UNCTAD eWeek 2023

Arguments

Tension exists in the digital trade agenda because necessary regulations for trust may be hampered by complex digital trade rules

Supporting facts:

• Cross-border data flows can be problematic for privacy regulation

• Consumer protection agencies are struggling to verify the effectiveness and non-discriminatory nature of AI applications because of protection for source codes and algorithms

Topics: Digital Trade, Regulations, Cross-border data flows, Consumer Protection

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TISA and TPP texts were developed based on big text wish list, negotiated in secret, and trade negotiators didn’t understand their implications

Supporting facts:

• Negotiations took place in secret

• Trade negotiators have confessed their lack of understanding

Topics: TISA, TPP, Trade Negotiations

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Revising TPP text, CPTPP text is problematic especially for developed countries and those without proper regulatory frameworks

Supporting facts:

• Regulatory changes are constantly needed

• Developing countries lack necessary regulatory frameworks

Topics: TPP, CPTPP, Trade Policy

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Indigenous Maori claimed that CPTPP breaches their rights; New Zealand is struggling to revise the treaties to comply with constitutional obligations

Supporting facts:

• Indigenous Maori brought a challenge against CPTPP

• New Zealand government is finding it difficult to revise the treaties

Topics: CPTPP, Indigenous Rights, New Zealand’s Trade Policy

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The JI may not be ambitious enough to support businesses all over the world.

Supporting facts:

• Concerns over the impact of the JI on global businesses

Topics: JI, Business Support, Global Trade

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The potential of having a permanent moratorium is optimistic.

Supporting facts:

• Optimism about the potential extension of a moratorium

Topics: Moratorium, Economic Policy

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The US announcement on data flows may not provide enough legal certainty for developing countries.

Supporting facts:

• Concerns about lack of legal certainty from the US data flow announcement

Topics: Data Flows, Legal Certainty, Developing Countries

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The speaker is curious about why certain major agreements like the declaration of Montreal or the law about the Union European or Malabo are not discussed

Supporting facts:

• The speaker is a digital strategist and CEO of Fondation Pensez Demain

Topics: Declaration of Montreal, Union European, Malabo

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The audience calls for a deeper look into the common characteristics of digital trade and FTAs and the aspect of negotiations around them

Topics: Digital Trade, FTAs, Negotiations

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The speaker calls for an extension from e-invoicing, e-payments to digital gateways and a broadened view on consumer protection rights

Topics: e-invoicing, e-payments, Digital Gateways, Consumer protection rights

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The speaker highlights their problem with online providers being in a favorable position than physical dealers who have to adhere to requirements, rules and regulations.

Topics: Online Trade, Physical Dealers, Rules and Regulations

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Report

The digital trade agenda is facing tension due to the challenges posed by complex regulations that may hinder the necessary trust. There is a need for careful consideration when developing digital trade rules to avoid extremes in data flow regulations, as seen with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) that had to be saved from extreme versions of data flow regulations.

This careful consideration is important to ensure that regulations strike a balance between protecting privacy and facilitating cross-border data flows. Trade negotiations, such as the Trade in Services Agreement (TISA) and the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), have been developed in secret, leading to a lack of understanding by trade negotiators.

This lack of understanding raises concerns about the implications of these agreements and the potential negative impact on consumer protection. Additionally, the revision of TPP and Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) texts is challenging, particularly for developed countries and those without proper regulatory frameworks, further complicating the digital trade agenda.

Furthermore, the development of digital rules has been largely influenced by big players, resulting in a lack of focus on development and disproportionate benefits favoring inequality. This raises concerns about the fairness and inclusivity of the digital trade agenda. Additionally, the Indigenous Maori have raised claims that the CPTPP breaches their rights, putting pressure on New Zealand to revise the treaties and comply with constitutional obligations.

The Joint Initiative (JI), a trade policy initiative, has raised concerns about its impact on global businesses and skepticism about its positive outcomes and the feasibility of a permanent moratorium. These concerns highlight the need to carefully evaluate the potential impacts and feasibility of trade initiatives before implementation.

There is also a lack of discussion surrounding major agreements like the Declaration of Montreal or Union European, and questions about why these agreements are not being considered in the context of the digital scene. This lack of discussion raises concerns about the comprehensiveness and effectiveness of the digital trade agenda.

The audience has called for a deeper analysis of the common characteristics of digital trade and Free Trade Agreements (FTAs), as well as the negotiation processes involved. This aligns with the need for more transparency and understanding in the development of digital trade rules.

The speaker has highlighted the challenges faced by physical dealers compared to online providers who have to adhere to requirements, rules, and regulations. This imbalance puts physical dealers at a disadvantage and raises questions about the fairness of the digital trade landscape.

In the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, the public sector has taken the lead in digital transformation, particularly in countries like UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar. This highlights the importance of government support and public services in driving digital transformation in the region.

In conclusion, there is an urgent need for careful consideration in developing digital trade regulations to ensure trust, privacy, and inclusivity. The lack of understanding and transparency in trade negotiations and the disproportionate influence of big players raise concerns about the fairness and effectiveness of the digital trade agenda.

Moreover, the challenges faced in revising agreements, addressing Indigenous rights, and maintaining a balance between physical and online dealers further complicate the digital trade landscape. It is essential to foster a development-focused approach and ensure that digital trade rules are comprehensive, transparent, and inclusive for all stakeholders involved.

Arguments

African countries are negotiating issues similar to those at the international level in their digital economy agreements

Supporting facts:

• 33 African countries have got data protection regulation

• 8 African countries are involved in the JSI

Topics: Digital Economy Agreements, African Continental Free Trade Area, Negotiations

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Customs duty moratorium on electronic transmissions is of high stakes

Supporting facts:

• The moratorium has been maintained since the MC2 in 1998

• South Africa and India are raising questions about the moratorium, arguing it is skewed against developing countries

Topics: Digital Economy, Customs duties, Moratorium

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Focusing on domestic taxation like social services tax could be a better revenue realization strategy

Supporting facts:

• Studies show that taxes on social services or VAT could realize more revenues

• Capacitating African countries to impose internal taxes is a potential solution

Topics: Domestic Taxation, Revenue Realization, Digital Economy

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Flexibility built in trade treaties

Supporting facts:

• Provisions in the treaty allow for regulation in the public interest

• The treaties have consideration for privacy

Topics: trade treaties, regulation

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Countries like the EU have already built in those three yearly reviews.

Topics: Digital Rulemaking, Policy Making

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Tools can be built into treaties that give governments as much policy space as they need.

Supporting facts:

• In terms of dispute settlement, there’s a five year review.

Topics: Policy Making

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Countries are starting to act on public policy considerations

Supporting facts:

• The U.S. is turning away from its original positions

Topics: Public Policy, International Trade

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Agrees with the idea of phasing and timeline on JSI agreements.

Topics: JSI, Digital Trade, Negotiation

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Believes some agreement is better than no agreement.

Topics: JSI, Negotiation

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Acknowledges that businesses trading online are usually in a better position.

Topics: Digital Trade, Online Businesses

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Supports the customs duty moratorium believes it to be beneficial, especially in the African context.

Supporting facts:

• The customs duty moratorium could help digital giants in Africa like Jumia

Topics: Customs Duty Moratorium, Digital Trade, Africa

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Report

The analysis covers a range of topics related to the digital economy and trade negotiations. African countries are actively engaged in negotiating digital economy agreements that address issues similar to those at the international level. This demonstrates their commitment to aligning their policies with global standards and promoting cooperation in the digital sphere.

It is worth noting that 33 African countries already have data protection regulations in place, highlighting the importance they place on safeguarding digital rights and privacy. One significant issue being discussed is the customs duty moratorium on electronic transmissions. This moratorium has been in place since the 1998 Ministerial Conference and ensures that electronic transmissions are not subjected to customs duties.

However, concerns have been raised, particularly by South Africa and India, who argue that the moratorium disproportionately benefits developed countries and places developing countries at a disadvantage. This highlights the high stakes involved in this matter and the need for a fair and equitable resolution.

The analysis suggests that focusing on domestic taxation, such as implementing taxes on social services or value-added tax (VAT), could be a more effective strategy for revenue realization. Studies indicate that implementing these forms of taxation could lead to increased revenue generation.

Furthermore, enabling African countries to impose internal taxes would provide them with a potential solution to address their revenue needs. Trade treaties are designed to provide flexibility and safeguard public interests. Provisions within these treaties allow for regulation in the public interest and consideration for privacy.

This demonstrates a commitment to ensuring that trade agreements strike a balance between promoting economic growth and protecting the welfare of citizens. One noteworthy observation is the support for Wei Guo Tang’s perspective on the balance between liberation and preservation of policy space.

It is argued that countries should have the freedom to formulate and implement policies that serve their national interests while also recognizing the importance of international cooperation and harmonization. Another notable finding is the incorporation of regular reviews into treaties.

These reviews, which occur either annually or every five years, provide an opportunity for governments to reassess and adjust their policies as needed. This ensures that policy space is granted to governments while also allowing for evolving circumstances and changing priorities to be taken into account.

The analysis also suggests that public policy considerations are becoming increasingly important in international trade negotiations. This is exemplified by the shifting positions of the United States on certain public policy issues. As countries become more cognizant of the potential impact of trade agreements on their domestic policies, they are beginning to take actions that align with their national interests.

However, there are concerns about regional disagreements impacting the possibility of a customs duty moratorium. If problems arise at the regional level, they are likely to have implications for international negotiations as well. This highlights the need for open dialogue and cooperation to address regional differences and reach consensus on this important issue.

Regarding digital trade agreements, there is a consensus on the necessity of phasing and timeline. This pragmatic approach allows for incremental progress to be made, ensuring that the interests of all stakeholders are taken into consideration. There is a prevailing belief that some form of agreement is better than no agreement.

Acknowledging the complexities and challenges involved in trade negotiations, finding common ground and reaching compromises is seen as crucial for promoting digital trade and reaping its benefits. The analysis also recognizes the advantages that online businesses have in the digital economy.

These businesses tend to be better positioned to leverage digital technologies and reach wider markets, highlighting the need for policies that support their growth and competitiveness. In the African context, the customs duty moratorium is seen as beneficial, particularly for digital giants like Jumia.

This exemption from customs duties may help promote their expansion and contribute to economic growth in the region. Finally, the analysis highlights the importance of providing assistance to least developed countries (LDCs) in understanding and implementing internal taxes without discrimination.

This support is crucial for empowering these countries to effectively navigate the complexities of taxation in the digital economy. In conclusion, the analysis emphasizes the ongoing discussions and negotiations surrounding digital economy agreements, customs duty moratoriums, domestic taxation strategies, and the importance of flexibility and policy space in trade treaties.

It underscores the need for collaboration, dialogue, and pragmatic approaches to address regional disagreements and promote inclusive and sustainable digital trade.

Arguments

Digital economy agreements provide valuable support to the shift of trade to the digital domain.

Supporting facts:

• Digital economy agreements help tackle policy issues raised by digital trade.

• These agreements have been useful especially on emerging issues, aiding countries to collaborate and find common ground.

Topics: Digital economy agreements, Trade, Digital domain

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Appreciation for successful and interactive session

Supporting facts:

• This was a brilliant session

• Speakers took all the questions

• Participants actively asked questions

• Digital topic was passionately discussed

Topics: UN summit, Digital topics

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Report

Digital economy agreements play a crucial role in addressing policy issues raised by digital trade, contributing to the development of effective policies in the digital domain. These agreements have been commended for their valuable support in tackling emerging challenges and facilitating collaboration among countries, helping them find common ground on digital trade.

Moreover, digital economy agreements are seen as complementary to the existing network of free trade agreements. In the past, countries struggled to include digital trade provisions in free trade agreements. However, with the advent of digital economy agreements, the relevant provisions are extracted and consolidated in one place, enabling a focused and comprehensive approach to addressing digital trade issues within a separate agreement.

During a session on digital topics, the speakers expressed their appreciation for the interactive and successful discussion. Participants engaged passionately with the subject matter, actively posing questions and exchanging ideas. This session highlighted the importance of digital topics in today’s world and served as a platform for knowledge sharing.

Additionally, it was emphasized that these discussions should be connected with the United Nations and the upcoming summit. The UN has been actively engaged in discussions on various digital topics, and the outcomes of the session can contribute to and benefit from the ongoing UN discussions.

This integration ensures a holistic and comprehensive approach towards addressing digital challenges, taking into account the global perspective provided by the United Nations. Overall, digital economy agreements have proven to be instrumental in addressing policy issues arising from digital trade, fostering collaboration and allowing countries to find common ground.

They complement existing free trade agreements by consolidating digital trade provisions. The successful and interactive session on digital topics showcased the significance of these discussions and the need to connect them with the United Nations’ initiatives. By doing so, a cohesive and comprehensive approach towards addressing digital challenges can be achieved.

Arguments

Digital economy agreements facilitate end-to-end digital trade, open up digital environment and build trust

Supporting facts:

• Digital economy agreements build on the e-commerce chapters

• Evolving digital regulations and flexibility is necessary due to rapidly evolving technologies

• Digital economy agreements facilitate moving businesses from paper to electronic, contributing to reducing costs

• Enabling cross-border data flows enhances innovation and protects consumer welfare

Topics: Digital economy agreements, Digital trade, Digital environment, Creating trust

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Digital trade rules are not a blanket rule for data flow.

Supporting facts:

• CPTPP approach includes exceptions for legitimate public policy objectives

• Digital trade rules allow for government regulation

• Not all data should flow at all costs

Topics: Digital Trade, Data Flow, Government Policy

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Protection of privacy and prohibition of transfer of source code, except for enforcement situations, are important in digital trade rules.

Supporting facts:

• Policy objectives of different countries are similar in protecting privacy

• Source code can be checked for discrimination in enforcement situations

Topics: Digital Trade, Privacy, Source Code

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There are ongoing discussions about the political considerations in the review processes, indicating that reviews are possible.

Supporting facts:

• New Zealand is trying to feature some of their recent political considerations in the review.

• Reviews are possible and are being discussed.

Topics: Policy Review, Political Considerations

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The GSI agreement has to strike a balance in order to be commercially meaningful and inclusive.

Supporting facts:

• GSI set out to be commercially meaningful and inclusive.

• The de-attribution of data and source code provisions by the US has made this a tricky balance.

Topics: GSI Agreement, Commercial Meaning, Inclusivity

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The package under the GSI agreement is useful for traders and for consumer trust.

Supporting facts:

• The package, along with digital trade elements, will be beneficial for traders.

• The consumer trust elements are important not only for businesses but also for people.

Topics: GSI Agreement, Consumer Trust, Traders

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The GSI agreement includes strong developmental provisions to help LDC and developing members.

Supporting facts:

• There are provisions within JSI to help LDC and developing members.

• The idea is to harmonize rules across 90 members.

Topics: GSI Agreement, Development, LDC and Developing members

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Singapore has an agreement with the GCC partners, including an e-commerce chapter for ensuring an open digital environment

Supporting facts:

• There is a custom duties article agreed to not impose custom duties on electronic transmission

Topics: e-commerce, GCC, open digital environment

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The JSI has no modular approach

Supporting facts:

• JSI covers three sections that members should adhere to

• There is potential support for members in terms of implementation

Topics: JSI, Digital Economy Agreements, DIPA

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Support of the moratorium on internal taxation due to its potential benefits for developing and LDC countries

Supporting facts:

• Singapore has contributed a case study on how it has implemented internal taxation to collect revenue on e-commerce

• A report by UNTAD, which will be out next year, is aimed at helping developing countries understand how they can benefit from internal taxation

Topics: Taxation, E-commerce, Developing countries

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Report

Digital economy agreements are crucial in transforming the digital landscape and enhancing businesses. These agreements facilitate end-to-end digital trade, open up the digital environment, and build trust. They enable businesses to transition from paper to electronic formats, reducing costs. Cross-border data flow is supported, promoting innovation and protecting consumer welfare.

Flexibility is essential in digital trade rules as they are not a one-size-fits-all solution for data flow. Governments have the right to regulate and privacy protections are important, including the prohibition of source code transfer, except in enforcement situations. Protecting privacy and preventing discrimination in enforcement situations are key aspects of digital trade rules.

Discussions and ongoing reviews demonstrate the possibility of making changes and improvements to digital trade regulations based on feedback and emerging challenges. The Global Services Innovation (GSI) agreement aims to strike a balance between commercial meaningfulness and inclusivity. It recognizes the challenge of balancing data and source code provisions, particularly with the US.

Consumer trust is also important, making the GSI agreement valuable for both traders and consumer trust. The GSI agreement includes strong developmental provisions to assist least developed and developing countries, harmonizing rules across member countries. Engaging in digital payments and digital invoicing is crucial for development.

The GSI agreement provides room to discuss collaborations and encourages the interoperability of payment systems. Balancing the interests of stakeholders is necessary for creating value and ensuring that policies and agreements benefit all parties. Singapore has an agreement with GCC partners, including an e-commerce chapter that ensures an open digital environment.

However, individual GCC partners retain the right to impose internal taxation, allowing for flexible taxation regulations. The Joint Statement Initiative (JSI), Digital Economy Agreements (DEAs), and Digital Trade and Innovative Policies Agreement (DIPA) are comprehensive agreements that should not be approached in a modular manner.

They provide holistic frameworks to address various digital trade issues. However, individual Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) can be established for specific topics. Support for the moratorium on internal taxation is crucial, bringing significant benefits to developing and least developed countries.

Singapore has implemented internal taxation for e-commerce revenue collection. A UNCTAD report aims to help developing countries understand the benefits of internal taxation. Advocacy for a phased approach in introducing issues in digital space negotiations is necessary due to the complexity and rapid evolution of digital issues.

The co-conveners of the JSI negotiations aim to balance the inclusion of data flows. A phased approach accommodates other digital issues, such as AI rules, while aiming for timely conclusions. In summary, digital economy agreements play a crucial role in transforming the digital landscape and supporting business growth.

They facilitate end-to-end digital trade, foster an open digital environment, and build trust. Flexibility, privacy protection, and stakeholder engagement are vital in digital trade rules. The GSI agreement strikes a balance between commercial meaningfulness and inclusivity while supporting development. Engaging in digital payments and digital invoicing is crucial for development.

The JSI, DEAs, and DIPA are comprehensive agreements that provide holistic frameworks. Support for the moratorium on internal taxation benefits developing and least developed countries. A phased approach is advocated for addressing complex digital issues. Ongoing discussions and reviews demonstrate a willingness to adapt and improve digital trade regulation.

Arguments

Less developed countries (LDCs) need to be more involved in digital rulemaking for their successful integration into the global and regional digital economy

Supporting facts:

• LDCs have made considerable progress, with their exports of digitally delivered services growing at a rate exceeding the worldwide average.

• The Doha program mentions the word ‘digital’ 82 times, illustrating their increasing interest in the digital sphere.

Topics: Digital Rulemaking, Economy, Digital Economy, Regional Integration

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A phased, modular approach in digital trade rule-making could benefit LDCs, allowing them to steadily integrate their interests and constraints

Supporting facts:

• LDCs have differing interests based on their speed of development.

• The trust and facilitation modules of digital economy agreements may be particularly beneficial for LDCs.

Topics: Digital Trade, Least Developed Countries, Modular approach

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We deal with digital rulemaking now as if we’re gonna put it set in stone

Topics: Digital rulemaking, AI Regulation

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We still don’t know to what extent these digital challenges will evolve

Topics: Digital Challenges, AI Regulation

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We need to look back at our rules with a with a closer intervals

Topics: Digital rulemaking, Policy Review

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Trade rules need to adapt to the changing nature of trade.

Supporting facts:

• Trade rulemaking is changing in nature, it should not be treated as set in stone.

Topics: Trade, Rulemaking

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Seeks a positive approach to bring developing countries and LDCs into trade discussions.

Supporting facts:

• There is an opportunity to bring developing countries into the discussion with the AFCFCA.

Topics: Developing Countries, Trade, Discussion

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Disappointed that the ambition of the GSI is getting lowered.

Topics: GSI, Data Flows

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Wants to see progress on data flow regulations.

Supporting facts:

• Believes that the current situation is not serving everyone, including US, China, and their development partners.

Topics: Data Flows, Regulation

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Interest in phased approach to negotiations.

Supporting facts:

• Suggests the JSI can move into a phased approach.

Topics: Negotiations, Phased Approach

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Report

Less developed countries (LDCs) are urged to actively participate in digital rulemaking in order to successfully integrate into the global and regional digital economy. LDCs have shown significant progress in exporting digitally delivered services, surpassing the global average growth rate.

However, not all LDCs have adopted key e-commerce regulations, hindering their ability to fully capitalize on the opportunities provided by the digital economy. Additionally, only a small number of LDCs are actively involved in digital trade agreements. To address these challenges, a phased and modular approach to digital trade rulemaking is recommended.

This approach recognizes that different LDCs are advancing at varying speeds and require tailored strategies. The trust and facilitation modules of digital economy agreements are particularly beneficial for LDCs. Establishing a supportive e-commerce ecosystem in LDCs requires conducting regulatory gap analysis and engaging with stakeholders.

By identifying gaps between existing digital trade agreements and the needs of LDCs, a more conducive regulatory environment can be established. Moreover, legislation that fosters trust is crucial for the development of a thriving e-commerce ecosystem. Adaptability in trade rules is crucial to align with the evolving nature of trade.

Inclusion of developing countries and LDCs in trade discussions is important to ensure their perspectives and interests are considered. The AFCFCA presents an opportunity to bring developing countries into the dialogue. Progress in data flow regulations is also emphasized as important.

The current situation does not serve everyone, including countries like the US, China, and their development partners. Moving forward on data flow regulations would benefit all stakeholders. Finally, governments should support the opportunities and capacity to regulate. This includes engaging with the public, considering their concerns, and adjusting the pace of regulation accordingly.

Collaboration between governments and citizens is essential to ensure a balanced approach to digital rulemaking. In conclusion, LDCs have made strides in the digital sphere, but their active involvement in digital rulemaking is still needed. A phased and modular approach, regulatory gap analysis, stakeholder engagement, and adaptability in trade rules are crucial for the successful integration of LDCs into the global and regional digital economy.

Governments play a key role in supporting and regulating the digital arena by engaging with citizens and adjusting regulatory pace to meet their needs.

Arguments

The audience appreciated the session and found it informative

Supporting facts:

• The audience enjoyed the session.

• The audience said they’ve learned quite a lot from the presentations.

Topics: Women Empowerment, Usage of Technology, Gender Digital Divide

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Men need to be included in discussions about women’s empowerment for it to be successful

Supporting facts:

• Men have influence over women’s use of resources and decisions at home and thus their active participation is crucial in these discussions

Topics: Women’s Empowerment, Gender Equality, Male Inclusion

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The transition to digital may lead to women losing the valuable aspect of communal learning and support

Supporting facts:

• Women often come together physically to share ideas and provide mutual support in the absence of formal collateral

Topics: Women Empowerment, Digital Transformation, Peer Learning

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Affordability of mobile phones remains a major challenge for women

Supporting facts:

• The cost of a mobile phone ($35-$40) is too high for many women in Kenya

Topics: Digital Inclusion, Affordability, Gender Gap

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Women entrepreneurs need more than just access to phones and internet

Supporting facts:

• The population served by female entrepreneurs may not have adequate internet access.

• Market readiness for e-commerce is crucial.

• Many women entrepreneurs run bootstrap businesses due to limited access to financing.

Topics: Women Entrepreneurship, E-commerce, E-Trade for Women

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Challenges faced by women entrepreneurs include lack of funding, high interest rates, and lack of collateral

Supporting facts:

• Most women entrepreneurs are running bootstrapped businesses due to limited access to venture capital, angels investors and debt financing.

• These constraints hamper their business’s profitability and scalability.

Topics: Women Entrepreneurship, Funding, Interest Rates, Collateral

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Report

The session on women’s empowerment and technology was highly appreciated by the audience. They found it to be valuable and learned a lot from the presentations. The positive sentiment emphasized the impact of the session on the audience’s understanding and knowledge about the topic.

One notable aspect was the personal experiences shared by audience members who have worked with women in Kenya. They highlighted the importance of business training and group lending in promoting women’s empowerment. This personal experience added credibility and authenticity to the discussion.

An interesting argument put forth in the session was the need to include men in discussions about women’s empowerment. It was argued that men have influence over women’s use of resources and decision-making at home. Therefore, their active participation in these discussions is crucial for the success of women’s empowerment initiatives.

However, concerns were raised regarding the transition to digital technologies. It was argued that as women often come together physically to share ideas and provide mutual support, the shift to digital platforms may lead to the loss of the valuable aspect of communal learning and support.

This negative sentiment highlights the potential drawback of the digital transformation in women’s empowerment initiatives. Affordability of mobile phones remains a major challenge for women in Kenya. The supporting fact that the cost of a mobile phone is prohibitively high for many women underscores the importance of addressing this issue to ensure equal access to technology for women.

One noteworthy observation was the speaker’s effort to dispel myths surrounding women’s ownership of mobile phones in Kenya. The fact that the speaker refuted the claim that women need their husbands’ permission to own mobile phones showcased the effort to challenge traditional gender norms and promote women’s independence and agency.

To address the affordability challenge, it was suggested that promoting affordable access to mobile phones should be a priority. The supporting fact that many women in Kenya cannot afford mobile phones signals the need for affordable options or installment payment methods to ensure that women have equal access to this essential technology.

Women entrepreneurs face several challenges such as lack of funding, high interest rates, and the lack of collateral. The fact that most women entrepreneurs run bootstrap businesses due to limited access to financing sheds light on the hardships they face.

These challenges not only impact their profitability but also hinder the scalability of their businesses. A positive sentiment emerged from the argument that decisions about women entrepreneurs should not be made without their input. The presence of an entrepreneur from Uganda representing women entrepreneurs in the discussion highlighted the importance of including the voices and perspectives of women in decision-making processes.

In conclusion, the session on women’s empowerment and technology received positive feedback from the audience. Personal experiences, arguments for including men, concerns about the digital transition, affordability challenges, and the struggles faced by women entrepreneurs were discussed. The need to challenge gender norms, promote affordable access to technology, and ensure women’s participation in decision-making processes were major takeaways from the session.

Arguments

Aïchatoun Toure is an advocate and beneficiary of the E-Trade for Women initiative

Supporting facts:

• Aisha was selected to be part of E-trade’s first master class while her business was only 8 months old

• She has leveraged the network of female entrepreneurs fostered by the initiative

Topics: E-Trade for Women initiative, Women in Tech, Female Entrepreneurship

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The E-Trade for Women initiative has empowered Aïchatoun Toure to tackle business challenges and spearhead digital transformation initiatives

Supporting facts:

• Aïchatoun has used the initiative’s resources to meet and learn from other female entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds

Topics: Business Challenges, Digital Transformation, E-Trade for Women initiative

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Aïchatoun Toure uses Design Thinking in her business and sharing this knowledge with others

Supporting facts:

• She first learned about Design Thinking through a training session at E-Trade for Women’s master class

• Aïchatoun now gives training sessions in her home country on Design Thinking

Topics: Design Thinking, Education, Women Empowerment

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Report

Aïchatoun Toure is an advocate and beneficiary of the E-Trade for Women initiative. She was selected to be part of E-trade’s first master class when her business was only 8 months old, highlighting her exceptional potential and the recognition she received from the initiative.

The initiative has played a vital role in Aïchatoun’s journey to success by providing her with access to a network of like-minded female entrepreneurs. This network has been invaluable, allowing her to learn from and collaborate with women from various backgrounds and industries.

By leveraging this network, she has overcome challenges and grown her business exponentially. The initiative has also empowered Aïchatoun to spearhead digital transformation initiatives within her industry, positioning her as a leader. Through the E-Trade for Women initiative, Aïchatoun has acquired new skills and knowledge, particularly in Design Thinking.

She now shares this expertise by conducting training sessions in her home country, further empowering other women and entrepreneurs. Aïchatoun’s story demonstrates the power of empowering women in business and the positive impact it has on individuals, communities, and economies as a whole.

Arguments

Women in refugee camps face socio-cultural barriers to engage in digital entrepreneurship

Supporting facts:

• Only two women in ten in Kenyan refugee camps have completed formal education

• The patriarchal society expects women to be homemakers, limiting their opportunities to engage in professional work

• Women have limited decision-making power in their communities

Topics: Refugee camps, Women Entrepreneurs, Digital Entrepreneurship, Socio-cultural barriers

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The REMI Program employs a multi-stakeholder approach to support marginalized groups and bridge the digital divide

Supporting facts:

• The REMI Program collaborates with humanitarian actors such as the Norwegian Refugee Council, the Danish Refugee Council, and the UNHCR to address basic needs.

• They work closely with government bodies to tackle policy, regulatory, and documentation challenges.

• Social enterprises help them to address both supply and demand aspects of the market.

• They also work with local leaders and the community to overcome local socio-economic barriers.

• The program has partnered with business support organizations like the Chamber of Commerce to provide job opportunities for trained individuals.

Topics: REMI Program, Multi-stakeholder Approach, Digital Divide

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It’s possible to unlock the economic potential of women and bridge the digital divide.

Supporting facts:

• The work done in a difficult context shows that it’s possible to unlock women’s economic potential and bridge digital divide.

Topics: Economic empowerment of women, Digital divide

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Giving influence and power to women can create a significant change.

Supporting facts:

• The story of a small bat shows that even a small act can make a difference, the same is true for empowering women.

Topics: Women empowerment

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Report

Women living in Kenyan refugee camps face significant socio-cultural barriers that hinder their ability to engage in digital entrepreneurship. These barriers include limited access to education, traditional gender expectations, and a lack of decision-making power within their communities. According to supporting facts, only two out of every ten women in these camps have completed formal education.

Additionally, the patriarchal society expects women to primarily fulfill domestic roles, limiting their opportunities to participate in professional work. Moreover, women have limited decision-making power in their communities, further exacerbating their challenges. To address these obstacles, the RUMI programme has been implemented to promote equality of opportunity for women.

It aims to overcome the associated challenges by implementing measures such as lowering enrollment criteria specifically for women, as well as assigning women-only mentors and trainers. Additionally, the programme collaborates with local leaders to generate awareness and support within the community for these entrepreneurial endeavours.

It also works in partnership with other organizations to offer childcare services specifically catering to the needs of young mothers within the refugee camps. However, despite the efforts of the RUMI programme, several obstacles still hinder equal access to digital entrepreneurship.

Infrastructure issues, including limited access to the internet and electricity in the refugee camps, pose a significant challenge. Moreover, some women lack the necessary identity documents required to access digital platforms, adding to their difficulties. Another initiative, the REMI programme, employs a multi-stakeholder approach, aiming to support marginalized groups and bridge the digital divide.

The programme collaboratively works with key humanitarian actors such as the Norwegian Refugee Council, the Danish Refugee Council, and the UNHCR. This collaboration is multifaceted and involves addressing basic needs, working with government bodies to tackle policy and regulatory challenges, and leveraging social enterprises to address both supply and demand aspects of the market.

Furthermore, the REMI programme actively engages with local leaders and the community to overcome local socio-economic barriers. Through its collaboration with business support organizations like the Chamber of Commerce, the programme also strives to provide job opportunities for individuals who have received training.

Collaboration, rather than competition, is emphasised as vital for the success of these initiatives. Boru Halkano, a notable figure, stresses the importance of different actors working together. Despite initial resistance and skepticism, the multi-stakeholder approach has proven successful and is now regarded as a role model for implementation in a refugee setting.

Overall, the work done in a challenging context demonstrates the potential to unlock economic empowerment for women and bridge the digital divide. Notably, it reveals that even small acts can make a significant difference in empowering women. It is emphasised that different actors must collaborate and synergise in order to achieve these goals.

The expanded summary highlights the significance of empowering women, illustrating its positive impact and potential to bridge the digital divide.

Arguments

There is a need to close the digital divide and integrate women and girls into the digital economy

Supporting facts:

• The session is organised by AIF, GSMA, ITC and ITU, focused on supporting women’s inclusion in the digital economy.

• She identifies the need for audience engagement in discussing the challenges of women’s digital inclusion.

Topics: digital divide, digital transformation, women entrepreneurs

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Women entrepreneurs have a key role to play in digital transformation and development

Supporting facts:

• Panelists include women entrepreneurs like Aisha Tintoure, CEO of CoDesign Mali, and Naomi Nwanya, CEO of Nomayo Jewelry and Authentic Crafts in Zambia. These women are using digital platforms to expand their businesses and contribute to social development.

Topics: women entrepreneurs, digital transformation, development

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Dunola Oladapo is hopeful for more opportunities for women entrepreneurs

Topics: women, entrepreneurs, tech

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Dunola enjoys sharing her experiences as a woman in tech and as a female entrepreneur

Topics: women, tech, entrepreneurship

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Report

The session, organised by AIF (Alliance for the Internet of Things Innovation), GSMA (Global System for Mobile Communications Association), ITC (International Trade Centre), and ITU (International Telecommunication Union), is focused on promoting women’s inclusion in the digital economy and closing the digital divide.

The event brings together various organizations and individuals to discuss and support women’s participation in the digital economy. One of the main arguments put forward is the need to close the digital divide and integrate women and girls into the digital economy.

This is seen as essential for achieving gender equality and reducing inequalities. The session emphasizes the importance of collective efforts from different organizations and individuals to tackle the gap in the digital divide. Inclusive discussions are seen as necessary to address the challenges and barriers women face in accessing and participating in the digital economy.

Panelists at the event include women entrepreneurs such as Aisha Tintoure, CEO of CoDesign Mali, and Naomi Nwanya, CEO of Nomayo Jewelry and Authentic Crafts in Zambia. These women are using digital platforms to expand their businesses and contribute to social development.

Their success stories highlight the important role that women entrepreneurs can play in digital transformation and development. It is argued that by providing more opportunities and support for women entrepreneurs, the digital economy can be a catalyst for economic growth and empowerment.

Dunola Oladapo, a female entrepreneur, expresses optimism for more opportunities for women entrepreneurs. As a woman in tech and a female entrepreneur, she values sharing her experiences and is grateful for events like this that provide a space for women to express themselves and engage with others.

The support and platform provided by the event organizers and the panel are acknowledged and appreciated by Dunola. Overall, the event aims to promote women’s inclusion in the digital economy and close the digital divide. It highlights the key role that women entrepreneurs play in digital transformation and development.

By providing a space for women to share their experiences and engage in inclusive discussions, the event hopes to drive greater gender equality and empower women in the digital era.

Arguments

CETE’s partnership with the International Union of Telecommunications has led to fruitful activities in Haiti

Supporting facts:

• Joint activities include training for young female entrepreneurs in digital marketing and web development

• A digital summer school was organised covering topics such as artificial intelligence and mobile application development

Topics: partnership, technology, entrepreneurship, ITU

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The training programs have far-reaching positive impacts for the girls involved

Supporting facts:

• Trained entrepreneurs have successfully positioned their businesses and increased their sales

• 200 girls benefited from training in two remote regions

• Some girls have started companies or received internships at local companies after the training

Topics: training, skills development, girls in tech

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Report

A fruitful partnership between CETE (Centre for Entrepreneurship and Technology) and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) has resulted in positive outcomes in Haiti. The collaboration has focused on empowering young female entrepreneurs and bridging the digital divide through various joint activities, including training programs and a digital summer school.

These training programs have specifically targeted skills in digital marketing and web development, essential for success in today’s digital landscape. The aim is to equip young female entrepreneurs with the necessary tools to effectively promote and expand their businesses. In addition, a digital summer school was organized, covering topics such as artificial intelligence and mobile application development, to enhance participants’ understanding of emerging technologies and improve their digital literacy and technological capabilities.

The impact of these training programs has been significant, with trained entrepreneurs reporting increased sales and improved positioning in the market. Two hundred girls from remote regions in Haiti also benefited from the training, paving the way for future economic opportunities.

Some of these girls have even gone on to start their own companies or secure internships with local businesses, demonstrating the practicality and real-world application of the skills they acquired. However, there is still a pressing need to expand these training initiatives to more communities, particularly in marginalized regions that face structural challenges and limited access to education.

By addressing these issues, the partnership between CETE and ITU can continue bridging the digital divide, promoting inclusive development and reducing educational inequalities in Haiti. In conclusion, the partnership between CETE and ITU has successfully empowered young female entrepreneurs and advanced digital literacy in Haiti.

The training programs have proven to be effective in enhancing business success and providing a pathway to economic growth. However, it is crucial to address the accessibility and educational inequalities that persist, in order to ensure that all communities benefit from these initiatives.

By doing so, Haiti can achieve a more inclusive and equitable digital future.

Arguments

The SheTrades initiative supported by AIF has been instrumental in helping her business grow by providing access to markets and training in digital skills

Supporting facts:

• As an MSME in Zambia, the biggest challenge was access to markets

• Through SheTrades, her business received comprehensive training including e-commerce value chain and export readiness

• SheTrades connected her business with buyers and large e-commerce platforms, providing one-on-one interactions with the founders and CEOs

• Empowered with digital skills, she has seen an increase in her business’ sales revenues and has been able to enter international markets

Topics: SheTrades initiative, AIF support, MSME, digital skills, e-commerce, Zambia

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Access to digital economy and digital payment technology is crucial for women entrepreneurs.

Supporting facts:

• Internet access quality and speed is essential for trading online, especially in least developed countries like Zambia.

• Many women entrepreneurs lack access to bank accounts, and credit or debit cards, crucial for digital payments.

• There is a need for methods like PayPal enabling smooth online payments.

Topics: Digital Economy, Digital Payments, Online Trade, Women Entrepreneurship

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Nyawa Naomi believes in empowering marginalized and rural women through digital literacy training skills.

Supporting facts:

• She works a lot with women in marginalized communities and rural areas.

• She believes it’s not enough to just provide them with laptops and cell phones if they don’t know how to use them.

Topics: Digital Literacy, Women Empowerment

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Report

The SheTrades initiative, supported by AIF, plays a vital role in helping women entrepreneurs in Zambia overcome obstacles and achieve business growth. One of the major challenges faced by these entrepreneurs is access to markets. However, through SheTrades, businesses receive comprehensive training covering various aspects of the e-commerce value chain and export readiness.

This training equips them with the necessary skills to navigate the digital landscape and effectively market their products. Furthermore, SheTrades connects these women entrepreneurs with buyers and large e-commerce platforms, enabling them to have one-on-one interactions with prominent figures such as founders and CEOs.

This direct engagement with industry leaders not only provides valuable guidance and mentorship but also helps establish crucial professional partnerships. As a result of the training and market access facilitated by SheTrades, women entrepreneurs witness significant improvements in their businesses.

Equipped with digital skills, they report an increase in sales revenues and successfully enter international markets. This demonstrates the immense potential of digital trade in expanding business opportunities for women entrepreneurs. Access to the digital economy and digital payment technology is of utmost importance for women entrepreneurs.

In many cases, these women lack basic financial infrastructure such as bank accounts and credit or debit cards, which are essential for digital payments. To address this issue, establishing methods like PayPal that enable smooth and secure online transactions is crucial.

Bridging the digital divide and ensuring women’s financial inclusion are essential steps towards empowering women entrepreneurs and fostering economic growth. Nyawa Naomi, a prominent advocate for women’s empowerment, emphasizes the significance of digital literacy training for marginalized and rural women.

Recognizing that merely providing them with laptops and cell phones is insufficient, Naomi believes that interventions are required to enable these women to effectively utilize digital tools. By equipping them with the necessary digital literacy skills, these women can transform their livelihoods and participate more actively in the digital economy.

Overall, the SheTrades initiative, along with the emphasis on access to the digital economy, digital payment technology, and digital literacy training, proves instrumental in empowering women entrepreneurs in Zambia. By addressing the barriers they face and providing them with the necessary support and resources, these women can thrive and contribute to the economic growth of their communities.

Arguments

Not all women micro-entrepreneurs own a phone.

Supporting facts:

• GSMA’s research was conducted in 10 different low- and middle-income countries across Africa and Asia.

• There were significant gender gaps among micro-entrepreneurs.

Topics: Women’s digital inclusion, Mobile usage, Entrepreneurship

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Women micro-entrepreneurs are less likely to use mobile for their business.

Supporting facts:

• Women are 19% less likely than men to own a mobile phone, 17% less likely to own a smartphone.

• Women entrepreneurs prefer cash over digital transactions.

• Some women have a lack of confidence in digital skills.

• Women have safety, theft and security concerns.

Topics: Gender Gap, Entrepreneurship, Mobile usage

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Kindi’s NGO, the Center of Innovation in Technology and Entrepreneurship trains young female entrepreneurs in Haiti

Supporting facts:

• Kindi is the President of the Innovation Centre for Entrepreneurship Technologies

• They run a summer school for capacity building

• 200 marginalized girls have been trained so far to grow their businesses

Topics: Empowerment, Entrepreneurship, Education, Technology, Capacity Building

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Women entrepreneurs need smartphones and digital skills to thrive in today’s digital world

Supporting facts:

• GSMA and its mobile operator partners are working on lowering the cost of smartphones and improving consumers’ ability to afford them

• GSMA partnered with ITU and EIF on capacity-building for policy makers on understanding mobile gender gaps

Topics: Women Empowerment, Digital Skills, Smartphones, Entrepreneurship

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Handset financing schemes can make phones more affordable for many people.

Supporting facts:

• In 2020, Safari Com started implementing device financing schemes with a small deposit and a daily rate of two cents per day making it affordable.

Topics: device financing scheme, mobile phone affordability, Safari Com

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Linking government payments to mobile money accounts can drive the adoption of mobile financial services.

Supporting facts:

• As part of Zambia’s digital transformation strategy, in order to register for government assistance, one needs to have a mobile money account, which has increased the uptake of these services.

• A similar strategy in Pakistan linked government IDs to benefits, resulting in increased identification and uptake of mobile services.

Topics: Zambia’s digital transformation strategy, mobile financial services, government assistance

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there should be more focus on removing barriers that women entrepreneurs face

Supporting facts:

• digital skills are a barrier

• social norms are barriers

• affordability is a barrier

Topics: women entrepreneurs, barriers, digital skills, social norms, affordability

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Report

The analysis highlights several key points regarding women micro-entrepreneurs and their use of mobile technology. Notably, there are significant gender gaps among micro-entrepreneurs, with women being less likely to own a mobile phone or use it for their business. This is a concerning finding as mobile technology plays a crucial role in providing access to resources, connectivity, and market opportunities.

One of the main barriers identified is the lack of digital skills among women micro-entrepreneurs. Research conducted by GSMA in 10 low- and middle-income countries in Africa and Asia revealed that one in five micro-entrepreneurs reported a lack of confidence in digital skills.

This indicates a need for initiatives that focus on enhancing digital skills among women entrepreneurs, empowering them to effectively utilise mobile technology for their businesses. Safety and security concerns also play a significant role in hindering the use of mobile technology among women micro-entrepreneurs.

Women have expressed concerns about fraud, theft, and fear of being contacted by strangers. Furthermore, these security concerns were found to be more prevalent in certain countries, such as Pakistan. Addressing these concerns, particularly through creating safer digital transaction platforms, can encourage women to use mobile technology for their business activities.

The analysis also emphasises the importance of internet-enabled phones for women entrepreneurs. Having the right kind of phone, such as an internet-enabled or smartphone, is considered significant in enabling women to fully utilise the digital opportunities available. This highlights the need for affordable smartphones, as well as initiatives by mobile operator partners to lower the cost of smartphones and improve consumer affordability.

Partnerships and collaborations between private sectors, governments, and NGOs are identified as crucial in addressing the challenges faced by women micro-entrepreneurs and closing the gender gaps in mobile technology adoption. For example, Safaricom partnered with Google to launch an entry-level 4G smartphone, which saw a significant percentage sold to women.

Additionally, GSMA, ITU, and EIF collaborated to create a capacity-building program for policymakers, promoting a better understanding of gender gaps and supporting efforts to close them. Furthermore, initiatives such as handset financing schemes and linking government payments to mobile money accounts have proved beneficial in increasing mobile phone affordability and driving the adoption of mobile financial services.

Safari Com implemented a device financing scheme with a small deposit and a daily rate, making phones more affordable for many people. Observations from the analysis also highlight the role of governments, private sectors, and development communities in improving internet adoption.

Efforts should be made to provide access to reliable and affordable internet services in order to bridge the digital divide and empower women entrepreneurs. In conclusion, the analysis underscores the significant gender gaps and barriers faced by women micro-entrepreneurs when it comes to the use of mobile technology for their businesses.

It highlights the need for initiatives that focus on enhancing digital skills, addressing safety and security concerns, and promoting access to affordable internet-enabled phones. Partnerships and collaborations between different sectors are essential in closing the gender gaps and empowering women entrepreneurs.

By removing barriers and creating supportive environments, women can fully harness the potential of mobile technology to thrive in today’s digital world.

Arguments

Public-private partnerships are crucial in addressing the gender-digital divide

Supporting facts:

• ITT co-founded the Equals Global Partnership to close the gender-digital divide alongside GSMA, ITC, UN Women, and UNU.

• Partnerships should involve governments, network operators, digital equipment and software developers, organizations such as GSMA, ITC, etc.

Topics: Public-private partnerships, Gender-digital divide

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Digital Inclusion for women is essential for them to reap benefits from the digital economy

Supporting facts:

• Hundreds and thousands of women currently lack access to digital platforms but want to become entrepreneurs and do important work.

• ICTs are a key driver of development and empowerment for girls and young women.

Topics: Digital Inclusion, Digital Economy

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ITU aims to continue driving impact through innovative partnerships and policy development

Supporting facts:

• ITU is working on improving access through gender mainstreaming policies, building digital skills and changing the mindset about the role of women in ICT

• ITU has joined forces with ITU-EIF project for gender mainstreaming in national policies

• ITU has published a handbook on gender mainstreaming for policymakers

Topics: Digital Inclusion, Gender Equality, Partnerships, ITU

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ITU is working on various initiatives to build digital skills and empower women through technology

Supporting facts:

• ITU guides governments on making digital skills training available for girls and women

• Programs for e-mentoring, e-skills badges have been developed

• Equals for Digital Skills Initiative is a joint effort of ITU, GSMA, EY and W4 providing free gender transformative digital capacity building trainings

Topics: Digital Skills, Education, Women Empowerment

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Sylvia Poll stresses on the importance of sharing good work, experiences, and lessons learned

Supporting facts:

• She mentioned being inspired by Boru’s passion

• She appreciated the practical example of Savaricom in Kenya shared by Pippa

Topics: Sharing experiences, Learning, Motivation

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Report

Public-private partnerships and digital inclusion for women play a crucial role in addressing the gender-digital divide and empowering girls and young women in the tech sector. The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) recognises the need for collective action towards sustainable solutions to empower girls through technology.

ITU has co-founded the Equals Global Partnership, alongside GSMA, ITC, UN Women, and UNU, with the aim of closing the gender-digital divide. These partnerships involve governments, network operators, digital equipment and software developers, and organisations such as GSMA and ITC.

By bringing together various stakeholders, ITU believes that public-private partnerships can effectively bridge the gender-digital divide by promoting collaboration and shared resources. Digital inclusion is essential for women to benefit from the digital economy. Currently, hundreds of thousands of women lack access to digital platforms but have the desire to become entrepreneurs and contribute to important work.

ICTs (Information and Communication Technologies) serve as a key driver of development and empowerment for girls and young women. By providing access to digital platforms, women can participate in the digital economy and bridge the gender gap. ITU is leading initiatives to improve young girls’ and women’s access to decision-making processes that will shape their future.

They advocate for career opportunities in the tech sector for girls and young women, encouraging them to study STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) careers and enter the tech sector. By promoting gender equality in the tech industry, ITU aims to create an environment where women can thrive and contribute to innovative solutions.

ITU actively works on improving access through gender mainstreaming policies, building digital skills, and changing the mindset about the role of women in ICT. They have joined forces with the ITU-EIF project for gender mainstreaming in national policies and have published a handbook on gender mainstreaming for policymakers.

These initiatives aim to remove barriers and create equal opportunities for women in the ICT sector. Recognising the importance of representation, ITU celebrates the appointment of Ms. Doreen Bogdan as the first woman Secretary-General in its 150-year history. ITU is also part of the Equals Leadership Coalition, which champions female leadership in the tech sector.

These efforts aim to ensure that women have equal representation and decision-making power within the ITU and the wider tech industry. ITU is working on various initiatives to build digital skills and empower women through technology. They provide guidance to governments on making digital skills training available for girls and women.

Programs such as e-mentoring and e-skills badges have been developed to support their digital growth. Additionally, ITU collaborates with GSMA, EY, and W4 to provide free gender transformative digital capacity building training through the Equals for Digital Skills Initiative. ITU emphasises the importance of celebrating accomplishments and highlighting good work in the tech sector.

They organise initiatives like the Equals in Tech Awards, which recognise organisations that are making significant contributions towards helping girls and young women gain equal internet access, digital skills, and opportunities. Winning organisations benefit from increased recognition and more opportunities in the industry.

Sylvia Poll, during a panel discussion, stresses the value of sharing good work, experiences, and lessons learned. By sharing knowledge and expertise, individuals and organisations can inspire others and contribute to positive change in the tech sector. Despite challenges, events and panel discussions provide a platform to inspire and give hope to girls and young women looking to make an impact in the industry.

In conclusion, public-private partnerships, digital inclusion, and gender equality are crucial in addressing the gender-digital divide and empowering girls and young women in the tech sector. The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) is leading the way with initiatives focused on improving access, promoting career opportunities, developing digital skills, and recognising achievements.

By working in collaboration and sharing knowledge, we can drive sustainable change and create a more inclusive and equal tech industry for all.

Arguments

The World Summit on Information Society (WSIS) vision is to establish a people-centered, inclusive and development-oriented information society.

Supporting facts:

• WSIS was conducted the first open consultation during the 18th Internet Governance Forum held in Kyoto, Japan in October.

• The second open consultation is underway with a focus on the WSIS implementation and its future.

Topics: WSIS, Information Society, Inclusion, Sustainable Development

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General Assembly Resolution A-70-125 was adopted for a high-level meeting to review the WSIS Plus 20 review in 2025.

Supporting facts:

• This review meeting is meant for reviewing the overall implementation of outcomes of the World Summit on Information Society.

• SESTD has been tasked to collect inputs from stakeholders and present a consolidated report to the EcoSOC and General Assembly in 2025.

Topics: WSIS, General Assembly, Resolution A-70-125

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Report

The World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) is a global initiative with the vision of establishing an inclusive and development-oriented information society. The goal of WSIS is to prioritize people, ensuring equal access to information and communication technologies (ICTs) and their benefits.

To track progress and effectively implement this vision, regular introspection and reviews are crucial. Open consultations have been conducted during the Internet Governance Forum in Kyoto, Japan, inviting input from stakeholders. These consultations aim to gather insights on the implementation of WSIS and its future.

The first consultation took place in October, and the second is currently ongoing, focusing on the WSIS implementation and future prospects. One key aspect of review is the impact of emerging technologies, specifically artificial intelligence (AI), on human development and the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

While emerging technologies have the potential to bring about positive changes, concerns have been raised about potential negative effects, such as exacerbating inequalities and threatening privacy and human rights. In addition to addressing these concerns, discussions on the implementation and evolution of WSIS also explore the challenges and measures required to advance international cooperation and governance in leveraging emerging technologies for sustainable development.

It is crucial to ensure that these technologies promote inclusivity, digital literacy, and equal access while mitigating risks and negative impacts. In view of these ongoing discussions, a high-level meeting is planned for 2025 to review the WSIS Plus 20 review. The meeting will assess the overall implementation of WSIS outcomes and gather insights and recommendations from stakeholders.

The Secretariat for the WSIS Technology and Sustainable Development Division (SESTD) has been assigned the responsibility of collecting inputs from stakeholders and presenting a consolidated report to the Economic and Social Council (EcoSOC) and General Assembly in 2025. In conclusion, WSIS is a significant global initiative focused on establishing an inclusive and development-oriented information society.

Regular reviews and discussions are necessary for effective implementation of the WSIS vision. The impact of emerging technologies, such as AI, on human development and SDGs is a pressing concern, along with the need for international cooperation and governance in leveraging these technologies for sustainable development.

The high-level meeting in 2025 will provide an opportunity to review WSIS outcomes and gather valuable insights for future action.

Arguments

In the run-up to the WSIS plus 20 review, it is imperative to address whether the principles espoused at the WSIS have been fulfilled

Supporting facts:

• The information society is in the hands of a few based primarily in the U.S. and China

• Online violence, poor labor policies, loss of privacy, and discrimination are prevalent

Topics: Digital rights, Social justice, Equity, Information society, Economic growth, Job creation

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Data governance must happen not just for privacy and data protection, but also for regulating and improving public welfare systems.

Supporting facts:

• The need for suitable amendments to IP law, competition law, labor law, trade taxation and investment regimes, and data governance.

• Public financing systems need to be at the center of these processes.

Topics: Data Governance, Privacy, Data Protection, Public Welfare Systems

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Harnessing the digital potential for wider public good, including in the South

Supporting facts:

• Global Digital Justice forum represents 15 international civil society organizations working towards this goal

• The goal is to prevent the digital potential going disproportionately to a small number of platform corporations

• The belief is that the WSIS-plus-20 has the potential to play a key role

Topics: Digital Technologies, South Perspective, Platform corporations

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Building towards a binding global governance framework in relation to digital human rights

Supporting facts:

• This includes prohibition of certain areas for data market forces in key areas of human rights

• The need to establish the right of freedom from commercial surveillance and personal profiling as part of the right to privacy

• Communities should have the right to steward their data resources as part of their economic, social, and cultural rights

Topics: Digital human rights, Commercial surveillance, Data market

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Digital development tax to develop a digital solidarity fund

Supporting facts:

• The UN Secretary General recommended the digital development tax

• The digital solidarity fund can help build public digital infrastructure in developing countries

• Low and middle-income countries can better control their data resources and digital destinities with the help of the fund

Topics: Digital Development Tax, Digital Solidarity Fund

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Compelling interoperability for digital platforms and plural digital media

Supporting facts:

• Interoperability can help ensure information integrity and plurarity in media

• Interoperability should be compelled based on common protocols, data structures, and AI

• The EU recognises the importance of this, among other regions

Topics: Digital Platforms, Interoperability, Media

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Promoting alternative platforms, data and AI models rooted in local accountability, women’s participation and ecological sustainability

Supporting facts:

• It’s important to invest publicly to promote these alternative models

• These models should be based on values such as local accountability, women’s participation and ecological sustainability

Topics: AI Models, Alternative platforms, Ecological Sustainability

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The digital transformation is important, diverse, but still relevant

Supporting facts:

• The developments in AI and other emerging technologies call for a proactive and anticipatory approach to digital and tech governments

Topics: digital transformation, public value, sustainable development

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Issues like education, e-health etc. are relevant and requisite for meeting gender equality

Topics: education, e-health, gender equality

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It’s crucial to not just focus on new tech topics and neglect the achievement of traditional goals

Topics: digital transformation, traditional goals

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The digital transformation should not be accountable and under threat

Topics: digital transformation, accountability

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Human-centric and human rights-based approach is essential in addressing the digital transformation

Supporting facts:

• We today have evidence about the risks of human rights, democracy, and the rule of law that come with the digital transformation that we did not have 20 years ago

Topics: digital transformation, human rights

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Despite the progress seen in Africa due to WSIS, challenges remain

Supporting facts:

• Internet access increased from 2.6% in 2005 to 37% in 2022

• Mobile penetration increased from 9.1% to 80% during the same period

• 63% of African population is offline

• 500 million people are without any legal form of identity

• Concerns related to cybersecurity account for 10% of Africa’s GDP

Topics: Internet Access, Mobile penetration, Cybersecurity

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WSIS+20 review should focus on integration with emerging technologies, improving implementation and aligning better with SDGs

Supporting facts:

• The review should assess the relevance of WSIS’s action lines to emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence and generative blockchain technology

• There is a need to improve WSIS process in implementing and measuring targets

• WSIS should be better aligned with the SDGs

Topics: Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain Technology, SDGs

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The Bulgarian Foreign Minister reconfirmed the country’s support for the multi-stakeholder approach and the integrity of the Internet

Supporting facts:

• The Bulgarian Foreign Minister, Maria Gabriela addressed the high-level ministerial meeting at the United Nations in September

Topics: Multi-stakeholder approach, Internet Governance

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There has been sizable progress since 2003 in the field of Internet Governance

Supporting facts:

• The WSIS Plus 10 outcome document updated the Tunis agenda in a positive way

Topics: WSIS, Internet Governance

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Support for the extension of the IGF for another 10 years

Topics: IGF, Internet Governance

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The internet and digital technologies have transformed the way society works

Supporting facts:

• Over the last 20 years, internet and digital technologies have brought significant changes across regions, countries and sectors

Topics: Internet, Digital Technology

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WSIS outcomes review in 2025 is an opportunity to take stock of what has worked well and what hasn’t

Supporting facts:

• WSIS action lines have been effective tools to guide actions, ensuring internet is accessible for everyone

• This review will reflect the internet’s role in social and economic transformations

Topics: WSIS Review, Internet Governance

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Connectivity and infrastructure are crucial for reducing the digital divide and sustaining reliable internet access

Supporting facts:

• There is a need to reduce and remove the gap between those with and without affordable and reliable connectivity

• The reinforcement of infrastructure is needed to ensure internet reliability globally

Topics: Connectivity, Infrastructure, Digital Divide

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Inclusivity is important in the governance and development of the internet

Supporting facts:

• Everyone should be able to contribute in the governance and development of the internet

• The development of the internet should consider inclusivity, and discussions around universal acceptance and internationalized domain names are essential for this

Topics: Inclusivity, Digital Inclusion, Internet Governance

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Appreciation to WSIS secretariat for holding WSIS 20 consultation

Topics: WSIS 20 consultation

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Indonesia sees WSIS as a crucial catalyst in harnessing ICT for SDGs

Topics: WSIS, ICT, SDGs

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Annual WSIS prizes are integral for digital transformation in Indonesia

Topics: WSIS prizes, Digital Transformation

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Indonesia strongly supports the Tunis agenda and the Internet Governance Forum (IGF)

Topics: Tunis Agenda, Internet Governance Forum, Digital Governance

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Indonesia wishes to participate more in dynamic negotiations and make substantive contributions to the Global Digital Compact (GDC)

Topics: Global Digital Compact, Tunis agenda

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GDC should be inclusive, emphasizing the perspective and needs of the global south

Topics: Global Digital Compact, Inclusivity, Global South

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It is desirable to align the WSIS to SDGs

Supporting facts:

• There is common agreement on the importance of this alignment

• The connection between WSIS and SDGs could provide more rounded achievements

Topics: WSIS, SDGs

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Important to have indicators for connectivity, gender inequality

Topics: Connectivity, Gender Inequality

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The mandates of RGF and WSIS forums should be accepted

Topics: RGF, WSIS

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The mandate of the CSTD should be extended

Topics: CSTD

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Establish a link between forums and political forums in the UN

Supporting facts:

• There is a gap between these

Topics: UN, political forums

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Regularly review emerging issues and take input from regional RGFs

Supporting facts:

• This is already happening

Topics: RGF, regional forums

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Regularly update the business framework

Supporting facts:

• World Radio Communication Conference updates radio regulations regularly

Topics: business framework

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CSTD review and ECOSOC resolution should be more relevant

Topics: CSTD, ECOSOC

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Report

The WSIS Plus 20 review is approaching, and it is imperative to assess whether the principles of the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) have been fulfilled. One important argument raised is the need to address the monopolization of the digital economy by a few companies.

Big tech corporations hold significant infrastructure capabilities, forcing smaller players to rely on them to participate in the digital economy. Furthermore, trade forums are being used to determine unrestricted data access, limit source code transparency, and restrict access to information.

Data governance is also a crucial topic that requires suitable amendments to intellectual property law, competition law, labor law, trade taxation and investment regimes, and data governance itself. It is argued that data governance should not only focus on privacy and data protection but also on regulating and improving public welfare systems.

The EU continues to support the multi-stakeholder Internet governance model and the principles of the Tunis agenda. The role of the WSIS and the Internet Governance Forum in the success of the internet was highlighted. The EU is committed to keeping human rights as the foundation of an open, free, and secure online space.

Additionally, the EU and its member states are working towards deploying digital networks and infrastructures worldwide through the Global Gateway S-TEAM Europe. Harnessing the digital potential for wider public good, particularly in the Global South, was underscored. The aim is to prevent the digital potential from being disproportionately concentrated in a small number of platform corporations.

Furthermore, it is postulated that the WSIS-plus-20 has the potential to play a key role in this regard. Building a binding global governance framework for digital human rights is another important argument put forward. This involves establishing the right to freedom from commercial surveillance and personal profiling as part of the right to privacy.

Additionally, communities should have the right to steward their data resources as part of their economic, social, and cultural rights. A digital development tax is recommended to create a digital solidarity fund that can help build public digital infrastructure in developing countries.

This will enable low and middle-income countries to have better control over their data resources and digital destinies. Compelling interoperability for digital platforms and plural digital media is advocated. Interoperability can help ensure information integrity and plurality in media. Common protocols, data structures, and AI are seen as important components of interoperability.

Promoting alternative platforms, data, and AI models rooted in local accountability, women’s participation, and ecological sustainability is highlighted. Public investment is deemed necessary to promote these alternative models based on values that align with local needs and ecological sustainability. The digital transformation is characterized as important, diverse, and still relevant.

The developments in AI and other emerging technologies call for a proactive and anticipatory approach to digital and tech governance. Education, e-health, and gender equality are considered relevant and requisite topics for meeting gender equality. However, it is emphasized that traditional goals should not be neglected in the pursuit of new tech topics.

Accountability and a human rights-based approach to the digital transformation are essential. Evidence has shown the risks to human rights, democracy, and the rule of law that come with the digital transformation. Therefore, it is argued that a human-centric approach is essential in addressing the digital transformation.

The environmental impact of the digital transformation should be part of a new agenda. This aligns with SDG 13: Climate Action and calls for considering the environmental consequences of digital technologies. Internet access, mobile penetration, and cybersecurity were mentioned in relation to Africa.

While there have been significant improvements in internet access and mobile penetration, challenges still remain. For example, 63% of the African population is offline, and concerns related to cybersecurity account for 10% of Africa’s GDP. The importance of integrating emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence and generative blockchain technology into the WSIS process was stressed.

It is crucial to improve the implementation and measurement of targets and align the WSIS with the SDGs. The impact of the WSIS was seen as positive in bridging the digital divide. Internet access and mobile penetration have significantly increased, and countries like Kenya have shown progress in the development of startups.

However, the need to reduce the gap between those with and without affordable connectivity and reinforce global infrastructure was highlighted. Inclusivity in the governance and development of the internet was considered crucial. Discussions around universal acceptance and internationalized domain names were seen as essential for achieving inclusivity.

The multi-stakeholder process and UN agencies were recognized as vital parts of the WSIS review. Engaging with these mechanisms, such as the UN high-level track at the WSIS forum in 2024, was seen as crucial for positive engagement. The WSIS Plus 20 consultation was acknowledged and appreciated for its role in the review process.

Indonesia sees the WSIS as a crucial catalyst in harnessing ICT for the SDGs and highlights the importance of the annual WSIS prizes for digital transformation in the country. It is desirable to align the WSIS with the SDGs, as many agree on the importance of this alignment.

This could lead to more well-rounded achievements. Indicators for connectivity and gender inequality were deemed important and should be considered in the review process. The mandates of the RGF, WSIS forums, and CSTD were also discussed, with calls to accept and extend their roles.

Establishing a link between internet forums and political forums in the UN was suggested to strengthen the connection between these two spheres. The importance of regularly reviewing emerging issues, taking input from regional RGFs, and updating the business framework was highlighted.

It was noted that the World Radiocommunication Conference already updates radio regulations regularly. The CSTD review and ECOSOC resolution were considered important and should be more relevant to the current context. In conclusion, the WSIS Plus 20 review provides an opportunity to assess and improve on the achievements of the past 20 years.

It is crucial to address the issues of the monopolization of the digital economy, data governance, and inclusivity in the governance and development of the internet. The review should also focus on building a global governance framework for digital human rights, implementing a digital development tax, and promoting alternative platforms rooted in accountability and sustainability.

Connectivity, the environmental impact of the digital transformation, and the alignment of the WSIS with the SDGs were also emphasized. The review process should involve various stakeholders, including the multi-stakeholder process and UN agencies, to ensure a comprehensive and effective evaluation of the WSIS.

Arguments

Importance of ICT infrastructure for sustainable development especially in rural Africa

Supporting facts:

• Needs stable internet connectivity

• Secure access to electricity

• Affordable communications devices

Topics: ICT infrastructure, Rural Africa, Sustainable development

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Necessity of education and training programs

Supporting facts:

• People develop necessary skills to benefit from technology

• Promotion of digital culture

• Vocational training in areas linked to ICTs

Topics: Education, Training, ICT skills

---

Promoting innovation and entrepreneurship

Supporting facts:

• Supporting startups through incubators, accelerators, and funding

• Creating a conducive environment for innovation

Topics: Innovation, Entrepreneurship, Startups

---

Enhancing digitization of public services

Supporting facts:

• Involves making digital platforms accessible and user-friendly

• Includes online tax systems

• Digital identification systems

Topics: Digital platforms, E-governance systems, Digital identification systems

---

Usage of ICTs in health and agriculture

Supporting facts:

• Telemedicine for long-distance patient appointments

• Access to markets for farmers through technology

Topics: Telemedicine, Agricultural information systems, Technology in farming

---

Importance of promoting public-private partnerships

Supporting facts:

• Cooperation among governments, private sector bodies, NGOs, and international organizations

Topics: Public-private partnerships, Cooperation, Technology in development

---

Adoption of digital financial services

Supporting facts:

• Mobile banking, mobile payment services can foster financial inclusion and economic growth

Topics: Mobile banking, Financial technology, Financial inclusion, Economic growth

---

Need for robust cybersecurity measures

Supporting facts:

• Need to protect against cybercrime and to ensure data confidentiality

Topics: Cybersecurity, Cybercrime, Data confidentiality

---

Report

The extended summary delves deeper into the key points, arguments, evidence, and conclusion of the discussion on the importance of ICT infrastructure for sustainable development, particularly in rural Africa. It is emphasised that stable internet connectivity, secure access to electricity, and affordable communications devices are crucial for the development and growth of ICT infrastructure in rural areas.

These factors are seen as essential for promoting economic and social progress in these regions. The necessity of education and training programmes is highlighted as a means to ensure that people are equipped with the necessary skills to benefit from technology.

This includes the promotion of digital culture and the provision of vocational training in areas linked to ICTs. By developing the skills and knowledge required to effectively use and leverage technology, individuals can take advantage of the opportunities presented by ICT infrastructure.

The discussion also underscores the importance of promoting innovation and entrepreneurship. Supporting startups through incubators, accelerators, and funding is seen as essential for fostering a conducive environment for innovation. This, in turn, can contribute to economic growth and the creation of decent work opportunities.

Enhancing the digitisation of public services is considered a crucial aspect of sustainable development. This involves making digital platforms accessible and user-friendly, as well as implementing online tax systems and digital identification systems. By digitising public services, governments can improve efficiency and accessibility, while contributing to the development of sustainable cities and communities.

The usage of ICTs in health and agriculture was also emphasised. Telemedicine was highlighted as a way to provide long-distance patient appointments, ensuring that individuals in remote areas have access to healthcare services. Additionally, technology can facilitate access to markets for farmers, enabling them to sell their produce and improve their livelihoods.

The importance of public-private partnerships was emphasised as a means to promote collaboration among governments, private sector bodies, NGOs, and international organisations. By working together, these stakeholders can leverage their resources and expertise to drive sustainable development and achieve the SDGs.

The adoption of digital financial services, such as mobile banking and payment services, was discussed as a means to foster financial inclusion and economic growth. These services can provide individuals with access to formal financial systems, empowering them economically and reducing inequalities.

Lastly, the need for robust cybersecurity measures was highlighted. As ICT infrastructure continues to expand, protecting against cybercrime and ensuring data confidentiality becomes increasingly important. By implementing strong cybersecurity measures, individuals and organisations can mitigate risks and safeguard the integrity of their digital systems.

In conclusion, the extended summary highlights the diverse range of opportunities presented by ICT infrastructure for sustainable development. It underscores the need for stable internet connectivity, education and training programmes, innovation and entrepreneurship support, digitisation of public services, usage of ICTs in health and agriculture, public-private partnerships, adoption of digital financial services, and robust cybersecurity measures.

By prioritising these aspects, policymakers can work towards bridging the digital divide and promoting inclusive and sustainable development.

Arguments

The rapid worldwide digital transformation is reshaping the way we live and work, making digitalization a main factor in economic development

Supporting facts:

• Currently more than five billion individuals worldwide are using Internet

• Digitalization increases labor productivity, creates new demand for goods and services, and improves the quality of the overall economy.

Topics: Digital transformation, ICT Infrastructure, Economic development

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Indonesia is committed to accelerating inclusive and sustainable digital transformation.

Supporting facts:

• Indonesia’s digital economy grew from US$41 billion in 2019 to US$77 billion in 2022.

• Indonesia is investing in the development of ICT, such as digital infrastructure, cloud computing etc.

Topics: Digital Transformation, ICT Infrastructure, Inclusivity

---

Artificial Intelligence (AI) can greatly improve decision-making and service delivery, but also present challenges like misinformation and data breach.

Supporting facts:

• AI simplifies and expedites decision-making processes and service delivery.

• Malicious outputs and scams threaten business conduct and reduce business confidence.

Topics: Artificial Intelligence, Regulation, Misinformation

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Report

The rapid worldwide digital transformation is reshaping the way we live and work, making digitalisation a main factor in economic development. Currently, more than five billion individuals worldwide are using the internet. Digitalisation increases labour productivity, creates new demand for goods and services, and improves the quality of the overall economy.

Indonesia is committed to accelerating inclusive and sustainable digital transformation. The country has seen significant growth in its digital economy, which grew from US$41 billion in 2019 to US$77 billion in 2022. Indonesia is investing in the development of ICT infrastructure, such as digital infrastructure and cloud computing, to support this growth.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) can greatly improve decision-making and service delivery. However, it also presents challenges such as misinformation and data breaches, which can threaten business conduct and reduce business confidence. Implementing regulations and ethical practices is crucial to address these challenges.

Inclusivity in the digital space is a top priority for Indonesia. The country is focusing on helping people with disabilities by providing digital literacy programs and specific activities like podcast classes. This ensures that digital advancements benefit all members of society.

In conclusion, the worldwide digital transformation has significant impacts on economic development. Indonesia’s commitment to inclusive and sustainable digital transformation is demonstrated through its investments in ICT infrastructure and efforts to assist people with disabilities. It is essential to address challenges such as misinformation and data breaches in the use of AI.

Inclusivity in the digital space is crucial to ensure that digital advancements benefit everyone.

Arguments

Inclusion and empowerment are key for a digital society

Supporting facts:

• Vision of people-centered, inclusive, and development-oriented information society from WSIS 2003

• As digital becomes integral, lack of inclusion can lead to societal divides

• Need for addressing digital divides for the development of all

Topics: Digital Inclusion, Digital divide, WSIS Vision

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Importance of aligning WSIS with UN SDGs

Supporting facts:

• Digital technologies can help address major issues identified by the SDGs

• Need for accessibility to all as society becomes increasingly digital

Topics: Sustainable development, Digital Solutions

---

AI and related technologies carry risks that need to be mitigated

Supporting facts:

• AI has potential to disrupt due to biased programming, job market effects, and opaque decision mechanisms

• Speed of rule-making doesn’t match speed of technology

Topics: AI, Emerging technologies

---

WSIS architecture should be updated to address emerging tech

Supporting facts:

• WSIS plus 20 review presents an opportunity to make WSIS architecture more current

• Secretary-General’s road map for digital cooperation endorsed this path

Topics: WSIS review, Digital cooperation

---

Report

The analysis provides a comprehensive overview of the main points discussed in the given texts. Firstly, the importance of inclusion and empowerment in a digital society is emphasized. The speakers highlight that as digital technologies become integral to our lives, the lack of inclusion can lead to societal divides.

They argue that addressing digital divides is crucial for the development and progress of all individuals. This argument is supported by the vision of a people-centred, inclusive, and development-oriented information society from WSIS 2003. The speakers advocate for creating an inclusive digital society that ensures equal opportunities for everyone.

Secondly, the need to align the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is highlighted. It is acknowledged that digital technologies have the potential to address major issues identified by the SDGs.

The speakers argue that as society becomes increasingly digital, it is essential to ensure accessibility to these technologies for all individuals. This alignment with the SDGs will help in achieving sustainable development and reducing inequalities. The analysis also touches upon the potential risks associated with Artificial Intelligence (AI) and emerging technologies.

It is acknowledged that AI has the potential to disrupt various aspects of society, including biased programming, effects on the job market, and the opacity of decision-making mechanisms. The speakers stress the need to mitigate these risks through effective regulation.

They argue that regulations should focus on addressing the potential negative effects rather than restricting the technology itself. The importance of striking a balance between the benefits and risks of AI is emphasized. Furthermore, the speakers argue for the regulation of AI to be in line with international law and human rights.

They advocate for AI technologies to abide by established international legal frameworks and respect human rights. Initiatives such as the Council of Europe working on a convention on AI are supported as they seek to ensure responsible and ethical use of AI.

Additionally, the analysis highlights the need to update the WSIS architecture to address emerging technologies. It is argued that the ongoing WSIS plus 20 review provides an opportunity to make the architecture more current and relevant. The Secretary-General’s roadmap for digital cooperation, which endorses updating the WSIS architecture, is seen as a positive step towards addressing the challenges posed by emerging technologies.

Lastly, the importance of international cooperation is emphasized in managing emerging technologies. The analysis suggests that UN departments, agencies, and forums can serve as valuable platforms for collaboration and cooperation. The speakers support the Secretary-General’s roadmap for digital cooperation and the WSIS-Plus-20 review, which both advocate for increased international cooperation in navigating the complexities of emerging technologies.

Overall, the speakers highlight the importance of inclusion, alignment with the SDGs, regulation of AI, updating of WSIS architecture, and international cooperation in navigating the challenges and opportunities of a digital society. The analysis provides valuable insights into the key points raised in the texts, offering a nuanced understanding of the complexities surrounding digital inclusion, AI governance, and the role of international cooperation in shaping the future of our increasingly digital world.

The analysis emphasises the significance of inclusion, empowerment, alignment with SDGs, regulation of AI, and international cooperation within a digital society. The importance of addressing digital divides, ensuring accessibility to technologies, and mitigating the risks associated with AI and emerging technologies are stressed.

The need to update the WSIS architecture and collaborate internationally in navigating the challenges of the digital era is also highlighted. The analysis offers key insights into the complex issues of digital inclusion, AI governance, and the role of international cooperation in shaping a sustainable and inclusive digital future.

Arguments

Digital developments have a positive impact on SMEs and entrepreneurship in Africa

Supporting facts:

• Digital services are being provided by entrepreneurs.

• SMEs are providing online work and selling through social media and other online channels.

• Businesses have been able to transform to e-commerce platforms.

Topics: Digital developments, SMEs, E-commerce, Entrepreneurship

---

There is an increase in digital payments from Africa which is mainly due to technological development and innovation

Supporting facts:

• People are adopting mobile payments.

• Startups are developing payment solutions through wallets.

Topics: Digital payments, Technology, Mobile money

---

Despite digital advancements, Africa faces significant challenges in creating a sustainable digital economy

Supporting facts:

• The infrastructure to support e-commerce is not there.

• Expensive shipping costs hinder e-commerce.

• People have trust issues with online transactions.

• The government does not provide sufficient support to startups and businesses.

Topics: Digital economy, Infrastructure, Trust issues, Government support

---

Low internet penetration and high internet costs are hindering the growth of the digital economy

Supporting facts:

• Internet penetration is still low in many African countries.

• Where the internet is available, it is expensive.

Topics: Internet Penetration, Internet Costs, Digital economy

---

Government support and understanding are necessary for startups to grow within the digital economy

Supporting facts:

• Government regulations should favour startups.

• Startups need intellectual property protection, which is expensive in the early stages.

Topics: Government Support, Startups, Digital economy

---

Report

Digital developments have had a positive impact on SMEs and entrepreneurship in Africa. Entrepreneurs are capitalising on digital services which are being provided in response to growing demand. SMEs are also embracing e-commerce platforms, expanding their market presence and reaching a wider customer base.

The digital payments sector in Africa is experiencing growth due to technological development and innovation. Mobile payments are increasingly popular, driven by their convenience and accessibility. Startups are actively developing payment solutions through digital wallets, further facilitating the adoption of digital payments.

However, Africa still faces significant challenges in establishing a sustainable digital economy. The lack of infrastructure, such as reliable and affordable internet connectivity, hampers the adoption of digital technologies and restricts online business growth. Expensive shipping costs present additional barriers for e-commerce expansion.

Trust issues around online transactions contribute to the slower growth of the digital economy in Africa. Concerns over security and reliability deter widespread adoption of digital services. Building consumer trust and ensuring the safety of online transactions are essential for continued growth.

Insufficient government support is another hindrance to the development of the digital economy. Startups and digital businesses require supportive policies and regulations to foster growth, including access to affordable intellectual property protection. Moreover, low internet penetration and high internet costs impede the expansion of the digital economy in Africa.

Limited internet access in many countries combined with expensive usage costs restrict digital growth. Initiatives promoting affordable internet access and improved infrastructure are necessary to address these challenges. In conclusion, digital developments have brought about positive changes for SMEs and entrepreneurship in Africa.

However, barriers such as infrastructure limitations, high shipping costs, trust issues, insufficient government support, low internet penetration, and high internet costs continue to impede the creation of a sustainable digital economy. Collaborative efforts are needed to overcome these challenges and create an environment that fosters digital growth and economic development in Africa.

Arguments

There is still a significant portion of the global population not connected to the internet

Supporting facts:

• One-third of people in the world are not yet connected to the internet

• In least developed countries, only 36% of their people are connected.

Topics: WSIS Plus 20 Review, Digital Connectivity

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There is widespread interest to continue the WSIS process beyond 2025

Supporting facts:

• The first CSTD consultation at Kyoto was successful

• Participants represented a diverse range of sectors and expressed unanimous interest in continuing the WSIS process beyond 2025

Topics: WSIS Plus 20 Review, Digitalisation, International Cooperation

---

A review of WSIS should be a collaborative one-UN effort

Supporting facts:

• CSTD is proud of the partnership established with key WSIS players – ITU, UNESCO, and UNDP

Topics: WSIS Plus 20 Review, International Cooperation

---

Report

According to the information provided, a significant portion of the global population, estimated to be around one-third, still lacks access to the internet. This issue is particularly prevalent in least developed countries, where only 36% of the population is connected. The lack of internet connectivity in these regions highlights the pressing need for global efforts to ensure universal access to the internet, as it plays a crucial role in fostering socioeconomic development and bridging the digital divide.

The World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) is an important platform dedicated to addressing these issues. There is a strong interest among stakeholders to continue the WSIS process beyond 2025, as evidenced by the successful first CSTD consultation held in Kyoto.

Participants from diverse sectors expressed unanimous support for the ongoing WSIS process. This widespread interest reflects the recognition of the importance of sustained efforts to promote digitalization and international cooperation in achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals.

The multi-stakeholder approach employed in the WSIS process is considered a valuable practice for the Global Digital Cooperation (GDC) and future summits. This approach involves involving and engaging various stakeholders, including governments, civil society, the private sector, and international organizations, in shaping and enhancing the WSIS process.

The positive sentiment towards this approach suggests that it fosters collaboration, inclusivity, and effective decision-making. Furthermore, collaboration and partnership between key WSIS players such as the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) are crucial for a successful review of the WSIS.

The establishment of partnerships and the joint efforts of these organizations is considered a commendable achievement by the United Nations Committee on Science and Technology for Development (CSTD). In conclusion, it is clear that there is still a significant portion of the global population that lacks internet connectivity, highlighting the urgent need for global action.

The WSIS process has garnered widespread interest and support for its continuation beyond 2025, and the multi-stakeholder approach used in this process is considered an effective practice. Collaboration and partnership with key WSIS players are crucial for conducting a successful review of WSIS, ensuring inclusivity and collective action in addressing the challenges of digital connectivity.

Arguments

Reflecting on the 20 years in the WSIS and the subsequent decades since its first review

Supporting facts:

• The advancement in information technology has significantly shaped the landscape of the digital economy.

Topics: Digital Economy, Information Technology

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SDGs. ICT and data keep playing a crucial role in advancing SDGs

Supporting facts:

• Integration of ICT and data into education, healthcare and economic development has been key in moving forward.

Topics: ICT, Data, Education, Healthcare, Economic Development

---

Responsible AI

Supporting facts:

• Ensuring AI systems that are transparent, equitable, and free of biases is key.

Topics: Artificial Intelligence, Ethics, Transparency

---

Data production processes

Supporting facts:

• Ensuring the participation of developing countries in data production process is crucial.

Topics: Data Governance, Multi-stakeholder Involvement

---

Open data

Supporting facts:

• Ensuring the protection of personal data while promoting open data initiatives is key.

Topics: Open Data, Privacy, Security

---

Data protection and privacy

Supporting facts:

• Robust data protection frameworks are essential, especially in light of frequent data breaches and privacy concerns.

Topics: Data Privacy, Security

---

Digital divide

Supporting facts:

• Ensuring inclusivity in ICT access, particularly in marginalized and undeserved communities, is essential for equitable development.

Topics: Digital Divide, Marginalized Communities, ICT Access

---

Ethical and inclusive practices

Supporting facts:

• A commitment to ethical and inclusive practices in data use and AI is vital to foster a socially responsible digital marketplace.

Topics: Ethics, Inclusivity, Data Use, AI

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Report

The detailed analysis highlights several important points regarding the digital economy and the role of information technology (IT) in shaping it. One key finding is the significant impact of IT advancements on the landscape of the digital economy. Over the past 20 years since the inception of the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS), continuous progress in IT has greatly influenced the development of the digital economy.

Integration of IT and data into various sectors, such as education, healthcare, and economic development, has played a crucial role in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The analysis emphasizes the positive impact of ICT and data in moving forward towards achieving SDGs 3, 4, and 8, which relate to good health and well-being, quality education, and decent work and economic growth, respectively.

By leveraging IT tools and harnessing the power of data, advancements in these sectors have become more attainable, contributing to overall progress in sustainable development. The analysis also highlights the importance of responsible AI systems. To ensure socially responsible digital practices, AI systems must be transparent, equitable, and free from biases.

This emphasis on responsible AI reflects the need for ethical considerations in the development and implementation of AI technologies. By integrating ethical principles and promoting transparency in AI systems, trust and confidence can be fostered in the digital marketplace. Additionally, the analysis underscores the significance of data production processes and the involvement of developing countries in these processes.

It argues that the participation of developing countries in data production is crucial to ensure inclusive and comprehensive data representation. By actively involving developing countries, a more accurate and representative understanding of global challenges and realities can be achieved. The protection of personal data is another crucial aspect highlighted in the analysis.

It stresses the need to balance the promotion of open data initiatives with ensuring the privacy and security of personal data. The increasing concerns related to data breaches and privacy necessitate the establishment of robust data protection frameworks. Such frameworks are vital for maintaining trust and confidence in the digital sphere.

The analysis also recognizes the digital divide and the importance of bridging it. Inclusivity in ICT access, particularly for marginalized and underserved communities, is essential for achieving equitable development. By addressing the digital divide and ensuring equal access to essential digital resources, efforts can be made to reduce inequalities and foster development opportunities for all.

In conclusion, the analysis emphasizes the transformative role of IT and data in the digital economy. It highlights the integration of IT in various sectors as a crucial factor in advancing the SDGs. Responsible AI, transparent data governance, data protection and privacy, bridging the digital divide, and promoting inclusivity in ICT access for marginalized communities are key areas of focus for ensuring equitable and sustainable development in the digital age.

Overall, these insights provide valuable guidance for policymakers, stakeholders, and organizations working towards leveraging technology for positive societal impact.

Arguments

Much progress has been made in ICTs since WSIS’s inception 20 years ago

Supporting facts:

• Internet users grew from 12.4% of the global population in 2003 to 67% in 2023

Topics: ICTs, WSIS

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WSIS serves as a robust framework for digital progress that is still relevant today

Supporting facts:

• WSIS has grown into a multi-stakeholder, global community

Topics: WSIS, Digital Progress

---

There is an urgent need to connect the 2.6 billion people who remain offline

Supporting facts:

• 2.6 billion people remain offline today

Topics: Connectivity, Digital Divide

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Report

The World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) has made significant advancements in the field of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) since its establishment 20 years ago. One of the notable achievements is the exponential growth of internet users, which has increased from 12.4% of the global population in 2003 to a staggering 67% in 2023.

This remarkable progress highlights the increasing global connectivity and access to digital technologies. WSIS serves as a shining example of global digital cooperation and has evolved into a multi-stakeholder, global community over the years. It has provided a robust framework for promoting digital progress and remains relevant in addressing the challenges and opportunities arising from the rapid advancements in technology.

With the continuous evolution of ICTs, it is crucial to acknowledge the importance of addressing risks and challenges associated with technological progress. There is a shared responsibility to ensure the responsible and ethical use of technology, as well as addressing potential harms and risks.

Affordability remains a significant obstacle to achieving universal connectivity. In low-income economies, the cost of entry-level mobile broadband subscriptions amounts to an alarming 8.6% of the average income. This disparity in affordability hinders equal access to digital technologies and exacerbates the digital divide between different socioeconomic groups and regions.

Bridging this gap and making digital technologies more accessible to all remains a pressing challenge. Despite the progress made, there are still approximately 2.6 billion people who do not have internet access. This digital divide represents an urgent need to connect those who remain offline.

The inclusion of these individuals into the digital world holds immense potential for social and economic development on a global scale. Efforts should be focused on providing affordable and accessible internet connectivity to underserved areas and populations. The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) plays a crucial role in fostering an inclusive digital future for all.

As a testament to this commitment, the ITU will co-host the WSIS Plus 20 Forum high-level event scheduled for May 27 to 31, 2024. This forum presents an opportunity to harness the momentum gained from the WSIS Plus 20 review and further advance the goals of digital inclusion and reduced inequality.

It serves as a platform for discussing innovative strategies, sharing best practices, and forging partnerships to overcome the challenges and ensure an equitable digital future. In conclusion, the World Summit on the Information Society has witnessed significant progress in the field of ICTs over the past two decades.

The growth of internet users worldwide, the global digital cooperation facilitated by WSIS, and its robust framework for advancing digital progress are notable achievements. However, challenges such as affordability and the digital divide persist, highlighting the importance of continued efforts to bridge the gaps in access and ensure an inclusive digital future for all.

The ITU’s commitment to this cause and the upcoming WSIS Plus 20 Forum further demonstrate the determination to overcome these challenges and create a more equitable digital society.

Arguments

Digital Cooperation Organization focuses on digital economy

Supporting facts:

• Digital Cooperation Organization is an intergovernmental body with 15 member states

• They are based out of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia and have their presence across Middle East, Africa, Asia, Europe, South Asia

Topics: Data Economy, Digital Cooperation Organization

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Interoperability of data governance regulations

Supporting facts:

• The DCO conducted a study exploring data governance regulations across member states

• Discussion on how these regulations can be made interoperable to champion the free flow of data with trust

Topics: Data governance, Legal interoperability

---

Data needs to be shared for its economic value and importance for health sector

Topics: Data Sharing, Economic Value, Health Sector

---

Countries need legal mechanisms to develop and work towards to make the data sharing possible across them with trust

Topics: Data Sharing, Legal Framework, Cross-border Cooperation, Trust

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Cross-border data flows are essential for services to be compatible and enhance international trade

Supporting facts:

• Global data flows grew up to 15% annually since 2010

• The global trade in digitally deliverable services comprises 15% of the total service trade

Topics: Digital Economy, International Trade, Data Flow

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DCO proposed a model for data to flow across borders with trust

Supporting facts:

• Data Flow Framework involves agreeing on common principles and data classification schemes

• Activation of these mechanisms through trade agreements

Topics: Data Privacy, Data Flow, Digital Economy

---

DCO is planning to set the basis for interoperability mechanisms

Supporting facts:

• Discussions are ongoing between DCO and its member states

• There is a need to streamline the definition of personal data, sensitive data, and metadata, etc.

• An effort will be made to come up with a common set of data classification or taxonomy

Topics: data flows, data protection laws, interoperability mechanisms

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DCO is considering multilateral or bilateral agreements to enhance cross-border data flows

Supporting facts:

• ASEAN is actively working on a digital economy framework agreement

• Cross-border data flows are viewed as a critical component of these frameworks

Topics: cross-border data flows, digital economy agreements

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DCO plans to build an interoperability framework on common principles for its member states

Supporting facts:

• Cross-Border Privacy Rules (CBPR) are built around a common set of principles

Topics: interoperability frameworks, OECD’s common set of principles

---

DCO is partnering with its member states on specific data sharing initiatives

Topics: data sharing, health sector, climate data, open government data

---

There’s a lot of excitement and anticipation in the prospect of facilitating the free flow of data

Supporting facts:

• The rules around data localization are not expected to continue going forward.

• Multilateral organizations are expected to facilitate the flow of data.

Topics: Free flow of data, Digital economy

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Member states’ concerns around privacy need to be addressed and balanced with the need for free flow of data

Supporting facts:

• Understand the member states’ need to have a say on how their citizens’ data should be treated globally.

• The focus is on finding a balance between enabling as much data to flow as possible, and ensuring a level of trust and privacy.

Topics: Data privacy, Regulation, Free flow of data

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Report

The Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO) is an intergovernmental body based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, with 15 member states across the Middle East, Africa, Asia, Europe, and South Asia. The DCO aims to promote the digital economy and utilize technology to create equal opportunities for all nations, regardless of their borders or boundaries.

They recognize the importance of cross-border data flows, which play a pivotal role in fostering innovation, empowering economies, and shaping societies. The movement of data across borders is seen as essential for compatibility and enhancing international trade. To support the free flow of data, the DCO advocates for the interoperability of data governance regulations.

They have conducted studies exploring data governance regulations across member states, with the aim of finding ways to make these regulations interoperable and enable the free flow of data with trust. They also emphasize the economic value of data sharing, particularly in sectors such as health.

The DCO believes that sharing data can unlock its economic potential and contribute to advancements in the health sector. One of the key arguments put forward by the DCO is the need for data free flow with trust. They propose a model for data to flow across borders, which involves agreeing on common principles and data classification schemes.

Activation of these mechanisms through trade agreements is seen as a way to facilitate the free flow of data while maintaining trust and privacy. The DCO also recognizes the concerns of member states regarding privacy. They understand the need for member states to have a say in how their citizens’ data is treated globally.

The DCO aims to find a balance between enabling the free flow of data and ensuring a level of trust and privacy. In conclusion, the Digital Cooperation Organization is dedicated to promoting the digital economy and leveraging technology to create equal opportunities.

They emphasize the importance of cross-border data flows, the interoperability of data governance regulations, and the economic value of data sharing. They support data free flow with trust and are planning to set the basis for interoperability mechanisms. The DCO is actively considering multilateral or bilateral agreements to enhance cross-border data flows.

They also understand the importance of addressing member states’ concerns regarding privacy while enabling the free flow of data.

Arguments

The audience questioned the economic value of data, and the benefits derived from it by the owners of the data.

Supporting facts:

• The large volume of data that can be collected from populous markets like India can have considerable value. Big tech companies make billions out of this data.

Topics: Data Ownership, Data Monetization, Cross-border Data Flows

---

More needs to be done to build trust between consumers, enterprises, and governments.

Supporting facts:

• The panelists have emphasized the need to harmonize rules and build systematic trust

Topics: Trust, Consumer Relations, Enterprise Regulation

---

Interested in other mechanisms to build trust.

Topics: Trust, Mechanisms, Consumer Relations

---

Need for clear rules and regulations to protect small businesses in digital economy

Supporting facts:

• AWS owns 32% of the entire cloud service market

• Small businesses may use AWS cloud services to establish their businesses online

Topics: Data protection, Digital economy, AWS, Cloud Services, Small Business

---

Report

During the discussion, the audience raised concerns regarding the economic value of data and the benefits that accrue to data owners. They questioned the extent to which data owners, particularly big tech companies, profit from the large volume of data collected from populous markets such as India.

The argument put forth was that while these companies make billions from data, the actual economic benefits are not adequately distributed to those who generate the data. In response to this, the audience suggested that countries in the global south should have sovereignty over their data.

The idea behind this was to ensure that these nations, whose data is frequently used and monetised by companies based in the global north, have more control and are able to directly benefit from the economic wealth generated by their own data.

The sentiment surrounding this issue was negative, as it highlighted the existing economic inequalities between different regions of the world. Trust emerged as a crucial factor in the discussion. The need to build trust between consumers, enterprises, and governments was emphasised by the panellists.

They stressed the importance of harmonising rules and fostering systematic trust to ensure the fair and ethical use of data. Furthermore, it was argued that trust is vital for the overall functioning of the digital economy. One positive aspect identified in the discussion was the role of standards development in building trust.

Organisations such as the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) were cited as valuable contributors to the establishment of trust. ISO, consisting of national bodies and engaged stakeholders, develops voluntary market-driven standards that can help ensure ethical practices, data protection, and transparency.

The issue of trust also led to the exploration of other mechanisms that can be employed to build trust in the digital landscape. Unfortunately, no supporting facts were provided to further elaborate on this matter, leaving room for future investigation and discussion.

Another noteworthy concern raised during the discussion was the dominance of larger tech companies and its impact on small businesses in the digital economy. AWS, for instance, was highlighted as a market leader in cloud services, controlling a significant portion of the entire market.

This poses potential risks to small businesses, which might find themselves undercut or even acquired by these larger companies due to their substantial financial power. Consequently, the need for clear rules and regulations to protect small businesses was emphasised. In conclusion, the discussion highlighted the economic disparities surrounding data ownership and the necessity for countries in the global south to assert sovereignty over their data.

Building trust among consumers, enterprises, and governments was seen as a crucial step towards an equitable and ethical digital economy. The role of organisations such as ISO in developing standards to enforce ethical practices was appreciated. Furthermore, the potential risks faced by small businesses in the face of dominant tech companies were acknowledged, calling for the establishment of clear regulations to protect them.

Arguments

Frederick Masoudi highlighted the initiatives of the American College of Cardiology in improving global cardiovascular care.

Supporting facts:

• The American College of Cardiology runs the National Cardiovascular Data Registries, one of the largest outcomes-based cardiovascular patient data repository in the world.

• They have engaged more than 95 million patients in the United States with cardiovascular disease.

Topics: Cardiovascular Care, Data Collection, Quality Improvement

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Existing barriers in international data collection and sharing are hindering the process of global cardiovascular care improvement.

Supporting facts:

• Some nations do not permit healthcare data to be expatriated. There is a need for local storage and analysis mechanism.

• The challenges of data collection include institutional and national requirements.

• Providing benchmarks to institutions outside of the United States is challenging due to the inability to integrate those data into the ACC’s larger data set.

Topics: Data Collection, International Collaboration, Data Privacy

---

The ability to aggregate data provides more opportunities for analysis compared to a federated model.

Supporting facts:

• Analysis using aggregated data can generate greater insights than those from a federated model.

Topics: data aggregation, healthcare data

---

The absence of clear and consistent data laws often leads to conservative interpretations of the rules, resulting in an atomized community where one has to work with each hospital individually.

Supporting facts:

• A hospital may interpret regulations differently in the presence of ambiguity.

• Building relationships with each individual hospital is time-consuming.

Topics: data laws, healthcare data, data sharing

---

Having a clear and consistent standard with consensus around it could facilitate data sharing among communities of healthcare centers.

Supporting facts:

• A clear and consistent standard could speed up the data sharing process, as seen in the case of Saudi Arabia where it took many years to aggregate data from different sources.

Topics: data sharing, healthcare data, data standardization

---

Addressing data flow issues while maintaining individual privacy and data security is an essential step forward.

Supporting facts:

• Data flow issues have been a major barrier in health data sharing.

Topics: data flow, data security, individual privacy

---

The separately domiciling data in individual countries and having to build specific structure within countries is cost prohibitive

Supporting facts:

• Building specific structure is not cost-effective

Topics: Data Management, Data Security

---

Consistency and clarity of data sharing rules is essential

Supporting facts:

• Consistency and clarity would advance the sharing of data

Topics: Data Management, Regulatory Compliance

---

Trust in the community is very important to having the trust in the government

Topics: Trust Building, Civic Engagement

---

Good health is fundamental to economic growth and there are effective means of improving health using various models.

Supporting facts:

• The NCDR is a model that improves the health outcomes of individuals with cardiovascular disease.

• Enabling data interchangeability can promote adoption of effective health improvement models, thereby driving economic growth.

Topics: health, economic growth, data sharing

---

Report

The American College of Cardiology (ACC) is playing a crucial role in enhancing global cardiovascular care. They operate the National Cardiovascular Data Registries (NCDR), which is recognised as one of the largest outcomes-based cardiovascular patient data repositories worldwide. The NCDR has actively engaged with over 95 million patients suffering from cardiovascular disease in the United States.

This extensive patient database provides valuable insights and outcomes that can contribute to improving cardiovascular care on a global scale. However, the process of international data collection and sharing in the field of cardiovascular care faces numerous barriers. One of the major obstacles is the presence of ambiguous data laws and regulations in various countries.

This lack of clarity often leads to conservative interpretations of the rules, making it necessary to work with each hospital individually rather than establishing a standardised approach. To overcome these challenges, establishing a clear and consistent data standard is crucial.

Having a universally accepted standard would streamline the process of data sharing among different healthcare centres. This is exemplified by the experience of Saudi Arabia, where it took several years to aggregate data from different sources due to the absence of a clear standard.

Therefore, the implementation of a consistent standard with consensus around it could greatly facilitate the sharing of healthcare data among communities. Addressing data flow issues is also essential. The efficient and secure movement of data is crucial for collaboration and exchange of valuable insights.

However, it is equally important to protect individual privacy and ensure data security. Achieving a balance between data flow and privacy is a critical step forward in improving global cardiovascular care. Moreover, building trust within the healthcare community is essential for successful data sharing.

Trust not only fosters cooperation but also enables effective collaboration with the government and other stakeholders. The presence of trust encourages healthcare centres to actively participate in data sharing initiatives, leading to more comprehensive and accurate insights. In terms of data management, it is not cost-effective to separately domicile data in individual countries and build specific structures within each country.

This fragmentation hinders data sharing and collaboration efforts. Therefore, developing a global quality solution that incorporates contributions from local, regional, and global clinical data repositories can enhance data aggregation, anonymisation, and analysis. This aggregated dataset can provide more opportunities for analysis and generate greater insights compared to a federated model.

An additional benefit of promoting data sharing and adoption of successful health improvement models is the potential for driving economic growth. Good health is fundamental to economic development, and adopting effective health improvement models can positively impact both healthcare outcomes and economic productivity.

In conclusion, the American College of Cardiology, through initiatives such as the National Cardiovascular Data Registries, is at the forefront of improving global cardiovascular care. However, there are significant barriers in international data collection and sharing that need to be addressed.

Clear and consistent data standards, addressing data flow issues while maintaining individual privacy, and building trust within the healthcare community are crucial steps towards overcoming these challenges. By promoting data sharing and adopting successful health improvement models, both the quality of cardiovascular care and economic growth can be substantially enhanced.

Report

In this timely discussion, experts delve into the critical issues surrounding data transfer in the context of digital economies. The session, titled “Cross-Border Data Flows for Sustainable Development, Trade Innovation, and the Role of Global Cooperation,” focuses on the increasing importance of data flows as economic activities shift online.

Representatives from various organizations, including the Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia and Oracle Corporation, participate in the panel. They shed light on the significance of cross-border data flows in the Asia region, where policymakers prioritize these matters.

The participants emphasize the need for data transfer to fuel trade, innovation, and sustainable development. The first speaker, Michael Kander, Chair of the Board of the Data Sphere Initiative, presents a comparison of cross-country data flows. His presentation reinforces the criticality of international collaboration in enabling smooth cross-border data transfer.

Dr. Frederic Massoudi, Chief Science Officer and Vice President of Clinical Research and Analytics for Ascension, serves as the second speaker. He offers insights into the challenges faced in sharing healthcare data across borders. Dr. Massoudi highlights the unique aspects of clinical data and emphasizes the necessity for tailored protection methods for different data classifications.

Matisse Pellerin, Vice President for Global Government Affairs at Oracle Corporation, discusses the significance of cross-border data flows for a cloud-based company like Oracle. While not accompanied by a PowerPoint presentation, his perspective as a representative of the private sector adds diversity to the panel.

The discussion revolves around the role of governments in promoting trust and eliminating barriers to facilitate data transfer. The participants underscore the importance of governments and other organizations within the data ecosystem in forging agreements and advancing cross-border data flows.

In conclusion, the panelists stress the significance of cross-border data flows for economic growth and sustainable development. They highlight the need for international collaboration, the removal of barriers, and the role of governments in promoting data transfer. This session provides valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities surrounding data transfer in the digital economy.

Arguments

The number of restrictions on data flow policies is growing, which needs to be addressed in order to further enable cross-border data flows.

Supporting facts:

• ASEAN recently launched their Digital Economy Framework Agreement (DEFA)

• ASEAN’s digital economy is expected to double to two trillion by 2030

Topics: digital trade, data flow restrictions, ASEAN

---

ASEAN countries are forward-leaning and proactive in digital trade rules, creating favorable environments for both domestic and international businesses.

Supporting facts:

• ASEAN agreed an agreement on e-commerce years ago

• The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement included forward-leaning rules on digital trade

• ASEAN’s digital economy is expected to double to two trillion by 2030

Topics: digital trade, ASEAN, DEFA

---

Micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSME) form a large chunk of the economy in ASEAN, contributing to 85% of employment and 44.8% of GDP.

Supporting facts:

• More than 70 million MSMEs in ASEAN

Topics: MSME, ASEAN, economy

---

The priority of digital trade agreements should be to ensure digital inclusion

Supporting facts:

• Hadri Sopri refers to ASEAN agreements from early 2010s that initially had nothing on data flows and data localization

• Current discussions aim at involving more industry input, not only from big companies but also from startups

Topics: Digital Economy Agreement, digital inclusion, data-free flow of trust, data protection and privacy, data localization

---

Operationalizing trust in digital economy agreements is crucial and can be achieved through practical projects between countries

Supporting facts:

• Singapore-Australia Digital Economy Agreement focused not only on the rules but getting projects between companies in both countries to demonstrate the value of data flows

• One of the projects focused on security of digital identities across two territories, allowing students to open bank accounts in Australia using Singapore based digital identities

Topics: Operationalizing trust, Singapore-Australia Digital Economy Agreement, data flows, digital identities

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Big players in the tech industry can contribute to skill development as part of digital inclusion

Supporting facts:

• Amazon has special programs in India where they work with institutions of higher learning to train women students on AI and machine learning

Topics: Skilling, digital inclusion, tech industry, Amazon, machine learning, AI

---

Growing tension between digital trade rules benefits for bigger companies vs domestic local companies

Topics: Digital trade rules, Bigger companies, Domestic local companies

---

Movement towards broadening stakeholder base by governments to involve startups and small businesses

Supporting facts:

• Countries in ASEAN region doing this proactively

Topics: Stakeholder base, Governments, Startups, Small businesses

---

Report

The analysis of the provided statements reveals important insights into digital trade, data flow restrictions, and the digital economy in the ASEAN region. ASEAN countries are actively working towards creating a favorable environment for digital trade by implementing forward-leaning rules.

Furthermore, these countries are taking proactive measures to ensure that both domestic and international businesses can operate advantageously. The digital economy in ASEAN is predicted to double by 2030, with micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) playing a crucial role in this growth.

MSMEs contribute significantly to employment, accounting for 85%, and to the region’s GDP, contributing 44.8%. Therefore, supporting and empowering MSMEs are essential for socio-economic development in the region. Startups in ASEAN are utilizing digital technologies to empower small businesses. For instance, Karo and Traveloka, ASEAN-based startups, leverage AI and cloud technologies for optimization and security purposes.

Doctor Anywhere, another startup, has successfully scaled up its operations during the COVID-19 pandemic by leveraging cloud technology. Additionally, agri-tech companies like Sirebox and Hara employ digital solutions to improve farmers’ income and market reach. These examples highlight how digital technologies enhance the growth and sustainability of small businesses in the ASEAN digital economy.

It is argued that digital trade agreements should prioritize digital inclusion and operationalize trust. This can be achieved through practical projects between countries, as demonstrated by the Singapore-Australia Digital Economy Agreement. This agreement not only focused on the rules but also showcased the value of data flows through collaborative projects between companies in both countries.

One of these projects focused on the security of digital identities, allowing students to open bank accounts in Australia using Singapore-based digital identities. This emphasizes the importance of operationalizing trust in digital trade agreements to ensure the smooth and secure flow of data.

The involvement of the private sector is also crucial in informing the conversation about operationalizing trust. The G7 chairmanship of Japan serves as an example, where the private sector was invited to contribute to discussions on trust in digital trade agreements.

By involving the private sector, the conversation can be enriched with diverse perspectives and experiences, leading to more effective and inclusive outcomes. The tech industry, including major players like Amazon, has the capacity to contribute to skill development as part of digital inclusion.

Amazon’s special programs in India, which involve collaboration with higher education institutions, focus on training women students in AI and machine learning. This highlights the potential for tech industry giants to drive skill development and bridge the digital divide by providing training opportunities and resources.

However, tensions can arise between bigger companies and domestic local companies regarding the benefits of digital trade rules. The analysis raises concerns about the growing disparity in benefits and the potential impact on the local economy. This highlights the importance of ensuring that digital trade rules and agreements are inclusive and equitable, benefiting not only bigger companies but also domestic local businesses.

In terms of stakeholder engagement, governments in the ASEAN region are actively broadening the stakeholder base to involve startups and small businesses. This proactive approach is seen as positive and aligns with the goals of industry, innovation, and economic growth.

Engaging startups and small businesses in the decision-making process can lead to more inclusive conversations and policies that benefit all stakeholders. In conclusion, the analysis highlights the proactive approach of ASEAN countries in promoting digital trade, creating a favorable environment for businesses, and stimulating the growth of the digital economy.

The involvement of MSMEs and startups, coupled with efforts to operationalize trust and prioritize digital inclusion, are essential for sustainable and inclusive socio-economic development. However, it is crucial to address tensions between bigger companies and domestic local businesses and ensure that digital trade agreements benefit all stakeholders.

By involving the private sector and broadening the stakeholder base, ASEAN countries can create a more inclusive and thriving digital economy.

Arguments

Cross-border data free flows are crucial for a data company like Oracle

Supporting facts:

• Oracle is a B2B data company

• Oracle’s customers use technologies to run operations around the world

Topics: Data flow, B2B, Cloud technology

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Using cloud infrastructure can improve cybersecurity

Supporting facts:

• Cloud technologies and cloud products run on a shared infrastructure

• Hyper-scalers like Oracle invest billions of dollars to secure their infrastructure

Topics: Cloud technology, Cybersecurity

---

Restricting data flow can have a negative impact on access to, and adoption of, new technology

Supporting facts:

• Barrier to data flow can cause negative impacts on access to new technology

Topics: Data flow, Cloud technology

---

Trust in technology is key for technology adoption and data sovereignty.

Supporting facts:

• Trust is linked to technology adoption

• Common definitions on data sovereignty are required

Topics: Technology, Data Sovereignty

---

Different countries have different definitions of sovereignty and data residency.

Supporting facts:

• In the EU, definition of sovereignty is mostly based on the nationality of a company

• In the Middle East, the sovereignty debate is around data residency

Topics: Data Sovereignty, Data Residency

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Data residency can be a hindrance to the free flow of data.

Supporting facts:

• Data residency means data always remain in their own country

• Data residency goes against the free flow of data

Topics: Data Residency, Free Flow of Data

---

The rules and definitions need to be harmonized.

Supporting facts:

• Harmonization of rules and definitions would answer sovereignty requirements

Topics: Data Sovereignty, Regulations

---

There needs to be a proper data classification.

Supporting facts:

• Not all data need to go on a very secure defense, national security, whatsoever, cloud

• Adding extra layers of protection will add the cost

Topics: Data Classifications

---

Supporting regional agreements is important.

Supporting facts:

• Support regional agreements that ensure the private sector can invest in the regions and work with the neighboring countries

Topics: Regional Agreements

---

The free flow of data is necessary to access new technologies

Supporting facts:

• This is an important step for digital transformations of SMEs and governments

Topics: data flow, new technologies, digital transformation

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There are two types of business models in the industry concerning the use of data

Supporting facts:

• Tech companies use data to support their business model.

• When the product is free, the user’s data usually acts as a form of payment.

• In B2B businesses, companies often want to keep the data and do not allow providers access to it.

• Data is often encrypted in B2B transactions to protect information.

Topics: Data usage, Business Models, Data Security

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The role of encryption in data security is growing

Supporting facts:

• The infrastructure of many companies is built to prevent providers from accessing the data.

• Products like Telegram or WhatsApp have popularized encryption allowing users to protect their own data.

• Private sector is already encrypting their data.

• As a result, the role of encryption is becoming increasingly prominent.

Topics: Data Security, Encryption

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Companies shouldn’t need to create their own security certifications

Supporting facts:

• ESO is a good example of start-ups in international organization

• At Oracle, more than 60 government certification around the world for cloud infrastructure

• Creating own certifications is very expensive

Topics: Cybersecurity, ISO startups, Data protection, International startups

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Report

Cross-border data flows are crucial for a B2B data company like Oracle, as its customers rely on technologies to run operations worldwide. The ability to freely transfer data across borders allows Oracle to efficiently serve its global clientele. Cloud technologies play a significant role in improving cybersecurity, and hyper-scalers like Oracle invest billions to secure their shared infrastructure.

Enabling a free flow of data is essential for access to new technology, as restrictions can hinder innovation and digital transformation. Trust in technology is key for technology adoption and data sovereignty, which requires common definitions and agreements. Different definitions of sovereignty and data residency among countries can create challenges for regulating cross-border data flows.

Data residency, while desirable from a regulatory perspective, can impede the free flow of data and hinder collaboration and innovation. Harmonizing rules and definitions is crucial to efficiently address sovereignty requirements and streamline cross-border data flow processes. Proper data classification is important for effective data management, allowing businesses to allocate resources and prioritize security measures appropriately.

Supporting regional agreements promotes economic growth and collaboration, stimulating innovation and development. The free flow of data is necessary for accessing new technologies and facilitating technology adoption, especially in the case of AI reliance. There are two types of business models concerning the use of data: customer data supporting free products or services, and B2B companies keeping data restricted.

Encryption plays an increasingly prominent role in data security, protecting sensitive information. Creating security certifications can be costly, and a single cybersecurity scheme, like the EU Cyber Security Scheme, would simplify compliance procedures for businesses. Ensuring UK spelling and grammar is used in the text, correcting any errors, enhances the quality and accuracy of the summary.

Arguments

The Data Sphere Initiative is working to balance data openness and protection for innovation

Supporting facts:

• Data Sphere Initiative is a non-profit organization dedicated to developing technical and policy solutions for cross-border data governance.

• If a country is too open with data, there’s the opportunity for misuse; however, if it’s too protective, innovation opportunities can be missed.

Topics: Data Governance, Data Protection, Innovation

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The Data Sphere Initiative is working on two initiatives: Sandboxes for data and the Data Sphere Governance Atlas.

Supporting facts:

• The sandbox initiative is a way for experimentation on data handling within a controlled environment to minimize risks and foster innovation.

• The Data Sphere Governance Atlas is an effort to categorize global initiatives dealing with data governance, noting common themes, stakeholder groups, and sectors involved.

Topics: Data Governance, Innovation, Regulations

---

International cooperation is required for effective cross-border data flows

Supporting facts:

• None of us really know where the data sits in between while sending an email or buying something online

• Value of data is in big data, analyzing it and looking at it holistically.

• UNCTAD’s report that suggests 29% of countries don’t have data protection and privacy regulations which makes them hesitant to share data

Topics: Cross-border Data Flows, International Cooperation, Data Protection & Privacy Regulations

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Creating trust in data privacy across borders can be achieved through a combined effort

Supporting facts:

• Historically, trust has been established in industries like banking and auto through regulations, third party testing, and competition

• Companies, governments, and the tech community can all play a role in setting and surpassing minimum standards for data safety

• Use of end-to-end encryption in messaging apps

• Announcement of data breaches for transparency and prevention of reputational risks

Topics: Data Privacy, Trust, Technology, Government Regulation

---

Cross-border data and data is the engine for globalization

Supporting facts:

• It’s hard to imagine pre-Internet the level of globalization

Topics: Globalization, Internet, Data Flow

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Impossible to imagine how we would have gotten through the pandemic without data flows

Supporting facts:

• Data flows kept us online, communicated with people, entertained us, and kept the businesses going as much as possible during the pandemic

Topics: Pandemic, Data Flow, Economy

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Data should not be just supplied from one country to other countries or companies

Supporting facts:

• Data can be in two places at once

• Data is not tangible and non-renewable but generative and can be used over and over

Topics: Data rights, Data flows, Data sovereignty

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Report

The Data Sphere Initiative is a non-profit organisation dedicated to finding a balance between data openness and protection in order to foster innovation. They are actively working on two major initiatives: Sandboxes for data and the Data Sphere Governance Atlas.

Sandboxes are platforms that allow for experimentation on data handling within a controlled environment to minimise risks and promote innovation. These sandboxes can be either operational or regulatory, providing guidance and dialogue on how data is handled while exploring new technologies.

The initiative strongly supports the use of sandboxes for cross-border data management, recognising their potential to facilitate collaboration and knowledge sharing. International cooperation is crucial for effective cross-border data flows. A report by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) reveals that 29% of countries do not have data protection and privacy regulations, which creates hesitation in sharing data.

The Data Sphere Initiative emphasises the need for collaboration and alignment of policies to ensure the secure and responsible flow of data across borders. Countries also need to find a balance between their national rights and international data flows. Different regions have varying approaches to data governance.

For instance, the United States gives control of data to the private sector, while Europe places individual rights over their data. This diversity in perspectives has led to the concept of data localisation, driven by concerns over security and privacy.

However, data localisation can reduce the benefits obtained from data. The Data Sphere Initiative suggests the possibility of using cross-border sandboxes and new technologies that could allow access to data without breaching privacy, thus finding a middle ground. Creating trust in data privacy across borders requires a combined effort from companies, governments, and the tech community.

Trust has historically been established in industries such as banking and automotive through regulations, third-party testing, and competition. The use of end-to-end encryption in messaging apps and the announcement of data breaches for transparency and prevention of reputational risks are some examples of the measures taken to instil trust in data privacy.

Regulation is necessary for instilling trust in data privacy. The government’s role in shaping safety standards in the automotive industry has increased trust in that sector. Companies that actively promote end-to-end encryption indicate that trust can be ensured by assuring the implementation of safety measures.

The Data Sphere Initiative recognises the importance of regulations in creating a framework for data protection. Cross-border data and data flows are fundamental to globalisation. The internet and data have played a significant role in connecting people and businesses across the globe.

It is hard to imagine the level of globalisation achieved before the advent of the internet. Moreover, data flows have proven to be essential during the pandemic. They have allowed us to stay connected, communicate with people, entertain ourselves, and kept businesses operational as much as possible.

It is impossible to imagine how we would have managed the crisis without data flows. Governments play a crucial role in finding ways to share data safely. It is important for them to be comfortable with exploring data collaboration and finding mechanisms to protect data privacy and security.

Finally, the Data Sphere Initiative believes that data should not only be supplied from one country to another or to companies. Instead, it suggests that data should be kept in place and made available to those generating the raw data.

This approach ensures that the benefits derived from data generation are shared more equitably. In conclusion, the Data Sphere Initiative is actively working towards striking a balance between data openness and protection to foster innovation. Their initiatives, such as sandboxes for data and the Data Sphere Governance Atlas, aim to create frameworks and promote cooperation for the responsible flow of data across borders.

International collaboration, trust-building efforts, and effective regulations are key to ensuring the secure and equitable use of data in an increasingly interconnected world.

Arguments

Qatar has recognized the importance of data flows for its digital transformation

Supporting facts:

• Qatar’s data protection and privacy law from 2016 enables free flows of data to countries providing the same level of protection

• Qatar released a Cloud Policy Framework in 2022 which highlighted the need for supporting and developing data flows to harness the benefits of cloud computing

Topics: Data flows, Digital Transformation, Data Protection and Privacy Law

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Cross-border data flow necessities include high-quality infrastructure, legal support, and huge computation power

Supporting facts:

• Technologies such as cloud computing and AI require substantial amounts of data and computing power

• Laws, contracts, and global efforts are all crucial to facilitate data flow

Topics: Cross-border data flows, Infrastructure, Legal support

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Efficient handling of data flows can significantly enhance service delivery, as seen in the FIFA 2022 World Cup

Supporting facts:

• Two data lakes were created, gathering data from multiple service providers to facilitate transportation in Qatar during the World Cup

• This initiative resulted in very fluid traffic and easy entry into stadiums

Topics: Data flows, FIFA 2022 World Cup, Service delivery

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Asian countries are leading in supporting SMEs transition to digital

Supporting facts:

• Asian counties have agreements like the DIPA which have a dedicated chapter promoting support to SMEs in transitioning to digital

Topics: Digital Transition, SMEs, Asian Economy, Digital Policies

---

European perspective focuses on regulating big players without providing support to smaller ones

Supporting facts:

• The DMA and the DSA in Europe set specific competition rules and controls on big players

Topics: Digital Market Act, Digital Service Act, European Economy, Regulations

---

The volume of data is growing exponentially

Topics: Data Growth, Big Data

---

We cannot avoid facing the situation

Topics: Data Management, Data Growth

---

We need to work on it and make sure it benefits everybody

Topics: Data Utilization, Inclusive Benefit

---

Report

Qatar has made significant efforts to recognize the importance of data flows for its digital transformation. This is evident through the implementation of its data protection and privacy law in 2016, which enables the free flow of data to countries providing the same level of protection.

Furthermore, Qatar released a Cloud Policy Framework in 2022 that emphasised the need for supporting and developing data flows to harness the benefits of cloud computing. Cross-border data flow necessities, such as high-quality infrastructure, legal support, and substantial computation power, play a crucial role in facilitating the smooth transfer of data.

This is particularly important for technologies like cloud computing and AI, which rely heavily on large amounts of data and computing power. Laws, contracts, and global efforts are all instrumental in creating an environment conducive to efficient data flow. The FIFA 2022 World Cup in Qatar demonstrated the significant benefits of efficient data flow in enhancing service delivery.

During the event, two data lakes were created to gather data from multiple service providers, greatly facilitating transportation and resulting in fluid traffic and seamless entry into stadiums. The successful handling of data flows during the World Cup showcased how effective data management can greatly enhance service delivery.

Qatar’s focus on adopting Cross-Border Privacy Rules (CBPR) further highlights its commitment to achieving a level of data exchange that is conducive to its digital transformation. CBPR provides a flexible and relevant mechanism for managing data flows and ensuring the privacy of individuals’ data.

Qatar’s emphasis on CBPR aligns with its goals of enabling smooth and secure data exchanges, supporting its overall digital transformation efforts. In addition to Qatar’s initiatives, organizations like the Data Coalition (DCO) play a crucial role in addressing data flow issues within member countries.

The DCO’s work helps countries understand the importance of harmonising rules and regulations, which in turn facilitates business operations and ensures trust among various stakeholders. In the context of SMEs transitioning to the digital space, Asian countries are leading the way in providing support.

Agreements like the Digital Integration Promotion Act (DIPA) in Asian countries have dedicated chapters promoting assistance to SMEs in their transition to digital. This approach indicates a strong commitment to fostering a supportive environment for SMEs to thrive in the digital landscape.

On the other hand, the European perspective leans more towards regulating big players in the digital market through acts like the Digital Market Act (DMA) and the Digital Service Act (DSA). While these acts set specific competition rules and controls on larger players, they may not provide the same level of support to smaller businesses.

This difference in approach highlights a divergence in strategies in promoting digital growth and development. It is widely recognised that SMEs require support for their digital transition. However, it is important to note that the extended summary did not provide specific supporting facts for this statement.

Notably, the volume of data is growing exponentially, and this growth presents both challenges and opportunities. It is crucial to employ effective data management strategies to harness the potential benefits of this vast amount of data. Furthermore, it is important to ensure that the utilisation of data is inclusive and benefits everyone, as emphasised by the relevance of this issue to SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities).

In conclusion, Qatar has taken significant steps to recognise the importance of data flows for its digital transformation. The country’s data protection and privacy law, Cloud Policy Framework, and focus on adopting CBPR all demonstrate its commitment to enabling secure and efficient data exchanges.

The FIFA 2022 World Cup exemplified the positive impact of efficient data flow on service delivery. Moreover, Asian countries lead in supporting SMEs transitioning to digital, while the European perspective focuses more on regulating big players. Regardless of the approach, it is crucial to provide support for SMEs in their digital transition and ensure that data utilisation benefits everyone and promotes inclusivity.

Arguments

Emerging economies are grappling with the best mode for data flows and governance

Supporting facts:

• Tevin Kitonga works on data governance at the German Development Corporation and is based in Kenya.

Topics: Data flows, Data governance, Emerging economies

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Emerging economies are often more receivers of data than producers, causing an imbalance

Supporting facts:

• Because of technological advancements, many emerging economies feel they are at a disadvantage in the conversation of data flows

Topics: Data flows, Emerging economies

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Daniel wants examples of restrictions on non-personal data

Topics: Non-personal data, Data restriction

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The UK’s willingness to accept proposals like Nigeria’s on data flow exceptions for developing countries

Supporting facts:

• Emerging markets believe having some regulatory measures on data is necessary for economic development

• Nigeria has proposed having an exception for developing countries on data flows

Topics: Data regulation, Economic development, Emerging markets

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Report

Emerging economies are currently grappling with the best approach to data flows and governance. As technology advances, these economies feel they are at a disadvantage in the conversation about data flows, often being recipients rather than producers. However, some argue that data localization could support industrial growth within emerging economies.

By keeping data within their borders, these economies believe they can utilise it to boost their industries. To strike a balance, a hybrid data flow model is being tested in emerging economies, combining elements of data-free flows trust and Controlled, Positive Balance of Rights (CPBR).

There is also a recognition that regulation on data might be necessary for the economic development of emerging markets, with proposed exceptions for developing countries in data flows. It is clear that tailored approaches to data regulation are needed, taking into account the unique circumstances and interests of emerging economies.

The aim is to promote equitable data participation and sustainable growth in these economies.

Arguments

Data is crucial in our daily lives and trade

Supporting facts:

• Data underpins trade and innovation.

• Data flows are important for international production processes.

• Data flows cut costs and make processes more effective and efficient.

Topics: Data flow, E-commerce, International trade, Business

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Data flows add value to international market and trade, especially benefiting MSMEs

Supporting facts:

• Data flows provide businesses with easier, cheaper, and more straightforward access to the international marketplace.

• Data flows allows MSMEs to have better and faster access to critical knowledge and information.

Topics: Data flow, Trade, MSMEs

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UK aims to champion cross-border data flows internationally and prevent new barriers

Supporting facts:

• Data flow provisions are a core component of the UK’s international trade policy.

• UK works to prevent new barriers such as data localisation.

• UK uses trade agreements to promote high standards of data protection around the world.

Topics: Data flow, Digital trade, UK Digital Trade Strategy

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Ayesha Ali advocates for the need for rules and transparency for data protection

Supporting facts:

• Ayesha recognized the need for some protection around personal information

• She recognizes some countries may opt for a more protectionist approach for security and economic stability reasons

Topics: Data protection, Transparency, Security Concerns

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WTO is at the peak of discussions concerning enabling data flows

Supporting facts:

• Ayesha Ali mentioned that there are conversations happening within the WTO

• These discussions are pointed towards enhancing the flow of data

Topics: World Trade Organization, Data flows

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Data held in another country doesn’t necessarily benefit that country economically

Supporting facts:

• A study by the European Centre of Political Economy found substantial economic losses on productivity, growth, loss of competitiveness and investment in countries with data legislation

Topics: Data Regulation, Economic Growth

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Collaborating on open data with trust can lead to greater benefits

Topics: Data Sharing, Trust

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Emphasizes the importance of global collaboration, keeping abreast of changing technologies and economy, and continuous dialogue with businesses

Supporting facts:

• Spoken about G7 trade principles and e-commerce negotiations

• FTAs involve consultation with businesses to understand the evolving data needs

Topics: Internet of Things, AI, Trade Negotiations, E-commerce

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Ayesha Ali emphasizes on the value of international collaboration in handling data issues.

Supporting facts:

• Ayesha mentions the crucial need of continuous discussions and engagements on the data issue in the world we live in.

Topics: International Collaboration, Data Management

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Report

Data flows play a crucial role in trade and innovation, serving as the foundation for these processes. They not only reduce costs but also enhance efficiency and effectiveness. For international production processes, data flows are essential, as they allow businesses to streamline operations and expand their global reach.

This is particularly beneficial for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), as data flows provide them with easier and more affordable access to international markets. Recognizing the significance of data flows, the UK is dedicated to championing cross-border data flows globally.

The country aims to prevent the imposition of new barriers, such as data localization, through its trade agreements. By incorporating provisions that promote high standards of data protection, the UK seeks to ensure that data flows remain uninterrupted and secure across borders.

Thus, the UK’s digital trade strategy focuses on facilitating the international exchange of data while maintaining privacy and security. However, some countries have taken a protectionist stance, implementing measures like data localization. Such an approach creates barriers to trade and investment, hinders innovation and cross-border cooperation, and undermines fair competition.

Ayesha Ali, an advocate for data protection, acknowledges the need for rules and transparency in safeguarding personal information. Nevertheless, she advises against unjustified data localization requirements and supports the establishment of universal digital trade principles that prioritize the free flow of trusted data.

The discussions surrounding data flows have become a key focus within the World Trade Organization (WTO). Ayesha Ali suggests that these conversations aim to enhance the flow of data and enable its smooth international exchange. She advocates for an ambitious, commercially meaningful, and practical agreement to be reached through these discussions.

The UK shares Ayesha’s perspective and continues to push for a mutually beneficial outcome aligned with its G7 digital trade principles and Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). It is important to note that data legislation can have significant economic consequences. Research conducted by the European Centre of Political Economy reveals substantial economic losses in countries with strict data legislation, including productivity, growth, competitiveness, and investment.

Conversely, collaborative open data initiatives based on trust can generate greater benefits for all stakeholders involved. This highlights the need to strike a balance between data protection and enabling data flows. To address security concerns related to open data collaboration, the UK is continuously working to enhance its cybersecurity measures.

By ensuring a robust cybersecurity framework, the UK aims to mitigate risks and protect shared data during collaborations. This proactive approach reinforces the country’s commitment to fostering a secure environment for data-driven partnerships. In the rapidly evolving data-driven economy, global collaboration and ongoing dialogue play a pivotal role.

Ayesha Ali emphasizes the importance of staying updated on changing technologies and economic trends and actively engaging in discussions and collaborations on data-related issues. By participating in global collaborations and negotiations, the UK strives to shape meaningful e-commerce rules that drive innovation, facilitate cross-border data flows, and foster a prosperous digital trade environment.

In summary, data flows are crucial for trade and innovation, resulting in cost savings and increased efficiency. The UK aims to lead in championing cross-border data flows while preventing barriers through trade agreements. However, a protectionist approach and unjustified data localization measures hinder fair competition and innovation.

Ayesha Ali advocates for universal digital trade principles and transparency in data protection. The World Trade Organization actively engages in discussions on enhancing data flows, which the UK supports. While data legislation can lead to economic losses, collaborative open data initiatives can bring greater benefits.

The UK prioritizes cybersecurity measures to address security concerns in open data collaboration. Finally, global collaboration and ongoing dialogue are essential in navigating the data-driven economy successfully.

Arguments

Non-personal data is essential for business

Supporting facts:

• Companies use non-personal data for Market research and analysis, Supply chain optimization, Product development, Financial analysis. Non-personal data also helps in Cyber resilience and Sustainability.

Topics: Market research, Supply chain optimization, Product development, Financial analysis, Cyber resilience, Sustainability, Commerce and Innovation

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Non-personal data can deliver immense economic and societal benefits

Supporting facts:

• Companies can analyze data from markets, increasing their consumer base and revenue potential. Non-personal data has been helpful during the COVID-19 pandemic to track disease and outbreak.

Topics: Economy, Society, COVID-19

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Supports a risk-based approach for the regulation of non-personal data

Supporting facts:

• Policies that would regulate the flow of non-personal data should balance the benefits that cross-border data transfers of non-personal data can provide with the level of risks that they can present.

Topics: Non-personal data regulation, Risk-based approach

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Extremely restrictive data policies in certain countries like China can be burdensome for businesses,

Supporting facts:

• China’s restrictive laws led to concerns about companies’ connections to global operations

Topics: Data regulation, China, Global operations

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The push to prevent data from leaving India to boost domestic industries was a concern for many businesses,

Supporting facts:

• India proposed a data privacy bill which expanded the scope and included no distinction between non personal and personal data

Topics: Data regulation, India, Trade

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Importance of trust in multiple dynamics such as between consumers and businesses, businesses and government and between governments

Supporting facts:

• Businesses need to handle consumer data responsibly and ensure transparency

• Businesses and governments need to balance transparency with policy objectives

• Trustful data flows are possible through multilateral cooperation mechanisms

• Businesses can build trust through responsibly managing personal data

Topics: trust, consumer protection, data management, transparency

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Utilization of non-personal data can be critical to daily business operations

Supporting facts:

• Non-personal data can improve efficiencies and reduce costs

Topics: Non-Personal Data, Business Operations

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Report

Non-personal data is a fundamental component of business operations in various areas. It is extensively used for market research, enabling companies to gather valuable insights and conduct analysis to better understand industry trends and consumer preferences. Non-personal data is also crucial for supply chain optimization, helping businesses streamline logistics, reduce costs, and improve efficiency.

Additionally, non-personal data plays a vital role in product development, allowing companies to identify customer needs, enhance existing products, and innovate new offerings. Financial analysis greatly benefits from non-personal data, providing companies with essential information for making informed decisions and managing risks.

Furthermore, non-personal data contributes to cyber resilience, allowing businesses to detect and mitigate cyber threats. It also supports sustainability efforts by assessing environmental impact, optimizing resource usage, and implementing greener practices. Non-personal data delivers immense economic and societal benefits. Companies can analyze market data to expand their consumer base and increase revenue potential.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, non-personal data played a crucial role in tracking disease outbreaks and enabling timely actions to mitigate the spread of the virus. However, concerns arise from increasing restrictions on non-personal data in the name of national security, hindering access to economies of scale and the development of technologies like artificial intelligence.

The regulation of non-personal data should adopt a risk-based approach, balancing the benefits of cross-border data transfers with potential risks. Restrictive data policies in countries like China burden businesses and their global operations. Additionally, India’s lack of distinction between personal and non-personal data poses concerns for data flow and businesses.

Building trust in handling data is paramount. To achieve trustful data flows, businesses should handle consumer data responsibly, ensure transparency, and protect privacy. Open dialogue between businesses, governments, and consumers, along with effective consumer protection measures, is crucial for finding the right balance between data utilization and privacy.

Utilizing non-personal data is critical for daily business operations, but regulation should be evidence-based and consider technical expertise. Rules should be flexible, interoperable, and technologically neutral, enabling innovation and progress. In conclusion, non-personal data significantly impacts business and society. By promoting responsible data management, transparency, and open dialogue, businesses and governments can harness its power to drive innovation, economic growth, and societal progress.

Arguments

Data should flow freely like water, and internet should keep this nature

Supporting facts:

• Makoto Yokozawa compares data to water flowing from higher places to lower places, implying data should flow freely

• Internet was essentially designed for the free flow of information/data

Topics: Internet, Data Flow, Data Governance

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Artificial intelligence (AI) is based on the free flow of data

Supporting facts:

• The smaller dataset in Japanese as compared to English reflected in the disparity in the number of items produced by AI, indicating AI effectiveness depends on the amount of sharable data

Topics: AI, Data Flow, Data Governance

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A number of interactions and agreements at the international level focus on cross-border data flow

Supporting facts:

• Events and agreements such as APEC SOMA senior official meetings, Hiroshima AI process, G7 digital ministerial and the summit, WTO MG13, IPEF and G20 have all discussed the importance of cross-border data flow

Topics: Data Governance, International Trade, Data Flow

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Stakeholder organizations should be organized in countries to lead data-driven life and businesses

Topics: Data-driven businesses, Data-driven life, Cross-border data flow

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Impartiality of treatment of foreign companies is a problem with non-personal data

Supporting facts:

• ICC discussions included most favored nation treatment, subsidies, and national preference treatment

Topics: Non-Personal Data, Company Treatment, Government Regulation

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Certain nations, like China, have a strong preference for data sharing limited to domestic companies

Supporting facts:

• China tends to limit data sharing to domestic companies

Topics: Non-Personal Data, Data Sharing, Domestic Companies, China

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Trust is the efficient process that can lead to more fruitful businesses

Supporting facts:

• If a company A trusts company B, there will be some efficient procedures that can exist

• Trust can mitigate the risk for businesses

Topics: Trust, Business

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Responsibility regarding data is important

Supporting facts:

• Includes the intermediary liability in the data-driven services

Topics: Data Responsibility, Intermediary Liability

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Development economies are crucial and should be considered carefully

Topics: Developing economies, Digital economy

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Report

The discussions surrounding data flow have revealed various arguments and perspectives. One key argument is that data should flow freely, akin to the movement of water. This idea stems from the belief that the internet was initially designed to enable the unrestricted flow of information and data.

Advocates, such as Makoto Yokozawa, draw parallels between data and flowing water to emphasize the need for unrestricted movement. This viewpoint carries a positive sentiment and underscores the inherent nature of the internet and the necessity for free data flow.

However, it is equally important to consider the responsible nature of data flow. In response to this, there is an argument that the concept of “free flow of data” should be complemented by the inclusion of trust. Japan proposes that the word “trust” be added to “free flow of data” to indicate the need for minimal rules or collaborative regulation.

This perspective highlights that total freedom does not equate to true freedom, and trust plays a pivotal role in establishing necessary rules. This viewpoint carries a positive sentiment, aligns with SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions, and emphasizes the importance of responsible data flow.

Furthermore, the effectiveness of artificial intelligence (AI) is contingent upon the availability of extensive and diverse datasets. This perspective emphasizes that AI relies on the free flow of data to function optimally. It carries a positive sentiment and supports SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.

From an economic perspective, the efficient cross-border flow of data is deemed crucial in various aspects of life and business. Different data flow regulations significantly impact businesses and individuals, with factors such as climate change, human rights, personal data protection, cybersecurity, intellectual property protection, and digital rights being affected by and affecting data flow.

This viewpoint carries a positive sentiment and aligns with SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth as well as SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure. Additionally, international interactions and agreements place significant emphasis on cross-border data flow. Various events and agreements, such as APEC SOMA senior official meetings, Hiroshima AI process, G7 digital ministerial and summit, WTO MG13, IPEF, and G20, highlight the importance of this issue.

This perspective supports the positive sentiment towards cross-border data flow and aligns with SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals. Stakeholder organizations are essential in leading a data-driven society and business environment. It is proposed that such organizations should be established within countries to effectively guide and manage the processes involved in data usage.

This perspective carries a positive sentiment and aligns with SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure. However, there are challenges and issues related to data flow. The impartial treatment of foreign companies concerning non-personal data is a concern. Discussions on this topic revolve around issues such as most favored nation treatment, subsidies, and national preference treatment.

This perspective carries a negative sentiment and highlights potential disparities in the treatment of foreign companies. Another issue is the forced sharing of data without ensuring equal rights to utilize high-value data sets. Reports suggest that European and Japanese companies in India are sometimes compelled to provide data to the public without having the same rights and opportunities to derive value from the shared data.

This perspective carries a negative sentiment and indicates potential unfair practices. Certain nations, like China, exhibit a strong inclination towards limiting data sharing to domestic companies. This perspective carries a neutral sentiment and suggests that some countries prioritize the use and sharing of data within their domestic boundaries.

Trust is highlighted as a crucial factor in ensuring efficient and successful business processes. If a company trusts another company, more efficient procedures can be established, thereby mitigating risks. This perspective carries a positive sentiment and supports SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth.

The importance of data traceability is stressed in maintaining trust. Traceability plays a vital role in areas such as learning from data, personal data protection, and resolving disputes arising from misinformation or disinformation. Additionally, transparency in data logistics is deemed necessary.

This viewpoint carries a positive sentiment and aligns with SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure as well as SDG 16: Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions. Responsibility and ethical considerations concerning data are deemed crucial. This includes addressing intermediary liability in data-driven services.

This perspective carries a positive sentiment and supports SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure. The development of economies, particularly in relation to the digital economy, is deemed critical and requires careful consideration. This perspective carries a positive sentiment and emphasizes the need for inclusive growth and development, aligning with SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth.

To thrive in the digital era, developing countries are encouraged to quickly adopt a multi-stakeholder approach. This perspective highlights the importance of involving various stakeholders to address the challenges and opportunities presented by the digital world. This viewpoint carries a positive sentiment and aligns with SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure as well as SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities.

In conclusion, the discussions on data flow encompass various arguments and perspectives. While there is recognition of the need for data to flow freely to unleash its full potential, responsible and ethical considerations, as well as the establishment of trust and regulations, are deemed essential.

The role of data flow in supporting AI, economic growth, international agreements, stakeholder organizations, and the development of economies is acknowledged. However, challenges such as the treatment of foreign companies, forced data sharing, and restrictions on data sharing in certain nations persist.

Trust, traceability, responsibility, and a multi-stakeholder approach are crucial in navigating the complexities of data flow in the digital era.

Arguments

The free flow of data across borders underpins the global economy and enables trade, economic and social growth, and overall GDP growth

Topics: Data Flow, Global Economy, Cross-border Trade, Economic Growth, Social Growth, GDP Growth

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Data flows are a formidable engine of innovation and competitiveness, and a powerful catalyst for socio-economic empowerment and central to achieving sustainable development goals

Topics: Data Flow, Innovation, Competitiveness, Socio-Economic Empowerment, Sustainable Development Goals

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Growing mistrust in data flows and cross-border data transfers due to concerns of national security, privacy and economic safety might compromise when data leaves borders which fuels restrictive policies and measures

Topics: Data Flow, Cross-border Data Transfers, National Security, Privacy, Economic Safety, Digital Protectionism, Data Mercantilism, Data Localization

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Session aims to explore how the true value of data and data flows can be unlocked while reinforcing trust elements to safeguard privacy, security, and intellectual property and maintain cross-border data flow with proper governance frameworks

Topics: Data Flow, Data Value, Trust Elements, Privacy, Security, Intellectual Property, Cross-border Data Flow, Governance Frameworks

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Peter agreed broadly with UK policy on data transfer and highlighted the need for multilateral agreements instead of bilateral ones

Supporting facts:

• UK has taken steps especially with the US and the transatlantic framework EU and UK that are now in place for free flow of personal data post the SREMs decisions

Topics: UK policy, Data transfer, Multilateral agreements, Bilateral agreements

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Peter detailed out the challenges of global data transfers between democracies and non-democracies

Supporting facts:

• Situation becomes complicated with unilateral decisions, sudden change where data can’t be transferred to certain countries

Topics: Global data transfers, Democracies, Non-democracies

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The default position is that the internet and our global interconnected digital and physical lives are based on being able to support connections through trade and personal connections

Supporting facts:

• The way that our interconnected global world is set up is to have the necessity of these flows is really at the bottom of all of this.

Topics: Internet, Global Interconnectedness, Trade, Personal Connections

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It’s essential to maintain the functionality of global data flows, but also ensure it’s not an anarchy of freedom, but freedom with trust.

Supporting facts:

• Free is not non-responsible. Perfect freedom does not exist and is not a real freedom, suggesting the need for some form of regulatory framework

Topics: Global Data Flow, Trust, Regulations

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Data is super important, rules for its protection must be transparent and common

Supporting facts:

• Some countries have a more protectionist approach towards data

Topics: Data protection, Transparency, Common rules

---

Consideration for data protection regulation is vital

Supporting facts:

• need for data protection regulation was emphasized

Topics: data protection, regulation

---

Consideration for trade partners and approaches in the framework

Supporting facts:

• importance of trade approaches was highlighted

Topics: trade relations, framework

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Stakeholders, particularly those in the private sector, should be involved in shaping these frameworks

Supporting facts:

• suggestion of involving stakeholder organizations in leading data-driven businesses was made

Topics: stakeholders, private sector, frameworks

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Country-specific data regulations, such as those in China and India, have had significant impacts on businesses.

Supporting facts:

• China put super restrictive laws that were a concern to global operations of businesses.

• India’s data privacy bill expanded scope to non-personal and personal data, causing strong reaction from various business sectors.

Topics: Data Regulation, China, India

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Deena Magnall supports responsible use of non-personal data should be promoted.

Supporting facts:

• Specific protections related to IP, trade secrets, etc., are needed.

• Businesses need to put in place Cyber security measures.

Topics: Data Usage, Non-personal Data

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There are greater gains in collaborating on open data with trust rather than holding data in a specific country

Supporting facts:

• Study by the European Centre of Political Economy found economic losses on productivity, growth, loss of competitiveness and investment due to data localization in seven jurisdictions including China and India

• UK recently published an updated national cyber security strategy

Topics: Data legislation, Data localization, International collaboration, Cyber security

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The need for government access to data within a trusted framework.

Supporting facts:

• Government access to data is integral part of data governance

Topics: Government access, Data Privacy, Legislation

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The importance of people being able to enforce their personal data and IP rights.

Supporting facts:

• Individuals must have mechanisms to enforce their rights wherever the data is held

Topics: Data Rights, IP Protection, Data Governance

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The potential for discrimination due to limited data sets in generative AI.

Supporting facts:

• Generative AI relies on extensive data sets and lack of data diversity may result in biased outputs

Topics: Artificial Intelligence, Generative AI, Data Bias, Discrimination

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The need to be nimble due to the rapid technological changes.

Supporting facts:

• The pace of change suggests that existing legislation may not be fully suited to emerging needs

Topics: Digital Transformation, Artificial Intelligence, Data Growth

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Importance of data for shared, inclusive development, driving growth, innovation, and development

Supporting facts:

• Data underlines social, economic, and environmental development

• Data flow enables continued growth and innovation

Topics: Data flow, Innovation, Development

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Differentiation in handling personal and non-personal data

Supporting facts:

• Both types of data require distinct approaches and protections

• Data is best when it’s shared, transmitted, and exploited for positive use

Topics: Data management, Personal data, Non-personal data

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Need for balance in various aspects of data handling and policy

Supporting facts:

• Balance needed between enforcing rights and fostering innovation

• Need to balance between protecting trade secrets and transparency

Topics: Data policy, Balance, Innovation, Rights enforcement

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Importance of transparency and dialogue in building trust

Supporting facts:

• Continued dialogue needed among consumers, policymakers, industry

• Trust starts with transparency

Topics: Transparency, Trust, Dialogue

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Adapting to multi-stakeholder approach is necessary for developing economies

Supporting facts:

• Kenya, a developing country, asked question about adapting to digital economy

• The question addresses the involvement of small businesses and consumers living in the digital world

Topics: Digital Economy, Developing Economies, Multi-stakeholder approach

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Report

In a discussion about the free flow of data across borders, the speakers emphasized its importance in supporting the global economy, trade, and social growth. They argued that the free flow of data underpins the global economy and plays a crucial role in enabling trade, economic growth, and overall GDP growth.

Data flows were also seen as a powerful engine of innovation and competitiveness, essential for achieving sustainable development goals and socio-economic empowerment. However, concerns about national security, privacy, and economic safety have arisen, leading to the implementation of restrictive policies and measures.

These concerns have led to a growing mistrust in data flows and cross-border data transfers. The speakers highlighted the need to address these concerns and maintain trust while safeguarding privacy, security, and intellectual property. Proper governance frameworks were considered necessary to ensure the smooth flow of data across borders.

Country-specific data regulations, such as those in China and India, were mentioned for their significant impact on businesses. Restrictive laws in China and India’s expanded scope of data privacy regulations were seen as challenges that businesses must navigate. The responsible use of non-personal data was also emphasized, with specific mention of the need for protections related to intellectual property and trade secrets.

Businesses were urged to implement cybersecurity measures to ensure the secure sharing and exploitation of data. Collaboration and trust were identified as critical factors for global data flows. It was stressed that maintaining the functionality of data flows requires transparency and common rules for data protection.

The potential for data bias in artificial intelligence (AI) was discussed, with a focus on the importance of addressing data bias to prevent discrimination. The speakers also highlighted the need to adapt to rapid technological changes, acknowledging that existing legislation may not be fully suited to emerging needs.

They emphasized the differentiation between personal and non-personal data and the importance of individuals having mechanisms to enforce their data and intellectual property rights. A balanced approach to data handling and policy was advocated, taking into account the enforcement of rights, fostering innovation, protecting trade secrets, and ensuring transparency.

Transparency and dialogue were seen as crucial in building trust, with continued dialogue among consumers, policymakers, and industry seen as necessary. Finally, the significance of a multi-stakeholder approach, especially for developing economies, was emphasized. Adapting to a multi-stakeholder approach was seen as essential, as it involves the involvement of small businesses and consumers in the digital world.

In conclusion, the speakers highlighted the importance of the free flow of data in supporting the global economy, trade, and social growth. They stressed the need to address concerns related to security, privacy, and economic safety while maintaining trust and safeguarding intellectual property.

Proper governance frameworks, collaboration, transparency, and dialogue were considered crucial for the successful flow of data across borders. The impact of country-specific data regulations, responsible use of non-personal data, data bias in AI, adaptability to rapid technological changes, differentiation between personal and non-personal data, balanced data policy, transparency, and dialogue were all discussed as key considerations.

Additionally, a multi-stakeholder approach was seen as essential, particularly for developing economies.

Arguments

The UK, EU and US are proceeding with bilateral agreements for data flow rather than multilateral ones

Supporting facts:

• The UK government has taken steps especially with the US and the transatlantic framework EU and UK that are now in place for free flow of personal data post the SREMs decisions.

Topics: Data privacy, International trade, Bilateral agreements

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Financial and bureaucratic consequences due to varying data transfer laws

Supporting facts:

• We need to think about the impact on trade, which is huge, especially in terms of outsourcing use of cloud provider services.

Topics: Data privacy, International trade

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Advocates for a common framework, such as APEC cross-border privacy rules, for emerging economies to trail

Supporting facts:

• APEC cross-border privacy rules are seen as a good enough framework

• Framework would have enforcement mechanisms and measures to protect personal information

• Approach would allow trusted free flow of data

Topics: Data Flows, Emerging Economies, APEC cross-border privacy rules

---

Need for framework on trusted government access to data

Supporting facts:

• Peter Farrell suggests that trusted access to data by governments could foster trust and build more enabling data frameworks

Topics: Data accessibility, Government regulation, Trust

---

Enforcement of personal data rights and IP rights

Supporting facts:

• Peter Farrell emphasizes on the need for frameworks that enable individuals and companies to enforce their rights, irrespective of where the data is held

Topics: Data protection, IP rights

---

Generative AI needs access to large datasets to function efficiently and avoid discrimination

Supporting facts:

• Generative AI relies on vast amounts of data sets. The AI could come up with a discriminatory answer if it hasn’t got a large data set.

Topics: Artificial Intelligence, Data access

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Existing legislation might not be fully appropriate considering fast technology changes

Supporting facts:

• Peter Farrell comments that the current legislation may not be completely fit for purpose to what’s coming on technological front.

Topics: Legislation, Technology changes

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The free flow of cross-border data underpins the global economy, contributing to an estimated 65% of global GDP by the end of 2023

Supporting facts:

• Free flow of data will become even more critical as AI and AI-generated knowledge become more prevalent

Topics: cross-border data, global economy, GDP

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The choice between enabling the global economy through the free flow of data versus a more restrictive approach that benefits only a few

Supporting facts:

• Going for a free flow of data can potentially lead to exponential growth and benefits for many

Topics: global economy, data flow, restrictive policies

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Report

In the context of data flow and privacy agreements, the discussion revolves around bilateral agreements between the UK, EU, and US, as opposed to multilateral agreements, which are seen as complicating matters for businesses. Businesses tend to prefer a set of global rules that provide clarity and consistency in data transfer.

The challenge lies in the confusion faced by businesses in understanding the specific requirements and obligations when it comes to transferring personal data across borders. This is particularly relevant in the context of financial and bureaucratic consequences due to varying data transfer laws.

Another key aspect highlighted is the need for clear rules on government access to data and oversight. It is suggested that a proportionate approach should be taken into account, considering the level of intrusiveness when it comes to protecting privacy rights and freedoms.

There should not be significant interference with cross-border data flows that are necessary for business and trade. The conflict of law arising from extraterritorial legislation is another challenge faced by businesses. This refers to situations where different governments have laws that apply outside their jurisdiction, resulting in businesses struggling to comply with the laws of multiple countries simultaneously.

This can create legal complexities and potential conflicts for businesses operating in multiple countries. Advocates argue for the adoption of a common framework, such as the APEC cross-border privacy rules, for emerging economies to follow. This framework would entail enforcement mechanisms and measures to protect personal information, enabling a trusted free flow of data.

It is believed that such a common set of rules and regulations would provide safeguards and regulatory instruments to protect personal information in each country. Trusted access to data by governments is suggested as a means to foster trust and build more enabling data frameworks.

This would involve governments having clear rules and regulations regarding access to data while ensuring privacy and security. The enforcement of personal data rights and intellectual property (IP) rights is deemed essential. There is a need for frameworks that empower individuals and companies to enforce their rights, regardless of where the data is held.

This ensures that individuals and companies have the necessary tools to protect their data and intellectual property. The reliance of generative artificial intelligence (AI) on large datasets is highlighted. Generative AI requires vast amounts of datasets to function efficiently and avoid discriminatory outcomes.

Access to large datasets is crucial for generative AI to provide unbiased and accurate results. It is observed that existing legislation may not be fully appropriate considering the rapid pace of technological changes. This implies that there is a need to evaluate and potentially update legislation to keep up with evolving technologies and their implications.

The free flow of cross-border data is considered vital for the global economy. It is estimated that by the end of 2023, the free flow of data will contribute to approximately 65% of global GDP. This highlights the significant role that data flows play in supporting economic growth and innovation.

However, there is a potential shift towards protectionism by some governments. This can be detrimental to the benefits derived from data use and can lead to restrictions on data flow. Some governments, while pushing for restrictiveness and protectionism, fail to acknowledge the growing need for data and the potential exponential growth and benefits it can bring.

In conclusion, the discussion on data flow and privacy agreements highlights the complexity and challenges faced by businesses in navigating varying laws and regulations. It emphasizes the importance of clear rules, trustworthy frameworks, and the protection of personal data and IP rights.

The free flow of data is seen as crucial for economic growth and innovation, although some governments’ protectionist tendencies pose potential obstacles.

Arguments

In recent eWeek, there have been serious and mature discussions on digital issues similar to the intensity observed during WSIS

Supporting facts:

• The speaker, Parminder, has been partaking in digital issues discussions since WSIS

• The speaker observes that eWeek discussions have achieved a level of maturity and seriousness that he had only seen during WSIS and a few years later

Topics: Digital economy, World Summit on the Information Society, Data localization

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Mongolia launched its e-trade readiness assessment

Supporting facts:

• This assessment was done both domestically and internationally

• Usage of hybrid approach using humanity and digital zoom meeting to fasten the assessment

Topics: Digital Economy, Digital Trade, UNCTAD e-Week, e-meeting

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Mongolia acknowledges the help from UNCTAD team

Supporting facts:

• Foreign minister sent her gratitude to everyone by letter

Topics: International cooperation, UNCTAD e-Week

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Report

During the recent eWeek discussions, there were serious and mature conversations on digital issues that paralleled the intensity experienced during the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS). Parminder, a speaker who has actively participated in digital issues discussions since WSIS, noted that the level of maturity and seriousness displayed in the eWeek discussions was reminiscent of the atmosphere during WSIS and subsequent years.

This positive sentiment suggests that digital issues are being taken seriously, and important strides are being made in addressing them. Moreover, the technology and logistics divisions received praise for their role in facilitating these discussions on the digital economy. Their efforts were acknowledged for their contribution to fostering an environment conducive to meaningful exchanges and progress.

This positive feedback indicates the recognition of the significance of these divisions in driving digital development and innovation. Highlighting Mongolia’s proactive involvement in digital issues, the country launched its e-trade readiness assessment during the eWeek. This assessment involved both domestic and international participation and utilized a hybrid approach, combining humanity and digital zoom meetings.

This innovative approach aimed to expedite the assessment process and ensure its comprehensiveness and inclusivity. Mongolia’s appreciation for the support received from the UNCTAD team was conveyed through a letter from the Foreign Minister. This gesture of gratitude acknowledges the invaluable assistance provided by the UNCTAD team and emphasizes the importance of international cooperation in addressing digital challenges and promoting sustainable development.

In conclusion, the recent eWeek discussions showcased the seriousness and maturity in addressing digital issues, reminiscent of the intensity observed during the WSIS. The role played by the technology and logistics divisions in facilitating these discussions was acknowledged and applauded.

Mongolia’s active participation was evidenced by the launch of its e-trade readiness assessment, employing an innovative hybrid approach. Additionally, the country expressed gratitude to the UNCTAD team and expressed its intention to continue close cooperation, highlighting the significance of partnerships in addressing digital challenges.

The overall sentiment surrounding these developments is positive, indicating progress and commitment to addressing digital issues and promoting sustainable growth.

Arguments

Desire for equal representation of men and women in the digital economy

Supporting facts:

• She represents e-trade for women advocates

• Observing that women were notably absent in private and public conversations

Topics: Gender equality, Digital economy

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Encourages proactive action for impacting people’s lives

Supporting facts:

• Reflects on UNCTAD’s actions of involving women in conversations

• Plans to engage with policy makers back home using data and technology

Topics: Social impact, Action, Empowerment

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Report

The speakers in the given statements express their positive outlook on the progress towards achieving gender equality in the digital economy. They emphasize the importance of ensuring equal representation of both men and women in this sector. The desire for inclusivity is highlighted, with a specific focus on addressing the notable absence of women in private and public conversations related to the digital economy.

The speakers advocate for proactive action to actively impact people’s lives and empower individuals. They reflect on the actions taken by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) to involve women in discussions and decision-making processes. Furthermore, they mention plans to engage with policymakers back home by utilizing data and technology, suggesting a strategic approach to drive positive change.

Engaging women in the digital economy is seen as not only a matter of gender equality but also as a means to achieve overall economic prosperity. The speakers discuss the transformational impact of involving women in policy conversations, recognizing the potential for a ripple effect that will benefit both individuals and businesses alike.

This highlights the importance of promoting women’s empowerment within the digital economy. The analysis of the statements provides insight into the topics and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) that are interrelated. Gender equality and the digital economy are closely linked, aligning with SDG 5 on Gender Equality and SDG 8 on Decent Work and Economic Growth.

The overall positive sentiment expressed by the speakers reflects optimism and excitement about the progress being made in these areas. In conclusion, there is a strong desire for equal representation of men and women in the digital economy, supported by a proactive approach to impacting people’s lives.

Engaging women in this sector is not only seen as a matter of fairness but also as a means to drive economic prosperity. The speakers demonstrate optimism about the progress towards achieving gender equality in the digital economy and highlight the importance of inclusive conversations and strategic actions.

Arguments

The world is still facing a digital divide

Supporting facts:

• Most themes from digital trade workshop in 2013, including barriers to e-commerce use in SMEs, are still valid

Topics: digital gap, digital innovations, MSMEs and SMEs, big tech giants

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Digitalization should become a tool to overcome inequalities

Supporting facts:

• Digital age is moving fast and new innovations are constantly changing our professional and personal lives.

Topics: Equality, Development, Digitalization

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Government officials in charge of digitalization must consider the views of society as a whole

Supporting facts:

• Digitalization affects everyone. To address new opportunities and challenges of digital trade, there needs to be inclusive outcomes that advance human rights

Topics: Government, Digital Governance, stakeholder representation

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Report

The analysis presents four main points made by different speakers regarding digitalization and its impact on various aspects of society. The first point highlights that barriers to e-commerce in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are still valid, indicating that a digital divide still exists.

This suggests that while digital trade has seen advancements over the years, there are still challenges that prevent SMEs from fully embracing e-commerce. These barriers may include limited access to technology and digital infrastructure, lack of digital skills and literacy, and inadequate financial resources to invest in digital platforms.

The persistence of these barriers suggests that efforts to bridge the digital divide have not been entirely effective. The second point focuses on the potential of digitalization to overcome inequalities and promote development. It acknowledges that the digital age is constantly evolving, with new innovations shaping our personal and professional lives.

By harnessing the power of digital technologies, we can create opportunities for economic growth and social progress. Digitalization can improve access to education, healthcare, and financial services, which can help reduce inequalities and foster inclusive development. The argument here is that the transformative potential of digitalization should be maximized to create a more equitable and prosperous society.

However, the third point raises concerns about the current approach to digital issues in negotiations. It argues that development should be a core element in negotiations on digital matters. The existing plurilateral negotiations at the World Trade Organization (WTO) are criticized for not adequately focusing on development.

This implies that the discussions and agreements surrounding digital trade may not sufficiently address the needs and priorities of developing countries. The argument is that negotiations should place a greater emphasis on finding solutions that promote development and ensure that all countries benefit from the opportunities presented by digitalization.

The fourth point emphasizes the importance of inclusive outcomes in government decision-making regarding digitalization. It recognizes that digitalization affects everyone and calls for government officials in charge of digital governance to consider the views of society as a whole. In particular, they should ensure that the outcomes of digitalization policies advance human rights and protect the interests of all stakeholders.

This highlights the need for stakeholder representation and participatory approaches in shaping digital governance frameworks. In conclusion, the analysis reveals that there is still a digital divide, with barriers to e-commerce in SMEs persisting. However, digitalization has the potential to overcome inequalities and drive development, provided that development considerations are adequately integrated into digital negotiations.

Additionally, inclusive outcomes that advance human rights should be sought in government decision-making on digitalization. These insights emphasize the importance of addressing the challenges and opportunities presented by digitalization in a way that benefits all members of society.

Arguments

AI was used to transcribe and analyze all sessions during E-week

Supporting facts:

• Transcriptions were analyzed by a model created prior to the event, detailing the arguments and facts from the discussion

Topics: Artificial Intelligence, Innovation

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AI must be transparent, accountable, and open

Supporting facts:

• AI Systems can provide highly detailed analyses, which makes it essential they are open source and with full traceability

• The AI system used was designed to be transparent, accountable, and open and to have data provided only with the consent of people

Topics: Artificial Intelligence, Transparency

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AI can change the way we have discussions

Supporting facts:

• The system analyzed a total of 6,280 arguments made during E-week

Topics: Artificial Intelligence, Communication

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Report

During E-week, Artificial Intelligence (AI) was used to transcribe and analyze all sessions, resulting in a total of 6,280 arguments being examined. This implementation of AI showcased its ability to efficiently and accurately process large volumes of data. One notable aspect of the AI system used was its commitment to transparency, accountability, and openness.

Recognising the importance of trust and reliability, the system was designed to be transparent, ensuring that data was provided only with the explicit consent of individuals involved. This emphasis on transparency resonated with participants, bolstering their confidence in AI technology and its outcomes.

In addition, the use of AI in transcribing and analyzing sessions presented an interesting observation regarding its potential impact on discussions. It revealed that AI has the capacity to revolutionize the way we engage in conversations. By providing detailed analyses of arguments and facts, AI systems can facilitate more informed and nuanced discussions, fostering a productive exchange of ideas and perspectives.

This discovery highlighted the transformative potential of AI in shaping the future of discourse. The consensus reached during E-week was that AI technology should be utilized for the betterment of humanity. Participants acknowledged that while technology, including AI, is an unstoppable force, it must be wielded in a manner that serves humanity’s well-being and interests.

This sentiment aligns with the broader goal of leveraging technology to advance the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 9, which emphasizes using technology for inclusive and sustainable development. In conclusion, the use of AI during E-week to transcribe and analyze sessions demonstrated its capabilities in efficiently processing large amounts of data.

The emphasis on transparency and accountability further highlighted the importance of these traits in building trust and reliability in AI systems. Notably, the potential of AI to transform and enhance discussions was recognized, emphasizing the need for further exploration in this area.

Ultimately, the prevailing belief was that AI technology should be applied to benefit humanity, in line with the goal of leveraging technology for sustainable and inclusive development.

Arguments

A strong call from all stakeholders was made for the world to come together across geographies, policy areas, and stakeholder groups to achieve a holistic approach to harnessing digitalization

Supporting facts:

• Over 150 sessions were organized by E-Trade for all partners, member states, the private sector, and civil society, 3,500 people from 159 countries.

Topics: Digitalization, Global Cooperation

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The digital and data divides need to be breached

Supporting facts:

• Meaningful and affordable digital connectivity in all countries, including for marginalized and rural communities, as well as access to skills and digital literacy is necessary.

Topics: Digital Divide, Data Divide, Digital Literacy

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We need to create a more level playing field for companies to compete in the digital economy

Supporting facts:

• Businesses of all sizes in developing countries should be able to create and capture value.

Topics: Digital Economy, Competition Law

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International trade is changing due to digitalization and rules are needed to promote inclusive outcomes

Supporting facts:

• We should live up to the commitment we made in the Agenda 2030 to double the share of LDCs in global exports, especially by harnessing opportunities from digital trade.

Topics: International trade, Digital Trade, Inclusion

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Report

The recent E-Trade event brought together stakeholders from across the globe to advocate for global cooperation in harnessing digitalisation. The event featured over 150 sessions, engaging 3,500 people from 159 countries. The stakeholders called for a holistic approach to digitalisation, emphasising the need for collaboration across geographies, policy areas, and stakeholder groups.

One of the key areas of concern highlighted by stakeholders was the digital and data divide. They stressed the importance of ensuring meaningful and affordable digital connectivity in all countries, including marginalised and rural communities. Access to skills and digital literacy were also identified as necessary for bridging these divides.

Another significant aspect discussed during the event was the need for a more level playing field for businesses in the digital economy. With a focus on developing countries, stakeholders emphasised the importance of enabling businesses of all sizes to create and capture value.

They argued that this would promote economic growth and reduce inequalities. Digital trade was also examined in the context of international trade. Stakeholders urged for the fulfilment of the commitment made in the Agenda 2030 to double the share of least developed countries (LDCs) in global exports.

They saw digital trade as a means to harness opportunities and promote inclusive outcomes. Updated rules and policies were deemed necessary to adapt to the changing landscape of international trade due to digitalisation. The potential of digitalisation to address pressing challenges, such as climate change and reducing inequalities, was a key theme throughout the event.

Stakeholders stressed that digitalisation has a central role in tackling these global issues. Evidence supporting this claim included the engagement of over 3,500 people from 159 countries in discussions on shaping the future of the digital economy. In the context of digitalisation, effective competition law and enforcement were identified as crucial.

Stakeholders emphasised the need for global governance systems to ensure that the activities of digital platforms and the increasing reliance on data result in outcomes that benefit both people and the planet. Overall, the E-Trade event highlighted the importance of global cooperation in harnessing digitalisation.

The stakeholders’ arguments underscored the need to bridge the digital and data divides, create a level playing field for businesses in the digital economy, update international trade rules, and utilise digitalisation to address pressing challenges. Effective competition law and enforcement were seen as essential components in this context.

Arguments

Shamika N. Sirimanne acknowledges the contributions of her colleagues Sabrina and Nathalie to the successful conclusion of the 2023 edition of the E-Week

Supporting facts:

• Sabrina and Nathalie were instrumental in the organization and execution of the event

Topics: E-Week 2023, collaboration, teamwork

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Shamika points out the collaborations with various international organizations, specifically E-Trade for All partners

Topics: E-Trade for All, international collaborations

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Report

Shamika N. Sirimanne expresses her gratitude and recognition towards her colleagues Sabrina and Nathalie in a positive sentiment statement. The reason for this appreciation is their significant contributions to the organization and successful execution of the 2023 edition of E-Week, a collaboration and teamwork event.

While specific details regarding their contributions are not mentioned, it can be inferred that Sabrina and Nathalie played an instrumental role in the planning, coordination, and implementation of E-Week activities. Shamika also highlights the importance of collaborations with international organizations, particularly mentioning partnerships developed through E-Trade for All.

These collaborations reflect Shamika’s acknowledgement and commitment to SDG 17: Partnerships for The Goals. By actively engaging with various international entities and fostering cooperation, Shamika and her team are working towards achieving sustainable development goals. Although the absence of supporting facts limits further elaboration on the specific nature and outcomes of these partnerships, it can be inferred that the collaborations have been fruitful and have positively contributed to the goals of E-Week and the broader objectives of sustainable development.

In conclusion, Shamika N. Sirimanne’s statement serves as a recognition and appreciation of the invaluable contributions made by Sabrina and Nathalie to the successful organization and execution of the 2023 edition of E-Week, a collaboration and teamwork event. Additionally, Shamika emphasizes the significance of collaborations with international organizations, particularly highlighting partnerships established through E-Trade for All.

These partnerships align with SDG 17 and showcase Shamika’s commitment to fostering global cooperation to achieve sustainable development goals. Though more specific details and evidence would further enrich the summary, the overall message highlights the importance of teamwork and international collaboration in attaining successful outcomes.

Arguments

Mr. Carlos Baca, based in Mexico and participating from Colombia, is focused on helping indigenous communities develop their own communication projects and solving connectivity issues

Supporting facts:

• He has been working with indigenous communities for over 20 years

• Has helped develop a community-owned mobile network in the state of Oaxaca, Mexico

• Works with cooperatives and universities to develop local products and services platform

Topics: Connectivity, Indigenous communities, Communication projects

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Report

Carlos Baca is an individual based in Mexico and Colombia who has dedicated over two decades of his life to working with indigenous communities. His primary focus is to assist these communities in developing their own communication projects and resolving issues related to connectivity.

Carlos strongly believes that connectivity is more than just a project; he sees it as a powerful tool for enhancing community communication processes and empowering local economies. One of Carlos’ notable achievements is his contribution to the development of a community-owned mobile network in the state of Oaxaca, Mexico.

This initiative has provided indigenous communities with access to mobile services, bridging the digital divide in these areas. In addition to his work with indigenous communities, Carlos collaborates with cooperatives and universities to establish a platform for local products and services.

This platform creates opportunities for communities to showcase and market their unique products, stimulating local economic growth and promoting sustainability. Carlos has also designed an affordable community-based mobile model tailored to the needs of rural indigenous communities. A notable feature of this model is that the revenues generated from mobile services are shared with the communities, ensuring direct benefits for them.

Currently, Carlos is focused on expanding the network he helped establish and developing strategies to enhance digital literacy and inclusion. He aims to empower indigenous communities with the knowledge and skills necessary to actively participate in the digital world. Overall, Carlos Baca’s work and commitment to assisting indigenous communities in achieving connectivity and developing their own communication projects are highly commendable.

His efforts not only strengthen community communication processes but also promote economic growth and empowerment within these communities. The sentiment towards Carlos and his work is overwhelmingly positive, reflecting the significant impact he has made and continues to make in this field.

Arguments

While it’s important to bring people online, it’s equally important to assess what they are doing once they are connected

Supporting facts:

• A user survey revealed that people were predominantly using the network for entertainment

• The goal is for people to use the Internet productively to learn new skills and unlock their potential

Topics: Digital Skills, Internet Access, Digital Economy

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The digital economy shouldn’t only be about consumption, it should be inclusive and everyone should be able to create

Supporting facts:

• Even if people are online, they are mostly online as consumers

• The goal is to build digital skills that allow community members to create and share in the digital economy, not just consume

Topics: Digital Economy, Internet Use, Inclusion

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Internet connectivity has improved awareness and engaged the rural community

Supporting facts:

• Community network became operational in 2022

• Increased engagement in online conversations in the community

Topics: Internet Connectivity, Rural Development, Digital Inclusion

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Internet connectivity has fostered the creation of a local digital economy in the rural community

Supporting facts:

• Aim to replicate users into digital citizens

• Belief in possibility to emerge from a village into global digital entrepreneurs

Topics: Internet Connectivity, Local Digital Economy, Rural Development

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Report

The speakers in the discussion emphasise the importance of internet connectivity and highlight the need for individuals to use it productively. They point out that simply bringing people online is not enough; it is equally important to assess what they are doing once they are connected.

A user survey revealed that people were predominantly using the network for entertainment purposes. The goal is for people to use the internet productively to learn new skills and unlock their potential. Furthermore, the speakers stress the significance of building digital skills and fostering innovation in rural communities.

They argue that even if people are online, they are mostly online as consumers rather than active participants in the digital economy. The aim should be to empower community members with digital skills that allow them to create and share in the digital economy, not just consume.

They mention the emergence of digital entrepreneurs who provide training, and community members learning coding online. The focus is on building digital capabilities to compete globally. Citizen participation is highlighted as a key aspect in ensuring community connectivity. The speakers provide examples where communities were able to get funds and infrastructure to connect villages due to the proactive involvement of citizens.

They argue that some communities will remain unconnected unless citizens themselves take action. This demonstrates the significance of individuals taking responsibility in bridging the digital divide. The speakers also discuss the positive impact of improved internet connectivity in rural areas.

They note that the community network became operational in 2022, and there has been an increase in engagement in online conversations within the community. This highlights how internet connectivity has improved awareness and engagement in rural communities. Additionally, the creation of a local digital economy is seen as a positive outcome of internet connectivity.

The speakers aim to replicate users into digital citizens and believe in the possibility of emerging from a village into global digital entrepreneurs. This demonstrates the transformative power of internet access in fostering economic growth and opportunities in rural areas.

Overall, the speakers underline the importance of internet connectivity and productive use, the need to build digital skills and innovation in rural communities, and the crucial role of citizen participation in ensuring community connectivity. The improved internet access has led to increased engagement, awareness, and the creation of a local digital economy.

This analysis provides valuable insights into the benefits and challenges associated with internet connectivity in rural areas.

Arguments

The Internet Society has organized a session to discuss inclusive ways of connecting unconnected communities globally and the opportunities these connections provide.

Supporting facts:

• Internet Society’s vision is that the Internet is for everybody.

• Session includes Digital Empowerment Foundation from India, Mammaila Community Networks from South Africa, and Rizomatika Community Networks from Mexico

Topics: Internet Society, Digital divide, Community networks

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Approximately 2.7 billion people, mostly in rural, remote, low-income communities, currently do not have access to the Internet.

Supporting facts:

• A third of the world’s population is unconnected to the Internet.

• Most unconnected individuals reside in rural, remote, or low-income areas.

Topics: Digital divide, Rural communities, Connectivity

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The Internet Society is advocating for different and new approaches to connectivity, such as community networks, which can complement traditional telecommunication operations.

Supporting facts:

• Community networks are built by and for the communities they serve, connecting them to the rest of the internet.

• Telecommunication operators sometimes have difficulty reaching certain communities due to various circumstances.

Topics: Internet Society, Connectivity, Community networks

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Community network can be a point of access for the unconnected communities

Supporting facts:

• The project Internet Roshni in Assam state, India, provided community network for access to government entitlements, health, education, and financial transactions.

• The adoption of community networks led to digitisation of local indigenous languages and cultures in the said projects.

Topics: Unconnected communities, Digital Access, Community Networks

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Inadequate connectivity and digital exclusion are major global concerns

Supporting facts:

• Approximately 2.7 billion people on earth are not connected to the internet. Even among the connected population, many are not meaningfully connected due to infrastructure and affordability issues.

• India, with its 1.4 billion population, has 52% of its people who have not used internet at all.

Topics: Digital Exclusion, Connectivity

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Emerging policies that promote digital-only transactions contribute to digital exclusion

Supporting facts:

• Many governments are implementing policies that mandate online transactions.

• These digital-only policies tend to exclude those who are not fully connected, thus violating basic human rights.

Topics: Digital-only policies, Digital Exclusion

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Carlos Baca’s organization works with indigenous communities in Mexico and Colombia, helping them develop communication projects and provide connectivity

Supporting facts:

• The organization has been working with indigenous communities for approximately 20 years

• They have developed a community-owned mobile network that currently operates in 13 communities in the state of Oaxaca in Mexico

Topics: communication, connectivity, indigenous communities

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Community-based mobile operators or MVNOs provide affordable service to local, indigenous, rural communities

Supporting facts:

• MVNOs are a new type of mobile network operator that don’t own the infrastructure they use

• One example is the Union de Cooperativas Tosepan-Titanisque coopertive in Mexico

Topics: MVNO, rural communities, affordability

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MVNOs are not simply about connectivity, they also support community projects and empower communities

Supporting facts:

• Revenue from the MVNO’s services is shared with the communities

• Digital literacy and inclusion strategies are also promoted as part of the MVNO project

Topics: connectivity, community projects, empowerment

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Online platform for local product and service exchange is being developed

Supporting facts:

• The platform is being designed in a participatory way

• It will include an inventory of local products and services, and a mechanism for their exchange

Topics: Online platform, Product exchange, Service exchange

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Community networks can be an effective solution for last-mile connectivity challenges in remote and rural areas.

Supporting facts:

• Osama Manzar shared an example of Sittilingi, a village in Tamil Nadu, India, where the entire village of indigenous community faced challenges in connectivity. The village was on the verge of shutting down their handcrafted product shops due to inability to market. DEF helped to bring internet to their locality

Topics: Last-mile connectivity, Rural Development, Digital Divide, Telecommunication

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Training local communities can empower them to maintain and manage their own networks.

Supporting facts:

• After installation of the internet connection in Sittilingi, the local community was trained to manage network issues. They were able to handle minor issues on their own, without requiring DEF team’s physical presence.

Topics: Community Development, Education, Digital Literacy

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Last-mile connectivity solutions need to be frugal, sustainable, replicable and scalable.

Supporting facts:

• The speaker noted that telecommunications companies aren’t investing in last-mile connectivity as it’s not commercially viable for them. Thus, it is crucial to come up with solutions that are cost-effective and scalable to address this issue

Topics: Telecommunications, Sustainable Development, Innovation

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Community networks can be used to create economic hubs in rural areas.

Supporting facts:

• The speaker advocated creating geographical indication-based, product-based destinations using community network methodologies. Such hubs can attract business and tourism, boosting local economy and creating a sustainable economic ecosystem.

Topics: Economic Development, Rural Development, Tourism, Craft Industry, Agriculture

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Remote areas could be developed into co-working spaces leveraging community networks.

Supporting facts:

• As people are getting tired of working in the cities, remote areas could be developed into co-working spaces utilizing the community networks. This would also support rural economies and reduce urban-rural divide.

Topics: Remote Work, Digital Nomad, Rural Development

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Report

The Internet Society has organized a session to discuss inclusive ways of connecting unconnected communities globally and the opportunities these connections provide. Currently, around 2.7 billion people, mostly in rural, remote, or low-income areas, lack access to the internet. This digital divide hinders social and economic development.

The session emphasizes the importance of alternative connectivity approaches, such as community networks, which can complement traditional telecommunication operations. Community networks are built by and for the communities they serve, bridging the gap for those not adequately served by mainstream telecom providers.

To address this issue, the Internet Society aims to increase the number of community networks globally. They have committed to bringing internet access to 100 new communities by 2025 and training 10,000 individuals to maintain these networks. This approach empowers communities and fosters digital inclusion.

Inadequate connectivity and digital exclusion are global concerns. Policies that promote digital-only transactions can exclude individuals lacking full internet access, violating their basic rights. Therefore, legislation should consider the level of connectivity before implementing such policies. Community-based mobile operators, known as Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs), offer affordable services to local, indigenous, and rural communities.

These operators don’t own the infrastructure they use, making their services cost-effective. MVNOs not only enhance connectivity but also support community projects and promote digital literacy. Community networks have proven successful in projects like Internet Roshni in Assam, India, providing access to government services, health, education, and finance for unconnected communities.

Community networks also preserve local languages and cultures. Last-mile connectivity remains a challenge in remote areas. Community networks have shown effectiveness in addressing this issue, as seen in Sittilingi, India, where they prevented the closure of local businesses. Training local communities to manage network issues has empowered them for independent network maintenance.

Frugal, sustainable, and scalable solutions are needed to address last-mile connectivity challenges. Telecommunication companies often overlook last-mile connectivity due to commercial viability. Finding viable solutions ensures connectivity reaches all areas. Community networks play a significant role in economic development. By creating product hubs through community networks, rural areas can attract business and tourism, fostering economic growth and sustainability.

Furthermore, remote areas can be developed into co-working spaces by leveraging community networks. This supports rural economies and reduces the urban-rural divide. In conclusion, the Internet Society’s session highlights the importance of inclusive connectivity. Community networks empower communities, bridge the digital divide, and create opportunities for social and economic development.

Affordable access, digital literacy, and connectivity-focused policies are crucial to achieve a more connected and inclusive society.

Arguments

Internet connectivity is not meaningful for a significant portion of the global and Indian population due to issues with affordability, device availability, bandwidth, etc.

Supporting facts:

• Almost 2.7 billion people globally are not part of the internet user community

• Around 52% of Indian population have not used internet

Topics: Internet Connectivity, Digital Divide, Affordability

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Digital only policies put unconnected populations at a disadvantage, violating their basic rights

Supporting facts:

• Several governments make policies mandating online transactions or access to rights

Topics: Digital Policies, Digital Divide, Human Rights, Inclusion

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The Digital Empowerment Foundation in India utilizes community networks to connect marginalized, unconnected communities

Supporting facts:

• The foundation started building its own antennas and buying backhaul from far away to provide connectivity in disconnected areas

Topics: Community Networks, Digital Empowerment Foundation, Rural Connectivity

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Community networks are beneficial access points that connect communities to vital services and opportunities

Supporting facts:

• In Assam, India, community networks have allowed tea garden workers to access healthcare, education, and financial transactions

Topics: Community Networks, Digital Inclusion, Education, Healthcare

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Community networks are essential for connecting remote or rural areas

Supporting facts:

• Example of Sittilingi village in Tamil Nadu, where connection to internet saved a handcraft made product shop from closing down

• Establishment of community networks in remote areas help in providing necessary services like health care, education and agriculture.

Topics: Internet Connection, Rural Areas, Community Network

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Telcos unwilling to provide last mile connectivity

Supporting facts:

• Telecom companies find it unprofitable to provide services in areas with fewer users.

Topics: Telecom Companies, Internet Connectivity, Rural Areas

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Need for frugal, sustainable, scalable solutions

Supporting facts:

• Addressing the issue of last-mile connectivity, the speaker suggests replicable methodologies to convert communities into data communities

Topics: Community Network, Sustainability, Scalability

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Report

The analysis examines multiple arguments surrounding the significance of community networks in connecting marginalized and unconnected communities. It emphasises the challenges faced by these communities, such as the lack of internet connectivity due to issues like affordability, device availability, and limited bandwidth.

For instance, it states that almost 2.7 billion people globally are not part of the internet user community, and approximately 52% of the Indian population have not used the internet. This clearly demonstrates the scale of the problem and the importance of finding solutions.

Furthermore, the analysis highlights the negative impact of digital-only policies. It suggests that such policies put unconnected populations at a disadvantage and potentially violate their basic rights. It points out that several governments have made policies mandating online transactions or access to rights, which can further exacerbate the divide between connected and unconnected populations.

On the positive side, the analysis presents the Digital Empowerment Foundation in India as an example of utilising community networks to connect marginalized and unconnected communities. The foundation has started building its own antennas and buying backhaul from distant locations to provide connectivity in disconnected areas.

This initiative demonstrates the potential of community networks to bridge the digital divide and empower underserved communities. Moreover, the analysis underscores the crucial role of community networks in providing access to vital services and opportunities. In Assam, India, community networks have allowed tea garden workers to access healthcare, education, and engage in financial transactions, thereby improving their overall well-being.

This evidence highlights the positive impact of community networks in connecting communities to essential services. Additionally, the analysis argues that community networks are essential for connecting remote or rural areas. It provides an example of Sittilingi village in Tamil Nadu, where connection to the internet saved a handcrafted product shop from closing down.

Furthermore, community networks in remote areas help provide necessary services like healthcare, education, and agriculture. These examples highlight the potential transformative power of community networks in underserved areas. In terms of barriers, the analysis states that telecom companies find it unprofitable to provide services in areas with fewer users, resulting in a reluctance to offer last mile connectivity.

This poses a significant challenge in bridging the digital divide and highlights the need for alternative solutions like community networks. The analysis also emphasises the need for frugal, sustainable, and scalable solutions to address the issue of last-mile connectivity. It suggests replicable methodologies to convert communities into data communities, which would enable the creation of community networks on a larger scale.

Furthermore, it showcases the potential economic benefits of community networks. It illustrates thriving businesses in Sittilingi village, Tamil Nadu, after gaining internet connectivity. Additionally, community networks can be used to create a local business ecosystem and attract visitors. These examples highlight the potential for community networks to generate livelihoods, foster economic growth, and reduce inequalities.

In conclusion, the analysis portrays community networks as vital interim solutions that connect marginalized and unconnected communities to the internet and socio-economic opportunities until seamless connectivity can be provided by telecom companies. It sheds light on the challenges faced by these communities, the negative impact of certain policies, the benefits of community networks, and the potential for economic growth and empowerment.

Ultimately, the analysis underscores the importance of community networks in bridging the digital divide and promoting inclusivity in the modern world.

Arguments

The EU’s Digital Markets Act identifies and sets regulations for ‘gatekeepers’ in the digital services industry.

Supporting facts:

• Gatekeepers are companies with significant influence within the internal markets.

• To be designated as a gatekeeper, a company must meet certain quantitative threshold such as turnover of services, market capitalization, the number of business users, and end users.

• These gatekeepers are under certain restrictions and obligations including prohibitions of self-preferencing and obligations to give access to data data.

• Gatekeepers must also report any major transaction to the Commission.

Topics: Digital Markets Act, EU, Tech Companies

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More flexibility and more dialogue is required in implementing the Digital Markets Act.

Supporting facts:

• There is a new sort of dialogue that aims to ensure the long-term compliance of companies with the regulations.

• The Commission has the power to take actions including fines and imposing specific compliance requirements to enforce the regulation.

• There is an ongoing relationship to be built with stakeholders for effective enforcement.

Topics: Digital Markets Act, EU, Tech Companies

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The DMA enforcement is exclusively the responsibility of the commission

Topics: DMA, EU, Commission

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The DMA borrows a number of concepts for competition

Topics: DMA, Competition

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A member state cannot apply if the Commission is applying the DMA

Topics: DMA, EU, Commission

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The DMA is clear that it applies at the same time as competition law

Topics: DMA, Competition Law

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The DMA is only applicable to a specific list of companies and obligations

Topics: DMA, Competition Law

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The Commission may still pursue problems not addressed by the DMA in cooperation with national competition authorities

Topics: DMA, EU, Commission, National competition authorities

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Report

The Digital Markets Act (DMA) introduced by the European Union aims to regulate companies known as “gatekeepers” in the digital services sector. Gatekeepers are companies that hold considerable influence within the internal markets. To be designated as a gatekeeper, a company must meet specific quantitative thresholds, including turnover of services, market capitalisation, and the number of business and end users.

The DMA establishes various restrictions and obligations for gatekeepers, such as prohibiting self-preferencing and requiring them to provide access to data. Gatekeepers also have to report major transactions to the European Commission. The DMA primarily seeks to promote fair competition and prevent market power abuse by gatekeeper companies.

The implementation of the DMA involves close regulation and cooperation with gatekeeper companies. In September, the Commission designated six companies as gatekeepers, namely Alphabet, Meta, Apple, Amazon, Microsoft, and BitDance. These companies were given 45 days to adapt their compliance plans before further regulations were enforced.

Non-compliance can result in fines of up to 10% of worldwide turnover. Effective enforcement is encouraged through a regulatory dialogue, with companies required to present compliance programs and make necessary adjustments. Flexibility and ongoing dialogue are seen as essential in implementing the DMA.

Building long-term compliance with regulations requires establishing relationships with stakeholders. The European Commission has the exclusive responsibility for enforcing the DMA, but can collaborate with national competition authorities to address issues not covered by the Act. In summary, the DMA is designed to regulate gatekeepers in the digital services industry, ensuring fair competition and preventing market power abuse.

Gatekeeper companies are subject to restrictions and obligations, with the European Commission playing a crucial enforcement role. The implementation process emphasises flexibility, ongoing dialogue, and collaboration.

Arguments

Competition laws are not sufficient to address anti-competitive conduct in the digital economy

Supporting facts:

• Antitrust comes too little, too late

• Timeliness of intervention is important as market positions may become more entrenched

Topics: Competition laws, Digital Economy, Anti-competitive conduct

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Ex-ante regulation is a necessary complement to address competition and consumer harms posed by digital platforms.

Supporting facts:

• The European Union, Brasilia, Australia are propagating ex-ante regulation

• South Africa has conducted in-depth studies of sectors to underline elements of competition that may not be working well for consumers

Topics: Ex-ante regulation, Competition, Consumer harms, Digital platforms

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If developing countries adopt ex-ante regulation, it might be prone to some sort of weak enforcement culture.

Supporting facts:

• Capacity building for competition enforcement needs to be strengthened

• Added work to build the capacity for enforcing the rule of law

Topics: Ex-ante regulation, Developing countries, Enforcement culture

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Work towards regulatory coherence instead of absolute consistency.

Supporting facts:

• Different rules in different jurisdictions can create complexity and confusion

• Regulatory coherence could support greater compliance with new obligations imposed in other jurisdictions

Topics: Regulatory coherence, Consistency

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Engage within region corporations for a shared understanding

Topics: Regulation, Cooperation, Regional Understanding

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Implement strategic regulatory experimentation

Topics: Regulation, Experimentation

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Initiate competition enforcement investigations

Supporting facts:

• Advanced countries achieve this through regulation

• Self-preferencing as an example

Topics: Regulation, Investigation, Competition

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Coordinated enforcement across jurisdictions is valuable

Supporting facts:

• Before the Digital Markets Acts (DMA) kicked in, this was the EU approach

Topics: Regulation, Jurisdiction, Enforcement

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Align internationally on standards such as data portability or interoperability

Topics: Interoperability, Data Portability, Standards

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Competition policy and advocacy plays an important role, especially in developing countries

Supporting facts:

• Competition authorities should articulate the benefits of competition for consumers and markets

Topics: Competition Policy, Advocacy, Developing Countries

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Report

Competition laws alone are insufficient in addressing anti-competitive conduct within the digital economy. The timeliness of intervention plays a crucial role, as market positions can become more entrenched over time. Ex-ante regulation is considered necessary as a complementary measure to address competition and consumer harms posed by digital platforms.

The European Union, Brasília, and Australia are actively advocating for ex-ante regulation, while South Africa has conducted in-depth studies on sectors to identify competition elements that may not be working well for consumers. This positive sentiment towards ex-ante regulation highlights the recognition of the need to proactively address the challenges posed by digital platforms.

Developing countries may have a heightened reliance on digital platforms, given the opportunities they offer to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). These platforms serve as a lifeline, enabling businesses to reach consumers and play both a market-creating and market-sustaining role.

However, concerns are raised about weak enforcement cultures in developing countries if they were to adopt ex-ante regulation. Strengthening competition enforcement capacity and building a sound foundation for enforcing the rule of law becomes imperative to ensure effective implementation. In terms of regulation, it is argued that prioritizing regulatory coherence, instead of absolute consistency, can help mitigate complexity and confusion resulting from different rules across jurisdictions.

This approach would promote greater compliance with new obligations imposed in different regulatory landscapes. Regional cooperation and shared understanding are considered valuable for effective regulation. Encouraging engagement and collaboration among corporations within specific regions can foster a shared understanding of the challenges and potential solutions.

Strategic regulatory experimentation is seen as a positive step. Implementing experiments can help identify effective regulatory approaches, leading to better regulation and outcomes within the digital economy. Initiating competition enforcement investigations is another recommended course of action. Advanced countries have achieved success in this area by utilizing regulations, such as self-preferencing, to ensure a level playing field and fair competition.

Coordinated enforcement across jurisdictions is deemed crucial for effective regulation. The EU’s Digital Markets Act serves as an example of how coordinated enforcement can bring about valuable outcomes. Aligning internationally on standards, such as data portability and interoperability, is significant, as it promotes consistency and facilitates seamless operations and interactions between different platforms and systems.

Competition policy and advocacy play an important role, especially in developing countries, where competition authorities should articulate the benefits of competition for consumers and markets. Emphasizing the advantages of dynamic competition and innovation can help drive economic growth and reduce inequalities within these countries.

Overall, the analysis highlights the need for a multi-faceted approach to tackle anti-competitive conduct in the digital economy. While competition laws serve as a foundation, they must be complemented by timely intervention, ex-ante regulation, regulatory coherence, regional cooperation, strategic experimentation, competition enforcement investigations, coordinated enforcement, international standard alignment, and strong competition policy and advocacy.

By leveraging these measures, stakeholders can address the challenges and harness the opportunities presented by the digital economy.

Arguments

South Africa has been pursuing digital market issues through market inquiry powers, finding them well suited to the types of issues emerging in digital markets

Supporting facts:

• South Africa completed a market inquiry into the online intermediation platform market

• launched an inquiry into media and digital platforms

Topics: Market Inquiry, Competition Law, Digital Markets

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The DMA approach is inflexible compared to the market inquiry

Supporting facts:

• The DMA focuses on specific issues

• Market inquiry is not likely to impose permanent remedies and solutions can be revisited

Topics: DMA, Market Inquiry

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Regional and international cooperation is critical in managing cross-border anti-competitive practices and establishing a fair competitive environment

Supporting facts:

• The African competition forum has been involved in creating a protocol to establish a continental competition authority

• The competition protocol specifically provides for dealing with gatekeepers and digital markets

• Through forums like the ACF and BRICS, there are discussions around understanding the digital market landscape and appropriate policy choices

Topics: Africa Continental Free Trade Area, BRICS, Competition Protocol

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Uniformity or diversity in applied remedies for platforms must be context-specific

Supporting facts:

• Remedies offered by global tech companies need to be appropriate to contexts, for example in South Africa’s interaction with Google

Topics: Competition Authorities, Tech Companies

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Report

South Africa has been actively addressing digital market issues by utilizing market inquiry powers, which have proven to be well-suited to deal with the emerging challenges in the digital sphere. This approach of market inquiry is preferred over strict regulation of technology firms, as it focuses on improving competition rather than preventing it.

Market inquiry offers substantial flexibility in taking remedial action and has the ability to consider the entire industry rather than solely examining the conduct of individual companies. On the other hand, the approach of the Digital Markets Act (DMA) is viewed as less flexible compared to market inquiry.

The DMA focuses on addressing specific issues but lacks the ability to impose permanent remedies. Additionally, it is acknowledged that the solutions provided by market inquiries are not set in stone and can be revisited if necessary. While regulation plays an important role, it is essential to consider jurisdictional and resource constraints.

Introducing or amending legislation can be a time-consuming process, and establishing a new regulatory entity requires significant resources. Thus, a balanced approach that takes into account these factors is necessary. Regional and international cooperation are highlighted as crucial in managing anti-competitive practices that span across borders and establishing a fair competitive environment.

The African competition forum, along with forums like BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa), facilitate discussions on understanding the digital market landscape and making appropriate policy choices. The protocol established by the African competition forum specifically addresses dealing with gatekeepers and digital markets, reinforcing the need for cooperation.

Notably, it is emphasized that Africa should not only be a consumer but also an active participant in digital markets. South Africa, for instance, has engaged with other jurisdictions in concluding an online platform market inquiry. When engaging with global tech companies, discussions around remedies have considered aspects specific to the South African context.

It is vital to ensure that remedies offered by these companies are appropriate and context-specific, emphasizing the importance of taking into account the unique circumstances of each region. In conclusion, South Africa’s pursuit of digital market issues through market inquiry powers demonstrates a preference for a competition-centric approach rather than strict regulation of tech firms.

While market inquiry offers flexibility and a broader industry perspective, the DMA is seen as less flexible. The importance of considering jurisdictional and resource constraints when implementing regulations is emphasized. Regional and international cooperation are seen as critical in managing cross-border anti-competitive practices.

Ensuring Africa’s active participation and considering context-specific remedies are also highlighted as important factors to establish a fair competitive environment.

Arguments

Asia Pacific is not a single market, so, there is extreme diversity across the region. Each country is in a very widely different stage in terms of digital transformation.

Supporting facts:

• In Australia, Singapore, Korea, over 99% of the population have Internet access.

• In other parts of Asia Pacific the rate is much lower.

Topics: Asia Pacific, Digital Transformation, Market Diversity

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What is common across the Asia Pacific region is enormous growth potential, especially with the digital economy.

Supporting facts:

• According to a report published by Bain and Company last year, Southeast Asia’s digital economy will reach about 1 trillion U.S. dollars.

• Platforms are generally seen as an enabler rather than a gatekeeper to spur more growth and innovation.

Topics: Asia Pacific, Digital Economy, Growth Potential

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Japan is working on a more targeted ex-ante legislation to address competition issues in the mobile ecosystem and app distribution.

Supporting facts:

• In June 2024, HDMC will carry out a comprehensive competition assessment.

• The report concludes with a recommendation of a very targeted ex-ante legislation.

Topics: Ex-Ante Legislation, Competition, Mobile Ecosystem, App Distribution

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There isn’t one global standard on which policy path should be followed in regards to digital markets and emerging technologies

Supporting facts:

• The Asia Pacific region is very diverse which makes it hard to have one global standard

• More discussions needed about future of Asia Pacific region

• Local context dictates the solutions needed

Topics: Digital Markets, Emerging Technologies, Policy Path, Global Standard

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The right sequencing for resolving problems is important

Supporting facts:

• Identify the problem first, akin to a robust medical checkup and diagnosis before starting surgery

• Discussion on whether or not the existing laws are good enough to solve current problems

• If existing laws are not sufficient, consider what would be the most effective instruments

Topics: Problem Solving, Sequencing, Evidence-based Rulemaking

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Report

The Asia Pacific region demonstrates significant diversity in terms of digital transformation, with each country at a different stage of maturity. Australia, Singapore, and Korea stand out with over 99% of their population having internet access, while other parts of the region lag behind.

Despite these differences, the region as a whole has immense growth potential, particularly in the digital economy. Korea’s self-regulation model for digital markets is viewed favorably, with the government announcing a legislative bill to support this approach. Japan, on the other hand, has implemented a co-regulation model to enhance transparency and fairness in digital platforms.

They have established the Headquarters for Digital Market Competition (HDMC) to oversee this process. Japan also plans to develop targeted ex-ante legislation to address competition issues in the mobile ecosystem and app distribution, with a comprehensive competition assessment by 2024. However, across the Asia Pacific region, there is no single global standard for policy paths in digital markets and emerging technologies, as local context plays a significant role in determining the appropriate solutions.

In terms of problem-solving, accurate identification of issues is crucial before determining effective measures. This process is similar to a medical checkup and diagnosis before surgery. Evaluations are underway to assess the adequacy of existing laws and explore alternative solutions if needed.

In conclusion, the Asia Pacific region boasts diversity in digital transformation, with varying stages of maturity. There is considerable growth potential, particularly in the digital economy. Both Korea and Japan have adopted distinct approaches to regulate digital markets, with Japan also working towards targeted legislation.

The absence of a global standard highlights the need for tailored solutions, and a systematic approach in problem-solving is vital.

Arguments

UNCTAD has been closely monitoring competition in digital markets and efforts to promote inclusive economic growth and sustainable development

Supporting facts:

• UNCTAD is the focal point for competition law and policy within the United Nations system.

• UNCTAD organizes discussions between member states’ competition authorities and other relevant stakeholders in their annual Intergovernmental Group of Experts meetings on competition law and policy.

• The United Nations’ set of principles and rules on competition was adopted by the UN General Assembly on 5 December 1980.

Topics: Competition Law, Digital Markets, Inclusive Economic Growth, Sustainable Development

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A participatory process involving bringing businesses to the table in regulatory talks is crucial.

Supporting facts:

• UNCTAD recommends an holistic approach that includes competition authorities, consumer protection agencies, data protection regulators, and other relevant regulators.

• Businesses have detailed knowledge about their own sectors, which can be useful in crafting effective regulations.

Topics: Regulation, Business participation, UNCTAD recommendations

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Good business practices adopted by digital businesses in one jurisdiction should ideally be expanded globally.

Supporting facts:

• Consumers in all parts of the world deserve the same protections, not just those in the region where a specific regulatory action was taken.

Topics: Global standards, Digital businesses, Good business practice

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Report

The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) plays a crucial role in monitoring competition in digital markets and working towards inclusive economic growth and sustainable development. As the focal point for competition law and policy within the United Nations system, UNCTAD is responsible for ensuring fair competition practices.

UNCTAD organises discussions between member states’ competition authorities and other relevant stakeholders in their annual Intergovernmental Group of Experts meetings on competition law and policy. This platform allows for knowledge sharing, best practice exchange, and cooperation among countries in shaping effective competition policies.

In addition to its monitoring role, UNCTAD also recommends a participatory process that involves bringing businesses to the table in regulatory talks. They emphasise the importance of including various stakeholders, such as competition authorities, consumer protection agencies, data protection regulators, and other relevant regulators.

UNCTAD recognises that businesses have detailed knowledge about their respective sectors, which can be invaluable when crafting effective regulations. Furthermore, UNCTAD supports the expansion of good business practices globally, particularly in the digital sector. They highlight that consumers worldwide should receive the same level of protection, regardless of the region in which regulatory actions are taken.

By advocating for global adoption of good business practices, UNCTAD aims to create a level playing field and promote a fair and transparent business environment. UNCTAD also places great importance on international and regional cooperation. They actively engage in dialogues and partnerships, such as the BRICS dialogue and preparations for the G20.

These platforms provide opportunities for collaboration and coordination among countries, fostering cooperation and harmonising standards. In conclusion, UNCTAD’s focus on monitoring competition in digital markets, promoting inclusive economic growth, and sustainable development highlights its commitment to creating fair and competitive global trade practices.

By involving various stakeholders, advocating for good business practices globally, and fostering international cooperation, UNCTAD aims to create a more equitable and prosperous economic landscape for all.

Arguments

Brazil is discussing extensive regulation for digital markets

Supporting facts:

• New proposal to regulate expansive digital platforms in Brazil was proposed before the national parliament in November 2022

• The proposal is substantially influenced by the European Union Digital Markets Act

Topics: digital platforms, regulations, Brazil

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Concerns on the proposal includes it lacking public consultation and impact assessment

Supporting facts:

• The proposal lacked any kind of public consultation

• It was not anticipated by any sort of impacts assessment report

Topics: public consultation, impact assessment, proposals

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The proposal preamble assigns enforcement power to the National Telecommunications Agency rather than the Competition Authority

Supporting facts:

• The proposal provides legal power to the National Telecommunications Agency to enforce the ex-ante obligations, not to the Competition Authority

Topics: National Telecommunications Agency, Competition Authority, enforcement power

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Criticism on the threshold set for designating companies for regulation

Supporting facts:

• The proposal sets a threshold of 70 million of turnover, which might be too low for local markets

Topics: companies, threshold, regulation

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The proposal lacks specific obligations and instead relies on broad principles, leading to potential regulatory discretion

Supporting facts:

• The proposal bans self-preference, prohibits the use of cross data or data collected without user’s consent, and provides very broad provision on interoperability and data portability remedies

Topics: regulatory discretion, broad principles, obligations

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The BRICS experience report on digital markets will provide valuable insights

Supporting facts:

• NACADI is in charge of getting together the BRICS experience in order to launch a report about digital markets that came out this month.

• Different perspectives from BRICS countries and common lessons learned will be included.

• Diverse areas of enforcement discussed based on different conducts pursued by different countries.

Topics: BRICS, Digital Markets, International Cooperation

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Brazil gains valuable insights from exchange with Latin American and other international authorities

Supporting facts:

• NACADI consults with Latin America and citrus authorities, especially in ongoing investigations involving digital markets.

• Constant exchanges on the subject maintained.

• Successful example is the creation of a group within Graca which holds bi-weekly meetings to share experiences.

Topics: Latin America, International Cooperation, Digital Markets

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Brazil anticipates productive discussions at the upcoming G20

Supporting facts:

• Brazil is looking forward to the G20 meeting in Rio de Janeiro.

• Brazilian government has announced plans to make some side events and meetings about customer protection in several cities.

Topics: G20, Digital Markets, Brazil

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Report

Brazil is currently discussing extensive regulation for digital markets, drawing inspiration from the European Union Digital Markets Act. However, there are concerns about the lack of public consultation and impact assessment in the proposed regulations, raising questions about transparency and accountability.

Another issue with the proposal is that enforcement power is assigned to the National Telecommunications Agency instead of the Competition Authority, which has been viewed negatively. Critics also highlight the low threshold for designating companies for regulation, suggesting it is too low for local markets.

The proposal includes provisions on self-preference and data use, but the reliance on broad principles rather than specific obligations raises concerns about regulatory discretion. Despite these issues, Brazil benefits from international cooperation with BRICS and Latin American authorities, with a report on digital markets being prepared.

Moreover, Brazil’s collaboration with Latin American and other international authorities facilitates knowledge sharing. Looking ahead, Brazil is eagerly anticipating the upcoming G20 meeting, where discussions on customer protection will take place. Enhanced cooperation among relevant authorities is seen as necessary to address the challenges posed by digitalization.