Ministerial Roundtable
9 Jul 2025 14:30h - 16:30h
Ministerial Roundtable
Session at a glance
Summary
This discussion centered on the 20th anniversary review of the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) and planning for its future direction beyond 2025. The ministerial roundtable brought together high-level representatives from various countries to assess digital transformation progress and chart a path forward for inclusive, sustainable digital cooperation. Participants were organized into breakout groups to discuss three key themes: national digital priorities and implementation needs, emerging digital trends and risks, and WSIS beyond 2025.
Throughout the discussions, ministers highlighted significant achievements in digital infrastructure development, with some countries like Azerbaijan reporting near-universal fiber-optic connectivity at 99.9% of households. However, persistent challenges were acknowledged, particularly the digital divide affecting rural and underserved populations, with Africa’s average coverage rate remaining below 43%. Countries shared their experiences with AI strategies, cybersecurity frameworks, e-government services, and digital literacy programs, while also addressing obstacles such as funding constraints and sanctions that impede technological development.
Emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, 5G, quantum computing, and space-based solutions were recognized as transformative but requiring careful governance frameworks to ensure ethical, transparent, and secure implementation. Participants emphasized the need for international cooperation in developing these technologies responsibly, with particular attention to cybersecurity, data governance, and protecting vulnerable populations including women, youth, and marginalized communities.
Looking toward WSIS beyond 2025, there was strong consensus that the framework should continue serving as the central platform for digital cooperation, with ITU maintaining its leadership role. Ministers called for stronger alignment between WSIS and the Global Digital Compact to avoid duplication, while emphasizing the importance of maintaining the multi-stakeholder approach that has been fundamental to WSIS success. The discussion concluded with a commitment to present unified recommendations at the UN General Assembly’s 20-year review in December, ensuring that digital transformation serves humanity’s shared values and leaves no one behind.
Keypoints
## Major Discussion Points:
– **National Digital Priorities and Infrastructure Development**: Ministers shared their countries’ progress in digital transformation, with some reporting near-universal broadband coverage (like Azerbaijan at 99.9%) while others highlighted persistent challenges in rural connectivity and the need for substantial infrastructure investment, particularly in African nations where coverage averages only 43%.
– **Emerging Digital Technologies and Governance**: Extensive discussion on artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, 5G networks, and quantum computing, with emphasis on the need for ethical AI frameworks, responsible governance, and international cooperation to ensure these technologies benefit all nations rather than widening digital divides.
– **WSIS Beyond 2025 and Future Framework**: Participants debated how to evolve the World Summit on the Information Society for the next phase, including suggestions to rename it from “Information Society” to “Digital Society,” strengthen its binding framework, and ensure proper alignment (rather than just complementarity) with the Global Digital Compact.
– **Digital Equity and Inclusion Challenges**: Strong focus on addressing the digital divide, particularly for rural populations, women, youth, and marginalized communities, with calls for affordable devices, local language content, and capacity building programs to ensure “no one is left behind.”
– **International Cooperation and Sanctions Impact**: Discussion of how geopolitical tensions and sanctions affect global digital development, with ministers from Russia and Cuba highlighting how restrictions impede technological progress and calling for ITU to help mitigate these barriers to international cooperation.
## Overall Purpose:
The discussion aimed to conduct a comprehensive 20-year review of the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) process, assess current digital development challenges, and chart a path forward for inclusive global digital transformation leading up to the UN General Assembly review in December.
## Overall Tone:
The discussion maintained a collaborative and constructive tone throughout, with ministers sharing both achievements and challenges openly. While there were moments of tension when discussing geopolitical issues like sanctions, the overall atmosphere remained diplomatic and solution-oriented. The tone was forward-looking and urgent, emphasizing the need for accelerated action while maintaining the human-centric approach that has characterized WSIS. Technical difficulties with interpretation services briefly interrupted the flow but did not dampen the engaged and professional atmosphere of the ministerial roundtable.
Speakers
**Speakers from the provided list:**
– **SidAli Zerrouki** – Minister from Algeria, moderated breakout session discussions on digital priorities and WSIS beyond 2025
– **Shan Zhongde** – Minister of Industry and Information Technology from the Republic of China
– **Rashad Nabiyev** – Minister of Digital Development and Transport from Azerbaijan
– **Doreen Bogdan-Martin** – ITU Secretary General
– **Ernesto Rodriguez Hernandez** – Representative from Cuba, discussed national digital priorities and challenges under US sanctions
– **Samuel Nartey George** – His Excellency from Ghana, moderated Group E breakout session
– **Mark-Alexandre Doumba** – Minister from Gabon, discussed digital economy and artificial intelligence initiatives
– **Abdulbaset Albaour** – Representative from Libya, spoke about technological challenges and digital governance
– **Solly Malatsi** – Minister of Digital Technologies from South Africa, WSIS Plus 20 Chair and co-chair of ministerial roundtable
– **Alioune Sall** – Minister from Senegal, discussed connectivity challenges and digital inclusion in Africa
– **Meutya Viada Hafid** – Minister from Indonesia, moderated Group F breakout session
– **Grigoriy Borisenko** – Representative from Russian Federation, discussed impact of sanctions on digital development
– **Jonathan Reid** – His Excellency from Barbados, moderated Group G breakout session
– **Julissa Cruz** – Executive Director of the Regulatory Authority of the Dominican Republic
– **Aminata Zerbo Sabane** – Excellency from Burkina Faso, discussed national digital transformation initiatives
– **Leocadie Ndacayisaba** – Leo Kadhi from Burundi, discussed digital economy development projects
– **Tawfik Jelassi** – ADGE of UNESCO (Assistant Director-General for Education)
– **Cosmas Zavazava** – ITU elected official, Dr. from ITU Development Bureau
**Additional speakers:**
– **Selina** – ITU colleague who guided the breakout session logistics and room assignments
Full session report
# WSIS+20 Ministerial Roundtable Discussion Report
## Executive Summary
The World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) 20th anniversary ministerial roundtable brought together high-level representatives from across the globe to review digital transformation progress and chart future directions for international digital cooperation. The discussion, moderated by Sid Ali Zerrouki, Minister from Algeria, featured ministers and senior officials from diverse regions assessing achievements, identifying challenges, and developing recommendations for ongoing digital cooperation efforts.
The roundtable was structured around three core themes identified by ITU Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin: national digital priorities and implementation needs, emerging digital trends and risks, and the evolution of WSIS beyond 2025. Participants engaged in both plenary discussions and breakout sessions in designated rooms, with groups focusing on different aspects of digital transformation and international cooperation.
## Opening Remarks and Framework Setting
Doreen Bogdan-Martin, ITU Secretary-General, emphasized that “shared digital future is not just about technology, it’s about people,” stressing that decisions and policies must ensure technology improves lives and livelihoods while uplifting everyone with openness, fairness, and dignity. She outlined the three key discussion topics and reinforced that WSIS provides a platform for shared learning and collective progress.
Tawfik Jelassi, Assistant Director-General for Education at UNESCO, announced the launch of UNESCO’s Data Governance Toolkit, providing policymakers with actionable guidance for ethical data systems. He also highlighted UNESCO’s SPARC AI Alliance, bringing together 50 public administration schools globally, and presented concerning statistics that “only 21% of governments worldwide have policies on ethical use of AI in public administration, and only 18% of countries have a national data strategy.”
## National Digital Transformation Progress
### Infrastructure Development Achievements
Several countries reported significant progress in digital infrastructure development. Rashad Nabiyev, Minister of Digital Development and Transport from Azerbaijan, reported that 99.9% of households are connected to fiber-optic internet, positioning Azerbaijan among countries achieving near-universal high-speed connectivity. Azerbaijan also developed a comprehensive national AI strategy built around four pillars, though specific details were not elaborated in the discussion.
Shan Zhongde, Minister of Industry and Information Technology from China, outlined substantial infrastructure investments ensuring widespread connectivity coverage. China’s approach demonstrated attention to environmental sustainability, with 5G energy consumption reduced by 16% through investments in green technologies including lithium battery technology, smart solar power, and energy storage systems.
Aminata Zerbo Sabane from Burkina Faso highlighted infrastructure development progress, though technical difficulties during transmission limited the clarity of specific details shared.
### Comprehensive Digital Strategies
Leocadie Ndacayisaba from Burundi outlined a digital transformation strategy focused on public service digitization and institutional modernization, including fiber-optic connections development and digital training centers, though technical issues affected the complete transmission of details.
Ernesto Rodriguez Hernandez from Cuba emphasized the country’s commitment to creating digital skills and inclusive access while expanding telecommunication infrastructure, maintaining focus on equity and social justice despite facing international blockade challenges.
## Persistent Challenges and Digital Divides
### Infrastructure Disparities
Despite achievements in some countries, significant disparities remain in digital infrastructure development. Alioune Sall, Minister from Senegal, noted that “in 2025, at the time we’re speaking in Africa, the average coverage rate does not exceed 43%” while countries like Azerbaijan report coverage exceeding 95%. This disparity highlighted challenges in ensuring equitable participation in advanced technology discussions when basic connectivity remains problematic for many nations.
Jonathan Reid from Barbados emphasized that “40% of the planet is rural population,” requiring special consideration for advanced technologies and acknowledgment that much of the global population lives in rural settings with limited connectivity options.
### Financing and Resource Constraints
Meutya Viada Hafid, Minister from Indonesia, noted that while many countries have made progress in digital infrastructure and broadband expansion, “financing for infrastructure is still challenging,” particularly for developing nations seeking to bridge connectivity gaps.
Mark-Alexandre Doumba, Minister from Gabon, raised questions about mobilizing the financing community to support transitions into the AI economy, highlighting the need for ITU and other international organizations to facilitate access to funding for advanced technology adoption.
## Emerging Technologies and Governance
### Artificial Intelligence Governance
The discussion revealed significant gaps in AI governance frameworks globally. Countries demonstrated varying approaches to AI regulation, with some developing comprehensive national strategies while others expressed caution about premature regulatory frameworks that might stifle innovation.
Jonathan Reid from Barbados advocated for measured approaches, warning against rushing into strict regulations for technologies not fully understood, while noting that “so much of the work and the moment in time we are in are driven by news that scares us a little bit and so much of the conversation around AI does, in fact, scare some members of our population.”
### Cybersecurity Concerns
Cybersecurity emerged as a critical issue requiring both national investment and international cooperation. Meutya Viada Hafid emphasized that cybersecurity is “a paramount issue requiring continued investment and implementation of mitigation actions,” including child online protection and security of undersea cables that must be tackled internationally.
## Geopolitical Challenges
### Impact of International Tensions
Grigoriy Borisenko from the Russian Federation argued that sanctions impact technological infrastructure development and create security vulnerabilities, noting that “criminals do not observe sanctions, and our public sphere must observe the sanctions.”
Ernesto Rodriguez Hernandez from Cuba maintained that despite facing extensive sanctions, Cuba continues pursuing digital transformation with commitment to equity and social justice.
### Digital Sovereignty Questions
Sid Ali Zerrouki raised questions about the role of global technology companies, noting concerns about tech giants that “generate billion-dollar revenue, not investing a single penny in no country” while enforcing their own content moderation policies and resisting government regulations.
## Human-Centric Approaches and Inclusion
### Cultural and Linguistic Considerations
Samuel Nartey George from Ghana emphasized the importance of “content in local languages as main focus going forward,” highlighting the need for digital inclusion strategies that respect linguistic diversity and cultural contexts.
Meutya Viada Hafid stressed the need for “careful understanding of AI opportunities including cultural and language aspects,” recognizing that technology deployment must be sensitive to local contexts and needs.
## WSIS Framework Evolution
### Continued Relevance and Leadership
There was strong consensus that WSIS should continue as the central framework for digital cooperation, with ITU maintaining its leadership role. Cosmas Zavazava from ITU explained ITU’s responsibility for specific WSIS action lines including capacity building, cybersecurity, infrastructure, and e-applications.
### Relationship with Global Digital Compact
Participants expressed preference for “alignment” rather than “complementarity” between WSIS and the newer Global Digital Compact, with one speaker noting that “the diplomatic language of complementarity perhaps is too subtle” and advocating that “the GDC has to be in alignment with WSIS” to avoid duplication.
### Framework Modernization
Samuel Nartey George proposed evolutionary changes, suggesting that “WSIS was fit for purpose in Tunis in the early 2000s, but today we should move away from talking about the World Society on Information Society and rather talk about the digital society,” proposing rebranding to WSDIS (World Summit on Digital Society).
## Key Initiatives and Announcements
### UNESCO Programs
Tawfik Jelassi announced the launch of UNESCO’s Data Governance Toolkit and highlighted the SPARC AI Alliance initiative. Countries were encouraged to engage with UNESCO’s AI for public sector programs.
### Upcoming Events
Ministers were invited to participate in the World Telecommunication Development Conference in Baku, Azerbaijan, scheduled for November 17-28, 2024. African ministers were also informed about the Smart Africa meeting and AFRINIC discussions.
## Areas of Consensus
Participants demonstrated widespread agreement on several key points:
– WSIS remains vital as the central framework for digital cooperation
– Digital transformation must prioritize human welfare, equity, and social justice
– Cybersecurity requires both national investment and international cooperation
– The multi-stakeholder approach is fundamental to WSIS success
– Significant disparities exist between regions and require targeted approaches
## Action Items and Next Steps
The secretariat was tasked with incorporating all group recommendations and text changes into final recommendations. The chair committed to presenting a consolidated summary at the Friday plenary session. ITU was encouraged to continue coordinating international cooperation efforts for digital infrastructure and capacity building.
The Global Digital Compact implementation is to be aligned with WSIS structures to avoid duplication, while the WSIS framework will be strengthened with continued multi-stakeholder engagement approaches.
## Conclusion
The WSIS+20 ministerial roundtable demonstrated both remarkable progress in global digital transformation and significant challenges that remain. While some countries have achieved near-universal connectivity and are advancing into AI technologies, others continue struggling with basic infrastructure development.
The discussion revealed that digital divides have evolved beyond simple connectivity issues to encompass complex challenges related to AI governance, cybersecurity, and international cooperation under geopolitical stress. The strong consensus on WSIS as the central framework for digital cooperation, combined with recognition of the need for framework evolution, provides a foundation for continued international collaboration.
The upcoming activities, including the World Telecommunication Development Conference in Baku and continued WSIS implementation, represent opportunities to consolidate insights from this discussion into actionable international commitments for the next phase of global digital development.
Session transcript
Doreen Bogdan-Martin: And this is my last slide, and at the workplace level, so we talked a lot about the national and the national framework of the regulations, but even at the workplace level, if you have a digital background, you know that we work by heart in what we’re supposed to do. Development requires more than infrastructure. It requires leadership. It requires political will to develop and deploy technology responsibly, no matter which portfolio your ministry holds. Finance, healthcare, education, the environment, and industry are so now deeply intertwined with digital that they demand effective policy coherence and coordination. And I think that’s where the WSIS makes a difference, by providing a platform for shared learning and collective progress. As we look ahead to the UN General Assembly’s 20-year review at the end of this year in December, I think we have, Excellencies, an opportunity. We have an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment, to reflect on what’s been achieved, and to identify how we can prepare for what’s to come. The Pact for the Future and the Global Digital Compact have reinforced this shared vision and also offers us useful guidance. Twenty years after the conclusion of the WSIS, or the Tunis phase of the WSIS, it’s the moment to make sure that this time-tested, multi-stakeholder framework continues to be future-ready, inclusive, and resilient. Let’s renew that shared purpose. As you discuss, we’re going to go into breakouts. We’ll get into that in a moment. But we’re going to focus on three key topics, national digital priorities, emerging digital trends, and of course, the WSIS beyond 2025. So I would encourage you to remember that our shared digital future is not just about technology. It’s about people. The decisions and the policies that you make must ensure that technology improves the lives and the livelihoods and uplifts everyone everywhere. As Minister Solly, you mentioned this morning in your speech so eloquently that we need to lead with openness, fairness, and dignity, if I got that right. But I thought that was a great message. So thank you again for being here. Thank you for your commitment to the WSIS process. And with that, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, I would like to turn to, I often call him my partner in crime, my friend and colleague, the ADGE of UNESCO. Please, Taufik, over to you.
Tawfik Jelassi: Thank you very much. Thank you very much, Doreen, ITO Secretary General, Excellencies, Ministers, Ambassadors, Representatives, participants. Good afternoon to all of you. It’s an honor for me to be here with you today and to present the Director General of UNESCO, Madame Audrey Azoulay. First, I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to the ITU Secretary General, to the ITU as an organization for hosting this important meeting, and for their leadership. I would like also to acknowledge His Excellency Solly Malatzi, the new Chair of WSIS, South Africa’s Minister of Digital Technologies, but also to acknowledge the distinguished ministers present here with us. Mr. Alonso, and many others who have joined us today, whose commitment, engagement, continue to shape our collective work. Today, we can take pride in the achievements made by the WSIS process, which built a strong foundation for inclusive, human rights-based digital development. However, as we approach the WSIS Plus 20 Review, we are at a crossroads. The digital landscape is evolving at an unprecedented pace, and new pressing challenges are emerging. These include artificial intelligence, data governance, and digital inclusion. These are no longer distant concerns. They are the imperatives of our time. The WSIS Plus 20 Review presents a unique opportunity to reflect on how we’ll confront the challenges ahead. This moment calls for reaffirming our commitment to an ethical, inclusive, and sustainable digital transformation, ensuring that our digital governance frameworks evolve in tandem with technological innovation, while addressing the widening digital divide that marginalizes so many. This is why UNESCO has long advocated for a reinvigorated, action-oriented WSIS 2.0 vision, a vision that accelerates progress towards achieving the goals we all share. Central to this are public administrations worldwide, governments and civil servants that hold the power to modernize service delivery, relationships with citizens, enhance transparency, foster participation, and ensure a secure, data-driven decision-making. Despite progress, the public sector still faces critical challenges. For instance, only 21% of governments worldwide have policies on the ethical use of AI. in public administration, and only 18 percent of countries have a national data strategy. Moreover, women, people with disabilities, and marginalized communities continue to face barriers to digital access. Nevertheless, the public sector is not just a stakeholder. It’s central to driving digital transformation. At UNESCO, we are committed to empowering this sector with the knowledge, tools, frameworks, and resources needed to lead change. Our AI for the public sector program has already reached 50 countries worldwide, equipping civil servants with the skills needed to leverage AI ethically and responsibly. Last June, we launched the SPARC AI Alliance, which brings together 50 public administration schools worldwide. Also, in partnership with the University of Oxford, we unveiled an open source online course on AI and digital transformation for the public sector. I encourage each one of you here, as well as your national schools of public administration, to engage with UNESCO regarding these initiatives. I’m also pleased to announce that yesterday, here, we officially launched the Data Governance Toolkit, How to Navigate Data in an AI Era. This work is an outcome of the UN Broadband Commission for Sustainable Development’s Working Group. It provides policymakers with actionable guidance to ensure inclusive and ethical data systems, laying the groundwork for responsible AI development. In conclusion, the future we envision is one where technology serves as a powerful enabler of opportunities, justice, and equity for all. As we stand at this critical crossroads, I am reminded of the wise words of Nelson Mandela, who once said, quote, it always seems impossible until it’s done, end of quote. Let’s together take on this difficult challenge. Through our collective efforts, we can ensure that digital innovation benefits everyone, everywhere, that it respects human rights and fosters a future that is inclusive, ethical, and sustainable. Thank you.
Doreen Bogdan-Martin: Thank you so much, Dr. Jelassi. So I now have the honor of handing the floor to His Excellency Minister Solly Malatsi, our WSIS plus 20 chair and the co-chair of this ministerial roundtable.
Solly Malatsi: Excellency, over to you. Thank you very much, Secretary General, all excellencies, distinguished guests, and fellow friends. Our meeting this week is much more than just reviewing the progress of the WSIS process over the past two decades. We are definitely gathering to forge a collective forward, not just for the WSIS process, but also for the world’s digital agenda. Since its inception, WSIS has proven to be more than a mere process. It has become a platform for shared vision and coordinated action, and I firmly believe that its legacy lies in its enduring relevance. Both the Geneva Declaration and the Tunis agenda continue to shape the way we think about emerging technologies, rights, and responsibilities in the ever-evolving world of the digital age. One of the most forward-looking aspects of the original framework was the inclusion of an action on the ethical dimensions of the information society. The emergence of AI is not only prevalent because of the from both governments and the private sector. And in the area of digital skills, innovation, data governance, procurement reform, and digital literacy. And as this week has shown us, we can achieve so much more when we work together, but also when we collaborate with non-governmental stakeholders. Colleagues, as chair of the YSYS 20 High Level event, I’m very grateful towards all of you for the renewed energy and commitment that you have showcased in the official and sideline events that we have had in the build-up to this week. It is clear that we’ve got mammoth responsibilities, and we dare not do anything less than our best. Let us use the momentum we are having here and recommit ourselves to building a digital future that is open, inclusive, sustainable, and rights-based, and ultimately one that is about uplifting the people of the universe, most of whom remain unconnected. Thank you very much, Chair.
Speaker: Thank you so much, Chairman, Minister. With that, ladies and gentlemen, I’m going to hand the floor to my colleague, Selina, who’s going to guide us in the next part of our deliberations. Please, Selina. Thank you, Secretary General. Your Excellencies, so the next part will be the breakout, where we have arranged for each of you to go into a group. There will be four groups. Let me see. Each group, I think you can put that onto the screen. So the rooms are, first of all, K, which is this room, Kilo, Room E, Echo, down the hall to your left, Room F, Foxtrot, at the end, on the left, and Room G, on the right, at the end. All three other breakout rooms are on this floor. Room K, ministers who have been assigned to Room K, please do remain in Room K. Each of the rooms will be moderated by a minister, and we thank the ministers from Algeria, Ghana, Indonesia and Barbados for agreeing to help us moderate each of these groups. You’ll be able to see which group you are in. They are on the screen. And as you have been, well, we have sent ahead to your focal points the topics which we would like to suggest that you discuss. I think the Secretary General has informed you what these are, national digital priorities, emerging digital trends, and WSIS beyond 2025. So the breakout room will take about an hour, and then we come back here at four o’clock. So we are five minutes before time, which should give us enough time to find our rooms, get comfortable, and then we will bring you back by four. Now, in each of these rooms, an elected official will also be present. In Room K is Dr. Cosmas Zabazava. In Room E would be Sezo Onoesan. The Secretary General is in Room F, and the Deputy Secretary General will be in Room G. So without further ado, Secretary General, I suggest that we go into the breakouts. It’s okay, you just go and sit in G. My colleagues will be outside to lead you to all three rooms, so just look out for them. They will be the ones shouting E, F, and G. Thank you. Thank you.
SidAli Zerrouki: So I’m calling just Excellency Minister Rashad from Azerbaijan, Excellency Aminata Zerbo from Burkina Faso, Excellency Leo Kadhi from Burundi, Excellency Zong Chan from China, Excellency Mr. Ernesto from Cuba, Excellency Mr. Radwan from Djibouti, Excellency Guido Gomez from Dominican Republic, Excellency Mark Alexander from Gabon, Excellency Abdulbaset from Libya, Excellency Gergur from Russian Federation, Excellency Mr. Alion Sel from Senegal, and last but not least, Excellency Sina Lawson from Togo. Please remain seated, so we’ll be starting very soon, and we’ll be having supporting us from the ITU, Dr. Cosmas, and also Mr. Arshana Gulati, and the reporter, Mrs. Nell McDonald. Thank you. So we shall be starting in the next… We are having a few spare minutes, so… Okay. Excellencies, fellow ministers, distinguished delegates, I’m truly honored to welcome you today to this high-level breakout session held at a pivotal moment, the 20th anniversary of the World Summit on the Information Society. As the digital era accelerates, our shared responsibility is to ensure that technology became a driver of equity, peace, and sustainability. Sustainable development, not fragmentation, neither exclusion. Today we’ll explore three strategic themes that lie with the heart of our collective digital trajectory. First, national digital priorities and implementation needs. Second, emerging digital trend and risk. Third… WeSis Beyond 2025, Achieving Future Milestones Together. Now I invite the ITU elected official to set the scene and introduce the spirit expectation of our dialogue.
Cosmas Zavazava: Thank you, thank you, Chair. I think you are aware, you are well briefed that there are three topics that we wanted to focus on, and it will be free flow. So we want to understand from you the national digital priorities and implementation needs. At ITU, our responsibility in the Development Bureau is to remain member-driven and to understand from the member states what their priorities are so that we can build viable and bankable projects that we can implement with partners. But we want also to discuss the issue of emerging trends, digital trends, because we want to align the regulatory, legal frameworks so that we can drive the digital development agenda or digital transformation at the right speed. And finally, within the context of the WeSis Beyond 2025, Achieving Future Milestones Together, we would like to understand from you what you think a multi-stakeholder platform should be, and also the need for partnerships that are resilient, that can help us to achieve universal meaningful connectivity and sustainable digital transformation, which are the two strategic goals of ITU. So I think the chair is going to go around, and you feel free to express yourselves.
Rashad Nabiyev: We can – thank you, thank you. So here we – According to the alphabetical order, so we start with Azerbaijan, His Excellency Rashad, Minister of Digital Development and Transport, you have exactly three minutes. Thank you. Thank you very much, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen. Over the past two decades, the World Summit on the Information Society has played a key role in building a more inclusive, secure, and connected world. From the early days of dial-up to today’s fast-moving world of cloud services, data centers, and artificial intelligence, digital transformation has fundamentally changed the way we live and work. Azerbaijan has not only kept pace with the change, we have embraced it with determination and long-term vision. Today, I am proud to share that 99.9 percent of the households in Azerbaijan are connected to fiber-optic Internet, placing our country among a small group globally that has achieved near-universal high-speed connectivity. This milestone reflects our national commitment to digital inclusion. But connectivity is just the beginning. Our focus is on building a digitally empowered society. Platforms such as MyGov, the CIMA digital infrastructure, and our expanding e-government services are helping us deliver efficient, secure, and citizen-friendly public services. Since 2022, Azerbaijan has advanced nine places in the UN e-Government Development Index and achieved the status of a country with very high e-government development. We are also investing in digital trust and cybersecurity. Azerbaijan currently ranks as a top performer among CIA’s countries in the Global Cybersecurity Index with a score of 93.7 out of 100. Our national cybersecurity strategy and expanding CERT capabilities are helping us protect critical infrastructure and promote responsible data use. In March, we launched our National Artificial Intelligence Strategy, the first unified state-led AI policy in our region. The strategy is built around the four pillars. Governance and Ethics with Clear Regulatory Standards and Human Oversight Infrastructure, Tier 3 Certified Data Centers, and National GPU Clusters to Support AI Training and Deployment Human Capital, led by our new AI Academy, which aims to train 500 engineers and 500 public sectors professionals by 2028 Innovations or supports for AI Startups, Public-Private Partnership, and Applied R&D Our approach ensures that AI development in Azerbaijan is ethical, inclusive, and aligned with the public interest, while enabling innovation in areas such as health care, education, smart agriculture, and telecommunication. As a host of COP29, we are also aligning our digital growth with our climate commitments through green ICT infrastructure, energy-efficient data centers, and sustainable network design. In closing, Azerbaijan believes that digital transformation must serve everyone, not just a few. Our vision is clear, a future where every citizen is connected, empowered, and protected. We stand ready to collaborate, to share our experience, and to build a smarter, safer digital world together. Thank you.
SidAli Zerrouki: Thank you, Excellency. In fact, three questions come to my mind, which is, what are the biggest policy or infrastructure bottlenecks? This was the three minutes, so you’ve been on time. Thank you, Excellency. So, what are the biggest policy or infrastructure bottlenecks to each and every country? And how has OASIS concretely helped your respective countries move forward in this digital move? What kind of international support your respective countries might need, or do still need? I would love that, if we can address those main topics, that would be fantastic. Now, Leo Kadhi from Burundi. Sorry, beg pardon, Excellency Aminat from Burkina Faso.
Aminata Zerbo Sabane: Thank you, Mr. Chair, hello everyone, dear colleagues, I would like to commend again the excellent frame of dialogue that the Information Society Summit represents and I would like to thank for this initiative that aims to install inclusive development of digital centered on humans and its well-being. My country, Burkina Faso, who liberalized its sector in the communication sector in the year 2000, has quickly adhered to the SMSI action plan, the WSIS action plan. We structured action around the implementation of a complete framework including cyber security and the protection of data, the building of structure and project for infrastructure connectivity, a backbone network of 3,000 kilometers in optical fiber accessible to all the operators and has considerably improved the high bandwidth coverage, 11,000 kilometers for the country. Implementation of internet cut points and of virtual connection points for the accessibility to services to structures like the national security, information security and the commission of freedom and liberty and the regulation authority for telecommunication and postal services have been implemented to deal with the cyberspace, the privacy protection and the regulation of the communication sector, electronic communication. to many initiatives in order to meet these challenges, to overcome these challenges and to continue our march towards a more inclusive information society that does not leave anyone behind. We can quote the reinforcement of digital inclusion with the idea to cover until 2027 all our look at the idea is no non-connected areas and this year we already have 750 areas that are being covered. the acceleration of the dematerialization of public services in order to have an administration that is more reactive, more performing and more efficient and closer to the user below development of skills a cynical non-conditions to manage our digital transform in many projects in order to have local activities that are able to support our ambition. I’m sorry, we have lost the sound. I conclude here by reaffirming the engagement of Burkina Faso in a transparent and solidarity to cooperation with all the countries in order to build an inclusive information society for the benefit of populations development and peace and that does not anyone on the side of the road.
SidAli Zerrouki: Thank you, your excellency. I remind that you allocated time for each minister. So now I hand over to Excellency Liu Kadhi from Burundi. Thank you.
Leocadie Ndacayisaba: Thank you for giving me the floor. Ladies and gentlemen, distinguished participants, the WSIS is a strategic challenge for international cooperation and sustainable development of emerging and developing countries. For Burundi, the participation in the summit, it goes beyond just the experience sharing. It really embodies a true opportunity to have technical and financial partnerships, re-inform our national capacities and position our country. as an emergent but nevertheless major actor of the digital inclusive economy on the African continent. Within its digital transformation, Burundi has launched an ambitious dynamic aiming to lay the groundwork of an inclusive digital economy, resilient and sustainable. We are aware of the central roles of ITC in the modernization of public administration, the reinforcement of transparency and the improvement of services rendered to citizens. The government of Burundi has launched 2021 the support project for the foundation of digital economy with the support of the World Bank. This project is fully part of the strategic vision of the country for emerging Burundi 2014-2060. The strategy for 2014-2060 we have among others the digitization of the public services from 2023 to 2033 and all the orientations converge closely on the society in training, also the objectives of the global compact. The project is centered around two main pillars. The first one devoted to the access to high-speed internet and digital inclusion with the aim to reducing the digital divide by developing fiber-optic connections across the entire country, creation of digital training centers and implementation of basic digital literacy programs for women, for young people and for vulnerable minorities. The second point is focused on the digitization of public services linked on the implementation of an institutional framework, modernize the development of platforms. And we have sadly lost the communication. The interpreter apologizes, but we have lost. Please, Keion, try to ramp up, please. One minute to finish. …of the privacy data and also the revision of the national action plan on ITC that is aligned with the national development and revised plan and the revision of Burundi being an emerging country and developed in 2060. Thank you very much.
SidAli Zerrouki: …go just like with volunteers, where we need to cover the main three topics, which is national digital priorities and implementation needs, and then emerging digital trend and risk, and where it is beyond 2025, achieving the future milestones altogether. So, I prefer maybe we change the way how we need to conclude, and then please, if any volunteers, try to stick to the three minutes, please. Yes, please, Excellency from Dominican Republic.
Julissa Cruz: Very good afternoon. I’m Julissa Cruz, Executive Director of the Regulatory Authority of the Dominican Republic. The World Summit on Information Society in the past 20 years has taken the Dominican Republic to position itself as fourth in the world. We really need to make a great effort in order to support certain economies and emerging countries like my country, the Dominican Republic. I want to conclude with my gratitude to the ITU because we must continue promoting innovation so that we really make that leap towards digital development that will support the economy of the country. I think we have great opportunities ahead. Thank you very much.
Abdulbaset Albaour: Thank you for this meeting. I would like to speak by Arabic regarding the challenges that face most of the countries in the world. I am not talking about the internal issues because the technology today is possible to achieve for any country to adopt and can be utilized inside those countries. With regards to Libya, inside Libya we have, and then according to the reports of the ITU, we have achieved many achievements, which is demonstrated in the reports of the ITU. With regards to the priorities that are usually faced by worldwide countries, we have to speak about the world has become a small village. This perspective, which requires, a vision that requires of diminishing the technological gap or the digital gap. which requires true governance and artificial intelligence. We need a pact for the proper governance. I don’t want to take longer than that. Those are the main points that we need to work upon.
SidAli Zerrouki: Now I hand over to Excellency the Minister of Industry and Information Technology from the Republic of China.
Shan Zhongde: Our Honored Excellencies, colleagues, in the last 20 years China has been implementing the promises and we are enlarging the connections. We have a lot of these work and every city has 1,000 megabytes, every county has 5G, every village has broadband in a lot of our village areas. Our users only need five to six dollars per month. They can have their cell phones and internet and their internet TVs. We have a lot of policies and we have a total of 11 these innovation centers and 50 international standards DeepSeek and Hongmeng open platform and open OLA and these public products and our contributions. We continue to do our work and to do this green development 2024 5G stations per tower and the daily consumption energy consumption is down by 16 percent and overall and we have like a 4 billion this kilowatt hours and purchase and we have a lithium battery and smart this volatile solar power and energy storages. And based on this topic and for the development and opportunities and the challenges, we have three suggestions. And the technology should benefit people, and we should do this for general and inclusive information society. No one should be left behind. This is the core mission, and we should continue to deepen our cooperation to promote 5G networks, the computing capabilities, satellite, internet connectivities, and this CBAT, the internet cable connections, and to do the digital transformations, and to close the digital device and this intelligent device, and to promote the global south strategy. And the second is the standards should touch on the whole world to have this opening and the sharing mentality and the new generation of information technology. We need the investment on research and innovation, have the applications, and especially this for we expect the ITU to use its members’ capabilities to do more research exchanges, and we can get more knowledge, more technology, and more people. These are the key aspects and the assets. And number three, we need to embrace a green future to have this green and environmental protection and information society 2030. These sustainable development goals are the major guidelines. We need ITU to set up these platforms and use our experiences and try to take on the challenges of climate change and the resource shortages. We will do this for the future and leave a good digital future for our next generations to come. All the colleagues, this information communication technology connects everyone together. We have the same destiny in the future. China would like to work with everybody, deepening our cooperations and to have a more prosperous, more inclusive, more sustainable digital future. Thank you everyone.
SidAli Zerrouki: In this emerging technology such as AI, quantum, IOTs, and space-based solutions are no longer abstract. They are actively reshaping sovereignty, security, and equity. But governance of these tools remains fragmented. The divide today is no longer just about access to the Internet. It’s about access to trust, compute, power, ethical innovation. How each and every country is integrating AI into the public services securely, especially that cyber security threat is there on a daily basis. What partnerships have helped with 5G today? Satellite or resilient infra? Are we collectively prepared for the geopolitical shift of quantum and AI? So the floor is yours, Excellencies. Yes, please.
Grigoriy Borisenko: Thank you very much, Mr. President, dear ministers, briefly talking about the idea which you mentioned. Thank you very much for our discussion. I’d like to say that our digital technologies are at maximum point integrated in our activities, and we care at the same time about the welfare of our citizens. And it is important to develop them in an open and dynamic way. In Russia, one of the main challenges recently are the sanctions from the West countries, which impacted the technological infrastructure and different information technologies. So, one of our priorities today in the digital sphere is the response to these sanctions. The sanctions by themselves produced a reverse effect, because our digital economy continues to grow, and in many cases more rapidly than in many countries. But I think our priority must be shared by the world community, because sanctions imposed on countries impact irredeemably the development of technologies and also the security sphere, because criminals do not observe sanctions, and our public sphere must observe the sanctions. And this deepens the digital divide. If we talk about those who can be under such sanctions, and in this room we have representatives of countries who are under secondary sanctions, this bears a discriminatory character and impedes us in solving our common problems. So, we suggest that ITU as an international platform helps, if not in removing totally those problems, but at least to mitigate the consequences of sanctions for the new technologies. Talking about 5G, it is impossible to put 5G towers in Russia, and we have to recreate this technology in our country from scratch. At the same time, this situation saps the whole potential of the world community in the technologies sphere, and the investments which are needed in the technologies use sphere, they also need time and slow down our progress, and it slows down our progress towards achieving the welfare of our citizens. We have a large experience as regards response to sanctions. It’s relocating our infrastructure inside the country, creating our different technologies in different spheres, but we are ready to share our experience with every partner within the framework of any information union and in any platform. Thank you. Excellency, thank you. Your mic, please.
Ernesto Rodriguez Hernandez: Thank you. Excellencies, Dear colleagues, we have identified three priority actions in Cuba, actions that are interconnected in order to achieve a technology-based, information technology-based development. First of all, the creation of digital skills, both basic and advanced, including everything related to artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and other emerging technologies. Inclusive access to technologies because of the personal and professional growth is also another priority for our government. And the third priority is to develop, amongst the huge difficulties that we have, the expansion of telecommunication infrastructure, stability, security, resilience and the quality of our services. And we have lost the connection, so we cannot continue interpreting at this moment in time. As soon as we get back the connection, our interpretation service will continue. Thank you for your patience. …unified for online processes and services and digital identity, public-private collaboration is favoured, technology-based companies are promoted, the development of the TIC industry… Unfortunately, the problem is still not solved. We are waiting for the connection to be restored. Thank you for your patience. … It looks like we got the connection back. You can… Right now, there are initiatives that are being deployed, such as a unified platform for online services regarding digital ID. We are favoring private-public partnerships. We are helping technology-based industries, the development of the TIC, the ITC industries, accessibility programs for people with disabilities, and progress for women, and we are also updating the legal framework, and we are also strengthening the technological sovereignty. We have been aiming at providing society with competences and skills that will be able to make a humanist approach, an ethical approach of data, including its governance, where we can foster the culture of innovation within the framework of a safe digital environment that will contribute to the best welfare and well-being of all citizens, men and women, and in general, of the country. This development is done despite the fact that the government of the United States of America has imposed coercive measures on us, which is the longest blockade that we have seen against any nation in the world. As our Russian Federation colleague has said, they do not understand how these measures have caused and what they have caused to all the citizens, despite the inhuman limitations from these sort of measures. We will not refuse to develop and to grow and to have digital transformation as one of our development pillars, and we will never Surrender our right to be a useful member of the United Nations and to be a member of WSIS. Cuba has a firm decision to build a digital future that benefits society as a whole and that fosters equity, social justice and sovereignty. Thank you.
SidAli Zerrouki: Your Excellency, thank you so much. So, done, but I have still the other last topic, WSIS 2025 and beyond. Twenty years on, WSIS remains a cornerstone, but a digital environment that has radically changed. The coming review in December, it’s a rare chance to reshape the architecture of a global digital governance. Should WSIS be upgraded to a more binding framework? How can we embed the global digital compact commitment into national planning? Please, Excellency from Gabon.
Mark-Alexandre Doumba: Thank you very much, Excellency. Hello, everyone. Very nice to be here, dear friends and colleagues. I would like to share a perspective where, assuming you have a country where there is a new ministry of digital economy and, you know, intelligence, artificial intelligence, and the ITU is the only body out there to support his policy planning, the implementation of his growth strategy, the planning with regards to building capacity for its people, whether it’s the workers or students. I think to me, when I look at the evolution of WSIS, it should be as a body. So But we’re toying with that option. The other option is to look at other countries that have already made those investments. There’s so many platforms out there, application software, and looking at ways to come in and import them in our countries to move more quickly. But then we need to be able to have a portal where we can sort of see a catalogue, a menu of those different platforms, but they should be open source so that our entrepreneurs or coders can take them on, build them and just move that much more quickly. You know, it’s very similar with regards to funding. How can, you know, we see going forward help, you know, mobilize the funding community, the financing community to sort of support on things that are specific to transitioning into the AI economy. Many of our countries, again, are faced with basic infrastructure challenges, and we don’t yet have the resources to think about how I can leapfrog into, you know, the next 10 years, 20 years. I think, you know, if this institution could, you know, do, you know, that work of mobilizing financial sponsors to support some of our economies, I think it would be very, very good. I know multilateralism is struggling, but perhaps ITU can go in the opposite direction and bring people closer. I think there is a topic also about, well, I spoke of technology stacks, I spoke of, you know, mobilizing sponsors, I spoke of making R&D available for our countries in order to move more quickly. I spoke about ITU supporting countries’ capacity building even further. I really see this organization, WESIS, as an organization that can help our countries scale up, converge, work together, and just accelerate and improve our preparedness to the AI economy, which has many implications for our country’s development. Thank you so much.
SidAli Zerrouki: Thank you, Excellency. Thank you for this strategic point that you’ve been pointing. In fact, let me speak now as minister of my country, right? One of the topics which is very, very crucial and important today, we have this OTT tech giant that is spreading technology here and there, and in many other countries, such as some African countries, other Latin American countries, and here and there, they just keep on spoiling data, generating billion-dollar revenue, not investing a single penny in no country. There is no impact. Moreover, on top of that, they are just setting the rules. When it comes to the mind, they say, we ban this account for this influencer or content creator because it does not comply with their policies. But when it comes to government policies, they say, no, no, no, freedom, right to talk, right to express itself. So this could be one of the pillars that we, united all of us, okay, we should raise the voice, this is our respective countries, this is our respective policies that they need to cope with first. And likewise, we have on the other side these universal services where each country imposes, like, taxes on mobile operators, where they have to reverse to the government taxes that they need to invest in spreading network here and there. Same, same, it has to be like for this content-spreading tech giant, they need to pay tax for these countries, right? And this could be part of the funding you just asked for, Excellency. Thank you so much. And then I give the floor to Mr. Minister.
Alioune Sall: Thank you very much, dear colleagues, dear moderator, ladies and gentlemen, it’s an honour for us to take I was here to talk about the strategy in Senegal by my colleague from Gabon made me change my mind regarding the question that you asked, which seems to me to be an essential question. I don’t think we’re talking about the same basics. The minister from Azerbaijan was saying previously that the coverage rate in his country was exceeding 95%. In 2025, at the time we’re speaking in Africa, the average coverage rate does not exceed 43%. As an international organization, I believe that there are real questions here. We’re talking about the fourth industrial revolution, but if all countries are not starting from the same starting point, then there will be discrepancies in the way we approach those technologies. My brother from the Russian Federation was talking about the stakes related to cyber security. We’re talking about stakes related to connectivity, to the stakes related to cyber resilience. I’m not saying that I’m conveying the voice of Africa, but I think we should correct those discrepancies, the ones that are dealing with universal connectivity, satellite technologies, 5G, optic fibers, fiber optics. We know that these are very costly infrastructures, but there is no infrastructure. There is no sub-regional strategies. In the past, there’s been some initiatives in Africa with sharing of experience, but I think the role that WSIS should play should be that for African countries that are lacking resources in accessing connectivity, that there should be a discussion group so we could pull together some infrastructures in terms of connectivity, in terms of cyber security, which are global stakes. Our ambition today is to have a 95% universal coverage by 2034. We know it’s very complicated because if each country, you know, we’ve had strategies for years, but if everybody is trying to deal with those connectivities on its own, these connectivities are universal connectivities. You cannot have a robust information system if you don’t have all assets related to cyber security. So, this is going beyond a country level. We are all involved in this process because populations that are deprived from the means of having access to this, I believe this should be a right. The fact that we live in urban areas, we do have the possibility to study on the internet, but we have to think about the people who are living in remote villages and we talk about digital inclusion. Digital inclusion should have a meaning. We were talking about financing, but this is like starting over and over. regarding all technologies that have been developed so far. I’m talking about my country, which is Senegal, with 18 million inhabitants. It’s a very young country. Half of the population is less than 19 years old. 75% is less than 30 years old. And this is the situation in most African countries. So we see how our countries are evolving. We know the population is going to double. We talk about 1 billion people. They will have to be connected. And we think about all the digital platforms that will have to be developed. So if we want to talk about universality in this area, which I believe is essential. Thank you so much, Mr. Moderator. That’s what I wanted to add to that point. Thank you very much.
Cosmas Zavazava: Thank you very much. I would like just to guide you to say that there are a number of recommendations under either thematic topic that were sent to you. In the room, we have got two colleagues sitting in that corner. One is supporting technically on the content. The other one is the rapporteur. When we come back into plenary, the rapporteur is going to report back. They captured everything that you raised. I would like to recognize, just to clarify one thing. As you well know, within the WSIS, there are action lines. And ITU is responsible for the following action lines, which we implement. Capacity building, cyber security, infrastructure, and E-applications. We jointly implement the E-applications environment with UNITA and other UN agencies. So there is a great opportunity. I recognize, of course, the presence of The Minister of Azerbaijan and I want to thank him. He’s going to be our next host for the next World Telecommunication Development Conference, which is going to be held in Azerbaijan, Baku, from 17 to 28 of November this year. The ministers are cordially invited to come. And we have already sent invitation letters. There is an opportunity for the ministers to speak and provide or deliver policy statements during the high-level segment. Please indicate your interest so that we can reserve slots for you. You are going to have a great time. We were provided excellent facilities in Baku. The food in Baku is extraordinary. You are going to have a very good time there. So Minister, we thank you for hosting us. And we are working very closely with the team. Now why is this relevant? It is relevant because the topics and the discussions that we have had here, you can bring them to WTDC. Of course, we have captured them. But this is an opportunity because that is the highest level of conference for the development sector. And you will be giving us instructions to implement certain measures by way of resolutions or by way of thematic topics. And also the declaration that is going to be adopted in the strategic plan of the development sector as it contributes to the overall ITU strategic plan. So I would like to cordially invite you to come at your level and also to have your consideration for young people because on the 16th, the day before, we are going to have a celebration day for young people, for the youth, who are going to participate in a number of exciting activities organized by our host country. Thank you.
SidAli Zerrouki: Thank you, Director. Thank you, Excellencies, for your kind participation. And I just mentioned that all your comments have been reported and captured integrally and they’ll be communicated later on. So thank you so much. I think we are good in terms of timing, so it gave us some spare time, maybe a couple of minutes to stretch or to have some coffee. Thank you so much. Just between brackets and out of this meeting, for African ministers, there’s also Smart Africa, right? And we have this afternoon a meeting also about a topic which is very sensitive, which is AFRINIC, and also the future of IP addresses within Africa. So it will be held at 5.47 this afternoon. There is a group managed by Mr. Lassina, a Canadian DG. Thank you so much. We’ll be back here at five o’clock?
Solly Malatsi: Okay. Excellencies, welcome back from the breakaway groups and thank you to all of you for the engagements that you had in their respective groups. I managed to attend at least three of those and I appreciated the contributions that took place in each of them and to thank the moderators who will now be leading us with their report back sessions from their respective groups. We’ll start with His Excellency from Algeria, followed by Ghana, then the Barbados, and then Indonesia will be the last group. In that order, I’ll hand over to His Excellency Zerrouki from Algeria. Thank you very much.
SidAli Zerrouki: Thank you, Excellency and Chairman. Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, the diverse group of high-level representatives reflected on two decades of digital transformation and considered the path forward for inclusive, sustainable digital cooperation. The dialogue underscored the urgency of ensuring that digital technology serves equity, peace, sustainability, particularly as the digital divide evolves beyond Internet access to encompass AI, trust, and governance. The Chair proposed three topics, national digital priority and implementation needs, emerging digital trend, and why it is beyond 2025. Under the first topic, many delegations highlighted significant progress in expanding connectivity, digital infrastructure, public service digitalization, and financial inclusion. Several countries reported near-universal broadband coverage, national AI strategy, and strong performance into global digital. and others. Others emphasized the importance of foundational reforms such as liberalizing communication sector, enacting data protection laws, and launching digital literacy programs, especially for women, youth, and marginalized groups. Despite this gain, persistent challenges remain, rural and underserved populations still lack access, digital skill gaps, and funding constraints limit the pace of infrastructure deployment, keeping in mind the need for green digital solutions. There was broad consensus that OASIS should remain the central framework for digital cooperation with the continued ITU leadership and annual multi-stakeholder forum to sustain momentum. On the second topic, participants acknowledged the transformative potential of the technology like 5G, AI, IOTs, and quantum computing. These innovations are reshaping economic and public services, but also introduce new risks, particularly around cybersecurity, ethical governance, and infrastructure resiliency. Several interventions stressed the need for inclusive access to emerging technology, especially in underserved regions, and called for international cooperation to ensure that AI and space-based technology are developed responsibly. Trust, transparency, and a fairness AI system were required in them, with a call for a global governance framework that respects national sovereignty while promoting shared standards and safeguards. Last but not least, under the third topic, the upcoming UN General Assembly review in December was seen as a pivotal opportunity to assess progress. and Recalibrate Strategy. Delegates emphasized the importance of integrating the global digital compact into the OASIS architecture to avoid duplication and ensure coherence. Many called for a more binding framework to strengthen digital cooperation, including mechanisms for financing capacity building and knowledge sharing. Doreen was interested in developing an open source platform and digital public good support innovation and policy experimentation, particularly in a resource-constrained setting. Overall, Roundtable reaffirmed the enduring relevance of OASIS as a platform for inclusive digital development and highlighted the need for a sustainable political will, multi-stakeholder engagement, and international solidarity to bridge divide, harness emerging technology, and ensure that the digital future is equitable and secure and sustainable for all. Thank you very much.
Solly Malatsi: Thank you very much, His Excellency. We will now move over to Group E that was led by His Excellency George from Ghana.
Samuel Nartey George: Thank you very much, Chair, and I think that we would associate ourselves largely with the report from Algeria and not want to bore everybody. We just make a few additions so that we don’t have to repeat the same points. We had conversations about the fact that the OASIS process has led to the establishment of universal access funds, for example, in some of the member states, and those are some of the benefits that the OASIS actions lines have led to in our countries and the need for us to continue to build on those successes. Some countries have established their cyber security and certs in H.E. H.E. H.E. One key thing that came up was the fact that as we continue to drive the information society, we need to have an eye on the cost of devices so that that drops down the entry barrier for more people to be onboarded onto the digital community. There’s also the need for us to continue the multistakeholder engagements and the fact that the WSIS platform remains a key critical part. And going forward for us, one of the key things that came up was the need for us to have more content in local languages. And that should be a main focus of the WSIS plus 20 going forward. We had three broad changes to the recommendations, but they don’t change it substantially. The first was the suggestion that WSIS was fit for purpose in Tunis in the early 2000s. But today we should move away from talking about the World Society on Information Society, but we should rather be talking about the digital society. And so that’s for the consideration of the House. If we want to change it from WSIS to WSDIS, that’s going to be up to us to make a decision. And then on the final draft recommendation, we inserted human-centric as one of the key things that we thought needed to be part of – because we’re looking at the global human rights, and so we decided to include human-centric. And then we ended as well with introducing the phrase through continued multistakeholder engagements, because we thought that in the draft recommendation, it didn’t highlight the key essence of what WSIS is, the platform for multistakeholder engagement. And so we introduced that as well for the consideration of the larger group. Thank you.
Solly Malatsi: Thank you very much, His Excellency George. We’ll now move over to Group G, led by His Excellency Reid from Barbados.
Jonathan Reid: Thank you so much. And I’m taking the line from my colleague directly across from me, acknowledging all the said before, and largely in agreement, and not wanting to bore you with an AI-enabled summary. But just pulling on some core key components that I felt was quite interesting in the discussion. One led by the colleague from Honduras, who spoke quite a bit of fully acknowledging the need to understand that 40% of the planet is of rural population, and acknowledging that there needs to be special consideration for advanced technologies with the acknowledgement that so much of the planet lives in rural settings, and therefore special considerations must be made about that. The colleague from Nepal made special recommendation and reference to green digitization. As many of us are in a race towards enabling our nations to stand up digitized data centers and advanced compute centers, the constant need to be us to thinking about electricity generation, the cost of it, the impact of it, needs to be at the forefront of our mindsets and our thinkings, and that was well received by the group. The colleagues from UAE and Zimbabwe, in varying ways, made reference to the fact that us all, we are at different stages of our digital development, and we need to be cognizant of the fact that there is opportunities for collaboration and sharing and learning with each other, whether it’s resources or it may be investment, there’s an opportunity for acknowledgement of where you are in terms of your digital cycle, and then collaborating on it. The colleague of the United States of America, I think, made a very strong point regarding not being so firm to rush to strict and irreversible in some ways regulations around where we are thinking about framing the do’s and don’ts of AI, which we don’t fully yet understand where it’s at, that there’s an opportunity to I’m going to start with the sidebar conversation that we had. Of course there was large support for WSIS and the power of having a uniform platform of broad development, a power of where conversation and voices could be heard and different ideas can contend, but the balance could become clear at the end of a conversation. And one I think that was particularly powerful came from a member from Kenya who reminded us that a lot of us are doing very, very good work and a lot of very good programs are happening without full knowledge of the world and in some cases our population, our communities, for those to exist and the good news to come out of it. So much of the work and the moment in time we are in are driven by news that scares us a little bit and so much of the conversation around AI does, in fact, and advanced technologies, does scare some members of our population. So we need to always make sure that we are very much operating with a human-centric perspective and allowing the goodness of the work that we are doing.
Solly Malatsi: Thank you very much. And for the last report, we’ll come from Group F, led by Meutya Viada Hafid from Indonesia.
Meutya Viada Hafid: Thank you, Chair. It’s an honor for me to report back on behalf of the Breakout Room F, where ministers engage in a rich and robust forward-looking discussions on three critical topics related to OASIS Plus 20 process and our shared digital future. And participants reaffirmed the lasting impact of OASIS process over the past 20 years. Many ministers highlighted significant progress in digital infrastructure and broadband expansion. However, it was also noted that digital divides persist, particularly in rural and underserved areas, and the financing for infrastructure is still challenging. It was also stressed out the importance of digital literacy and capacity building. Sorry, I’ll just open my – there was also a strong recognition that international cooperation is essential to support infrastructure development, trust frameworks, and cybersecurity mechanism, especially for least developed and small island state. The group also discussed emerging digital trends, and many countries are exploring regulatory approaches to ensure ethical, transparent, and secure adoption of AI, while also fostering innovations. With emerging technologies, our group also discussed how careful understanding of opportunities is also important, and that includes opportunities for cultural and also language. Thus, skills – upskilling is needed, and knowledge sharing becomes an important issue in that context. We also discussed about cybersecurity and how it is a paramount issue. There is a need to continue to invest and implement mitigation actions. Child online protection is also one concern that is discussed in Group F. Security of emerging technology, security of undersea cables that has to be tackled internationally. And also, of course, to close, we all agree that WSIS is important and should continue to play a role in digital development. ITU should continue to play a leading role moving forward, and WSIS should continue also to strengthen the multi-stakeholder approach.
Solly Malatsi: Thank you. Thank you very much, Excellency, and to all the moderators for their feedback. Just to underscore one point, because there were several recommendations that also emerged from the different groups, that those will be reflected in the chair’s summary that encapsulates the totality of the discussion. There was in one of the groups a suggestion around some possible text change in terms of the word, and I’ll ask the secretariat just to elaborate on that in the process that they will follow. It was a very good suggestion from Qatar around the use of the word complementarity and the sequencing with the global digital impact so that we give prominence to the work that is done through WSIS.
Speaker: Thank you, Your Excellency. I noticed that one of the groups has made changes, and these changes have been reflected. I assure the other groups that the secretariat will take the minor changes which you have agreed in your groups to put into the text, and we will clean that up and hand that over to the chair. And all other comments, as the chair has mentioned, will be gathered and put into the chair’s report. For the group that Minister Mutia was moderating, there were two revisions or two additions which were suggested, and I will just describe them. Under emerging digital trends, the group agreed, the ministers agreed that ITU’s role in coordinating the first bullet should be emphasised or should be included. It says here, governments and other stakeholders are encouraged to strengthen collaboration and the group felt that we should include the fact that ITU plays a coordinating role and so ITU should coordinate this and we will put that into the text. The second point has to do with the WSIS Beyond 2025 recommendation and that is, as you can see right now, the word complementarity appears in the third line. It says, by strengthening existing WSIS structures in complementarity to the implementation of the Global Digital Compact, the group felt very strongly that it should be alignment and there should be no duplication at all and the diplomatic language of complementarity perhaps is too subtle and therefore, to use the word alignment, it would mean that we will say that the GDC has to be in alignment with WSIS and so we will arrange that text and put it into this. I’m very happy to see that other groups have included the multi-stakeholder engagement because that was another point that emerged from our group. Chair, thank you very much. The Secretariat will work on this and we will present it to you. Thank you.
Solly Malatsi: Thank you very much to the Secretariat for consolidating all of the input and the observations from the different groups and I hope the room is in agreement with the approach that we are outlining in terms of incorporating those views and we thought that it is important to bring it to the Forum for Transparency so that everyone in the group has a sense of even the most of minute.
Doreen Bogdan-Martin: infrastructure resilience and protecting cultural and linguistic diversity. And I’m also hearing this this push for continuous investment in inclusive digital access, digital literacy, education, and local content to ensure that no one is left behind. The road to December to the General Assembly high level event I think runs through us. No matter how fast technology advances, we must never give up on placing humanity and shared values at the core of innovation. The last 20 years of WSIS are proof of the value in really working together across sectors, across institutions, and borders to drive digital development progress. I think the clock is ticking and the world of course is watching. So together, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, let’s continue transforming the WSIS vision into impact so that our digital cooperation ultimately results in universal, meaningful connectivity and sustainable digital transformation for all. With that, Excellencies, I think I pass the
Solly Malatsi: floor back to you, my co-chair. Minister. Thank you very much. Colleagues, it’s been a really fruitful endeavor to be able to break into the different groups and come to this text that is now in front of us. So for that, I just want to thank all of you for your leadership in the respective groups that we had. Special mention to the moderators who were able to facilitate the discussions that took place and to come with a unified position. And also to thank the Secretariat and all of their technical team for how quickly they also worked in making sure that the summaries reflect the views of the whole group. We’ve got an exciting It’s very difficult to decide if we can make this happen. It’s very difficult to make this happen. I think it’s a very difficult decision for all of us. It’s a very difficult decision for all of us. So I’m looking forward to sharing that with the rest of plenary so that you can see that the work that we collectively do is reflected even in the commitments and the vision that will outline on Friday when we present the chair’s summary. With that, thank you very much, and enjoy the rest of the other sessions that you’ll be attending. Thank you.
Rashad Nabiyev
Speech speed
146 words per minute
Speech length
464 words
Speech time
190 seconds
Near-universal fiber-optic connectivity achieved with 99.9% household coverage
Explanation
Azerbaijan has achieved remarkable digital infrastructure development, placing the country among a small group globally that has achieved near-universal high-speed connectivity. This milestone reflects the national commitment to digital inclusion and serves as the foundation for building a digitally empowered society.
Evidence
99.9 percent of households in Azerbaijan are connected to fiber-optic Internet, placing the country among a small group globally that has achieved near-universal high-speed connectivity
Major discussion point
Digital Infrastructure Development and Connectivity
Topics
Infrastructure | Development
Disagreed with
– Alioune Sall
– Meutya Viada Hafid
Disagreed on
Digital divide severity and infrastructure development priorities
National AI Strategy launched as first unified state-led AI policy in the region
Explanation
Azerbaijan launched its National Artificial Intelligence Strategy in March as the first unified state-led AI policy in the region. The strategy is built around four pillars: governance and ethics, infrastructure, human capital, and innovations, ensuring ethical and inclusive AI development aligned with public interest.
Evidence
Strategy built around four pillars: Governance and Ethics with Clear Regulatory Standards and Human Oversight, Infrastructure with Tier 3 Certified Data Centers and National GPU Clusters, Human Capital led by AI Academy training 500 engineers and 500 public sector professionals by 2028, and Innovations supporting AI Startups and Public-Private Partnerships
Major discussion point
National Digital Transformation Strategies and Priorities
Topics
Legal and regulatory | Development
Top performer in Global Cybersecurity Index with score of 93.7 out of 100
Explanation
Azerbaijan has achieved significant success in cybersecurity, ranking as a top performer among CIS countries in the Global Cybersecurity Index. The country’s national cybersecurity strategy and expanding CERT capabilities help protect critical infrastructure and promote responsible data use.
Evidence
Azerbaijan currently ranks as a top performer among CIS countries in the Global Cybersecurity Index with a score of 93.7 out of 100, supported by national cybersecurity strategy and expanding CERT capabilities
Major discussion point
Cybersecurity and Digital Governance
Topics
Cybersecurity | Infrastructure
Digital growth aligned with climate commitments through green ICT infrastructure
Explanation
As host of COP29, Azerbaijan is aligning its digital growth with climate commitments by implementing green ICT infrastructure, energy-efficient data centers, and sustainable network design. This approach demonstrates the integration of environmental considerations into digital transformation strategies.
Evidence
As host of COP29, implementing green ICT infrastructure, energy-efficient data centers, and sustainable network design
Major discussion point
Sustainable Development and Green Technology
Topics
Development | Infrastructure
Meutya Viada Hafid
Speech speed
130 words per minute
Speech length
299 words
Speech time
137 seconds
Significant progress in broadband expansion but digital divides persist in rural areas
Explanation
While many countries have made significant progress in digital infrastructure and broadband expansion, digital divides continue to persist, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Financing for infrastructure development remains a challenging issue that needs to be addressed.
Evidence
Many ministers highlighted significant progress in digital infrastructure and broadband expansion, however digital divides persist, particularly in rural and underserved areas, and financing for infrastructure is still challenging
Major discussion point
Digital Infrastructure Development and Connectivity
Topics
Infrastructure | Development
Disagreed with
– Rashad Nabiyev
– Alioune Sall
Disagreed on
Digital divide severity and infrastructure development priorities
Countries exploring regulatory approaches for ethical and transparent AI adoption
Explanation
Many countries are actively exploring regulatory approaches to ensure the ethical, transparent, and secure adoption of AI while also fostering innovation. This balanced approach aims to harness AI benefits while managing associated risks and ensuring responsible development.
Evidence
Many countries are exploring regulatory approaches to ensure ethical, transparent, and secure adoption of AI, while also fostering innovations
Major discussion point
Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies
Topics
Legal and regulatory | Human rights
Disagreed with
– Jonathan Reid
– Abdulbaset Albaour
Disagreed on
Approach to AI regulation – caution vs. proactive governance
Cybersecurity as paramount issue requiring continued investment and international cooperation
Explanation
Cybersecurity was identified as a paramount issue that requires continued investment and implementation of mitigation actions. The discussion emphasized that cybersecurity challenges, including child online protection and security of undersea cables, must be tackled through international cooperation.
Evidence
Cybersecurity is a paramount issue requiring continued investment and implementation of mitigation actions, including child online protection and security of undersea cables that must be tackled internationally
Major discussion point
Cybersecurity and Digital Governance
Topics
Cybersecurity | Infrastructure
Need for careful understanding of AI opportunities including cultural and language aspects
Explanation
The discussion highlighted the importance of carefully understanding the opportunities presented by emerging technologies, particularly AI, including considerations for cultural and linguistic diversity. This understanding necessitates upskilling and knowledge sharing to ensure inclusive development.
Evidence
Careful understanding of opportunities for cultural and language aspects is important, requiring upskilling and knowledge sharing
Major discussion point
Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies
Topics
Sociocultural | Development
WSIS should continue as central framework with ITU leadership and multi-stakeholder approach
Explanation
There was strong agreement that WSIS should continue to play an important role in digital development moving forward. The framework should maintain ITU’s leading role and continue to strengthen the multi-stakeholder approach that has been central to its success.
Evidence
All agree that WSIS is important and should continue to play a role in digital development, ITU should continue to play a leading role, and WSIS should continue to strengthen the multi-stakeholder approach
Major discussion point
International Cooperation and WSIS Framework
Topics
Legal and regulatory | Development
Alioune Sall
Speech speed
114 words per minute
Speech length
565 words
Speech time
294 seconds
Need for shared infrastructure and sub-regional strategies to address connectivity gaps
Explanation
African countries face significant connectivity challenges with average coverage rates not exceeding 43% compared to other regions achieving over 95%. There is a need for sub-regional strategies and shared infrastructure approaches rather than each country trying to address connectivity challenges individually, as universal connectivity requires collaborative efforts.
Evidence
In 2025, in Africa, the average coverage rate does not exceed 43% while other countries like Azerbaijan report exceeding 95% coverage; costly infrastructures like satellite technologies, 5G, and fiber optics require sub-regional strategies and shared infrastructure approaches
Major discussion point
Digital Infrastructure Development and Connectivity
Topics
Infrastructure | Development
Disagreed with
– Rashad Nabiyev
– Meutya Viada Hafid
Disagreed on
Digital divide severity and infrastructure development priorities
Aminata Zerbo Sabane
Speech speed
111 words per minute
Speech length
367 words
Speech time
197 seconds
Universal connectivity coverage goals with 750 areas being covered by 2027
Explanation
Burkina Faso has set ambitious goals for digital inclusion, aiming to cover all non-connected areas by 2027. The country has already made significant progress with 750 areas currently being covered as part of their comprehensive digital transformation strategy.
Evidence
The idea is to cover until 2027 all non-connected areas, and this year 750 areas are already being covered
Major discussion point
Digital Infrastructure Development and Connectivity
Topics
Infrastructure | Development
Comprehensive fiber-optic backbone network of 3,000 kilometers implemented
Explanation
Burkina Faso has developed a substantial telecommunications infrastructure including a backbone network of 3,000 kilometers in optical fiber accessible to all operators. This infrastructure has considerably improved high bandwidth coverage across the country, supporting the nation’s digital transformation goals.
Evidence
A backbone network of 3,000 kilometers in optical fiber accessible to all operators has considerably improved high bandwidth coverage, with 11,000 kilometers for the country
Major discussion point
Digital Infrastructure Development and Connectivity
Topics
Infrastructure | Development
Leocadie Ndacayisaba
Speech speed
111 words per minute
Speech length
353 words
Speech time
190 seconds
Investment in high-speed internet and digital inclusion to reduce digital divide
Explanation
Burundi has launched initiatives focused on providing access to high-speed internet and promoting digital inclusion to reduce the digital divide. The approach includes developing fiber-optic connections across the country, creating digital training centers, and implementing basic digital literacy programs.
Evidence
Development of fiber-optic connections across the entire country, creation of digital training centers and implementation of basic digital literacy programs for women, young people and vulnerable minorities
Major discussion point
Digital Infrastructure Development and Connectivity
Topics
Infrastructure | Development
Digital transformation strategy centered on public service digitization and institutional modernization
Explanation
Burundi has developed a comprehensive digital transformation strategy that focuses on digitizing public services and modernizing institutional frameworks. This strategy is aligned with the country’s long-term vision for emerging Burundi 2014-2060 and includes the digitization of public services from 2023 to 2033.
Evidence
The strategy for 2014-2060 includes digitization of public services from 2023 to 2033, focused on implementation of institutional framework and development of platforms
Major discussion point
National Digital Transformation Strategies and Priorities
Topics
Legal and regulatory | Development
Comprehensive digital economy project launched with World Bank support
Explanation
Burundi launched a support project for the foundation of digital economy in 2021 with World Bank assistance. This project is fully integrated into the country’s strategic vision and focuses on two main pillars: access to high-speed internet and digital inclusion, and digitization of public services.
Evidence
Government of Burundi launched in 2021 the support project for the foundation of digital economy with World Bank support, part of strategic vision for emerging Burundi 2014-2060
Major discussion point
National Digital Transformation Strategies and Priorities
Topics
Development | Economic
Focus on digital literacy programs for women, youth, and vulnerable minorities
Explanation
Burundi has prioritized digital inclusion by implementing basic digital literacy programs specifically targeting women, young people, and vulnerable minorities. This approach ensures that digital transformation benefits all segments of society and addresses potential inequalities in digital access and skills.
Evidence
Implementation of basic digital literacy programs for women, for young people and for vulnerable minorities
Major discussion point
Digital Inclusion and Capacity Building
Topics
Development | Human rights
Ernesto Rodriguez Hernandez
Speech speed
102 words per minute
Speech length
453 words
Speech time
265 seconds
Focus on creating digital skills, inclusive access, and expanding telecommunication infrastructure
Explanation
Cuba has identified three interconnected priority actions for technology-based development: creating both basic and advanced digital skills including AI and cybersecurity, ensuring inclusive access to technologies for personal and professional growth, and expanding telecommunication infrastructure with focus on stability, security, resilience and service quality.
Evidence
Three priority actions: creation of digital skills both basic and advanced including AI and cybersecurity, inclusive access to technologies for personal and professional growth, and expansion of telecommunication infrastructure focusing on stability, security, resilience and quality
Major discussion point
National Digital Transformation Strategies and Priorities
Topics
Development | Infrastructure
Development despite longest blockade imposed by United States affecting digital growth
Explanation
Cuba continues its digital transformation efforts despite facing what it describes as the longest blockade imposed by the United States against any nation. The country maintains its commitment to digital development as one of its development pillars and refuses to surrender its right to participate in international digital cooperation frameworks.
Evidence
Government of United States has imposed coercive measures described as the longest blockade against any nation in the world, but Cuba maintains firm decision to build digital future and participate in UN and WSIS
Major discussion point
Economic and Regulatory Challenges
Topics
Economic | Legal and regulatory
Disagreed with
– Grigoriy Borisenko
Disagreed on
Impact of sanctions on digital development and international cooperation
Commitment to building digital future that benefits society with equity and social justice
Explanation
Cuba has expressed a firm commitment to building a digital future that benefits society as a whole while fostering equity, social justice, and sovereignty. This approach emphasizes the humanist and ethical use of technology and data governance within a safe digital environment.
Evidence
Firm decision to build a digital future that benefits society as a whole and fosters equity, social justice and sovereignty, with humanist and ethical approach to data governance
Major discussion point
Future Vision and Human-Centric Approach
Topics
Human rights | Development
Samuel Nartey George
Speech speed
150 words per minute
Speech length
399 words
Speech time
159 seconds
Need for content in local languages as main focus going forward
Explanation
One of the key priorities identified for WSIS plus 20 going forward is the need to have more content available in local languages. This focus on linguistic diversity is seen as essential for making digital services and information truly accessible to diverse populations.
Evidence
One of the key things that came up was the need for us to have more content in local languages, and that should be a main focus of the WSIS plus 20 going forward
Major discussion point
Digital Inclusion and Capacity Building
Topics
Sociocultural | Development
Importance of reducing cost of devices to lower entry barriers
Explanation
The discussion emphasized the need to focus on reducing the cost of devices as a way to lower entry barriers for more people to join the digital community. This economic accessibility factor is crucial for expanding digital inclusion and ensuring broader participation in the information society.
Evidence
One key thing that came up was the fact that as we continue to drive the information society, we need to have an eye on the cost of devices so that drops down the entry barrier for more people to be onboarded onto the digital community
Major discussion point
Digital Inclusion and Capacity Building
Topics
Economic | Development
Suggestion to evolve from World Summit on Information Society to Digital Society
Explanation
There was a suggestion to modernize the WSIS framework by changing from talking about the World Summit on Information Society to the World Summit on Digital Society (WSDIS). This reflects the evolution of technology and society since the early 2000s when WSIS was established in Tunis.
Evidence
WSIS was fit for purpose in Tunis in the early 2000s, but today we should move away from talking about the World Society on Information Society and rather talk about the digital society, suggesting change from WSIS to WSDIS
Major discussion point
International Cooperation and WSIS Framework
Topics
Legal and regulatory | Sociocultural
Mark-Alexandre Doumba
Speech speed
164 words per minute
Speech length
410 words
Speech time
149 seconds
Abdulbaset Albaour
Speech speed
96 words per minute
Speech length
158 words
Speech time
98 seconds
Need for proper governance frameworks and artificial intelligence governance pacts
Explanation
Libya emphasized the need for proper governance frameworks to address global digital challenges, particularly focusing on artificial intelligence governance. The speaker stressed that diminishing the technological and digital gap requires true governance and international cooperation on AI governance pacts.
Evidence
Need for true governance and artificial intelligence governance pacts to diminish the technological gap or digital gap
Major discussion point
Cybersecurity and Digital Governance
Topics
Legal and regulatory | Development
Disagreed with
– Jonathan Reid
– Meutya Viada Hafid
Disagreed on
Approach to AI regulation – caution vs. proactive governance
Solly Malatsi
Speech speed
151 words per minute
Speech length
892 words
Speech time
352 seconds
Grigoriy Borisenko
Speech speed
89 words per minute
Speech length
375 words
Speech time
251 seconds
Sanctions impact technological infrastructure and deepen digital divide
Explanation
Russia highlighted how Western sanctions have impacted technological infrastructure and different information technologies, creating barriers to digital development. While sanctions produced a reverse effect with Russia’s digital economy continuing to grow, they impede global technological cooperation and deepen the digital divide, particularly affecting countries under secondary sanctions.
Evidence
Sanctions from West countries impacted technological infrastructure; digital economy continues to grow more rapidly than many countries despite sanctions; sanctions bear discriminatory character and impede solving common problems; impossible to put 5G towers requiring recreation of technology from scratch
Major discussion point
Economic and Regulatory Challenges
Topics
Economic | Infrastructure
Disagreed with
– Ernesto Rodriguez Hernandez
Disagreed on
Impact of sanctions on digital development and international cooperation
Jonathan Reid
Speech speed
169 words per minute
Speech length
513 words
Speech time
181 seconds
Special consideration needed for 40% of planet living in rural settings
Explanation
The discussion emphasized that 40% of the planet’s population lives in rural areas, requiring special consideration when implementing advanced technologies. This rural population factor must be at the forefront of digital development strategies to ensure inclusive access and meaningful connectivity.
Evidence
40% of the planet is rural population, requiring special consideration for advanced technologies with acknowledgement that so much of the planet lives in rural settings
Major discussion point
Digital Inclusion and Capacity Building
Topics
Development | Infrastructure
Green digitization must be considered in race toward advanced compute centers
Explanation
As countries race to establish digitized data centers and advanced compute centers, there is a constant need to consider electricity generation, its cost, and environmental impact. Green digitization should be at the forefront of digital development thinking and planning.
Evidence
As many are in race towards enabling nations to stand up digitized data centers and advanced compute centers, constant need to think about electricity generation, cost, and impact needs to be at forefront of mindsets
Major discussion point
Sustainable Development and Green Technology
Topics
Development | Infrastructure
Caution against rushing to strict regulations for technologies not fully understood
Explanation
There was a strong point made about not being too firm in rushing to strict and irreversible regulations around AI and emerging technologies that are not yet fully understood. The approach should allow for learning and adaptation rather than premature regulatory constraints.
Evidence
Strong point regarding not being so firm to rush to strict and irreversible regulations around AI which we don’t fully yet understand where it’s at
Major discussion point
Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies
Topics
Legal and regulatory | Development
Disagreed with
– Abdulbaset Albaour
– Meutya Viada Hafid
Disagreed on
Approach to AI regulation – caution vs. proactive governance
Need for human-centric perspective allowing goodness of work to be visible
Explanation
The discussion emphasized the importance of operating with a human-centric perspective and ensuring that the positive aspects of digital work are visible to communities and populations. Much of the current conversation around AI and advanced technologies tends to scare people, so it’s important to highlight the beneficial outcomes.
Evidence
Much of the work and moment in time are driven by news that scares us and conversation around AI scares some population members, so need to operate with human-centric perspective and allow goodness of work to be visible
Major discussion point
Future Vision and Human-Centric Approach
Topics
Human rights | Sociocultural
Julissa Cruz
Speech speed
106 words per minute
Speech length
108 words
Speech time
60 seconds
Regulatory positioning achieved fourth place globally in telecommunications
Explanation
The Dominican Republic has achieved significant progress in telecommunications regulation, positioning itself as fourth in the world according to the speaker. This achievement demonstrates the country’s commitment to creating an effective regulatory environment for digital development.
Evidence
The World Summit on Information Society in the past 20 years has taken the Dominican Republic to position itself as fourth in the world
Major discussion point
Economic and Regulatory Challenges
Topics
Legal and regulatory | Development
Doreen Bogdan-Martin
Speech speed
129 words per minute
Speech length
579 words
Speech time
267 seconds
Development requires leadership and political will across all government portfolios
Explanation
Digital development requires more than just infrastructure; it demands leadership and political will to develop and deploy technology responsibly across all government ministries. This includes finance, healthcare, education, environment, and industry sectors that are now deeply intertwined with digital technology.
Evidence
Development requires more than infrastructure, requires leadership and political will to develop and deploy technology responsibly across finance, healthcare, education, environment, and industry portfolios
Major discussion point
National Digital Transformation Strategies and Priorities
Topics
Legal and regulatory | Development
Need for policy coherence and coordination across finance, healthcare, education, and industry
Explanation
The interconnected nature of digital technology with various sectors demands effective policy coherence and coordination across different government portfolios. WSIS provides a platform for shared learning and collective progress in achieving this coordination.
Evidence
Finance, healthcare, education, environment, and industry are deeply intertwined with digital and demand effective policy coherence and coordination; WSIS provides platform for shared learning and collective progress
Major discussion point
National Digital Transformation Strategies and Priorities
Topics
Legal and regulatory | Development
Digital transformation must serve everyone with openness, fairness, and dignity
Explanation
The shared digital future is fundamentally about people, not just technology. Decisions and policies must ensure that technology improves lives and livelihoods while uplifting everyone everywhere, guided by principles of openness, fairness, and dignity.
Evidence
Shared digital future is not just about technology, it’s about people; decisions and policies must ensure technology improves lives and livelihoods and uplifts everyone everywhere with openness, fairness, and dignity
Major discussion point
Future Vision and Human-Centric Approach
Topics
Human rights | Development
Shan Zhongde
Speech speed
108 words per minute
Speech length
449 words
Speech time
247 seconds
Massive infrastructure investments with 5G networks and broadband in every village
Explanation
China has made substantial investments in digital infrastructure, achieving comprehensive connectivity with 5G networks in every city and county, and broadband access in every village. The country has also made internet access affordable, with users paying only 5-6 dollars per month for mobile phones, internet, and internet TV services.
Evidence
Every city has 1,000 megabytes, every county has 5G, every village has broadband; users only need 5-6 dollars per month for cell phones, internet and internet TVs; 11 innovation centers and 50 international standards
Major discussion point
Digital Infrastructure Development and Connectivity
Topics
Infrastructure | Development
5G energy consumption reduced by 16% with significant energy savings achieved
Explanation
China has achieved significant progress in green digital development, with 5G stations reducing daily energy consumption by 16% overall, resulting in savings of 4 billion kilowatt hours. The country has also invested in lithium batteries, smart solar power, and energy storage technologies.
Evidence
2024 5G stations per tower daily energy consumption down by 16% overall, 4 billion kilowatt hours saved, investments in lithium battery, smart solar power and energy storages
Major discussion point
Sustainable Development and Green Technology
Topics
Infrastructure | Development
Technology should benefit people with general and inclusive information society
Explanation
China advocates that technology should benefit all people and promote a general and inclusive information society where no one is left behind. This approach emphasizes deepening cooperation to promote digital transformations, close digital divides, and support global south strategies.
Evidence
Technology should benefit people and promote general and inclusive information society with no one left behind; deepen cooperation to promote 5G networks, computing capabilities, satellite internet connectivities, and digital transformations
Major discussion point
Future Vision and Human-Centric Approach
Topics
Development | Human rights
Need for environmental protection and sustainable development goals as major guidelines
Explanation
China emphasizes the need to embrace a green future with environmental protection as a core principle, using the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals as major guidelines. The country advocates for ITU to establish platforms for sharing experiences and addressing challenges of climate change and resource shortages.
Evidence
Need to embrace green future with environmental protection and information society 2030 Sustainable Development Goals as major guidelines; ITU should set up platforms to use experiences and address climate change and resource shortages
Major discussion point
Sustainable Development and Green Technology
Topics
Development | Infrastructure
Tawfik Jelassi
Speech speed
120 words per minute
Speech length
638 words
Speech time
317 seconds
Only 21% of governments worldwide have policies on ethical use of AI in public administration
Explanation
Despite progress in digital transformation, there are critical gaps in AI governance, with only 21% of governments worldwide having policies on the ethical use of AI in public administration. Additionally, only 18% of countries have a national data strategy, highlighting the need for stronger governance frameworks.
Evidence
Only 21% of governments worldwide have policies on ethical use of AI in public administration, and only 18% of countries have a national data strategy
Major discussion point
Cybersecurity and Digital Governance
Topics
Legal and regulatory | Human rights
AI for public sector program reached 50 countries with ethical AI training
Explanation
UNESCO has implemented comprehensive programs to support public sector digital transformation, with their AI for public sector program reaching 50 countries worldwide. The program equips civil servants with skills needed to leverage AI ethically and responsibly, including partnerships with public administration schools and universities.
Evidence
AI for public sector program reached 50 countries worldwide equipping civil servants with ethical AI skills; launched SPARC AI Alliance with 50 public administration schools; partnership with University of Oxford for open source online course on AI and digital transformation
Major discussion point
Artificial Intelligence and Emerging Technologies
Topics
Development | Human rights
Vision of future where technology serves as enabler of opportunities, justice, and equity
Explanation
UNESCO envisions a future where technology serves as a powerful enabler of opportunities, justice, and equity for all. This vision emphasizes that through collective efforts, digital innovation can benefit everyone everywhere while respecting human rights and fostering an inclusive, ethical, and sustainable future.
Evidence
Future where technology serves as powerful enabler of opportunities, justice, and equity for all; through collective efforts digital innovation can benefit everyone everywhere while respecting human rights and fostering inclusive, ethical, and sustainable future
Major discussion point
Future Vision and Human-Centric Approach
Topics
Human rights | Development
Cosmas Zavazava
Speech speed
132 words per minute
Speech length
626 words
Speech time
283 seconds
SidAli Zerrouki
Speech speed
103 words per minute
Speech length
1504 words
Speech time
875 seconds
Tech giants generate revenue without investing in countries or respecting local policies
Explanation
Over-the-top tech giants are spreading technology globally and generating billions in revenue from various countries, particularly in Africa and Latin America, without investing locally or respecting national policies. These companies set their own rules for content moderation while ignoring government policies, creating an unfair dynamic.
Evidence
OTT tech giants spreading technology globally, generating billion-dollar revenue without investing a single penny in countries, setting their own content moderation rules while ignoring government policies
Major discussion point
Economic and Regulatory Challenges
Topics
Economic | Legal and regulatory
Need for universal service taxes on content-spreading tech giants similar to mobile operators
Explanation
Just as countries impose universal service taxes on mobile operators to fund network expansion, the same principle should apply to content-spreading tech giants. These companies should pay taxes to countries where they operate, which could provide funding for digital development initiatives.
Evidence
Universal service taxes imposed on mobile operators should similarly apply to content-spreading tech giants; they need to pay tax to countries which could be part of funding for digital development
Major discussion point
Economic and Regulatory Challenges
Topics
Economic | Legal and regulatory
Need for binding framework to strengthen digital cooperation and financing mechanisms
Explanation
The upcoming UN General Assembly review in December presents an opportunity to develop a more binding framework for digital cooperation. This should include mechanisms for financing, capacity building, and knowledge sharing, with interest in developing open source platforms and digital public goods to support innovation in resource-constrained settings.
Evidence
Many called for more binding framework to strengthen digital cooperation, including mechanisms for financing capacity building and knowledge sharing; interest in developing open source platform and digital public goods
Major discussion point
International Cooperation and WSIS Framework
Topics
Legal and regulatory | Development
Speaker
Speech speed
135 words per minute
Speech length
703 words
Speech time
311 seconds
Global Digital Compact should be in alignment with WSIS to avoid duplication
Explanation
There was strong feeling from ministerial groups that the Global Digital Compact should be in alignment with WSIS rather than just complementary to avoid any duplication. The diplomatic language of complementarity was considered too subtle, and the preference was for clear alignment where the GDC aligns with the established WSIS framework.
Evidence
Group felt very strongly that it should be alignment and there should be no duplication at all; diplomatic language of complementarity perhaps too subtle, preference to use alignment meaning GDC has to be in alignment with WSIS
Major discussion point
International Cooperation and WSIS Framework
Topics
Legal and regulatory | Development
Agreements
Agreement points
WSIS should continue as central framework with multi-stakeholder approach
Speakers
– Meutya Viada Hafid
– Samuel Nartey George
– Doreen Bogdan-Martin
Arguments
All agree that WSIS is important and should continue to play a role in digital development, ITU should continue to play a leading role, and WSIS should continue to strengthen the multi-stakeholder approach
There’s also the need for us to continue the multistakeholder engagements and the fact that the WSIS platform remains a key critical part
WSIS provides platform for shared learning and collective progress
Summary
Strong consensus that WSIS remains vital as the central framework for digital cooperation, with ITU maintaining its leadership role and the multi-stakeholder approach being fundamental to its continued success
Topics
Legal and regulatory | Development
Digital infrastructure development with focus on connectivity expansion
Speakers
– Rashad Nabiyev
– Aminata Zerbo Sabane
– Leocadie Ndacayisaba
– Shan Zhongde
– Meutya Viada Hafid
Arguments
99.9 percent of households in Azerbaijan are connected to fiber-optic Internet, placing the country among a small group globally that has achieved near-universal high-speed connectivity
A backbone network of 3,000 kilometers in optical fiber accessible to all operators has considerably improved high bandwidth coverage, with 11,000 kilometers for the country
Development of fiber-optic connections across the entire country, creation of digital training centers and implementation of basic digital literacy programs for women, young people and vulnerable minorities
Every city has 1,000 megabytes, every county has 5G, every village has broadband
Many ministers highlighted significant progress in digital infrastructure and broadband expansion
Summary
Multiple countries report significant investments and achievements in digital infrastructure, particularly fiber-optic networks and broadband expansion, though challenges remain in rural and underserved areas
Topics
Infrastructure | Development
Need for ethical AI governance and regulatory frameworks
Speakers
– Rashad Nabiyev
– Meutya Viada Hafid
– Tawfik Jelassi
– Abdulbaset Albaour
Arguments
Strategy built around four pillars: Governance and Ethics with Clear Regulatory Standards and Human Oversight
Many countries are exploring regulatory approaches to ensure ethical, transparent, and secure adoption of AI, while also fostering innovations
Only 21% of governments worldwide have policies on ethical use of AI in public administration, and only 18% of countries have a national data strategy
Need for true governance and artificial intelligence governance pacts to diminish the technological gap or digital gap
Summary
Widespread recognition of the need for ethical AI governance frameworks, with countries actively developing regulatory approaches while acknowledging significant gaps in current AI policies globally
Topics
Legal and regulatory | Human rights
Cybersecurity as paramount concern requiring international cooperation
Speakers
– Rashad Nabiyev
– Meutya Viada Hafid
Arguments
Azerbaijan currently ranks as a top performer among CIS countries in the Global Cybersecurity Index with a score of 93.7 out of 100, supported by national cybersecurity strategy and expanding CERT capabilities
Cybersecurity is a paramount issue requiring continued investment and implementation of mitigation actions, including child online protection and security of undersea cables that must be tackled internationally
Summary
Strong agreement that cybersecurity is a critical issue requiring both national investment and international cooperation, with recognition of the need for comprehensive approaches covering various aspects from infrastructure to child protection
Topics
Cybersecurity | Infrastructure
Human-centric approach to digital transformation
Speakers
– Doreen Bogdan-Martin
– Shan Zhongde
– Ernesto Rodriguez Hernandez
– Jonathan Reid
– Tawfik Jelassi
Arguments
Shared digital future is not just about technology, it’s about people; decisions and policies must ensure technology improves lives and livelihoods and uplifts everyone everywhere with openness, fairness, and dignity
Technology should benefit people and promote general and inclusive information society with no one left behind
Firm decision to build a digital future that benefits society as a whole and fosters equity, social justice and sovereignty, with humanist and ethical approach to data governance
Need to operate with human-centric perspective and allow goodness of work to be visible
Future where technology serves as powerful enabler of opportunities, justice, and equity for all
Summary
Universal agreement that digital transformation must prioritize human welfare, equity, and social justice, with technology serving as an enabler for improving lives rather than an end in itself
Topics
Human rights | Development
Similar viewpoints
Recognition that despite progress in digital infrastructure, significant disparities exist between urban and rural areas, and between different regions globally, requiring targeted approaches for underserved populations
Speakers
– Alioune Sall
– Meutya Viada Hafid
– Jonathan Reid
Arguments
In 2025, in Africa, the average coverage rate does not exceed 43% while other countries like Azerbaijan report exceeding 95% coverage
Many ministers highlighted significant progress in digital infrastructure and broadband expansion, however digital divides persist, particularly in rural and underserved areas, and financing for infrastructure is still challenging
40% of the planet is rural population, requiring special consideration for advanced technologies with acknowledgement that so much of the planet lives in rural settings
Topics
Infrastructure | Development
Strong emphasis on the importance of sustainable and environmentally conscious digital development, with focus on energy efficiency and green technology integration
Speakers
– Shan Zhongde
– Jonathan Reid
– Aminata Zerbo Sabane
Arguments
2024 5G stations per tower daily energy consumption down by 16% overall, 4 billion kilowatt hours saved, investments in lithium battery, smart solar power and energy storages
As many are in race towards enabling nations to stand up digitized data centers and advanced compute centers, constant need to think about electricity generation, cost, and impact needs to be at forefront of mindsets
Need to embrace green future with environmental protection and information society 2030 Sustainable Development Goals as major guidelines
Topics
Development | Infrastructure
Both countries face international sanctions that impact their digital development but maintain commitment to technological advancement and international cooperation despite these challenges
Speakers
– Ernesto Rodriguez Hernandez
– Grigoriy Borisenko
Arguments
Government of United States has imposed coercive measures described as the longest blockade against any nation in the world, but Cuba maintains firm decision to build digital future and participate in UN and WSIS
Sanctions from West countries impacted technological infrastructure; digital economy continues to grow more rapidly than many countries despite sanctions; sanctions bear discriminatory character and impede solving common problems
Topics
Economic | Infrastructure
Unexpected consensus
Need for taxation and regulation of global tech giants
Speakers
– SidAli Zerrouki
Arguments
OTT tech giants spreading technology globally, generating billion-dollar revenue without investing a single penny in countries, setting their own content moderation rules while ignoring government policies
Universal service taxes imposed on mobile operators should similarly apply to content-spreading tech giants; they need to pay tax to countries which could be part of funding for digital development
Explanation
Unexpected strong stance on regulating global tech companies and requiring them to contribute financially to countries where they operate, representing a shift toward more assertive digital sovereignty
Topics
Economic | Legal and regulatory
Alignment rather than complementarity between WSIS and Global Digital Compact
Speakers
– Speaker
Arguments
Group felt very strongly that it should be alignment and there should be no duplication at all; diplomatic language of complementarity perhaps too subtle, preference to use alignment meaning GDC has to be in alignment with WSIS
Explanation
Unexpected strong preference for WSIS to take precedence over the newer Global Digital Compact, showing commitment to established frameworks rather than embracing newer initiatives
Topics
Legal and regulatory | Development
Evolution from Information Society to Digital Society terminology
Speakers
– Samuel Nartey George
Arguments
WSIS was fit for purpose in Tunis in the early 2000s, but today we should move away from talking about the World Society on Information Society and rather talk about the digital society, suggesting change from WSIS to WSDIS
Explanation
Unexpected proposal to fundamentally rebrand the WSIS framework to reflect technological evolution, showing willingness to modernize established international frameworks
Topics
Legal and regulatory | Sociocultural
Overall assessment
Summary
Strong consensus exists on core principles including WSIS as central framework, human-centric digital development, need for ethical AI governance, cybersecurity cooperation, and sustainable technology deployment. Agreement also evident on infrastructure development priorities and digital inclusion goals.
Consensus level
High level of consensus on fundamental principles and frameworks, with some emerging areas of agreement on more assertive approaches to digital sovereignty and tech regulation. The consensus strengthens the legitimacy of WSIS as the primary global digital cooperation platform and provides clear direction for future digital governance initiatives.
Differences
Different viewpoints
Impact of sanctions on digital development and international cooperation
Speakers
– Grigoriy Borisenko
– Ernesto Rodriguez Hernandez
Arguments
Sanctions impact technological infrastructure and deepen digital divide
Development despite longest blockade imposed by United States affecting digital growth
Summary
Both Russia and Cuba argue that Western sanctions/blockades negatively impact their digital development and create barriers to international technological cooperation. Russia emphasizes how sanctions impede global progress and discriminate against countries, while Cuba frames US measures as the longest blockade against any nation but maintains commitment to digital transformation despite these constraints.
Topics
Economic | Legal and regulatory
Approach to AI regulation – caution vs. proactive governance
Speakers
– Jonathan Reid
– Abdulbaset Albaour
– Meutya Viada Hafid
Arguments
Caution against rushing to strict regulations for technologies not fully understood
Need for proper governance frameworks and artificial intelligence governance pacts
Countries exploring regulatory approaches for ethical and transparent AI adoption
Summary
There’s a tension between those advocating for careful, measured approaches to AI regulation (avoiding premature strict rules) versus those calling for immediate governance frameworks and proactive regulatory approaches. This reflects different philosophies on how to balance innovation with responsible AI development.
Topics
Legal and regulatory | Development
Digital divide severity and infrastructure development priorities
Speakers
– Rashad Nabiyev
– Alioune Sall
– Meutya Viada Hafid
Arguments
Near-universal fiber-optic connectivity achieved with 99.9% household coverage
Need for shared infrastructure and sub-regional strategies to address connectivity gaps
Significant progress in broadband expansion but digital divides persist in rural areas
Summary
There’s a stark contrast between countries that have achieved near-universal connectivity (like Azerbaijan) and those still struggling with basic coverage (African countries averaging 43%). This highlights different starting points and the need for different strategies – some focusing on advanced services while others need fundamental infrastructure sharing.
Topics
Infrastructure | Development
Unexpected differences
Terminology and framework evolution for WSIS
Speakers
– Samuel Nartey George
Arguments
Suggestion to evolve from World Summit on Information Society to Digital Society
Explanation
This represents an unexpected disagreement about the fundamental framing of the WSIS process itself. While most speakers focused on content and implementation, Ghana raised a more fundamental question about whether the terminology should evolve from ‘Information Society’ to ‘Digital Society’ to reflect technological evolution since the early 2000s.
Topics
Legal and regulatory | Sociocultural
Role of international organizations in addressing economic sanctions
Speakers
– Grigoriy Borisenko
Arguments
Sanctions impact technological infrastructure and deepen digital divide
Explanation
Russia’s call for ITU to help mitigate the consequences of sanctions represents an unexpected disagreement about the role of technical international organizations in addressing geopolitical economic measures. This goes beyond typical technical cooperation discussions to suggest ITU should actively counter sanctions effects.
Topics
Economic | Legal and regulatory
Overall assessment
Summary
The disagreements primarily center around three main areas: the impact of geopolitical measures (sanctions/blockades) on digital development, the appropriate pace and approach to AI regulation, and the severity of digital divides with corresponding infrastructure priorities. Additionally, there are methodological disagreements about framework evolution and institutional roles.
Disagreement level
Moderate disagreement level with significant implications. While speakers generally agree on broad goals of inclusive digital development, they differ substantially on implementation approaches, regulatory philosophies, and the role of geopolitical factors. These disagreements reflect different national contexts, development stages, and geopolitical positions, which could complicate consensus-building for global digital governance frameworks and coordinated international action.
Partial agreements
Partial agreements
Similar viewpoints
Recognition that despite progress in digital infrastructure, significant disparities exist between urban and rural areas, and between different regions globally, requiring targeted approaches for underserved populations
Speakers
– Alioune Sall
– Meutya Viada Hafid
– Jonathan Reid
Arguments
In 2025, in Africa, the average coverage rate does not exceed 43% while other countries like Azerbaijan report exceeding 95% coverage
Many ministers highlighted significant progress in digital infrastructure and broadband expansion, however digital divides persist, particularly in rural and underserved areas, and financing for infrastructure is still challenging
40% of the planet is rural population, requiring special consideration for advanced technologies with acknowledgement that so much of the planet lives in rural settings
Topics
Infrastructure | Development
Strong emphasis on the importance of sustainable and environmentally conscious digital development, with focus on energy efficiency and green technology integration
Speakers
– Shan Zhongde
– Jonathan Reid
– Aminata Zerbo Sabane
Arguments
2024 5G stations per tower daily energy consumption down by 16% overall, 4 billion kilowatt hours saved, investments in lithium battery, smart solar power and energy storages
As many are in race towards enabling nations to stand up digitized data centers and advanced compute centers, constant need to think about electricity generation, cost, and impact needs to be at forefront of mindsets
Need to embrace green future with environmental protection and information society 2030 Sustainable Development Goals as major guidelines
Topics
Development | Infrastructure
Both countries face international sanctions that impact their digital development but maintain commitment to technological advancement and international cooperation despite these challenges
Speakers
– Ernesto Rodriguez Hernandez
– Grigoriy Borisenko
Arguments
Government of United States has imposed coercive measures described as the longest blockade against any nation in the world, but Cuba maintains firm decision to build digital future and participate in UN and WSIS
Sanctions from West countries impacted technological infrastructure; digital economy continues to grow more rapidly than many countries despite sanctions; sanctions bear discriminatory character and impede solving common problems
Topics
Economic | Infrastructure
Takeaways
Key takeaways
WSIS remains a vital platform for digital cooperation after 20 years, with consensus on its continued relevance as the central framework for inclusive digital development
Digital transformation requires comprehensive national strategies encompassing infrastructure, governance, cybersecurity, and human capacity building across all government sectors
The digital divide has evolved beyond basic internet access to include gaps in AI access, trust, governance, and emerging technologies, with persistent challenges in rural and underserved areas
International cooperation and multi-stakeholder engagement are essential for addressing global digital challenges, particularly for least developed countries and small island states
AI governance and cybersecurity require urgent attention, with only 21% of governments having AI ethics policies and cybersecurity being a paramount international concern
Digital inclusion must prioritize local content, local languages, and human-centric approaches to ensure technology serves all populations equitably
The upcoming UN General Assembly review in December 2024 presents a critical opportunity to reshape global digital governance architecture
Green digitization and sustainable technology deployment must be integrated into digital transformation strategies to address climate commitments
Resolutions and action items
Secretariat to incorporate all group recommendations and minor text changes into the final recommendations document
Chair to present consolidated chair’s summary reflecting all ministerial discussions at the Friday plenary session
ITU to continue coordinating international cooperation efforts for digital infrastructure and capacity building
Ministers invited to participate in World Telecommunication Development Conference in Baku, Azerbaijan (November 17-28, 2024)
Global Digital Compact implementation to be aligned with WSIS structures to avoid duplication
WSIS framework to be strengthened with continued multi-stakeholder engagement approach
Countries encouraged to engage with UNESCO’s AI for public sector programs and SPARC AI Alliance initiatives
Data Governance Toolkit launched to provide policymakers with actionable guidance for ethical data systems
Unresolved issues
Funding mechanisms and international financing for digital infrastructure development in resource-constrained countries remain inadequately addressed
Regulatory framework for tech giants’ taxation and compliance with national policies across different jurisdictions needs resolution
Impact of international sanctions on global digital cooperation and technology development requires multilateral solutions
Standardization of AI governance frameworks across different national contexts and development levels
Bridging the significant connectivity gap between developed and developing regions (e.g., Africa’s 43% average coverage vs. 95%+ in developed countries)
Balancing innovation promotion with appropriate AI regulation without stifling technological advancement
Addressing undersea cable security and critical infrastructure protection at international level
Establishing binding international frameworks for digital cooperation beyond current voluntary mechanisms
Suggested compromises
Evolving WSIS terminology from ‘World Summit on Information Society’ to ‘World Summit on Digital Society’ to reflect current technological landscape
Using ‘alignment’ rather than ‘complementarity’ when describing relationship between Global Digital Compact and WSIS to ensure no duplication
Adopting flexible regulatory approaches for AI that allow for learning and adaptation rather than rigid, irreversible regulations
Developing open-source platforms and digital public goods to support innovation in resource-constrained settings
Creating sub-regional infrastructure sharing strategies to pool resources for connectivity projects
Establishing universal service obligations for content-spreading tech giants similar to those imposed on traditional telecom operators
Implementing graduated approaches to digital development that recognize different countries are at different stages of their digital transformation journey
Thought provoking comments
The divide today is no longer just about access to the Internet. It’s about access to trust, compute, power, ethical innovation. How each and every country is integrating AI into the public services securely, especially that cyber security threat is there on a daily basis.
Speaker
SidAli Zerrouki (Algeria Minister/Moderator)
Reason
This comment reframes the entire digital divide discussion from a traditional infrastructure problem to a more complex governance and trust issue. It recognizes that the challenge has evolved beyond connectivity to encompass deeper issues of digital sovereignty, security, and ethical implementation of emerging technologies.
Impact
This observation shifted the conversation from basic infrastructure concerns to more sophisticated discussions about AI governance, cybersecurity, and the geopolitical implications of digital transformation. It elevated the discourse to address 21st-century challenges rather than focusing solely on 20th-century connectivity issues.
One of the topics which is very, very crucial and important today, we have this OTT tech giant that is spreading technology here and there… they just keep on spoiling data, generating billion-dollar revenue, not investing a single penny in no country… When it comes to the mind, they say, we ban this account for this influencer or content creator because it does not comply with their policies. But when it comes to government policies, they say, no, no, no, freedom, right to talk, right to express itself.
Speaker
SidAli Zerrouki (Algeria Minister/Moderator)
Reason
This comment boldly addresses the elephant in the room – the asymmetric power relationship between global tech platforms and national governments. It highlights the contradiction in how these platforms enforce their own policies while resisting government regulations, and raises critical questions about digital sovereignty and fair taxation.
Impact
This intervention introduced a crucial discussion about digital colonialism and the need for coordinated international action to address the power imbalance with tech giants. It connected to broader themes of sovereignty and fair economic participation in the digital economy.
I don’t think we’re talking about the same basics. The minister from Azerbaijan was saying previously that the coverage rate in his country was exceeding 95%. In 2025, at the time we’re speaking in Africa, the average coverage rate does not exceed 43%… We’re talking about the fourth industrial revolution, but if all countries are not starting from the same starting point, then there will be discrepancies in the way we approach those technologies.
Speaker
Alioune Sall (Senegal Minister)
Reason
This comment provides a stark reality check about global digital inequality. It challenges the assumption that all countries can participate equally in discussions about advanced technologies like AI when basic connectivity remains a challenge for many. The comment forces recognition of the fundamental disparities that exist.
Impact
This intervention grounded the discussion in reality and highlighted the need for differentiated approaches to digital development. It shifted focus toward addressing foundational inequalities before advancing to more sophisticated technological discussions, emphasizing the importance of universal connectivity as a prerequisite for meaningful participation in the digital economy.
The sanctions by themselves produced a reverse effect, because our digital economy continues to grow, and in many cases more rapidly than in many countries. But I think our priority must be shared by the world community, because sanctions imposed on countries impact irredeemably the development of technologies and also the security sphere, because criminals do not observe sanctions, and our public sphere must observe the sanctions.
Speaker
Grigoriy Borisenko (Russian Federation Minister)
Reason
This comment introduces a geopolitical dimension to digital development discussions, highlighting how international sanctions can fragment the global digital ecosystem. It presents the paradox that while sanctions may spur domestic innovation, they also create security vulnerabilities and slow global progress by forcing technological fragmentation.
Impact
This comment brought geopolitical realities into the technical discussion, forcing participants to confront how international relations affect digital cooperation. It highlighted the tension between national security concerns and the need for global digital collaboration, adding complexity to discussions about international digital governance frameworks.
So much of the work and the moment in time we are in are driven by news that scares us a little bit and so much of the conversation around AI does, in fact, and advanced technologies, does scare some members of our population. So we need to always make sure that we are very much operating with a human-centric perspective and allowing the goodness of the work that we are doing.
Speaker
Jonathan Reid (Barbados Minister)
Reason
This comment addresses the psychological and social dimensions of digital transformation, recognizing that fear and misinformation can undermine even well-intentioned digital initiatives. It emphasizes the importance of communication and human-centered approaches in technology deployment.
Impact
This observation shifted the discussion toward the human and social aspects of digital transformation, emphasizing the need for better communication about the benefits of digital technologies and the importance of maintaining public trust and support for digital initiatives.
There was in one of the groups a suggestion around some possible text change in terms of the word… the diplomatic language of complementarity perhaps is too subtle and therefore, to use the word alignment, it would mean that we will say that the GDC has to be in alignment with WSIS
Speaker
Speaker (Secretariat)
Reason
This seemingly technical comment about word choice reveals deeper institutional and political tensions about the relationship between WSIS and the newer Global Digital Compact. The preference for ‘alignment’ over ‘complementarity’ suggests concerns about institutional hierarchy and the potential marginalization of the WSIS process.
Impact
This comment highlighted important institutional dynamics and the need to clarify the relationship between existing and new digital governance frameworks. It demonstrated how seemingly minor linguistic choices can reflect significant political and institutional concerns about maintaining the relevance and authority of established processes.
Overall assessment
These key comments collectively transformed what could have been a routine review meeting into a substantive discussion about the fundamental challenges of global digital governance in the 21st century. The comments moved the conversation beyond technical implementation details to address systemic issues including digital sovereignty, global inequality, geopolitical fragmentation, and the human dimensions of technological change. They revealed tensions between developed and developing countries, between national sovereignty and global cooperation, and between established and emerging governance frameworks. Most importantly, these interventions demonstrated that while WSIS has achieved significant progress over 20 years, the digital governance challenges of today require more sophisticated, politically aware, and equity-focused approaches than those that were sufficient in the early 2000s. The comments collectively argue for a more mature, realistic, and inclusive approach to international digital cooperation that acknowledges power imbalances, addresses fundamental inequalities, and maintains human-centered values in an increasingly complex technological landscape.
Follow-up questions
What are the biggest policy or infrastructure bottlenecks to each and every country?
Speaker
SidAli Zerrouki
Explanation
This question seeks to identify common challenges across different nations in digital transformation, which is crucial for developing targeted solutions and international cooperation strategies.
How has WSIS concretely helped your respective countries move forward in this digital move?
Speaker
SidAli Zerrouki
Explanation
This question aims to assess the practical impact and effectiveness of the WSIS process over the past 20 years, which is essential for evaluating its success and planning future improvements.
What kind of international support your respective countries might need, or do still need?
Speaker
SidAli Zerrouki
Explanation
Understanding ongoing support needs is critical for international organizations like ITU to develop appropriate assistance programs and resource allocation strategies.
How each and every country is integrating AI into the public services securely, especially that cyber security threat is there on a daily basis?
Speaker
SidAli Zerrouki
Explanation
This addresses the urgent need to understand best practices for secure AI implementation in government services, given the increasing cybersecurity risks.
What partnerships have helped with 5G today? Satellite or resilient infra?
Speaker
SidAli Zerrouki
Explanation
This seeks to identify successful partnership models for infrastructure development, which could be replicated in other countries facing similar challenges.
Are we collectively prepared for the geopolitical shift of quantum and AI?
Speaker
SidAli Zerrouki
Explanation
This question addresses the broader implications of emerging technologies on global power dynamics and the need for international preparedness and cooperation.
Should WSIS be upgraded to a more binding framework?
Speaker
SidAli Zerrouki
Explanation
This explores whether the current voluntary nature of WSIS commitments is sufficient or if stronger enforcement mechanisms are needed for effective global digital governance.
How can we embed the global digital compact commitment into national planning?
Speaker
SidAli Zerrouki
Explanation
This addresses the practical implementation challenge of translating international digital commitments into concrete national policies and programs.
How can ITU help mobilize the funding community, the financing community to sort of support on things that are specific to transitioning into the AI economy?
Speaker
Mark-Alexandre Doumba
Explanation
This identifies a critical gap in financing mechanisms for AI transition, particularly important for developing countries that lack resources for advanced technology adoption.
How can we ensure that OTT tech giants pay taxes and contribute to infrastructure development in countries where they operate?
Speaker
SidAli Zerrouki
Explanation
This addresses the challenge of ensuring fair contribution from global technology companies to local digital infrastructure and development, which is crucial for sustainable digital transformation funding.
Disclaimer: This is not an official session record. DiploAI generates these resources from audiovisual recordings, and they are presented as-is, including potential errors. Due to logistical challenges, such as discrepancies in audio/video or transcripts, names may be misspelled. We strive for accuracy to the best of our ability.