeholders are doing, and she invited all to fill in the form that the Partnership on ICT for Development has prepared .
on: Measurement frameworks and indicators for WSIS Action Lines are urgently needed, and all stakeholders are invited to contribute to the ongoing consultation process
The WSIS Action Line facilitators work as one UN family, ensuring no duplication and maintaining strong collaboration and friendship across agencies
Arg. 4Gitanjali Sah emphasised the collaborative and collegial nature of the WSIS Action Line facilitator community, describing them as working as one UN family with no duplication of efforts. She highlighted both the professional collaboration and the personal bonds among the facilitators.
Gitanjali Sah described the group as implementing WSIS Action Lines together with great collaboration, noting that they are also good friends at the human level and that they make sure there is no duplication and that all are working as one UN family .
on: The need for collective action, cooperation, and working together is the overarching theme uniting all WSIS Action Line facilitators
WSIS is UN in action, representing the practical implementation of UN commitments through the work of Action Line facilitators
Arg. 5Gitanjali Sah concluded the session with a concise and powerful statement characterising the entire WSIS process as 'UN in action'. This framing positions the WSIS Action Lines as the concrete, operational expression of UN commitments to digital development and the information society.
Gitanjali Sah concluded by stating that 'WSIS is UN in action' as her summary of the work of all Action Line facilitators .
on: Existing WSIS mechanisms and fora should be used rather than duplicating efforts through new processes, particularly in the context of AI governance and the GDC review
Session Knowledge Graph
Speakers · Topics · Arguments · Relationships
When asked to summarise their hopes for the future in one word, all Action Line facilitators independently chose words reflecting collective effort: 'together' , 'cooperation' , 'cross-sector collaboration' , 'partnerships' , 'co-implementation' , 'community' , 'collaboration' , 'people' , and 'skill' . Gitanjali Sah reinforced this by describing the group as working as one UN family with no duplication , and Davide Storti explicitly concluded that action lines cannot work in isolation and bridges must be built between different processes .
The overarching theme uniting all action line facilitators is the need for togetherness, cooperation, partnerships, and collaboration to achieve WSIS goals by 2035
Cooperation across sectors and organisations is the foundation for delivering on WSIS commitments
Cross-sector collaboration is essential for addressing the multidimensional challenges of digital transformation
Partnerships are central to building confidence, security, and trust in the digital environment
Co-implementation across agencies and stakeholders is necessary for meaningful capacity development outcomes
Building a sense of community among all stakeholders underpins the WSIS process
Collaboration across organisations ensures coherent and effective responses to the impact of digitalisation on employment
Placing people at the centre of all WSIS action line work remains the fundamental purpose
Developing skills is the key human-centred outcome that WSIS action lines must deliver
The WSIS Action Line facilitators work as one UN family, ensuring no duplication and maintaining strong collaboration and friendship across agencies
Denis Suzar explained that member states are requesting clear roadmaps to be completed by April and indicators to measure progress , with a dedicated session organised in collaboration with the Partnership on Measuring ICT for Development. Scarlett Fondeur Gil confirmed that 14 organisations have been tasked by the WSIS Plus 20 review to propose a measurement framework, and invited all stakeholders to contribute via an online consultation form over the next nine months . Carla Licciardello noted that the WSIS Plus 20 process outcomes are providing the means for proper measurement of capacity development . Gitanjali Sah reinforced that this exercise is open to all stakeholders, not just UN agencies .
Roadmaps for WSIS Action Lines required by WSIS Plus 20 outcome document to be presented to CSCD in 2027
Development of indicators to measure progress in WSIS Action Lines, in collaboration with the Partnership on Measuring ICT for Development
UNCTAD actively contributing to the Partnership on Measuring ICT for Development, with an online consultation form open to all stakeholders for input on meaningful indicators for the future of WSIS implementation
Measurement frameworks for capacity development outcomes are now being enabled by WSIS Plus 20 process results
All stakeholders, not just UN agencies, are invited to contribute to the Partnership on ICT for Development's measurement form to ensure comprehensive input on WSIS implementation
The WSIS Action Line facilitators meeting is mandated by WSIS outcome documents and reinforced by the WSIS Plus 20 UNGA overall review resolution
Denis Suzar argued that all resolutions in the WSIS Plus 20 outcome document call on member states not to duplicate but to use existing fora , and that the GDC review during the 82nd GA session from September 2027 to September 2028 should reflect the effectiveness of existing WSIS mechanisms . He identified IGF 2026 in Nairobi as a strategic opportunity to connect AI governance with broader internet policy . Davide Storti reinforced this by concluding that action lines cannot work in isolation and must build bridges between different processes and fora . Gitanjali Sah summarised the entire WSIS process as 'UN in action' .
Member states are asking existing fora such as WSIS and IGF to be used rather than duplicating efforts, and the GDC review during the 82nd GA session should reflect the effectiveness of existing WSIS mechanisms
IGF 2026 in Nairobi presents a strategic opportunity to connect AI governance discussions with broader internet policy, under the theme 'Governing the Internet in the Age of Intelligence'
Action lines cannot work in isolation; bridges must be created between different WSIS processes, tracks, and other international fora
WSIS is UN in action, representing the practical implementation of UN commitments through the work of Action Line facilitators
Maritza Delgado explicitly stated that technologies alone are insufficient and that enabling environments including political commitment and specific structures must be in place for disaster management . Enrico Fucile emphasised that AI cannot function without data, and that open data, open standards, and open source tools are all essential to ensure early warning systems reach the last mile . Derrick Muneene noted that the Global Initiative on Digital Health provides the multi-stakeholder vehicle for implementing the e-health action line , and Angelique Uwimana stressed that digital tools must reach the last mile to be effective for food security .
Technologies must be supported by enabling environments, including political commitment and specific structures, to be effectively used for disaster management and preparedness
The Global Initiative on Digital Health serves as a multi-stakeholder vehicle for implementing the e-health action line, with a renewal of the global strategy on digital health forthcoming
Cross-cutting and solution-oriented initiatives are needed to advance the e-agriculture action line and bridge data, digital cooperation, and sustainable development
AI is advancing rapidly in early warning systems, but requires open data, open standards, and open source tools to function effectively and reach the last mile
Both Denis Suzar and Scarlett Fondeur Gil specifically highlighted the Partnership on Measuring ICT for Development as the key vehicle for developing indicators for WSIS Action Lines. Denis Suzar described the brainstorming session on indicators organised together with the Partnership, with UNDESA on the steering committee , and noted that Scarlett would also speak to this . Scarlett Fondeur Gil confirmed UNCTAD's contribution to the Partnership and that 14 organisations have been tasked to propose a measurement framework, inviting all stakeholders to contribute via an online consultation form over the next nine months . Enrico Fucile, Maritza Delgado, and Angelique Uwimana all converged on the importance of early warning systems and disaster preparedness as a key application of digital technologies. Enrico Fucile emphasised that WMO is strongly supporting Early Warning for All and that AI is advancing fast in this area but requires open data and open standards . Maritza Delgado noted that technologies are also used for disaster preparedness and that enabling environments must be in place . Angelique Uwimana identified early warning systems as one of the key tools that can help countries strengthen food security and climate resilience . Carla Licciardello, Maria Prieto, and Derrick Muneene all identified capacity building as a central challenge in their respective action line areas. Carla Licciardello concluded that investment in soft skills is essential regardless of the pace of technological change . Maria Prieto stressed that capacity building is needed alongside good governance to support labour markets impacted by digitalisation and AI, and that WSIS collaboration is essential for policy coherence . Derrick Muneene identified capacity building as one of the key ongoing challenges for the health sector alongside interoperability and cybersecurity . Davide Storti, Angelique Uwimana, and Enrico Fucile all emphasised the importance of reaching those at risk of being left behind. Davide Storti highlighted the need to move beyond consultation with indigenous peoples towards co-design of digital content and language technology initiatives . Angelique Uwimana stressed that digital transformation must reach the last mile, particularly farmers and rural communities , and that FAO is committed to ensuring digital transformation works for those at risk of being left behind . Enrico Fucile noted that open source is needed to cover the last mile of delivering warnings on the field . Multiple speakers highlighted the importance of multi-stakeholder and public-private partnerships as essential mechanisms for delivering on WSIS action line objectives. Carla Licciardello noted that public-private partnerships emerged consistently across multiple workshops . Scarlett Fondeur Gil described the E-Trade for All initiative involving 27 organisations as an excellent example of cooperation . Maria Prieto emphasised that WSIS collaboration is essential for policy coherence at national level . Derrick Muneene described the Global Initiative on Digital Health as the multi-stakeholder vehicle for implementing the e-health action line . Davide Storti, Derrick Muneene, and Denis Suzar all addressed the governance dimension of digital technologies, albeit from different angles. Davide Storti argued that human rights must be placed at the core of international governance frameworks and that future policy frameworks must ensure humanitarian communication remains grounded in international human rights principles . Derrick Muneene noted that recommendations are being folded into the next global strategy on digital health . Denis Suzar argued that IGF 2026 presents a strategic opportunity to connect AI governance discussions with broader internet policy .
In a meeting dominated by discussions of AI, advanced technologies, and high-level governance frameworks, Denis Suzar noted that the C7 e-government session deliberately focused on the role of post offices, libraries, and service centres for bringing e-government services to people, while 'everyone was talking about AI and new technologies' . This unexpected emphasis on traditional physical infrastructure as a vehicle for digital service delivery, rather than purely technological solutions, represents an implicit consensus that digital transformation must be grounded in accessible, human-centred delivery mechanisms. Gitanjali Sah's framing of the group as working as one UN family reinforces that even seemingly divergent approaches are part of a coherent whole.
Representatives from three different organisations - WMO, ITU, and FAO - converged unexpectedly on the intersection of environmental sustainability, disaster preparedness, and AI governance. Enrico Fucile emphasised that AI is advancing fast in early warning systems but requires open data and open standards . Maritza Delgado noted that technologies are used for disaster preparedness and that enabling environments must be in place . Angelique Uwimana identified early warning systems and geospatial intelligence as tools for food security and climate resilience . This convergence across what might be considered separate action line domains - environment, agriculture, and meteorology - suggests an emerging consensus that these issues are deeply interconnected.
Speakers from very different action line areas converged on the importance of openness as a foundational principle. Enrico Fucile explicitly called for open data, open standards, and open source as essential to fuel AI systems and deliver warnings to the last mile . Davide Storti noted that 'openness is something which should be encompassing everything' and discussed universal acceptance and digital public goods. Angelique Uwimana referenced digital public goods and data public infrastructure as key tools for food security . This unexpected convergence across meteorology, culture/ethics, and agriculture action lines on openness as a shared value suggests a broader emerging consensus.
The meeting demonstrated an exceptionally high level of consensus across all Action Line facilitators on several core themes. First, there is unanimous agreement that collective action, cooperation, and working together are essential for achieving WSIS goals by 2035, as evidenced by the striking convergence of one-word summaries chosen independently by all speakers . Second, there is strong consensus on the need for measurement frameworks and indicators to track WSIS progress, with multiple speakers actively promoting the Partnership on Measuring ICT for Development's consultation process . Third, there is broad agreement that existing WSIS mechanisms and fora should be used rather than duplicated, particularly in the context of AI governance . Fourth, there is consensus that enabling environments - including political commitment, legal frameworks, and institutional structures - are necessary for digital technologies to deliver their potential . Fifth, there is shared recognition that digital transformation must reach the last mile and leave no one behind .
Denis Suzar explicitly argued that member states should not duplicate existing fora and that WSIS and IGF are sufficient platforms for AI governance discussions , noting that the Global AI Dialogue met during the same week but should connect with existing platforms rather than operate separately . By contrast, Angelique Uwimana and Enrico Fucile focused on the practical deployment of AI tools and data infrastructure without reference to the governance architecture question, implicitly treating AI governance as a technical and operational matter rather than a structural one. This reflects a tension between those who see AI governance primarily as an institutional and forum-design question and those who approach it as a technical implementation challenge.
Member states are asking existing fora such as WSIS and IGF to be used rather than duplicating efforts, and the GDC review during the 82nd GA session should reflect the effectiveness of existing WSIS mechanisms
Inclusive and responsible AI, combined with trusted data governance and digital public goods, can help countries strengthen food security and climate resilience
AI is advancing rapidly in early warning systems, but requires open data, open standards, and open source tools to function effectively and reach the last mile
Enrico Fucile emphasised the primacy of technical solutions - open data, open standards, and open source tools - as the key enablers for early warning systems , suggesting that getting the technical architecture right is the central challenge. Maritza Delgado, by contrast, argued that technologies alone are insufficient and that enabling environments including political commitment and specific institutional structures must be in place first . Angelique Uwimana similarly stressed that digital tools cannot achieve their potential unless they reach the last mile , implying that social and political conditions are as important as the tools themselves. This reflects a difference in emphasis between a technology-first and an enabling-environment-first approach to digital transformation.
AI is advancing rapidly in early warning systems, but requires open data, open standards, and open source tools to function effectively and reach the last mile
Technologies must be supported by enabling environments, including political commitment and specific structures, to be effectively used for disaster management and preparedness
Digital transformation must reach the last mile, particularly farmers and rural communities who risk being left behind
Davide Storti highlighted the need to strengthen private sector engagement specifically because software vendors, platforms, and service providers remain bottlenecks for universal acceptance compliance , framing private sector engagement as a governance and compliance challenge. Carla Licciardello approached private sector engagement primarily through the lens of public-private partnerships for capacity building , treating it as a funding and delivery mechanism. Scarlett Fondeur Gil illustrated private sector engagement through the example of Tunisia's digital transformation journey involving development partners and private sector actors , framing it as a collaborative development process. These three speakers thus conceptualise the role and purpose of private sector engagement quite differently, even while all agreeing it is important.
Action lines cannot work in isolation; bridges must be created between different WSIS processes, tracks, and other international fora
Public-private partnerships are essential for effective capacity building in the digital skills ecosystem
Bringing beneficiary countries such as Tunisia to present their digital transformation journeys reflects the cross-cutting and collaborative nature of digitalisation
It is unexpected that in a meeting ostensibly focused on collaborative WSIS implementation, a subtle but significant divide emerged between speakers who emphasised normative and regulatory frameworks as the primary vehicle for change and those who emphasised technical and operational solutions. Maria Prieto explicitly highlighted ILO's normative role and the relevance of International Labour Standards, including the recently developed standard on the platform economy , as the key mechanism for addressing digitalisation's impact on employment. By contrast, Enrico Fucile focused almost entirely on technical solutions - open data, open standards, and open source tools - without reference to normative frameworks. Preetam Maloor similarly emphasised concrete technical recommendations from the submarine cable advisory body and technical security measures. This divide between normative and technical approaches was not explicitly debated but represents a genuine underlying tension about how WSIS action lines should drive change.
It is unexpected that within a meeting framed as a celebration of 20 years of WSIS achievements , Davide Storti explicitly acknowledged that existing regulatory models are often insufficient to address the transnational nature of contemporary digital communication ecosystems . Gitanjali Sah's framing throughout the meeting was celebratory and affirming of the WSIS process as effective and well-functioning , characterising the group as working as one UN family with no duplication. Davide Storti's frank acknowledgement that existing frameworks are inadequate sits in tension with this celebratory framing, representing an unexpected moment of critical self-assessment within an otherwise consensus-oriented meeting.
It is unexpected that three speakers all using the concept of 'the last mile' - a term implying shared understanding - actually meant quite different things by it. Angelique Uwimana used 'last mile' to refer to reaching farmers and rural communities who risk being left behind by digital transformation , framing it as a social inclusion challenge. Enrico Fucile used 'last mile' to refer to the technical challenge of delivering open source tools to support members in receiving data and delivering warnings , framing it as a technical delivery challenge. Maritza Delgado, while not using the exact phrase, addressed the same underlying challenge by arguing that political commitment and specific institutional structures are needed before technologies can be deployed effectively , framing it as a governance challenge. The shared language of 'last mile' masked genuinely different diagnoses of what the problem is and how to solve it.
The meeting was characterised by a high degree of surface-level consensus, with all speakers endorsing collaboration, multi-stakeholder engagement, and the importance of the WSIS framework. The most substantive areas of implicit disagreement concerned: (1) whether AI governance should be addressed through existing fora such as WSIS and IGF or through new mechanisms; (2) whether technical solutions or enabling environments and normative frameworks should take priority in driving digital transformation; (3) the scope and purpose of private sector engagement across different action lines; and (4) the meaning and implications of 'reaching the last mile'. These disagreements were rarely made explicit, as the collegial and celebratory tone of the meeting discouraged open debate.
Denis Suzar , Scarlett Fondeur Gil , and Gitanjali Sah all agreed on the importance of developing indicators to measure progress in WSIS Action Lines through the Partnership on Measuring ICT for Development. However, they differed in their emphasis: Denis Suzar focused on the brainstorming process and the role of UNDESA in the steering committee , Scarlett Fondeur Gil emphasised the open consultation process lasting nine months and the invitation to all stakeholders , and Gitanjali Sah stressed that the exercise must go beyond UN agencies to include all stakeholders . The shared goal of measurement is clear, but the approaches to inclusivity and process design differ.
Development of indicators to measure progress in WSIS Action Lines, in collaboration with the Partnership on Measuring ICT for Development UNCTAD actively contributing to the Partnership on Measuring ICT for Development, with an online consultation form open to all stakeholders for input on meaningful indicators for the future of WSIS implementation All stakeholders, not just UN agencies, are invited to contribute to the Partnership on ICT for Development's measurement form to ensure comprehensive input on WSIS implementation
Carla Licciardello , Maria Prieto , and Derrick Muneene all agreed that capacity building is a critical priority across their respective action lines. However, they differed on what capacity building should prioritise: Carla Licciardello emphasised soft skills as the foundation regardless of technological change , Maria Prieto stressed the need for correct data and research to underpin fit-for-purpose policies , and Derrick Muneene identified interoperability, cybersecurity, and AI as the specific technical challenges requiring capacity building in the health sector . The shared goal of capacity building is agreed upon, but the content and focus of that capacity building differs across sectors.
Capacity development programmes at national, regional, and international levels are being impacted by rapid technological change, requiring investment in soft skills regardless of the pace of technology evolution Capacity building and good governance are necessary to support labour markets impacted by digitalisation and AI, with policy coherence at national level being critical Interoperability, cybersecurity, and capacity building remain key challenges for the health sector in implementing e-health solutions
Denis Suzar , Davide Storti , and Angelique Uwimana all agreed that action lines must not work in isolation and that bridges must be built across processes and fora. However, they differed in their framing: Denis Suzar focused on avoiding duplication and using existing institutional fora such as WSIS and IGF , Davide Storti emphasised the need to connect different WSIS tracks and processes with each other and with other international fora , and Angelique Uwimana focused on cross-cutting and solution-oriented initiatives that bridge data, digital cooperation, and sustainable development . The shared goal of integration is agreed, but the level at which integration should occur — institutional, thematic, or operational — differs.
Member states are asking existing fora such as WSIS and IGF to be used rather than duplicating efforts, and the GDC review during the 82nd GA session should reflect the effectiveness of existing WSIS mechanisms Action lines cannot work in isolation; bridges must be created between different WSIS processes, tracks, and other international fora Cross-cutting and solution-oriented initiatives are needed to advance the e-agriculture action line and bridge data, digital cooperation, and sustainable development
Enrico Fucile , Maritza Delgado , and Angelique Uwimana all agreed on the importance of data as a foundation for digital and environmental action. However, they differed in their focus: Enrico Fucile emphasised real-time data sharing and long-term archiving for AI training in early warning systems , Maritza Delgado focused on data for measuring and managing the environmental footprint of ICTs including data centres and energy consumption , and Angelique Uwimana emphasised trusted data and geospatial intelligence for food security and climate resilience . The shared recognition of data's importance is clear, but the type of data, its purpose, and the governance frameworks needed differ across these speakers.
Data sharing in real time and long-term archiving of data are essential for training AI systems used in early warning for all initiatives Countries need support to measure and manage the environmental footprint of ICTs, including data centres and energy consumption, with UNEP and ITU working on standards and greening procurement Trusted data, geospatial intelligence, early warning systems, and inclusive AI can help countries strengthen food security, climate resilience, and rural transformation
- WSIS Action Line facilitators are required to develop roadmaps for presentation to the CSCD in 2027, as mandated by the WSIS Plus 20 outcome document, with member states calling for clear roadmaps and measurable indicators.
- A measurement framework and indicators for WSIS progress are being developed through the Partnership on Measuring ICT for Development, involving 14 organisations, with an open online consultation form available to all stakeholders.
- The Internet Governance Forum (IGF) 2026 in Nairobi, under the theme 'Governing the Internet in the Age of Intelligence', presents a strategic opportunity to connect AI governance discussions with broader internet policy, and member states are calling for use of existing fora rather than duplication of efforts.
- Capacity development programmes must invest in soft skills and public-private partnerships to remain effective amid rapid technological change, with the WSIS Plus 20 process now enabling proper measurement of capacity development outcomes.
- Strong momentum exists around cybersecurity, trust, and digital resilience, including the protection of children online, the conclusion of the International Advisory Body on Submarine Cable Resilience with concrete recommendations, and emerging attention to space communication security.
- Human rights must remain at the core of international digital governance frameworks, with humanitarian communication grounded in human rights principles, and indigenous peoples' participation should move beyond consultation towards co-design of digital content and language technology initiatives.
- Universal acceptance should be formally embedded into member states' international digital strategies and government modernisation plans.
- Regulation of digital communication during crises is an emerging policy field where existing regulatory models are often insufficient, requiring strengthened international multi-stakeholder cooperation.
- Cross-sector collaboration, multi-stakeholder cooperation, and avoiding duplication are central to the effective implementation of WSIS Action Lines, as exemplified by initiatives such as E-Trade for All and the Global Initiative on Digital Health.
- Environmental sustainability requires countries to measure and manage the ICT environmental footprint, address e-waste through legal and regulatory frameworks, and use technologies within enabling environments for disaster management and preparedness.
- Open data, open standards, and open source tools are essential for AI-driven early warning systems to function effectively and reach the last mile.
- Trusted data, geospatial intelligence, inclusive AI, and digital public goods can strengthen food security, climate resilience, and rural transformation, but digital transformation must reach farmers and rural communities at risk of being left behind.
- The overarching theme uniting all WSIS Action Line facilitators is the need for togetherness, cooperation, partnerships, and collaboration to achieve WSIS goals by 2035, with people placed at the centre of all efforts.
- WSIS is described by the session chair as 'UN in action', reflecting the collective and coordinated nature of the work across all action lines.
“While everyone was talking about AI and new technologies, we really looked at the role of post offices and libraries and service centers for bringing e-government services to the people.”
“IGF still remains open by the MAP and multi-stakeholder. And IGF 2026 will take place in Nairobi from 14-18 December under the theme Governing the Internet in the Age of Intelligence, Our Shared Responsibility. This presents a strategic opportunity to connect AI governance discussions with broader Internet policy... member states are asking not to duplicate, but use existing fora.”
“We need to move beyond consultation and towards having co-design of digital content and language technology initiatives with indigenous peoples... embedding universal acceptance into digital transformation policy discourse... strengthening the private sector engagement... placing human rights at the core of international governance frameworks.”
“No matter how fast technology is evolving, there is a need of investing in soft skills because if young people have the soft skills, they can then make a difference and actually address the different challenges that are coming from implementing technology.”
“99% of international data traffic is on subsea cables... the final meeting of the International Advisory Body on Submarine Cable Resilience has come up with concrete recommendations on risk assessment, repairs, and areas where connectivity through subsea cables is not good enough.”
“AI does not work without data. Data sharing in real time is key. Long-term archiving of data — 30 years and more — for training AI is important. We need open data, open standards, and open source to cover the last mile of delivering on the field.”
“Digital transformation must work for food security, rural communities, and for those who are at the risk of being left behind. This is where Action Line C7 can make a contribution.”
How should clear roadmaps and measurable indicators be developed for all WSIS Action Lines to present to the CSTD in 2027?
Member states are explicitly requesting clear roadmaps and indicators to measure progress across WSIS Action Lines. Developing these is a formal requirement stemming from the WSIS Plus 20 outcome document, making it a critical area for further research and structured follow-up work.
How can the Global AI Dialogue be effectively connected with broader Internet governance discussions, particularly at IGF 2026 in Nairobi?
Denis highlighted a strategic opportunity to bridge AI governance and Internet policy discussions through existing fora such as WSIS and IGF, rather than creating duplicative processes. This requires further exploration of how to coordinate these platforms effectively.
What financing mechanisms can be developed to address the financing gap in WSIS implementation, and how should the youth task force's financing mechanism report be structured for presentation to CSTD?
A youth task force is currently building a financing mechanism and is due to present a report to CSTD. The details and scope of this mechanism require further research and development to ensure it adequately addresses identified financing gaps.
How should existing WSIS mechanisms be positioned and evidenced during the GDC review in the 82nd session of the UN General Assembly (2027–2028)?
The GDC review presents a key moment for demonstrating the effectiveness of WSIS mechanisms. Further research is needed on how to compile and present evidence of WSIS progress to inform member states during this review period.
How can indigenous peoples' participation in digital content and language technology initiatives move beyond consultation towards genuine co-design?
Davide noted that deepening indigenous peoples' participation is a priority area that emerged from discussions. This requires further research into participatory governance models and practical frameworks for co-design in digital initiatives.
How can universal acceptance be embedded into digital transformation policy discourse, and how should member states formally reference universal acceptance readiness in their international digital strategies and government modernisation plans?
Universal acceptance remains an underaddressed area in national digital strategies. Further research is needed to develop guidance and policy frameworks that encourage formal adoption of universal acceptance standards at the national level.
How can private sector engagement, particularly with software vendors, platforms, and domain and email service providers, be strengthened to improve universal acceptance compliance?
Private sector actors remain a bottleneck for universal acceptance. Targeted outreach strategies and engagement models need to be researched and developed to bring these actors into compliance with universal acceptance standards.
What new governance approaches are needed to regulate digital communication during crises, given that existing regulatory models are insufficient for transnational digital communication ecosystems?
The regulation of digital communication during crises is identified as an emerging policy field. Further research is needed to develop shared norms, evidence bases, and governance frameworks that are fit for purpose in transnational contexts.
How can capacity development programmes at national, regional, and international levels be adapted to keep pace with rapidly evolving technologies, particularly in the digital learning ecosystem?
The rapid pace of technological change poses a significant challenge for capacity development. Further research is needed into adaptive frameworks that can respond dynamically to technological shifts while maintaining focus on foundational skills.
What measurement frameworks and indicators should be adopted to assess the impact of capacity development and digital skills programmes under WSIS Action Line C4?
The WSIS Plus 20 outcomes call for proper measurement of WSIS implementation. Developing robust, agreed indicators for capacity building is an area requiring further collaborative research among Action Line facilitators and stakeholders.
How can the recommendations of the International Advisory Body on Submarine Cable Resilience be implemented, particularly in regions where subsea cable connectivity is insufficient?
The Advisory Body has produced concrete recommendations on risk assessment, repairs, and connectivity gaps. Further research and policy work are needed to translate these recommendations into actionable national and international strategies.
How can space communication security be addressed alongside traditional cybersecurity threats as part of a comprehensive resilience agenda?
The deep dive into space communication security revealed that security threats now span multiple modalities and technologies. Further research is needed to develop integrated security frameworks that address both traditional and emerging threat vectors.
What meaningful indicators should be developed by the Partnership on Measuring ICT for Development to assess WSIS Action Line implementation going forward, and how can all stakeholders contribute to this process?
Both Scarlett and Denis highlighted the importance of the ongoing measurement framework consultation. This is a time-sensitive area requiring broad stakeholder input over the next nine months to produce credible and comprehensive indicators for WSIS implementation.
How can the E-Trade for All initiative's model of multi-agency cooperation be scaled and replicated across other WSIS Action Lines to support digital economy development?
The E-Trade for All initiative, involving 28 organisations, represents a successful model of cross-agency cooperation. Research into how this model can be adapted and applied more broadly across WSIS Action Lines could strengthen overall implementation.
What key elements should be included in the next WHO Global Strategy on Digital Health, given that the current strategy expires in 2027?
The renewal of the Global Strategy on Digital Health is a critical upcoming process. Stakeholder input is being sought, and further research is needed to identify priorities such as interoperability, cybersecurity, AI integration, and capacity building for the next strategy cycle.
How can interoperability, cybersecurity, and AI integration challenges in the health sector be addressed through the Global Initiative on Digital Health platform?
These challenges were identified as persistent barriers to effective eHealth implementation. Further research and multi-stakeholder collaboration are needed to develop practical solutions that can be folded into the next global digital health strategy.
How can data collection and research on the labour market impacts of digitalisation and AI be improved to ensure policy responses are fit for purpose, particularly for vulnerable groups such as youth, women, and people with disabilities?
Accurate data and robust research are identified as prerequisites for effective labour market policy in the digital age. Further research is needed to address data gaps and ensure that policy frameworks are evidence-based and inclusive.
How can the recently developed ILO standard on the platform economy be integrated into national digital employment policies and WSIS implementation frameworks?
The new ILO standard on the platform economy represents an important normative development. Research is needed on how to translate this standard into practical policy guidance and integrate it into the broader WSIS e-employment agenda.
How can open data, open standards, and open source solutions be further developed and promoted to support AI-driven early warning systems and ensure last-mile delivery of timely warnings?
WMO identified open data, standards, and source as foundational enablers for effective early warning systems. Further research is needed to develop frameworks that promote openness while ensuring technical interoperability and accessibility for all member states.
How can long-term data archiving (30 years or more) be standardised and shared internationally to provide sufficient training data for AI-based meteorological and early warning systems?
Long-term data archiving is identified as essential for training AI systems used in early warning. Research is needed into international standards and cooperative frameworks for data preservation and sharing across national meteorological services.
How can countries better measure and manage the environmental footprint of ICTs, including data centres and energy consumption, and what standards and data are still needed?
Measuring the environmental impact of ICTs is an ongoing challenge. Further research and standardisation work, in collaboration with UNEP and other partners, are needed to develop reliable methodologies and datasets for tracking ICT-related environmental impacts.
How can legal and regulatory frameworks on e-waste and circular economy be strengthened at the national level, and what support do countries need to implement them effectively?
E-waste is identified as one of the fastest-growing pollution streams. Research into effective regulatory models and capacity-building approaches is needed to help countries develop and enforce e-waste legislation and promote circular economy principles.
How can trusted data governance, inclusive AI, and digital public infrastructure (DPI) be scaled to reach the last mile, particularly for smallholder farmers and rural communities, to advance food security and climate resilience?
FAO identified last-mile reach as the critical challenge for digital transformation in agriculture. Further research is needed into scalable models of DPI and AI governance that are inclusive of rural and marginalised communities in developing countries.
How can cross-cutting and solution-oriented initiatives across WSIS Action Lines be better coordinated to advance AI as a bridge between digital cooperation and sustainable development goals?
Angelique called for more cross-cutting dialogue and collaboration across Action Lines. Research into coordination mechanisms and joint programming frameworks would help ensure that AI-related initiatives contribute coherently to sustainable development outcomes.