Many countries reaffirmed their commitment to SDGs, seeing digital as a catalyst. San Marino noted the paramount role played by digital technologies in the achievement of the 17 SDGs. Slovenia connected digital solutions to climate resilience, while Azerbaijan proposed initiatives linking climate action and the SDGs. Thailand underscored closing the digital divide to achieve the SDGs through cooperation and technology transfer.
The digital divide was a prevalent issue across many nations, with Kazakhstan, Tanzania, Malaysia and Uganda, emphasising the need for equitable access to technology to drive development and close the digital divide. One way to narrow the digital divide is through reforms in the global financial and technology regimes, which was advocated by Pakistan and Tunisia. Australia stressed the necessity of accessible technology that benefits all without censorship or exclusion, while Guinea called for universal access to technological innovations while ensuring that ethics remain at the heart of their use.
Another way to bridge the digital gap is through digital literacy and capacity building. To this end, Andorra highlighted the need for digital literacy for an open, safe and inclusive digital future, which was echoed by Thailand. Lao PDR and Timor-Leste noted the importance of technology transfer and capacity building to support their development goals. Similarly, Grenada and Kazakhstan stressed the need to equip young people with digital skills for future opportunities, while Tanzania, Belize and Uganda advocated for vocational training as a pathway for youth empowerment, aiming to close the digital divide. Cambodia noted it would prioritise building its human capital to meet the demands of the digital age and invest more in capacity development.
Singapore announced the renewal of its capacity-building programme for the Forum of Small States (FSE), now called ‘FSE for Good.’ This initiative will include digital-themed programmes focusing on leadership and governance in the context of digital technologies and AI, while South Korea emphasised its commitment to empowering Africa’s youth to promote sustainable development through initiatives such as Tech4Africa. Speaking on behalf of small states, Samoa called for support for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) to include capacity building, technical assistance, and enhanced digital infrastructure.
Countries like Andorra and Jamaica illustrate the transformative potential of digital access. Andorra has made significant strides, with 90% of homes connected to the internet, leveraging this connectivity to enhance economic diversification and ensure digital rights for all citizens. Jamaica, through its national broadband network, has increased internet penetration significantly, aiming to provide better online government services. Japan highlighted the importance of a rural perspective by leveraging the advanced technology of both established companies and start-ups in rural areas.
On the issue of climate change, Croatia stressed the importance of harnessing innovation for environmental protection amid current crises, while Eswatini presented a comprehensive SDG Recovery and Acceleration Plan focused on digital transformation and renewable energy to combat climate impacts. Similarly, Slovenia highlighted the need for practical solutions, developing a digital system linked to the UN’s ‘Early Warning for All’ Initiative to predict floods and droughts. Lao PDR and Madagascar called for international support to access technology and innovation for green growth, while Grenada sought global partnerships to fund resilience projects and share lessons learned with other nations facing similar challenges. Tonga shared its focus on improving climate-resilient healthcare and education infrastructure in the Blue Pacific, noting the importance of digital platforms to mitigate risks.
Finally, a number of countries shared their progress towards enhancing governance and digital services. Croatia outlined its vision for 2030 supported by digital transformation, while emphasising the need for effective institutions to manage the risks of emerging technologies. Albania highlighted its successful transition to good governance, achieving over 95% paperless public services, which has curbed corruption and increased trust in institutions.
