UNCTAD eWeek 2023

Arguments

UNCTAD assists member states through forums for discussions, technical assistance and capacity buildings, and also in creating, improving, or redrafting their legislation and policies on both competition and consumer protection.

Supporting facts:

• UNCTAD has the mandate on both competition and consumer protection topics

• UNCTAD’s Intergovernmental Group of Experts on Competition and the Intergovernmental Group of Experts on Consumer Protection meet once a year

• Several extra budgetary programs and projects are drawn upon in assisting developing countries

Topics: Cooperation, Aid, Developing countries, Policy Making, Legislation

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Developing nations like Brazil, the Philippines, Colombia, Peru, and Thailand are making advancements in using certain technologies to assist consumers.

Supporting facts:

• These countries are making progress in keeping consumers informed and addressing consumer dispute resolution

Topics: Consumer protection, Emerging technologies, Developing countries

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Ana Cipriano suggests continued discussions on the research partnership platform

Supporting facts:

• The platform is both academic and is used for intergovernmental discussions

Topics: Research, Partnership, Intergovernmental Dialogue

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Report

The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) plays a crucial role in supporting member states in the areas of competition and consumer protection. It acts as the focal point for these topics and provides various forms of assistance to its members.

This includes organising forums for discussions, offering technical assistance and capacity-building programs, and helping countries develop and enhance their legislation and policies related to competition and consumer protection. UNCTAD’s goal is to promote fair and efficient markets and ensure consumer well-being and satisfaction.

In addition to supporting member states, UNCTAD also aims to bridge gaps in international cooperation. Many challenges faced by national authorities in competition and consumer protection transcend borders, highlighting the need for networking and collaboration. UNCTAD recognizes the importance of bringing together different parties, including national authorities, regional organizations, and other stakeholders.

By networking these networks, UNCTAD aims to facilitate effective cooperation, strengthen peace, justice, and institutions as outlined in Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 16, and address shared challenges. Developing countries such as Brazil, the Philippines, Colombia, Peru, and Thailand are making significant advancements in leveraging technology to enhance consumer protection.

These countries have embraced emerging technologies to better inform consumers and resolve disputes. By utilizing these advancements, they are catering to the needs and concerns of their growing consumer base more efficiently. This aligns with SDG 9 on Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, as well as SDG 12 on Responsible Consumption and Production.

Furthermore, there is a dedicated research partnership platform that serves as a forum for academic and intergovernmental discussions. This platform enables the exchange of insights, research findings, and best practices among experts and policymakers. Ana Cipriano, an influential figure in this field, emphasizes the potential of this platform and encourages continued dialogue on it.

An invitation link to the platform has been shared, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and knowledge exchange in the pursuit of effective competition and consumer protection policies and practices. In conclusion, UNCTAD fulfills its mandate by supporting member states in the areas of competition and consumer protection.

Through forums, technical assistance, and capacity-building programs, UNCTAD assists countries in developing robust legislation and policies. The organization also recognizes the importance of international cooperation and networking in addressing challenges faced by national authorities. Moreover, developing countries are utilizing technology to enhance consumer protection, and a research partnership platform facilitates academic and intergovernmental discussions.

The recommendations of experts like Ana Cipriano highlight the significance of continuous dialogue and knowledge sharing in this field. By promoting fair competition and protecting consumers, UNCTAD contributes to the overarching goal of sustainable development.

Arguments

Digital trade rule which prohibits governments from requesting access to source code inhibits the effective regulation of AI and reduces regulatory space for countries.

Supporting facts:

• The digital trade rule protects source code of software from government intervention which means governments can’t hold AI systems accountable properly.

• This source code provision is already protected as trade secret or copyrighted material so creating another protective regime is overkill.

Topics: Digital Trade, AI Regulation, Source Code

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The source code provision in digital trade law is too broad and restrains regulation of source code indirectly, which creates regulatory hurdles.

Supporting facts:

• The source code provision according to current digital trade law also excludes any type of regulation that directly or indirectly needs access to source code of software.

• The source code provision in the digital trade rules could limit the options to govern AI effectively.

Topics: Digital Trade, Source Code Protection, AI Regulation

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More secrecy will not guide us towards an accountable algorithmic future

Topics: Algorithmic Governance, AI Transparency, Secrecy

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Different countries trying and experimenting with various regulatory solutions could be beneficial

Supporting facts:

• The field of algorithmic governance is new and may benefit from experimenting with different regulatory solutions

Topics: Algorithmic Governance, AI Regulation

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Report

The analysis examines different arguments and stances surrounding the regulation of artificial intelligence (AI) and trade laws. One viewpoint contends that the digital trade rule, which prohibits governments from requesting access to source code, inhibits the effective regulation of AI and reduces regulatory space for countries.

This argument asserts that without access to source code, governments cannot hold AI systems accountable properly. The supporting facts highlight that the source code provision is already protected as a trade secret or copyrighted material, so creating another protective regime is unnecessary.

Conversely, an opposing stance argues that AI systems with a transnational footprint need global regulation and public scrutiny. It emphasises that due to their widespread impact, AI systems should be governed globally. The supporting facts suggest involving engineers, academics, journalists, NGOs, and consumer protection organizations in holding AI systems accountable through public scrutiny.

Another contention arises concerning the source code provision in digital trade law. It is argued that the provision is too broad and restrains regulation of source code indirectly, creating regulatory hurdles. The supporting facts highlight that this provision could limit the options to effectively govern AI.

Moreover, the analysis reveals a call for more proactive AI regulation that requires serious testing of technology, not just documentation. The argument contends that most regulatory systems for AI rely on documentation, which may be ineffective. There is a need for serious engagement with the technology itself, rather than just documenting it.

The importance of algorithmic governance is also discussed. The analysis suggests that experimenting with different regulatory solutions in various countries could be beneficial for this new field. This experimental approach could help discover effective methods of governing algorithms. Regarding the scrutiny of algorithms, one viewpoint supports the idea of allowing consumer protection authorities to scrutinize algorithms or require independent third-party audits.

This could enrich our knowledge about AI systems and test their fairness and accountability. An interesting observation from the analysis is the opposition to using trade law to cement source code secrecy. It is argued that source code secrecy inhibits accountability.

Transparency and accountability should be prioritized in AI regulation. In conclusion, the analysis presents various perspectives on AI regulation and trade laws. The arguments touch on the balance between source code protection and effective regulation, the need for global governance and public scrutiny, the potential limitations imposed by trade law provisions, the need for proactive testing of technology, and the importance of algorithmic governance.

Notably, there is a call for collaboration and experimentation to develop effective regulatory solutions.

Arguments

Digital trade agreements lack transparency, particularly in the global south, limiting the capacity of civil society to intervene and express concerns

Supporting facts:

• Rafael points out that norms in the local level, at least in Brazil, are more participatory and inclusive, unlike trade agreements which are opaque and exclusive

• The Biden administration is proposing a shift in norms production to increase democratic effort and transparency

Topics: Digital Trade Agreements, Transparency, Civil Society

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Avoiding fragmentation in AI regulations requires networked governance and balancing concerns about IP protection, trade protection and fundamental rights

Supporting facts:

• Promoting connections between national countries through international organizations like UNCTAD can help advance the conversation about IP protection and trade protection.

• It’s important to distinguish between concerns about abusive government intervention and concerns about fundamental rights in the context of AI regulation.

Topics: AI Regulation, Trade Protection, Intellectual Property

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Report

The analysis of the arguments presented highlights several concerns regarding digital trade agreements and AI regulation. Firstly, it is noted that digital trade agreements lack transparency, particularly in the global south, which limits the capacity of civil society to intervene and express concerns.

Rafael points out that norms at the local level, at least in Brazil, are more participatory and inclusive compared to trade agreements which are opaque and exclusive. This indicates a democratic deficit in the production of digital trade agreements. The Biden administration, however, is proposing a shift in norms production to increase democratic effort and transparency.

Secondly, it is suggested that AI and digital trade norms should prioritize contestability and the right to meaningful explanation. In the digital age, software has the power to change social behavior and impact people’s lives in significant ways. Rafael argues that contestability and the right to meaningful explanation are fundamental rights in the relationship between citizens and software producers.

The adoption of these principles would ensure that AI systems are subject to scrutiny and can be challenged when necessary. Furthermore, the restrictions placed on source code by digital trade norms hinder the ability of the global south to regulate and implement measures that safeguard human rights.

Rafael suggests that such norms prevent developing countries from implementing transparency measures that would ensure AI applications do not violate human rights. The speaker believes there is a conflict between digital trade norms that prevent disclosure of source code and national interests in ensuring AI applications are not discriminatory or violate human rights.

This highlights the need to find a balance between protecting intellectual property and safeguarding human rights. To avoid fragmentation in AI regulations, networked governance is necessary. Promoting connections between national countries through international organizations like UNCTAD can help advance the conversation about intellectual property protection and trade protection.

It is important to distinguish between concerns about abusive government intervention and concerns about fundamental rights in the context of AI regulation. Balancing these concerns is crucial to ensure coherent and effective AI regulation that considers various stakeholders’ interests. Finally, it is argued that free trade agreements on source code are not the best approach.

However, no specific supporting facts or evidence are provided for this argument. In conclusion, the analysis highlights the lack of transparency in digital trade agreements, the need for contestability and the right to meaningful explanation in AI regulation, the restrictions placed on source code by digital trade norms, the importance of networked governance to avoid fragmentation in AI regulations, and the inefficacy of free trade agreements on source code.

These concerns call for a more inclusive, transparent, and balanced approach to digital trade agreements and AI regulation to ensure the protection of human rights and the promotion of global cooperation.

Arguments

Digital trade provisions can potentially inhibit the regulation of AI and generative AI technologies

Supporting facts:

• Rapid deployment of new AI and generative AI technologies pose potential harms to consumers, workers, communities and democratic systems.

• Digital trade negotiations happening in bilateral, regional and plurilateral contexts which could tie the hands of governments before they even fully understand the implications of these technologies

Topics: AI Regulations, Human Rights, Digital Trade Negotiations

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Prohibition of source code disclosure could undermine human rights protections

Supporting facts:

• Free trade agreements include digital trade provisions that prohibit governments from requiring the disclosure of source code except in specific investigations.

• This could undermine pre-screening or audits of algorithms to ensure they are not discriminatory or violate human rights

Topics: Human Rights, Source Code, Artificial Intelligence

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Provisions in digital trade agreements could hinder right to repair policies

Supporting facts:

• Right to repair policies require manufacturers to grant consumers and independent repair shops access to the tools and information necessary to conduct repairs.

• Provisions in digital trade agreements could hinder such requirements

Topics: Right to Repair, Digital Trade Agreements

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Report

The analysis examines the potential impact of digital trade provisions on the regulation of emerging technologies. One major concern is the rapid deployment of new AI and generative AI technologies, which can pose risks to consumers, workers, communities, and democratic systems.

These technologies are evolving at an unprecedented rate, and without proper regulation, they may lead to unintended harm. Digital trade negotiations taking place in bilateral, regional, and plurilateral contexts could further complicate the regulation of emerging technologies. These negotiations often involve discussions on trade rules and regulations that could restrict governments’ ability to fully understand and address the implications of AI and generative AI technologies.

As a result, governments may be limited in their power to enact necessary safeguards to protect individuals and society. Another concern lies in provisions that prohibit the disclosure of source code, commonly found in free trade agreements. Governments are restricted from requiring the disclosure of source code, except in specific investigations.

While this may protect companies’ intellectual property, it has the potential to undermine efforts to pre-screen or audit algorithms. Without access to the source code, it becomes challenging to ensure that algorithms are not discriminatory or in violation of human rights.

As a result, human rights protections could be compromised. Furthermore, digital trade agreements could hinder the implementation of right to repair policies. Right to repair policies aim to grant consumers and independent repair shops access to the tools and information necessary for conducting repairs.

However, provisions in digital trade agreements may limit or restrict such requirements, leading to increased dependence on manufacturers for repairs and limiting consumer choice and sustainability. However, it is worth noting the positive development of the recent withdrawal of the US government from a controversial provision in the World Trade Organization’s joint statement initiative on e-commerce.

The United States government, which had been actively pushing for such provisions, withdrew its support to preserve policy space for regulating emerging technologies. This move allows for policy flexibility in addressing the potential challenges and risks associated with emerging technologies.

In conclusion, the analysis underscores various concerns surrounding digital trade provisions and their impact on the regulation of emerging technologies. The rapid advancement of AI and generative AI technologies, provisions prohibiting source code disclosure, and potential hindrances to right to repair policies all raise significant concerns.

However, the recent withdrawal of the US government from a controversial provision is seen as a positive step towards preserving policy space for regulating emerging technologies. It is crucial for governments and stakeholders to find a balance between fostering innovation and ensuring the safe and responsible development and use of emerging technologies.

Arguments

Source code protection based on exclusivity regimes is not necessary

Supporting facts:

• Recent US-China trade war mainly on alleged theft of American IP

• Countries like United States, Japan, and China enhancing trade secret protection

• Emerging tensions over technology with dual civil and military uses

Topics: Intellectual Property, Trade Agreements, US-China Trade Wars, Digital Trade

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Expansion of intellectual property rights could lead to overprotection

Supporting facts:

• Loose patentability criteria with patents granted without enough disclosure

• Misinterpretation of Article 39 of TRIPS requiring one form of protection for undisclosed information

Topics: Intellectual Property Rights, Free Trade Agreements

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Developing countries are at the bottom of the regulatory spectrum with regards to data

Supporting facts:

• Developing countries have not accrued much benefit from the data being extracted

• Inadequate utilization of potentials in these countries

Topics: Data governance, Regulation, Developing countries

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There is a regulatory race to the bottom

Topics: Regulation, Data governance

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Stress on global solidarity and changes for fairer level playing field

Supporting facts:

• US made recent changes

• Level playing field is currently unequal

Topics: Global Solidarity, Equality, Trade Agreements

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Report

The analysis explores various arguments regarding intellectual property rights and data governance in trade agreements. One argument examines the recent US-China trade war, which predominantly centred on allegations of American intellectual property (IP) theft. As a result, countries like the United States, Japan, and China have strengthened trade secret protection measures.

Another argument raises concerns about the expansion of intellectual property rights, warning that it could lead to excessive protection. These concerns stem from lax patentability criteria, resulting in patents being granted without proper disclosure. Furthermore, there is a misinterpretation of Article 39 of the Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights Agreement (TRIPS), which requires a single form of protection for undisclosed information.

These issues may impede innovation and competition. Opposition also exists towards source code secrecy provisions in trade agreements. Critics believe that these provisions restrict access to knowledge, placing small and medium-sized enterprises at a disadvantage. The exclusivity regimes on which source code secrecy is based also limit important rights, such as the right to repair and the right to research.

This argument highlights the potential negative consequences and the need for more inclusive policies. The analysis also underscores the challenges faced by developing countries in terms of data governance. It reveals that developing countries have not reaped significant benefits from the data that is extracted, indicating underutilization of their potential.

This argument emphasises the position of developing countries at the bottom end of the regulatory spectrum, raising concerns about inequality in data governance. On a positive note, there is a suggestion that developing countries should establish their own data governance frameworks.

This approach acknowledges that the European Union’s model is often replicated and explores the potential to balance collective data governance with legitimate industrial policy goals. By crafting their own regulations, developing countries can create frameworks that align with their specific needs and aspirations.

Additionally, the analysis notes a neutral argument that there is a regulatory “race to the bottom.” This perspective highlights the downward pressure on regulations related to intellectual property rights and data governance, potentially leading to weaker protections and adverse outcomes.

Lastly, the analysis underscores the importance of global solidarity and the pursuit of a fairer level playing field in trade agreements. It acknowledges recent changes made by the United States, emphasizing the need for more equitable trade practices. This argument emphasizes the importance of addressing the unequal playing field to foster global collaboration and reduce inequalities.

In conclusion, the analysis presents a comprehensive view of the arguments surrounding intellectual property rights and data governance in trade agreements. It examines concerns such as IP theft, overprotection, source code secrecy, regulatory challenges for developing countries, and the pursuit of fair trade practices.

These insights are valuable for policymakers, businesses, and stakeholders involved in international trade.

Arguments

The world is facing global crises and resulting setbacks in development progress

Supporting facts:

• The crises include climate catastrophes, conflicts, and economic setbacks from COVID-19

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A joint vision of digital transformation is essential

Supporting facts:

• As we approach the summit of the future, developing a joint vision through dialogue and partnership is essential

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Unlock the power of the digital world for inclusive progress

Supporting facts:

• The power of the digital world should be utilized to accelerate inclusive progress towards the SDGs

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Report

The world is currently facing multiple global crises, including climate catastrophes, conflicts, and economic setbacks due to the COVID-19 pandemic. These challenges have had a negative impact on the progress of development worldwide. Therefore, it is crucial to acknowledge and address these issues effectively.

In this context, digitalization emerges as a potential solution that can help reduce global disparities and promote equality. By fully embracing digital transformation, we can create new opportunities for inclusive progress. Digitalization can bridge existing gaps between nations and ensure that the benefits of technological advancements are accessible to all.

However, it is essential to address the digital divide and ensure equal access to digital technologies and opportunities. Furthermore, developing a joint vision through dialogue and partnerships is crucial as we move towards the future. By bringing together stakeholders from different sectors and engaging in multilateral dialogue, we can achieve a shared understanding and strategic approach to digital transformation.

This collaborative effort is essential for identifying common objectives, pooling resources, and coordinating actions to effectively harness the benefits of digitalization. Additionally, special attention should be given to the governance of data, artificial intelligence, and the digital economy. Success in the digital transformation process relies on establishing robust frameworks and regulations that govern the ethical use of data and emerging technologies.

Effective governance ensures transparency, accountability, and the protection of individuals’ rights in the digital age. This is important to mitigate potential risks associated with the misuse of data and artificial intelligence, while maximizing the benefits. Moreover, unlocking the power of the digital world is crucial for advancing inclusive progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The digital realm offers significant opportunities to accelerate progress in various areas, including reducing inequalities. By harnessing digital technologies, we can develop innovative solutions to address social, economic, and environmental challenges, leaving no one behind in the pursuit of sustainable development.

In summary, as the world faces global crises and experiences setbacks in development progress, embracing digitalization presents a potential solution to reduce global divides and foster inclusive progress. Through dialogue and partnerships, effective governance of data and emerging technologies, and the utilization of the digital world’s potential, we can accelerate progress towards the SDGs and create a more equitable and sustainable future for all.

Arguments

Lack of basic infrastructure in African nations

Supporting facts:

• Many African nations have e-commerce legislation but they lack electricity and basic infrastructure.

• This lack of infrastructure does not allow to reach large sections of their population or to provide them basic access to ICT.

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Report

The analysis highlights the significant challenge posed by the lack of basic infrastructure in numerous African nations. This absence of infrastructure not only hampers their development but also restricts their access to technology. As a result, these countries are unable to fully benefit from e-commerce legislation, which has the potential to drive economic growth and provide opportunities for their citizens.

One supporting fact highlighted is that while many African nations have already enacted e-commerce legislation, the lack of electricity and basic infrastructure prevents them from effectively reaching large sections of their population. This means that a significant portion of the population is unable to access and benefit from the opportunities that technology and the digital marketplace provide.

Furthermore, the lack of infrastructure also restricts access to ICT (Information and Communication Technology) services, which are essential for economic and social development. This creates a digital divide within these nations, where certain segments of the population are left behind due to the lack of basic access to technology and information.

The argument presented in the analysis is that addressing the lack of basic infrastructure in African nations should be a priority. By focusing on enhancing their infrastructure and building essential facilities, these nations can promote development, improve accessibility, and provide better education opportunities.

This aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure and Goal 4: Quality Education. In conclusion, the analysis highlights the detrimental impact of the lack of basic infrastructure on African nations. It underlines the urgency for these countries to prioritize infrastructure development to bridge the digital divide, promote economic growth, and improve the lives of their citizens.

By investing in essential facilities and enhancing access to technology, these nations can address the challenges they face and achieve sustainable development.

Arguments

The importance of focusing on human interaction with technology

Supporting facts:

• Tried to generate her speech using AI but it lacked human touch

• Technology should always be focused on the human person that it is going to impact

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Africa’s potential in the digital economy

Supporting facts:

• Africans have shown they can embrace and adapt technology to their realities

• Digital tools have become a bedrock of trade in Africa

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Struggle of being a female entrepreneur in Africa

Supporting facts:

• Despite her successes in the US, moving back to Africa felt like starting all over again

• Access to finance stands out as a major hurdle for women entrepreneurs

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Infrastructure is a big challenge in Africa, including access to stable internet and electricity

Supporting facts:

• A lot of countries in Africa have e-commerce legislation, but lack basic infrastructure

• The cost of electricity, and thus internet connectivity, is extremely high

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Report

The discussion revolves around several key topics related to technology, entrepreneurship, infrastructure, and trade in Africa. Each speaker brings forward valuable insights and arguments. The first speaker highlights the importance of focusing on human interaction with technology. They argue that technology should always prioritise the impact it has on individuals.

They note that while Artificial Intelligence (AI) may be capable of generating speeches, it lacks the human touch, demonstrating the importance of human involvement in technological advancements. The second speaker emphasises Africa’s potential in the digital economy. They acknowledge that Africans have shown remarkable adaptability in embracing technology and integrating it into their daily lives.

They state that digital tools have become a bedrock of trade in Africa, showcasing the significant contribution of technology in driving economic growth on the continent. The third speaker sheds light on the challenges faced by female entrepreneurs in Africa.

They specifically discuss the struggle for access to finance, which stands out as a major hurdle for women entrepreneurs. Despite their successes in the United States, the speaker laments that returning to Africa feels like starting over due to the lack of adequate financial support.

The fourth speaker advocates for the implementation of the Startup Act in Africa. They believe this legislation can act as a propeller for businesses, fostering growth and innovation. The speaker urges the government to approve the Startup Act and ensure its effective implementation to stimulate entrepreneurial activities in the region.

The fifth speaker highlights the need for establishing trade standards in Africa. They argue that developing standards is crucial to operating under the same norms, promoting fair and efficient trade practices. The speaker points out that standards can also help break down barriers between African countries, facilitating trade and fostering economic growth across the continent.

The sixth speaker addresses the infrastructure challenges in Africa, specifically focusing on access to stable internet and electricity. They highlight that although several countries in Africa have e-commerce legislation, the lack of basic infrastructure poses a significant hindrance. The speaker notes that the high costs associated with electricity and internet connectivity further exacerbate this problem.

The final speaker advocates for allowing the private sector to engage in infrastructure development, particularly at the local level. They assert that the required technology for infrastructure development already exists. However, they argue that the current legal framework impedes private companies from actively participating in infrastructure projects.

The speaker believes that allowing the private sector to contribute to infrastructure development can facilitate economic growth and improve infrastructure accessibility. In conclusion, the discussion highlights the importance of human interaction with technology, Africa’s potential in the digital economy, the challenges faced by female entrepreneurs, the need for supportive legislation like the Startup Act, the establishment of trade standards, the infrastructure challenges in Africa, and the role of the private sector in infrastructure development.

These insights shed light on critical areas requiring attention and action to promote economic growth and innovation in Africa.

Arguments

UNCTAD plays a crucial role in fostering inclusive and sustainable digital economic outcomes.

Supporting facts:

• UNCTAD provides valuable research, technical assistance and consensus building opportunities.

• Through the e-trade for all initiative, UNCTAD connects policy areas by interacting closely with its 35 members.

• 28 organizations are actively supporting this event.

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The decisions made at both national and international levels will have a significant impact on our ability to achieve the sustainable development goals.

Supporting facts:

• Technological change keeps accelerating, creating challenges for governments and businesses to adapt their policies and strategies.

• There are wide divides between countries in terms of their readiness to participate in the digital economy.

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There are concerns about the consolidation of the digital economy, with a few large corporations assuming a dominant role in terms of market and technology power.

Supporting facts:

• The process of digital transformation could result in increased consolidation.

• A few very large corporate players could assume a dominant role in terms of market and technology power.

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Infrastructure includes not only hardware but also software, and community literacy is a very important part of it.

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No one should use digital infrastructure or e-commerce to exploit others.

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Report

In this analysis, multiple speakers discuss various perspectives on the digital economy and its relationship with sustainable development goals (SDGs). One crucial contributor to inclusive and sustainable digital economic outcomes is the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD).

UNCTAD provides valuable research, technical assistance, and consensus-building opportunities. Through their e-trade for all initiative, they closely engage with their 35 members to connect policy areas. The presence of 28 actively supporting organizations further strengthens their impact. However, concerns have been raised about the consolidation of the digital economy.

There is apprehension that a few large corporations may assume a dominant role in terms of market and technology power. This consolidation could have implications for competition, innovation, and equal access to opportunities. Policymakers and businesses need to adapt strategies and policies to keep pace with rapid technological changes and ensure an inclusive and equitable digital economy.

Decisions made at national and international levels are crucial as they significantly impact the ability to achieve the SDGs. Technological advancements are accelerating, posing challenges for governments and businesses to adapt their policies and strategies accordingly. Moreover, substantial gaps exist between countries in terms of their readiness to participate in the digital economy.

Addressing these gaps and fostering partnerships among stakeholders will be vital for achieving the SDGs. The speakers emphasize the urgent need to shape the future of the digital economy. This arises from rapid technological changes and the wide gaps in countries’ readiness for the digital economy.

Considerations in events like the Summit of the Future 2024 and the Global Digital Compact are particularly important for collaborating on shaping the digital economy’s future. Infrastructure plays a pivotal role in the digital economy, covering hardware and software elements. Additionally, community literacy is essential in ensuring inclusion and equitable access to digital opportunities.

Governments and the global community should work together to ensure a level playing field for all, particularly for communities distant from technological hubs. The analysis also highlights the need to prevent exploitation in the digital economy. Digital infrastructure and e-commerce should not be used as tools for exploitation.

The focus should be on empowering individuals and communities, fostering sustainable growth, and leaving no one behind. This aligns with the SDGs’ principle of partnerships for the goals, emphasizing collective and inclusive growth. In conclusion, this analysis provides valuable insights into the impact of the digital economy on sustainable development goals.

UNCTAD’s role in fostering inclusive and sustainable digital economic outcomes is commendable, but concerns regarding potential consolidation by a few corporations exist. Governments and businesses need to adapt their policies and strategies to keep up with technological changes. Shaping the future of the digital economy through collaboration and ensuring a level playing field for all are essential.

Empowering communities, promoting infrastructure, and fostering community literacy are crucial components of achieving sustainable development. The overarching goal should be inclusive growth, leaving no one behind, in line with the SDGs’ principle of partnerships for the goals.

Arguments

Digitalization is a key to achieve prosperity for all

Supporting facts:

• Switzerland supports countries on their journey to a digitalized economy through the E-Trade Readiness Assessment

• Switzerland aims to create jobs in the digital world through initiatives like North African IT talents and European IT job markets

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Governance in the digital world needs to be sound

Supporting facts:

• Switzerland is developing a digital foreign policy

• Global Digital Compact to be adopted next year can serve as a constitution of the digital world

• WSIS Forum and Action Lines offers an ideal venue for periodic follow-up and review of the GDC in the future

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Digital infrastructure and connectivity are essential for economic development

Supporting facts:

• Historical reference to how trains and highways impacted economic development in valley regions where they bypassed

• Ambassador’s personal experience of high data package costs experienced in Rwanda, Kenya and Ethiopia

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Affordability of data packages is a significant factor affecting digital trade and business

Supporting facts:

• Ambassador’s personal experience of high data package costs experienced in Rwanda, Kenya and Ethiopia

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Digitalization offers opportunities for remote job creation

Supporting facts:

• Mention of remote coding as a potential job opportunity

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Report

The analysis of the speakers’ arguments reveals several key points regarding the importance of digitalisation in achieving prosperity. Firstly, Switzerland is actively supporting countries on their digitalisation journey through initiatives such as the E-Trade Readiness Assessment. This demonstrates Switzerland’s recognition of the role digitalisation plays in driving economic growth and job creation in the digital world.

Secondly, sound governance in the digital world is highlighted as a crucial aspect. Switzerland is developing a digital foreign policy and aims to adopt a Global Digital Compact next year, which can serve as a constitution for the digital world.

The speakers note that the WSIS Forum and Action Lines provide an ideal platform for periodic follow-up and review of the Global Digital Compact in the future, indicating the importance of ongoing governance and policy discussions in the digital realm.

Moreover, the analysis underscores the need to ensure sustainable development can utilise the opportunities presented by digitalisation. Switzerland is actively working towards this goal, recognising that sustainable development and the digital world can be mutually beneficial. This aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.

The significance of digital infrastructure and connectivity in economic development is also highlighted. The speakers make reference to historical examples, such as the impact of trains and highways on economic development in bypassed areas. Additionally, personal experiences of high data package costs in countries like Rwanda, Kenya, and Ethiopia are shared.

This indicates that affordable access to digital infrastructure and connectivity is essential for fostering economic growth. On the other hand, the affordability of data packages is identified as a significant factor affecting digital trade and business. The speakers point out the negative impact of high data package costs experienced in certain regions, which can hinder the growth of digital trade and hinder business opportunities.

This highlights the importance of addressing affordability issues to ensure inclusivity and equal participation in the digital economy. Furthermore, digitalisation is seen as an opportunity for remote job creation. The speakers mention remote coding as a potential job opportunity enabled by digitalisation.

This indicates that digitalisation can provide employment opportunities, particularly for those who are geographically distant from traditional workplaces. Finally, the analysis highlights the urgency to develop sustainable digital tools and infrastructure. The speakers caution against promoting digitalisation without considering the potential environmental problems it may create.

They emphasise the need for sustainable production of energy to drive digital tools and infrastructure, aligning with SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production and SDG 13: Climate Action. In conclusion, the analysis underscores the key role of digitalisation in achieving prosperity. It highlights the importance of sound governance, sustainable development, digital infrastructure, affordability, remote job creation, and sustainability in driving the benefits of digitalisation.

The speakers provide valuable insights into Switzerland’s efforts and initiatives in supporting digitalisation and building a prosperous and sustainable digital future.

Arguments

AI-driven reporting should be used to preserve knowledge and make it public good

Supporting facts:

• DiploFoundation is undertaking a project based on this principle.

• They worked on creating an AI model that captures e-issues, e-commerce, AI, and other topics.

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SDGs should guide AI development

Supporting facts:

• He posed the idea of asking AI developers to follow SDGs while they’re developing new algorithms.

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Africa has huge potentials for AI development

Supporting facts:

• AI technology requires relatively low infrastructure

• African wisdom, practical solutions in farming, local e-commerce have been prevalent throughout the centuries

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Report

According to DiploFoundation, the use of AI-driven reporting is essential in preserving knowledge and making it accessible as a public good. DiploFoundation has specifically developed an AI model that can capture various topics including e-issues, e-commerce, and AI itself. This project demonstrates the potential of AI in effectively preserving and sharing knowledge with the wider public.

Jovan Kurbalija, a proponent of bottom-up AI development, emphasizes the importance of preserving knowledge and contributing to the global public good. Kurbalija suggests that AI developers should align their work with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) while developing new algorithms.

This approach aims to ensure that AI development aligns with broader societal goals and positively contributes to sustainable development. Kurbalija also raises awareness of the real risks associated with AI. He cautions against the potential negative impacts of monopolies by large companies and the potential damage they can inflict on the social fabric within countries.

By discussing these risks, Kurbalija aims to encourage a more critical and cautious approach to AI development. The potential for AI development in Africa is also highlighted. Africa is identified as having significant potential due to the relatively low infrastructure requirements of AI technology and the abundance of practical solutions and local wisdom on the continent.

By focusing on improving infrastructure and leveraging local wisdom, Africa can harness the opportunities provided by AI and contribute to its own technological advancement. In conclusion, DiploFoundation advocates for the use of AI-driven reporting to preserve knowledge and make it accessible as a public good.

Jovan Kurbalija supports a bottom-up approach to AI development that aligns with the SDGs and emphasizes the need to address the real risks associated with AI. The continent of Africa is seen as having immense potential for AI development, with its low infrastructure requirements and rich history of practical solutions and local wisdom.

It is crucial for Africa to prioritize infrastructure development and utilize its existing knowledge and resources to unlock the benefits of AI.

Arguments

A more inclusive and sustainable digital economy should be pursued

Supporting facts:

• Key actors in the digital economy can make this happen through partnerships

• Opportunities for boosting inclusive global growth are plenty

• Can lead to social and economic development

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Pressing issues such as digital and data divides, environmental sustainability, and AI need to be tackled urgently

Supporting facts:

• These issues are crucial to achieving an inclusive and sustainable digital economy

• Action is needed now to set the right groundwork

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She emphasized the importance of Sustainable Development Goals in bridging the digital economy

Supporting facts:

• Only 15% of all sustainable development goals are on track to be met by 2030

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Report

The need for a more inclusive and sustainable digital economy is crucial for both social and economic development. This can be achieved through the collaboration and partnerships of key actors in the digital economy. By working together, these actors can create a digital economy that benefits everyone and promotes inclusive growth on a global scale.

The opportunities for boosting inclusive global growth are abundant and should be capitalized upon to ensure a more equitable distribution of resources and opportunities. Nevertheless, urgent action is needed to address pressing issues such as the digital and data divides, environmental sustainability, and the impact of artificial intelligence (AI).

These issues are fundamental to achieving an inclusive and sustainable digital economy. It is important to acknowledge that the digital divide, which refers to the disparity in access to digital technologies, can hinder progress and exacerbate inequalities. To bridge this divide, immediate action is crucial to ensure equal access to digital technologies and the benefits they offer.

Additionally, the data divide, which involves the uneven availability and use of data, should also be addressed to create a level playing field for all. Moreover, environmental sustainability is a key consideration in the pursuit of a sustainable digital economy.

It is crucial that the digital industry takes responsible measures to mitigate its environmental impact and ensure the adoption of sustainable practices throughout the value chain. This includes reducing energy consumption, promoting renewable energy sources, and minimizing electronic waste. The impact of AI also needs careful management to avoid exacerbating existing inequalities.

While AI holds great potential to drive innovation and enhance productivity, it is essential to consider its ethical implications and ensure its development and deployment benefit society as a whole. Initiating discussions and taking action in the digital world is both relevant and urgent.

By bringing together key actors in the digital industry, these discussions can lead to practical solutions for the challenges and potential barriers that may arise. Furthermore, such discussions can help shape policies and frameworks that promote inclusivity, sustainability, and responsible practices in the digital economy.

The importance of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in bridging the digital economy cannot be overstated. These goals provide a comprehensive framework for addressing the most pressing global challenges, including those related to the digital world. It is crucial to align the efforts of the digital industry with the SDGs to maximize their impact and drive meaningful change.

Currently, only 15% of all sustainable development goals are on track to be met by 2030, highlighting the need for accelerated action and collaborative efforts. In conclusion, creating a more inclusive and sustainable digital economy is a significant undertaking that requires the cooperation of key actors in the digital industry.

By addressing pressing issues such as the digital and data divides, environmental sustainability, and the impact of AI, and by aligning efforts with the SDGs, we can ensure that the digital economy benefits everyone and contributes to a more equitable and sustainable future.

Urgent action is needed, and by engaging in discussions and taking practical steps, we can turn our visions into reality.

Arguments

The digital economy has experienced a multi-trillion dollar expansion with an increased access to digital technologies while significant potential risks and development challenges also emerge.

Supporting facts:

• The advent of AI and data technologies add to the complexity of digital use.

• Only 15% of all sustainable development goals are on track to be met by 2030.

• Countries at the development front are being left behind in the digital growth.

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Appreciates the collective effort in the digital sector and stresses on cooperative actions for a better digital future

Supporting facts:

• Thanked E-Trade for All partners, government of Switzerland, UN Capital Development Fund, Afrexin Bank, Omidyar Network.

• The e-week event is a multistakeholder event, bringing opinions, feedback and ideas for a better future.

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Report

The digital economy has undergone a significant expansion, providing increased access to digital technologies. However, this growth has also brought about potential risks and challenges. Only 15% of sustainable development goals (SDGs) are on track to be achieved by 2030, indicating a significant shortfall in progress.

This is concerning as it means that countries at the forefront of development are being left behind in the digital realm. On the other hand, some view the digital revolution as an opportunity to overcome development challenges and bridge inequalities.

They believe that the digital economy can serve as a bridge rather than a barrier, offering solutions to achieve the SDGs. For instance, digital tools play a crucial role in reducing the carbon footprint and opening up accessible learning platforms.

Additionally, digital finance can provide economic opportunities for marginalized groups, including women, and digital trade has the potential to transform local small and medium enterprises into global players. These positive perspectives highlight the significance of leveraging digital technologies for sustainable development and achieving important social goals, such as gender equality.

However, it is also recognized that managing the rapid expansion of the digital sector requires both regulation and innovation. Areas such as data privacy, ethical artificial intelligence (AI), and cybersecurity are crucial and require attention. It is advocated that a regulatory environment be created that encourages innovation while also safeguarding individuals’ rights and safety.

This balanced stance acknowledges the importance of fostering innovation while ensuring responsible and ethical use of digital technologies. Furthermore, there is appreciation for the collective efforts in the digital sector and a call for cooperative actions towards creating a better digital future.

The involvement of various stakeholders, such as the E-Trade for All partners, the government of Switzerland, the UN Capital Development Fund, Afrexin Bank, and Omidyar Network, is acknowledged and praised. The E-Week event serves as a platform for diverse opinions, feedback, and ideas that contribute to shaping a more inclusive and promising digital future.

This highlights the significance of collaborative efforts to address the challenges and opportunities presented by the digital revolution. In conclusion, while the digital economy has experienced substantial growth and increased access to digital technologies, there are also significant risks and challenges that need to be addressed.

The slow progress in achieving the SDGs and the digital divide between developed and developing countries is concerning. However, the digital revolution also holds great potential as a vehicle for sustainable development and addressing inequalities. The need for regulation alongside innovation, as well as a collective and cooperative approach, is crucial to managing the rapid expansion of the digital sector and creating a better digital future.

Arguments

Most of the young persons with disabilities, they start and often stay on social commerce

Supporting facts:

• E-commerce platforms are not adapted to sellers with disabilities, requiring human assistance, having issues of privacy, and often leading to discrimination

Topics: Disability, Social Commerce, Accessibility, E-commerce

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There is an intersection between gender, disability, and platform work

Supporting facts:

• Women were getting lower returns per month compared to men, yet they reported being more content as platform work offered them freedom and flexibility

Topics: Disability, Gender Equality, Platform work

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Report

The analysis sheds light on the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities in the realm of e-commerce and platform work. One of the key issues identified is the lack of accessibility on e-commerce platforms for sellers with disabilities. This creates a need for human assistance and raises privacy concerns, as well as leading to instances of discrimination.

As a result, many young persons with disabilities tend to start and stay on social commerce platforms as they find them more accommodating. This aligns with the need for major design and policy changes on e-commerce sites to improve accessibility for visually impaired users, as many sites currently pose challenges for users with visual impairments.

Difficulties in signing up, logging in, and image uploading are among the barriers that inhibit the full participation of individuals with disabilities in the digital marketplace. Therefore, significant changes in design and policy are required to address these accessibility issues and create a more inclusive environment.

Another significant finding is the intersection between gender, disability, and platform work. Women in platform work often receive lower returns compared to men. However, they report higher levels of contentment due to the freedom and flexibility that this type of work affords.

This suggests that while there may be economic disparities, the non-monetary benefits of platform work are valued by women with disabilities. It is important to note that policy-level changes are recommended to enhance market accessibility for persons with disabilities, as government support plays a crucial role in enabling individuals with disabilities to take advantage of the formal marketplace.

The analysis also highlights the need for further research in this area. Specifically, there is a call for investigation into the gender perspective in platform work and understanding why disabled individuals opt for normal WhatsApp instead of WhatsApp Business. These research efforts can provide insights into the specific needs and preferences of individuals with disabilities in the context of platform work.

Another significant barrier identified is the lack of training opportunities for users with disabilities. The analysis emphasizes that the cost of training often restricts individuals with disabilities from accessing the necessary skills and knowledge. This limitation hinders their ability to engage in platform work and inhibits their potential for economic growth.

Therefore, it is important to highlight the need for skills training to address this barrier and promote equal opportunities for individuals with disabilities in the digital economy. In conclusion, the analysis underscores the various challenges faced by individuals with disabilities in the e-commerce and platform work landscape.

It emphasizes the urgency for improved accessibility, policy reforms, further research, and skills training to enhance market opportunities for persons with disabilities. By addressing these challenges, we can foster an inclusive digital economy that reduces inequalities and promotes economic growth for all.

Arguments

Platform livelihoods involves everybody who is working, trading, renting, or creating on a platform or through a platform in order to earn a living.

Supporting facts:

• Platform livelihoods are often more common and fractional than gig work alone.

• Platformisation is becoming a central structuring tool in the economies.

Topics: Digital Inclusion, Platform Livelihoods, Gig Economy

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Around one in five people in the Indonesian economy rely on platform livelihoods for their income.

Supporting facts:

• Estimate suggests about 4.5 million people in Indonesia’s workforce rely exclusively on platforms for their livelihood.

• Another estimated 20 million rely part-time on platforms for their livelihood.

Topics: Gig Work, Indonesian Economy, Digital Economy

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Youth in Kenya are leveraging digital platforms for their livelihoods.

Supporting facts:

• Youths in Kenya are using digital platforms for various activities such as selling online, offering transport services, real estate, contents creation and freelancing.

Topics: Kenya, Youth Engagement, Digital Platforms

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E-commerce and social commerce platforms need to be more accessible and inclusive for persons with disabilities

Supporting facts:

• Most of the e-commerce platforms are not adapted to serve sellers with disabilities

• 90% of persons with disability tested in the study used WhatsApp, signaling need for adaptation and accessibility in more sophisticated e-commerce platforms

Topics: Digital inclusion, e-commerce accessibility, disability rights

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Report

The speakers discussed various aspects of the platform economy and its impact on livelihoods. They highlighted that platform livelihoods encompass a wide range of activities, including working, trading, renting, and creating, all done through or on various platforms in order to earn a living.

This indicates that the platform economy is becoming a central structuring tool in economies around the world. In Indonesia, around one in five people rely on platform livelihoods for their income. Estimates suggest that approximately 4.5 million individuals in Indonesia’s workforce rely exclusively on platforms, while an additional 20 million rely on platforms part-time for their livelihoods.

This demonstrates the significant role that platforms play in the Indonesian economy. Meanwhile, youth in Kenya are leveraging digital platforms for their livelihoods. They engage in a wide range of activities such as selling products online, offering transport services, participating in real estate, creating digital content, and freelancing.

This highlights the potential of digital platforms to empower and provide opportunities for the youth population in Kenya. However, the speakers also discussed challenges associated with the platform economy. One issue raised is the lack of accessibility and inclusivity of e-commerce platforms for individuals with disabilities.

It was found that the majority of e-commerce platforms are not adapted to serve sellers with disabilities. A study revealed that 90% of people with disabilities tested relied on WhatsApp for their online activities, indicating the need for more sophisticated e-commerce platforms to be made accessible and inclusive for people with disabilities.

In conclusion, the platform economy has brought about significant changes in the way people engage in economic activities and earn a living. While there are opportunities for individuals to thrive in this economy, there are also challenges that need to be addressed.

Efforts should be made to ensure that platforms are accessible and inclusive for all, including people with disabilities. Regulation, training, and infrastructure development should be leveraged to promote inclusivity and equal participation in the platform economy.

Arguments

The link to income generation from platform livelihoods is there, but it’s not immediately obvious or measurable

Supporting facts:

• For many women, it’s a side hustle, a part-time job in addition to existing work.

• Women often underbid for jobs compared to men.

Topics: Platform Livelihoods, Income Generation

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Trust and safety are multidimensional issues for women in platform livelihoods

Supporting facts:

• Many trust issues to be navigated, both from family and online strangers.

• Women worry about poor reviews being left by male customers if they report inappropriate behavior.

Topics: Trust, Online Safety, Women in Platform Livelihoods

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Skills for platform livelihoods most often self-taught, accountability of training providers needed

Supporting facts:

• Many women reported the skills were self-taught.

• There were concerns around the validity and worth of paid training content.

Topics: Digital Skills, Training Providers, Accountability

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Report

The analysis explores the role of women in the platform economy, highlighting their significant contribution as providers of income. Many women engage in platform work as a side hustle or part-time job while maintaining their existing employment. However, an issue that women frequently encounter is underbidding for jobs, resulting in lower pay compared to their male counterparts.

Trust and safety are identified as multidimensional issues that women face in platform livelihoods. Women navigate various trust issues, including concerns from family and online strangers. Moreover, women worry about receiving poor reviews from male customers if they report inappropriate behavior.

These trust and safety concerns add an additional layer of complexity and potential risk for women in the platform economy. The analysis also uncovers that skills required for platform livelihoods are often self-taught by women. This self-learning approach raises concerns about the validity and value of paid training content.

There is a need for greater accountability from training providers to ensure that women receive quality education and training for platform work. Despite the important role that women play in the platform economy, questions persist about the extent of empowerment they experience.

While several women rely on platform livelihoods as their primary source of income, there is a disconcerting trend of rolling back gender-inclusive policies. The regression of these policies raises concerns about the long-term empowerment and progress of women in the platform economy.

In conclusion, the analysis highlights the significance of women’s participation in the platform economy. However, it also reveals the challenges they face, including underbidding for jobs, trust and safety issues, and self-taught skills. The regression of gender-inclusive policies further raises questions about the extent of empowerment for women in the platform economy.

Addressing these challenges and ensuring gender equality in the platform economy are crucial for a more inclusive and equitable future.

Arguments

WSIS’s outcomes which include IGF and enhanced cooperation mechanism need to be preserved and have potential to be expanded upon.

Supporting facts:

• Multistakeholderism was pioneered early on.

• There were many discussions and arguments under the enhanced cooperation mechanism.

• WSIS plus 20 process is being considered.

Topics: World Summit on the Information Society, IGF, enhanced cooperation mechanism, GDC, multistakeholderism

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Concerns on the influence of tech giants in the Global Digital Cooperation (GDC)

Supporting facts:

• The questioner mentioned the involvement of major tech companies such as Meta, Amazon, Apple, Google, in the GDC and their potential to exceed influence in the partnership

Topics: GDC, Tech giants, Influence

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The need for GDC to incentivize tech giants to participate in a regulated manner

Supporting facts:

• The questioner asked about how GDC can entice these giants to willingly join in accordance to rules and principles negotiated by the GDC

Topics: GDC, Tech giants, Incentives

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Worries about the US withdrawing from the GDC similar to the GSI e-commerce

Supporting facts:

• The questioner referred to how the US, a significant player in the global economy, pulled out of their participation in GSI e-commerce, wondering if the same could happen with the GDC and how it would affect participation of US-based tech giants

Topics: GDC, US, GSI e-commerce, Withdrawal

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Report

The Global Digital Cooperation (GDC) is currently under discussion, with differing perspectives and arguments being expressed. One viewpoint suggests that the outcomes of the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS), specifically the Internet Governance Forum (IGF) and the enhanced cooperation mechanism, should be preserved and developed.

These initiatives have the potential to make a significant impact and should not be overlooked. On the other hand, there are those who argue that the establishment of the GDC could reinforce the relevance of the Tunis Agenda and the enhanced cooperation mechanism.

They believe that the role of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) should be strengthened within the GDC, and that a clear legal framework should be defined. This viewpoint stresses the importance of a structured and legally binding agreement to guide the work of the GDC.

Concerns have also been raised about the influence of major tech companies, such as Meta, Amazon, Apple, and Google, in the GDC. It is feared that these companies could exceed their influence in the partnership, raising questions about the balance of power within the GDC and the need for measures to prevent undue influence and ensure fair participation.

Additionally, there is a call to incentivise tech giants to participate in the GDC in a regulated manner. It is questioned how the GDC can encourage these companies to willingly join and abide by the rules negotiated by the GDC.

It is suggested that creating incentives for their participation could foster a more collaborative and productive environment. Lastly, concerns exist about the potential withdrawal of the United States from the GDC, similar to its withdrawal from the Global Services Innovation (GSI) e-commerce agreement.

The US is a significant player in the global economy, and if it were to withdraw from the GDC, it could affect the participation of US-based tech giants. This raises questions about the stability and sustainability of the GDC and the need for continued engagement from all stakeholders.

In conclusion, the discussions surrounding the GDC focus on preserving and expanding existing initiatives, strengthening the role of the ITU, defining a clear legal framework, concerns about the influence of tech giants, the need for incentives to promote regulated participation, and worries about US withdrawal.

These perspectives highlight the complexities and challenges of establishing effective global digital cooperation.

Arguments

Fragmentation at a local level is beneficial as countries should have their own policy space

Supporting facts:

• Countries should understand their needs and priorities and introduce their own regulations

• Certain countries such as South Korea and Australia are taking steps towards this

Topics: Fragmentation, Local Policies, Digital Rights

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More forums and discussions do not necessarily result in effective policies but serve as distraction

Supporting facts:

• Real discussions are taking place in trade agreements or WTO

• Too many forums lead to more discussions and less concrete actions

Topics: Policy Making, Digital Trade

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There is a need to synchronize tech and trade policies

Supporting facts:

• The United States trade representative, Catherine Tai, is a member of all the interagency committees on competition and AI

• The decision to withdraw certain policies came before the executive order on AI

Topics: Tech Policy, Trade Policy, Digital Economy

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Fragmentation is an actual problem in internet

Supporting facts:

• The owner of Microsoft testified there is Google Internet, Google web. Confirms the fragmentation of the Internet

Topics: Fragmentation, Internet Freedom

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More Scaleable Forums and negotiations are needed to address the internet fragmentation problem

Supporting facts:

• The narrative around the agreements is different from what’s on paper. This gap needs to be bridged for effective solution to transform

Topics: Fragmentation, Internet Freedom, Forum

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Multi-stakeholderism principle and the internet has changed drastically

Supporting facts:

• Burcu Kilic has been working on digital rights issues for almost two decades

• Internet has changed with the issue of platforms

• Early Internet Governance Forums were different

Topics: Multi-stakeholderism, Internet Governance, Digital Rights

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Trade works for trade, not people

Supporting facts:

• Trade negotiators are focused on exports and imports

• Obligations in trade agreements are mandatory while good things are voluntary

Topics: International Trade, Trade Negotiation

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Data protection and privacy are critical in global discussions

Supporting facts:

• Data flows to the US and China

• US doesn’t have comprehensive privacy legislation

• China has a relatively good privacy law with certain problems

Topics: Privacy, Data Protection, Data Flows

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Report

Fragmentation at a local level is seen as beneficial as it allows countries to have their own policy space and introduce regulations that suit their specific needs and priorities. This argument is supported by the fact that certain countries, such as South Korea and Australia, are taking steps towards implementing their own regulations.

The sentiment towards this idea is positive. However, there is a negative sentiment towards the idea that more forums and discussions do not necessarily result in effective policies but instead serve as a distraction. It is argued that too many forums lead to more discussions and less concrete actions.

Real discussions are taking place in trade agreements or the World Trade Organization (WTO), but there is a concern that they do not lead to effective policies. To address the issues related to competition and AI, there is a recognition of the need to synchronize tech and trade policies.

It is highlighted that the United States trade representative, Catherine Tai, is a member of all interagency committees on competition and AI. The sentiment towards this argument is positive. The concept of a “race to the bottom” in regulations is viewed as dangerous.

Currently, there is a lack of regulations in the digital economy, especially in countries like the US. It is suggested that more global bindings and enforceable regulations may lead to a downfall in regulations or a ‘race to the bottom’.

This sentiment towards the issue is negative. Fragmentation is identified as a real problem in the internet. The owner of Microsoft testified that there is fragmentation, with Google having Google Internet and Google web, confirming the existence of this problem.

The sentiment towards this argument is also negative. It is argued that scalable forums and negotiations are needed to address the issue of internet fragmentation. The narrative around agreements may differ from what is actually implemented on paper, and this gap needs to be bridged for effective solutions to be achieved.

The sentiment towards this argument is negative. Trade agreements are criticized for focusing on positive goals but failing to address key issues such as the digital divide. It is pointed out that the purposes of trade agreements often mention addressing the digital divide, but the actual provisions overlook these issues.

This flaw in trade agreements needs to be addressed. The sentiment towards this argument is negative. The idea that each country should introduce regulations that are good for them and their people is seen in a positive light. It is acknowledged that not all regulations are either good or bad.

Instead, each country needs to create its own set of regulations that benefit its people and its economy. There is a negative sentiment towards intellectual property rights, as they are seen to have failed in delivering on promises. An example of this failure is highlighted in the case of the COVID situation, where access to medicines and local manufacturing of drugs were affected by intellectual property rules.

The principles of multi-stakeholderism and the internet have significantly changed over time. The work of Burcu Kilic, who has been working on digital rights issues for almost two decades, is mentioned to support this claim. The sentiment towards this argument is negative.

Trade negotiation is criticized for focusing solely on trade rather than considering the well-being of people. Trade negotiators are seen to be primarily focused on exports and imports. It is highlighted that obligations in trade agreements are mandatory, while positive aspects are often treated as voluntary.

The sentiment towards this argument is negative. The need for data protection and privacy is emphasized in global discussions. Concerns are raised regarding data flows to the US and China. It is observed that the US lacks comprehensive privacy legislation, while China has a relatively good privacy law with certain problems.

The sentiment towards this argument is negative. In conclusion, fragmentation at a local level is seen as beneficial, but more forums and discussions do not necessarily lead to effective policies. Tech and trade policies need to be synchronized to address competition and AI.

The concept of a “race to the bottom” in regulations is viewed as dangerous, and there is a lack of regulations in the digital economy. Fragmentation is a real problem in the internet, and scalable forums and negotiations are needed to address it.

Trade agreements often fail to address key issues such as the digital divide. Each country should introduce regulations that benefit their people. Intellectual property rights have not delivered on promises. The principles of multi-stakeholderism and the internet have significantly changed.

Trade negotiation focuses on trade rather than the well-being of people. Data protection and privacy are critical in global discussions, with concerns over data flows to the US and China.

Arguments

Fragmented and regional digital governance could impact digital inclusiveness and policy convergence.

Supporting facts:

• Various countries have enacted different digital laws leading to fragmentation.

• Governance of digital technologies has increased as they cross borders.

• The global north dominates participation in RTAs.

Topics: Digital governance, Policy convergence, Fragmentation, Digital inclusiveness

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The Global Digital Compact could potentially be a solution to digital governance fragmentation.

Supporting facts:

• The Global Digital Compact aims for a multistakeholder participation.

• It is set to be adopted next year at the Summit of the Future.

Topics: Global Digital Compact, Digital governance

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The digital divide remains a challenge in achieving digital transformation.

Supporting facts:

• There are 2.6 billion people still offline.

• The internet usage varies greatly between the global north and south, with the north having higher percentages.

Topics: Digital divide, Digital transformation

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Fragmentation and multi-stakeholder reasons are key

Supporting facts:

• Digital technologies can bring opportunities to countries, especially developing countries

• Keeping track of all discussions can be difficult for developing countries

• The cross-cutting nature of digital issues complicates governance strategies

Topics: digital governance, digitization, developing countries

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Weaponization of fragmentation can be a hurdle to concurrence

Supporting facts:

• Fragmentation sometimes might encourage market power

Topics: digital governance, developing countries

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Top-down approaches don’t always work on the ground

Supporting facts:

• More open forums and discussions are necessary for effective digital governance

Topics: digital governance, developing countries

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Trade agreements can help achieve coherence

Supporting facts:

• Fragmentation is not a new challenge and more agreements are needed

Topics: trade agreements, digital governance

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Report

Fragmentation in digital governance has emerged as a significant concern, posing challenges to digital inclusiveness and policy convergence. This issue arises from the enactment of diverse digital laws by different countries, leading to a lack of coherence in governing digital technologies.

The participation of the global north in digital governance processes further exacerbates the imbalance, limiting the influence of other regions. On a positive note, the Global Digital Compact offers a potential solution to address this fragmentation. The Compact aims to promote multistakeholder participation in digital governance and is set to be adopted next year at the Summit of the Future.

By encouraging collaboration and inclusivity, the Compact can help foster better coordination and convergence of digital policies across nations. The digital divide remains a significant hurdle in achieving digital transformation. Currently, a staggering 2.6 billion people are still offline, highlighting the persistent disparity in internet accessibility.

Moreover, there are significant variations in internet usage between regions, with the global north enjoying higher percentages. This digital divide poses challenges to achieving equitable and inclusive digital transformation efforts worldwide. In addition to the digital divide, the complexity of digital issues adds another layer of difficulty in creating effective governance strategies.

Developing countries, in particular, face challenges in keeping track of discussions and negotiations related to digital governance due to the cross-cutting nature of these issues. This complexity calls for the adoption of comprehensive and adaptable approaches that can address the unique needs and circumstances of different countries.

It is worth noting that fragmentation can sometimes encourage market power, hindering concurrence in digital governance. This weaponization of fragmentation further emphasizes the need to find common ground and foster cooperation between nations to achieve effective digital governance. To overcome these challenges, it is crucial to have more open forums and discussions that allow for meaningful engagement and collaboration.

Top-down approaches may not always be effective as they may not fully consider the realities and perspectives on the ground. Therefore, adopting a multistakeholder approach and creating inclusive spaces for dialogue can enhance the effectiveness of digital governance efforts. Trade agreements also play a significant role in achieving coherence in digital governance.

While fragmentation is not a new challenge, more agreements are needed to address it and ensure consistency in policies and regulations. By creating frameworks that promote cooperation and harmonization, trade agreements can contribute to the development of a more unified and coordinated approach to digital governance.

In conclusion, fragmentation in digital governance presents challenges to digital inclusiveness and policy convergence. The enactment of different digital laws by countries and the dominance of the global north in participation contribute to this fragmentation. However, initiatives like the Global Digital Compact offer promising solutions by promoting multistakeholder participation.

The persistence of the digital divide and the complexity of digital issues must also be addressed through inclusive approaches and increased international cooperation. Trade agreements can also play a vital role in achieving coherence in digital governance. Overall, fostering collaboration, inclusivity, and coherence is crucial to ensure that digital technologies can be harnessed for the benefit of all.

Arguments

The global digital compact can address fragmentation in digital governance, harnessing digital technologies for global good

Supporting facts:

• Paperless trading streamlines trade processes and reduces environmental footprint

• Uniform legal frameworks for electronic transactions can promote consistency in digital trade

• E-payments and digital invoicing represent move toward equitable trading landscape

Topics: Global Digital Compact, Digital Governance, Trade

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Focus should be on harmonizing digital procedures globally to avoid pitfalls of fragmented governance

Supporting facts:

• Harmonization ensures a more level playing field for businesses

• Streamlined processes, reduced costs found in Singapore’s digital trade initiatives

Topics: Harmonization, Digital Procedures, Fragmented Governance

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There is a need for special sections within trade agreements like DEPA for SMEs

Supporting facts:

• The DEPA agreement features a special section specifically for SMEs

Topics: SME Dialogue, Trade barriers, E-Trade, DEPA, Global Digital Compact

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The creation of a committee to monitor trade barriers encountered by SMEs and take necessary steps to alleviate them

Topics: Trade barriers, E-Trade, SMEs, Global Digital Compact

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There is a need for creating incentives and implementing capacity-building for women entrepreneurs and marginalized communities

Topics: Women entrepreneurs, Marginalized communities, Capacity-Building, Incentives

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An international legal framework is needed to standardize data protection laws

Topics: Data protection laws, Global Digital Compact

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The GDC should advocate for sector-specific regulations and the enforcement of enterprise commitments to data protection

Supporting facts:

• Similar proposals have been made in DERPA

Topics: Data protection, GDC, Regulations

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Need for harmonized approaches in global digital connectivity and capacity building

Supporting facts:

• Global digital compact can empower certain segments of society

• Innovative and practical ideas embedded in digital compact can work for economic empowerment

Topics: digital connectivity, capacity building, digital compact, economic empowerment

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Digital connectivity and empowerment should be the focus

Supporting facts:

• GDC will provide a platform for organizations working on digital skills to coordinate efforts

• Coordination will prevent repetitive efforts in the same region

Topics: GDC, Organization coordination, Digital skills

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A single centralized platform might not be practical

Supporting facts:

• There are many UN agencies working on digital initiatives

Topics: UN Agencies, Digital initiatives

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Issues with data protection and influence of big tech are restrictive

Supporting facts:

• Encountered issue with data localization requirement during mission in Rwanda

Topics: Data protection, Big tech influence

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Interoperability between different mechanisms can be beneficial

Supporting facts:

• It can reduce burden especially for businesses operating in multiple countries

Topics: Economic activities, Business regulatory environment

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Report

The proposed global digital compact aims to address fragmentation in digital governance and optimize the potential of digital technologies for the global good. It seeks to enhance digital literacy, bridge the gender digital divide, harmonize digital procedures, support SMEs, empower women entrepreneurs and marginalized communities, standardize data protection laws, advocate for sector-specific regulations, promote global digital connectivity and capacity building, and ensure interoperability between different mechanisms.

While there is a need for a centralized platform, concerns about practicality and the influence of big tech companies have been raised. It is vital to overcome challenges associated with data protection and localize requirements to create a fair and secure digital trade environment.

Ensuring that data protection measures do not hinder international trade is also essential. By addressing these issues, the global digital compact can contribute to sustainable development and economic empowerment.

Arguments

There is a need for more engagement and transparency in the ongoing negotiations around global digital governance.

Supporting facts:

• Vitor mentions the challenges of managing multiple parallel processes and the difficulty of establishing policy coherence.

• He points out the ways in which developed countries can weaponize fragmentation to their advantage

• He emphasises the importance of not duplicating issues and of dealing with market power, digital rights and digital divides through a Global Digital Compact.

Topics: Global digital governance, Technology transfer, Market power, Multi-stakeholder processes, Digital divide

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The role of digital trade agreements

Supporting facts:

• US change in position at the WTO indicates a question over policy space

• National platforms and public digital goods can be hampered by market power through trade agreements

Topics: US policy in WTO, National digital platforms, Digital Cooperation

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The need for capacity building

Supporting facts:

• Diplomats and staff often struggle in engaging with the pace and complexity of the ever-evolving digital arena

• Integration of capacity-building efforts with negotiation preparation can raise awareness and understanding of these processes

Topics: Global digital cooperation, Diplomacy and negotiation at WTO, Evolution of digital infrastructure

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The outcome of the UN’s digital governance initiative may not be positive due to its mandate to avoid duplication of work covered in other areas

Supporting facts:

• The task force has been clear that it will not duplicate efforts of other organizations

• Absence of discussion on market power, influence and competition

Topics: Digital Governance, UN

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The concept of multi-stakeholderism is being misused to legitimize the role of big tech platforms in digital governance

Supporting facts:

• Recent trends have seen the concept of multi-stakeholderism being used to signify big tech platforms role into digital governance.

• There are insufficient conflict of interest provisions at the UN level like seen in finance law and corporate law.

Topics: Digital Governance, Multi-stakeholderism, Big Tech

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Report

The analysis explores ongoing negotiations surrounding global digital governance and highlights the need for increased engagement and transparency in these discussions. One of the challenges identified is the management of multiple parallel processes and the difficulty in establishing policy coherence.

Additionally, the analysis points out that developed countries can potentially exploit fragmentation to their advantage, underscoring the need to avoid duplicating issues and effectively address market power, digital rights, and digital divides through the implementation of a Global Digital Compact.

Market power within multistakeholder processes emerges as a significant concern. It is argued that measures should be taken to curtail market power to prevent these processes from becoming platforms that primarily benefit tech giants. The analysis draws attention to the potential bias these processes may have towards market players, posing a considerable challenge for developing countries.

The adoption of a multi-tiered model that reinforces market power is discouraged. The role of digital trade agreements in shaping policy space and impacting national platforms is also discussed. The analysis highlights how the change in the United States’ position at the World Trade Organization (WTO) raises questions about policy space.

Moreover, it is argued that trade agreements can impede the development of national platforms and hinder public digital goods by reinforcing market power. Capacity building emerges as another important aspect in the realm of digital governance. Diplomats and staff often struggle to engage with the fast-paced and complex nature of the evolving digital arena.

Therefore, integrating capacity-building efforts with negotiation preparation is proposed as a means to enhance awareness and understanding of these processes. The analysis proposes the strategic use of global digital conflict as a tool for stimulating broader conversations and fostering cross-disciplinary awareness.

This approach is seen as effective in creating a wider understanding of the challenges posed by digital governance. However, concerns are raised about the UN’s digital governance initiative. It is argued that the outcomes of this initiative may not be positive due to a mandate that avoids duplicating work covered in other areas.

Additionally, the absence of discussions on market power, influence, and competition is highlighted as a potential limitation. The analysis acknowledges the increasing role played by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) in technical standards and digital governance negotiations. ITU’s involvement is recognized beyond technical standards and is seen as playing a crucial role in digital governance negotiations.

Lastly, the misuse of the concept of multi-stakeholderism to legitimize the role of big tech platforms in digital governance is commented upon. It is noted that there are insufficient conflict of interest provisions at the UN level, similar to those seen in finance law and corporate law, which raises concerns about the integrity of the decision-making process.

In conclusion, the analysis underscores the importance of enhanced engagement and transparency in global digital governance negotiations. It emphasizes the need to address challenges such as managing multiple processes, market power, and digital divides. Furthermore, it highlights the significance of capacity building, the use of global digital conflict, and the role of ITU.

The analysis raises concerns regarding the UN’s digital governance initiative and the misuse of the multi-stakeholderism concept.

Arguments

Automated application programming interfaces based on the library could facilitate data exchange and interoperability.

Supporting facts:

• APIs are small programs allowing data exchange between different systems.

• These are a key element in interoperability.

Topics: Interoperability, Data exchange, Application Programming Interfaces

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Virtual credentials ensure the reliability of data

Supporting facts:

• Virtual credentials can use blockchain or other technologies.

• An important aspect is the ‘Trust Anchor’ which links back to an entity providing trust in the credential.

Topics: Virtual Credentials, Data Reliability

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Mourba believes developing countries need to be strengthened in terms of integrating digital commerce through the postal network

Supporting facts:

• Mourba is from the Post of Senegal and manages the EMS subsidiary. He spoke at the first forum on e-commerce

Topics: Postal Network, Digital commerce, Developing countries

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Mourba thinks the World Bank should provide financial support to the postal network due to its considerable density

Supporting facts:

• Mourba noted that the Bank of Manila has various sectors, but rarely a postal sector

• Mourba spoke about the potential of postal network in financial inclusion and e-commerce

Topics: World Bank, Postal Network, Finance

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The UPU needs to leverage its large logistics delivery network to improve access to trade for small, medium, and large companies.

Supporting facts:

• The question is from Director of E-Commerce at the Ministry of Trade in Tunisia

• Mention of UPU’s large logistic delivery network

Topics: E-commerce, Ministry of Trade, UPU (Universal Postal Union), logistics, trade

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Report

The analysis highlights several important points regarding data exchange, interoperability, and the role of the Universal Postal Union (UPU) in trade. Firstly, it is argued that automated application programming interfaces (APIs) have the potential to greatly enhance data exchange and interoperability.

APIs are small programs that enable the exchange of data between different systems. This is considered a key element in promoting interoperability. The analysis suggests that by implementing automated APIs based on a library, the process of data exchange and interoperability can be facilitated.

In addition, the analysis suggests that virtual credentials, such as those based on blockchain technology, can ensure the reliability of data. Virtual credentials utilise technologies such as blockchain to establish trust and authenticity. It is highlighted that the presence of a ‘Trust Anchor’ is crucial in virtual credentials, which links back to an entity providing trust in the credential.

This ensures the reliability of the data associated with the credentials. Furthermore, the analysis suggests that the UPU has the potential to act as a Trust Anchor in the use of virtual credentials in trade. By leveraging its position, the UPU could provide trust and security in the exchange of virtual credentials, enhancing trade processes.

The analysis suggests that the UPU should explore opportunities to become a trusted entity in the utilisation of virtual credentials, particularly in the context of trade. The analysis also emphasises the importance of developing countries strengthening their integration of digital commerce through the postal network.

It is argued that integrating digital commerce into the postal network would benefit developing countries by providing increased accessibility and opportunities for trade. The development of digital commerce through the postal network could contribute to economic growth and the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.

Furthermore, the World Bank is encouraged to provide financial support to the postal network due to its considerable density. It is noted that whilst the Bank of Manila encompasses various sectors, the postal sector is often overlooked. Therefore, the analysis suggests that the World Bank should shift its focus and allocate financial resources to support the postal network.

This support could enable the postal network to play a significant role in financial inclusion and the growth of e-commerce. Lastly, it is suggested that the UPU should leverage its large logistics delivery network to improve trade access for businesses of all sizes.

The analysis highlights that the UPU possesses a substantial logistics delivery network, which can be utilised to enhance trade accessibility for small, medium, and large companies. By leveraging this network, the UPU has the potential to facilitate trade and contribute to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth.

In conclusion, the analysis underscores the potential of automated APIs in improving data exchange and interoperability. It highlights the importance of virtual credentials in ensuring data reliability and suggests that the UPU could act as a Trust Anchor in virtual credential usage in trade.

The analysis also emphasises the need for developing countries to integrate digital commerce through the postal network, and encourages the World Bank to provide financial support to the postal network. Moreover, it suggests that the UPU should leverage its logistics delivery network to improve trade access for businesses of all sizes.

Overall, the analysis provides valuable insights into enhancing data exchange, trade, and the role of the UPU in facilitating global connectivity.

Arguments

Ivory Coast is integrating logistical and financial services to support entrepreneurs with an aim to strengthen their access to global markets and their competitiveness

Supporting facts:

• The deployment of the platform sansleshock.ci

Topics: Digital Transformation, Global Market, Entrepreneurship, Logistical and Financial Services

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Important efforts are being put in the field of digital technology to accelerate the digital transformation of the economies of the Ivory Coast

Supporting facts:

• Initiated by His Excellency Mr. Alassane Ouattara, President of the Republic of Ivory Coast

• The Ivory Coast Post has undertaken a transformation

Topics: Digital Transformation, Digital Economy

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Artisans and entrepreneurs can promote and sell their products globally through the platform

Supporting facts:

• Initiative includes training and resources to support women and micro, small and medium-sized businesses

• Utility and efficiency of the universal postal service is appreciated

Topics: E-commerce, Global Trade, Artisans and Entrepreneurs

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Côte d’Ivoire is collaborating with key global organizations for digital transformation

Supporting facts:

• Collaboration with the Universal Postal Union, the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development, the World Trade Organization, the World Bank is essential

Topics: Global Collaboration, Digital Transformation, Global Economy

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Report

The Ivory Coast, also known as Côte d’Ivoire, is taking significant steps to integrate logistical and financial services with the aim of supporting entrepreneurs and strengthening their access to global markets and competitiveness. This development comes as part of efforts towards digital transformation in the country’s economy.

One of the notable initiatives is the deployment of the platform sansleshock.ci, which serves as a means for artisans and entrepreneurs to promote and sell their products globally. This initiative not only provides training and resources but also appreciates the utility and efficiency of the universal postal service in facilitating trade and development.

Furthermore, it is recognized that the Universal Postal Service plays a crucial role in ensuring fair access to quality services for all, thereby contributing to the reduction of inequalities. The impact of postal service infrastructure on global trade and development is emphasized, as it promotes communication, exchange, and connectivity worldwide.

Moreover, the Ivory Coast has embarked on important efforts to accelerate the digital transformation of its economy. This transformation is being spearheaded by His Excellency Mr. Alassane Ouattara, President of the Republic of Ivory Coast. The Ivory Coast Post, under this digital transformation initiative, has undertaken various measures to leverage digital technology effectively.

Collaboration with key global organizations is seen as essential for the successful digital transformation of Côte d’Ivoire. Collaborative efforts with the Universal Postal Union, the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development, the World Trade Organization, and the World Bank are being pursued to foster digital transformation and enhance the country’s participation in the global economy.

In conclusion, Ivory Coast’s integration of logistical and financial services, along with its focus on digital transformation, is vital for supporting entrepreneurs, expanding access to global markets, and enhancing competitiveness. The platform sansleshock.ci is empowering artisans and entrepreneurs to promote and sell their products globally.

Additionally, the Universal Postal Service plays a crucial role in ensuring fair access to quality services for everyone. Collaboration with global organizations is viewed as essential for the success of the country’s digital transformation journey.

Arguments

It is necessary to restore the image of the post in our countries

Supporting facts:

• 53.3% of national initiatives have been issued to promote the facilitation of trade for micro, small and medium enterprises.

Topics: Post, Investments, Public Policies

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The importance of the postal operators to contribute to the development of the economic dynamic

Supporting facts:

• Increasing number of dialogues on this subject indicate the importance of postal operators.

Topics: Postal Operators, Economic Development

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Inquire about the integration of postal references in international trade rules

Topics: Postal References, International Trade

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Report

Upon analysing the given information, several key points presented by the speakers become apparent. Firstly, there is a positive sentiment towards promoting trade facilitation for micro, small, and medium enterprises. It is highlighted that 53.3% of national initiatives have been issued to support this cause.

This reflects the recognition of the importance of facilitating and supporting the growth of these businesses, in order to foster economic development and achieve the goals of decent work and economic growth (SDG 8) and industry, innovation, and infrastructure (SDG 9). The presence of such initiatives indicates the commitment of various countries to creating an enabling environment for these enterprises, which are often drivers of economic growth and job creation.

Secondly, the significance of postal operators in contributing to economic development is emphasised in the discussions. The increasing number of dialogues on this subject implies a recognition of the crucial role played by postal operators. These operators not only facilitate the flow of mail and parcels but also contribute to the overall economic dynamic of countries.

Their involvement in economic development can be seen in various areas such as logistics, e-commerce, and trade facilitation. This suggests that postal operators have the potential to drive economic growth and should be given due attention and support. Furthermore, a neutral stance is taken regarding Africa’s representation in the statistics, with a request for clarification.

In the presentation by Mrs. Pisani, it is mentioned that the speaker did not observe any mention of Africa or developing countries. This raises questions about the representation of African countries and other developing nations in the data and statistics presented.

It suggests a need for further examination and clarification to ensure inclusive and representative statistics that encompass a global perspective. Lastly, a neutral inquiry is made about the integration of postal references in international trade rules. The absence of supporting facts in this regard implies a lack of sufficient information available on the current integration of postal references in international trade rules.

This raises curiosity about the extent to which postal references have been incorporated and recognised in the context of international trade. The inquiry signifies an interest in understanding the role of postal services in international trade and the potential for their greater integration and recognition in trade regulations and policies.

In conclusion, the analysis highlights the positive sentiment towards promoting trade facilitation for micro, small, and medium enterprises, as well as the importance of postal operators in contributing to economic development. It also notes the neutral stance regarding Africa’s representation in the statistics and raises an inquiry about the integration of postal references in international trade rules.

These insights provide valuable information for policymakers and stakeholders in shaping policies and strategies to promote economic growth, trade facilitation, and inclusive representation in relevant sectors.

Arguments

Postal services are critical to society’s progress and economic development

Supporting facts:

• The Universal Postal Union has been functioning since 1874 to combat a market failure caused by the challenges to deliver postal services globally.

• Research shows that a government’s efficiency can be assessed by understanding postal services in a given economy

Topics: Universal Postal Union, market failure

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The World Trade Organization plays a pivotal role in facilitating the postal networks operation, especially in the context of e-commerce and trade.

Supporting facts:

• The WTO focuses on development and its relationship to other multilateral agencies, including the wider UN system.

• The Committee on Trade and Development is mandated to examine and report on the development implications of e-commerce.

Topics: World Trade Organization, e-commerce, trade

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Quality of the postal service is an indicator of subsequent growth and development

Supporting facts:

Topics: postal service, economic development

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Credibility hurdles exist for the postal service before it can become a critical part of economic development

Supporting facts:

• historic underdevelopment of postal services is a hurdle for credibility

Topics: postal service, economic development

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Postal services development cannot be isolated from the broader economic and institutional reforms

Supporting facts:

Topics: postal service, economic development

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WTO has been working on e-commerce since 1998

Supporting facts:

• WTO’s work program on e-commerce was started in 1998

• Several committees at the WTO are involved in this topic

Topics: e-commerce, WTO

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Committee on Trade and Development is enhancing developing countries’ participation in global e-commerce trade

Supporting facts:

• Committee on Trade and Development studies ways to increase developing countries’ participation in global trade

• The committee also focuses on market access components to enhance participation

Topics: Committee on Trade and Development, global e-commerce trade, developing countries

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Report

The Universal Postal Union (UPU) has been functioning since 1874 to combat a market failure caused by the challenges in delivering postal services globally. Research shows that the efficiency of a government can be assessed by understanding the state of postal services in a given economy.

Postal services are considered critical to society’s progress and economic development. The World Trade Organization (WTO) plays a pivotal role in facilitating the operation of postal networks, particularly in the context of e-commerce and trade. The WTO focuses on development and its relationship with other multilateral agencies, including the wider United Nations (UN) system.

The Committee on Trade and Development, a part of the WTO, is mandated to examine and report on the development implications of e-commerce. This demonstrates the importance given by the WTO to incorporating the development aspect in facilitating global trade.

Within the WTO, there is a focus on working towards an enabling environment for e-commerce and trade facilitation. Discussions aim to ensure that developing countries can participate in the global economy through trade facilitation and digital transformation. The WTO has implemented a moratorium on customs duties on electronic transmissions to facilitate e-commerce.

There are potential synergies between the work of the WTO and the UPU, although there is no direct linkage between the WTO’s Subcommittee on Least Developed Countries and postal services. Nevertheless, discussion topics such as trade facilitation and e-commerce are being addressed, which can have an impact on the development and operation of postal services.

The quality of the postal service is not only essential for efficient global communications but also serves as an indicator of subsequent growth and development. However, there have been historic underdevelopments of postal services, which create credibility hurdles that need to be addressed.

Postal services cannot be seen in isolation from broader economic and institutional reforms. Including postal services development in institutional reforms can lead to sustainable economic growth, highlighting the interconnectedness between these elements. The WTO’s work on e-commerce began as early as 1998, underscoring its long-standing focus on this area.

Several committees within the WTO are involved in addressing issues related to e-commerce. The Committee on Trade and Development strives to enhance developing countries’ participation in global e-commerce trade. This includes studying ways to increase their involvement and focusing on market access components that can enhance their participation.

Capacity building and market access measures are also emphasized, particularly for the least developed countries. In conclusion, the UPU and the WTO play crucial roles in facilitating postal services and global trade, respectively. The UPU tackles market failure in delivering postal services globally, while the WTO focuses on promoting development and facilitating trade through e-commerce and other means.

The synergy between these two organizations can further strengthen the effectiveness of postal networks and foster sustainable economic growth.

Arguments

UNCFACT aims to develop simple and effective processes for global businesses.

Supporting facts:

• The mandate of UNCFACT is to make trade easier and faster especially for disadvantaged and small actors.

• About 1,500 experts have joined UNCFACT globally despite being serviced by the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe.

Topics: UNCFACT, global business

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UNCFACT has developed a package for digitalisation of multimodal transport data sharing.

Supporting facts:

• The package includes standards related to various forms of transport including rail, maritime, inland water and air.

• A new learning platform has been developed to support training and capacity building on the use of this package.

Topics: UNCFACT, multimodal transport, digitalisation

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The need for implementation of sustainable and digital trade facilitation measures is pressing.

Supporting facts:

• Countries need technical assistance and support particularly in transitioning economies and developing nations.

• Women-led businesses and MSMEs also require help to fully harness the potential of digital trade and international standards.

Topics: sustainable trade, digital trade facilitation, implementation

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Importance of creating an interface to overcome fragmentation and establish interoperability between multiple information exchange systems

Supporting facts:

• UN edifact is a flagship standard of UNCFAP, supporting UPU’s effort; these provide a common framework for the electronic data exchange in postal services.

• A new project is launched related to parcel goods traceability in the last mile delivery.

• UN Core Component Library could develop a specific reference data model for the postal services to facilitate electronic data exchange end-to-end along the value chain.

Topics: Postal services, Data exchange, E-commerce

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Harnessing advanced technologies like AI, blockchain, IoT for trade facilitation

Supporting facts:

• Maria Teresa Pisani mentioned that papers and reports are being studied on this topic

• They have been mapping out specific use cases and available standards

Topics: Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain, Internet of Things, Trade Facilitation

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Africa is covered by the Economic Commission for Africa and there is a specific report.

Supporting facts:

• There will be a specific report for the African region available in early 2023.

• The data can be found on the Sustainable and Digital Trade Facilitation Survey website, UNSDTF.

Topics: Africa, Economic Commission for Africa, global report

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The postal service can support trade facilitation implementation.

Supporting facts:

• The postal service is a key activity for international trade.

• UPU and other actors in the industry should participate in global efforts on the legal regulatory framework and standardization.

Topics: postal service, trade facilitation, UPU

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Report

UNCFACT, the United Nations Centre for Trade Facilitation and Electronic Business, aims to develop simple and effective processes for global businesses. It focuses on making trade easier and faster, particularly for disadvantaged and small actors. Despite being serviced by the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe, UNCFACT has managed to attract approximately 1,500 experts globally, reflecting its commitment to trade facilitation.

An important achievement of UNCFACT is the development of a digitalisation package for multimodal transport data sharing. This package includes standards for various forms of transport, such as rail, maritime, inland water, and air. To support implementation, UNCFACT has created a learning platform for training and capacity building.

This demonstrates their dedication to equipping businesses with the necessary knowledge and skills for adopting digital solutions in transportation. The need for sustainable and digital trade facilitation measures is urgent, especially in transitioning economies and developing nations. UNCFACT recognizes this and emphasizes the importance of providing technical assistance and support to these countries.

They also focus on empowering women-led businesses and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to fully harness the benefits of digital trade and international standards. By addressing these needs, UNCFACT promotes inclusivity and ensures that no one is left behind.

UNCFACT plays a crucial role in supporting the postal industry. Their UN EDIFACT standard, developed in the 1990s, has been instrumental in UPU’s International Mail Processing. The UN Law Code, a key component of UN EDIFACT, is widely used in this context.

UNCFACT has also launched a project for parcel goods traceability in last-mile delivery to enhance postal service efficiency and reliability. Fragmentation and lack of interoperability between different information exchange systems pose a challenge in trade facilitation and electronic business. UNCFACT recognizes this and advocates for creating an interface to overcome these issues and establish interoperability.

They stress the importance of international standards to ensure smooth communication and collaboration between stakeholders and technologies. UNCFACT emphasizes the importance of harnessing advanced technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, and the Internet of Things (IoT) for trade facilitation. They study papers and reports and map out specific use cases and available standards to leverage these technologies and enhance the efficiency, transparency, and security of global trade.

International standards and interoperability are crucial for global trade. UNCFACT highlights the need for harmonized standards to ensure smooth cross-border transactions. They specifically mention the importance of interoperability standards in the face of multiple blockchain systems. UNCFACT covers Africa through the Economic Commission for Africa, producing a specific report for the region.

This shows their commitment to addressing the unique challenges and opportunities of African nations in trade facilitation and digitalization. In conclusion, UNCFACT’s work plays a vital role in promoting global trade facilitation and digitalization. Their focus on developing effective processes, providing technical assistance, supporting the postal industry, advocating for international standards and interoperability, and leveraging advanced technologies reflects their commitment to driving inclusive and sustainable global trade.

UNCFACT’s initiatives contribute to making trade easier, faster, and more accessible for all.

Arguments

National postal networks provide services to most communities around the world

Supporting facts:

• National postal networks provide access to e-commerce and trade networks for MSMEs, women and under-deserved communities.

• They are a critical element of public infrastructure for social, financial, digital, and trade inclusion.

Topics: Postal networks, MSMEs, Women, Under-served communities

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UPU is committed to working with governments and other partners to enhance the skills and digital capabilities of postal workers

Supporting facts:

• UPU is ensuring the relevance of the postal network in offering accessible and inclusive services.

• Building an effective e-commerce ecosystem is part of UPU’s approach.

Topics: UPU Commitment, Skill Enhancement, Digital capabilities, Collaboration

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Report

National postal networks play a crucial role in providing access to e-commerce and trade networks for various groups, including MSMEs, women, and underserved communities. These networks are considered an essential element of public infrastructure, supporting social, financial, digital, and trade inclusion.

They enable businesses and individuals in these communities to participate in economic activities and expand their reach. The Trade Post programme aims to further enhance the economic returns for MSMEs and women by utilising postal networks to facilitate access to digital trade.

By embracing digital technologies and enabling online trade, postal networks can unlock new market potentials and create additional opportunities for these groups. This initiative recognises the importance of empowering governments and their postal services to promote economic growth and decent work.

The Universal Postal Union (UPU) is actively committed to collaborating with governments and other partners to enhance the skills and digital capabilities of postal workers. This commitment aligns with the UPU’s goal of ensuring the continued relevance and accessibility of postal services.

By prioritising skill enhancement and digital capabilities, the UPU aims to create a workforce that can effectively contribute to the development of an inclusive and accessible postal network. Part of the UPU’s approach also involves building an effective e-commerce ecosystem.

This recognises the importance of a comprehensive framework that supports the growth of online businesses and ensures a seamless experience for both businesses and consumers. By focusing on developing an e-commerce ecosystem, the UPU aims to strengthen the role of postal networks in facilitating digital trade and promoting economic opportunities for all.

In conclusion, national postal networks serve as vital conduits for e-commerce and trade, enabling MSMEs, women, and underserved communities to participate in economic activities. Initiatives like the Trade Post programme and the UPU’s commitment to enhancing skills and digital capabilities further reinforce the contributions that these networks can make.

By working together, governments, postal services, and partners can create an inclusive and accessible postal system that promotes economic growth and the achievement of various Sustainable Development Goals.

Arguments

Development and implementation of trade facilitation for MSMEs, women-led businesses, and underserved communities

Supporting facts:

• 68% of UPU members have integrated trade facilitation for MSMEs, women-led businesses, and underserved communities into their corporate vision

• There exists a strong focus on partnerships between the private sector, public network and governments to empower and enable the postal sector with the capabilities that are necessary to facilitate trade

Topics: Trade facilitation, MSMEs, Women-led businesses, Underserved communities

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Improvement needed in logistics and transport services, along with access to information and workforce empowerment

Supporting facts:

• There are opportunities to improve logistics and transport services, particularly in the last mile

• There is a need for the workforce to be empowered to be responsive to the needs of SMEs

• The postal sector has been neglected in the implementation of single windows and trade information portals

Topics: Logistics, Transport Services, Workforce Empowerment, Access to information

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The role of UPU in enhancing trade inclusion

Supporting facts:

• UPU uses knowledge and research to inform policy and advise decision-makers

• They provide technical assistance and capacity building to enhance policy and implementation

• UPU’s tools include the UPU convention, various regulations and standards, capacity building activities, postal technology solutions, and data monitoring and measuring systems

Topics: Trade inclusion, UPU role, Policy, Technical assistance, Capacity building

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The UPU has a Trade Post Program which aims to empower the national postal operators with tools and capability to support MSMEs

Supporting facts:

• The Trade Post program helps in enhancing the simplification and accessibility of export and import processes for MSMEs and women

• In Tunisia, local producers moved from being individual producer to e-commerce exporters with the help of export facilities through post office

Topics: Trade Post Program, UPU, MSME support

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The UPU aims to enhance the digitalization of trade transactions through the post office and also the interoperability in supply chains

Supporting facts:

• The UPU is working on integrating postal services with customs and other transport agencies to increase the number of MSMEs that export through the post office

Topics: UPU, Digitalization, Trade Transactions, Supply chains

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The post offices can play a crucial role in validating identities, thus improving trust in transactions

Supporting facts:

• Post offices in many countries issue government licenses, passports etc, validating identities and enhancing trust in transactions

Topics: Post office, Identity validation, Trust in transactions

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Report

The Universal Postal Union (UPU) is dedicated to promoting trade facilitation for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs), women-led businesses, and underserved communities. This commitment aligns with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 8 and 5, which prioritize decent work and economic growth and gender equality.

To achieve this objective, the UPU advocates for partnerships between the private sector, public networks, and governments. These partnerships empower and enable the postal sector to effectively facilitate trade for the target groups. Currently, 68% of UPU members have integrated trade facilitation for MSMEs, women-led businesses, and underserved communities into their corporate vision.

This indicates strong commitment towards inclusive trade. While progress has been made in trade facilitation, certain areas still require improvement. Logistics and transport services, especially in the last mile, need enhancement to better support trade activities. Additionally, the workforce needs to be empowered to meet the needs of MSMEs.

The neglect of the postal sector in implementing single windows and trade information portals is another area requiring attention. The UPU plays a crucial role in enhancing trade inclusion. It employs knowledge and research to inform policy and advises decision-makers on effective trade facilitation measures.

Additionally, the UPU provides technical assistance and capacity building programs to enhance policy development and implementation. Its tools include the UPU Convention, various regulations and standards, capacity building activities, postal technology solutions, and data monitoring and measuring systems. The UPU introduced the Trade Post Program, empowering national postal operators with the tools and capabilities to support MSMEs.

This program has successfully simplified and made export and import processes more accessible for MSMEs and women, helping local producers transition from individual producers to e-commerce exporters. Tunisia is a particularly successful example where local producers have experienced significant export growth facilitated through post offices.

Another important objective of the UPU is to enhance the digitalization of trade transactions through the post office and promote interoperability in supply chains. By integrating postal services with customs and other transport agencies, the UPU aims to increase the number of MSMEs that can export through the post office.

This digitalization and interoperability streamline trade processes and provide opportunities for smaller businesses to participate in global trade. Post offices also play a vital role in validating identities and improving trust in transactions. Many countries issue government licenses and passports through post offices, providing reliable methods of identity validation.

This enhances trust and confidence in trade transactions, particularly for underserved populations that may lack access to traditional forms of identification. In conclusion, the UPU’s commitment to trade facilitation for MSMEs, women-led businesses, and underserved communities is clear. Through partnerships, knowledge sharing, technical assistance, and capacity building, the UPU aims to empower the postal sector to effectively facilitate trade.

Although improvements are needed in logistics, transport services, access to information, and workforce empowerment, the UPU’s initiatives, such as the Trade Post Program and digitalization of trade transactions, show promising outcomes. Furthermore, the role of post offices in validating identities and enhancing trust in transactions highlights their significance in promoting inclusive and secure trade.

Arguments

The role of postal services is critical in facilitating e-commerce and digital trade

Supporting facts:

• International trade and e-commerce rely heavily on efficient and reliable postal services

• Postal services connect millions of businesses

Topics: E-commerce, Digital trade, Postal services

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Challenges exist in the area of e-commerce and digital trade including customs procedures, tariffs, and integration of digital and physical aspects of trade

Supporting facts:

• The rapid growth of e-commerce has brought new and multifaceted challenges

• Challenges include issues related to customs procedures, tariffs, and the integration of digital and physical aspects of trade

Topics: E-commerce, Digital trade, Challenges, Customs procedures, Tariffs

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The Trade Post Forum will help kickstart discussions on the future of postal services in the evolving trade landscapes

Supporting facts:

• The Trade Post Forum provides a platform for discussions on the future of postal services

Topics: Trade Post Forum, Postal services, Evolution of trade landscapes

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Report

Postal services play a critical role in facilitating international trade and e-commerce, serving as the backbone of efficient and reliable delivery systems. They connect millions of businesses worldwide, enabling cross-border transactions and expanding their global customer base. The role of postal services in supporting e-commerce and digital trade is crucial.

However, this area also faces various challenges that need to be addressed for its continued growth and success. The rapid expansion of e-commerce has introduced new and complex challenges, such as customs procedures, tariffs, and the integration of digital and physical aspects of trade.

These challenges can impede the smooth flow of goods and services, create trade barriers, and affect the overall efficiency of the e-commerce ecosystem. Recognizing the importance of overcoming these challenges, the Universal Postal Union (UPU) and the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) have formed a partnership to actively tackle them.

Through collaboration, they have developed initiatives such as E-Trade for All, aimed at resolving e-commerce logistics issues and improving countries’ readiness to participate in and benefit from digital trade. This partnership is instrumental in shaping the future of the digital economy and promoting inclusive and sustainable growth.

One notable example of successful collaboration between UPU and UNCTAD is the Trade Post Forum. This forum serves as a platform for discussions on the future of postal services in evolving trade landscapes. It facilitates dialogue between policymakers, industry leaders, and other key stakeholders.

The Trade Post Forum encourages the exchange of ideas, sharing of best practices, and addressing emerging challenges and opportunities. It plays a pivotal role in initiating conversations and shaping policies to ensure the continued relevance and efficacy of postal services in a changing trade landscape.

In summary, postal services are indispensable for facilitating e-commerce and digital trade, connecting businesses and enabling cross-border transactions. Although challenges exist in this domain, partnerships like that between UPU and UNCTAD, along with initiatives like E-Trade for All, are driving efforts to overcome these challenges and shape the future of the digital economy.

The Trade Post Forum provides a vital platform for discussions on the future of postal services in evolving trade landscapes, allowing stakeholders to collaborate and find innovative solutions. By addressing these challenges and fostering collaboration, postal services will continue to play a pivotal role in supporting global trade and economic development.

Arguments

The postal network plays a critical role in e-commerce through its facilitation of cross-border parcels and packets

Supporting facts:

• Digitalization has revolutionized global e-commerce by automating processes

• International trade is made more accessible to businesses and citizens through streamlined transactions

Topics: e-commerce, international trade, postal network

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The postal network is instrumental in promoting trade inclusion

Supporting facts:

• The postal network ensures universal access and embraces digitalization

• The postal network can help SMEs, women, and other underserved communities to gain easy access to global markets

Topics: postal network, trade inclusion, e-commerce

---

Significant barriers to international trade remain, burdening SMEs, women, and underserved communities

Supporting facts:

• Efficiencies and benefits of international trade are best realized through effective policy, operational, and regulatory measures that facilitate trade

• The burden of trade barriers typically fall disproportionately on small and medium enterprises and underserved segments of the population

Topics: barriers to trade, SMEs, underserved communities

---

A positive relationship exists between postal sector development and economic growth

Supporting facts:

• EUPU State of the Postal Sector Report on 2022 confirmed this relationship

• Member states with more developed postal sectors tend to be more resilient in bad times

Topics: Postal Sector Development, Economic Growth, EUPU State of the Postal Sector Report

---

Governments in developing countries are not investing enough in postal services

Supporting facts:

• Experience shows that many postal operators in developing countries struggle to attract the investments needed for infrastructure and improvement

Topics: Postal Services, Infrastructure Development, Foreign Investment

---

Promoting interoperability and connection between postal operators and other market players is vital for providing customers and citizens a seamless e-commerce experience

Supporting facts:

• Discussion on promoting interoperability and interconnection among different forums, including UPU

Topics: data exchange, e-commerce, postal operators

---

There is a need for creating an interface between various segments having different standards

Supporting facts:

• Postal operators under UPU framework have their own standards as do commercial operators

Topics: commercial operators, postal operators, UNCFAP, standards

---

Importance of getting postal operators integrated into existing trade facilitation and customs processes

Supporting facts:

• Postal operator usually not included in trade facilitation dialogues, especially in developing and least developed countries

• Participation of postal network proved vital in a recent project for COVID vaccine importation in the Pacific island countries

Topics: National Trade Facilitation Committee, WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement, Single Window

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Potential role of the postal system in emergency response systems like the ‘Early Warnings for All’ initiative

Supporting facts:

• A considerable part of world’s population isn’t connected to internet/mobile networks, making postal system a crucial linking mechanism

• Potential partners initially lacked awareness about the role of the postal system, until it was explained at COP28 meetings

Topics: Early Warnings for All initiative, COP28 meetings, Emergency response

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Report

The analysis examines the role of the postal network in international trade and trade inclusion, highlighting both positive and negative aspects. It begins by acknowledging the transformative impact of digitalisation on global e-commerce, automating processes and making international trade more accessible to businesses and citizens.

This is seen as a positive development as it streamlines transactions and facilitates cross-border parcels and packets, ultimately boosting economic growth and job opportunities. The postal network is identified as a critical player in this process, as it plays a vital role in enabling the smooth flow of goods and services.

However, the analysis also acknowledges significant barriers to international trade that disproportionately affect SMEs, women, and underserved communities. These barriers hinder their access to global markets and economic opportunities. It emphasises the need for effective policy, operational, and regulatory measures that facilitate trade and alleviate the burden on these marginalised segments of the population.

In this regard, it argues that more efforts are required to optimise the role of the postal network in facilitating international trade and promoting trade inclusion. Furthermore, the analysis highlights the positive relationship between postal sector development and economic growth.

The EUPU State of the Postal Sector Report for 2022 confirms this correlation, indicating that countries with more developed postal sectors tend to be more resilient in challenging economic times. However, it notes that many developing countries struggle to attract the necessary investments for infrastructure and improvement in their postal services.

This lack of investment hampers the growth and effectiveness of the postal network in these regions. Thus, it suggests that governments in developing countries should increase their focus on investing in postal services to tap into their potential for economic development.

To address these issues and enhance the role of the postal network, the analysis recommends changing the narrative in discussions at the WTO Committee on Trade and Development. It asserts that postal services should be given greater importance and attention, and their potential to facilitate trade, especially in developing countries, should be acknowledged.

Additionally, the promotion of interoperability and connection between postal operators and other market players is deemed vital for providing customers and citizens with a seamless e-commerce experience. The analysis also highlights the need to create an interface between different segments with varying standards to ensure compatibility and efficiency.

The analysis further underlines the importance of integrating postal operators into existing trade facilitation and customs processes, as their inclusion has proved vital in recent projects such as COVID vaccine importation in the Pacific Island countries. This integration enhances the overall efficiency and effectiveness of trade facilitation and customs procedures.

Moreover, it suggests exploring the potential of the postal system in emergency response systems like the ‘Early Warnings for All’ initiative, as a considerable portion of the global population lacks access to internet/mobile networks, making the postal system a crucial linking mechanism.

Lastly, the analysis emphasises the need for better understanding and utilisation of existing postal infrastructure by governments. It advocates for repurposing the postal system to fulfil various governmental purposes and leveraging its potential to meet modern demands. The underutilisation of existing postal infrastructure is seen as a missed opportunity that requires collaborative efforts between public and private actors to rectify.

In conclusion, the analysis highlights various aspects of the postal network’s role in international trade and trade inclusion. While digitalisation has revolutionised global e-commerce and improved accessibility to international trade, significant barriers still exist, particularly for SMEs, women, and underserved communities.

Efforts are needed to optimise the role of the postal network, enhance investment in postal services, and promote trade inclusion. The positive relationship between postal sector development and economic growth underscores the need for greater focus and investment in this sector.

Overall, the analysis suggests that addressing these issues and maximising the potential of the postal network can contribute to sustainable economic development and better trade opportunities for all.

Arguments

Standards are critical for the success of the postal logistics supply chain

Supporting facts:

• World Bank implementing WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement that focuses on standards

Topics: WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement, Standards, Regulatory authorities, Artificial intelligence, Block chain

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The World Bank Group is actively involved in trade, trade logistics, and trade facilitation across the globe

Supporting facts:

• The World Bank’s work spans across customs reform, border management, information, communication, and logistics for trade

• Focus is on digitisation, digitalisation, and e-commerce

• Work is done in partnership with postal networks, logistic providers, and both the public and private sector

Topics: World Bank Group, trade, logistics, facilitation

---

E-commerce is a rapidly growing field that needs to be considered differently

Supporting facts:

• Global e-commerce market to reach a total of $6.3 trillion in 2023

• Traditional commerce is increasingly being replaced by e-commerce

Topics: e-commerce, digitalisation, online trade

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Inclusivity, in terms of gender and access to markets, is critical in the movement of goods across borders

Supporting facts:

• Particular emphasis is on women traders

• World Bank has identified constraints and gaps for women to access information and benefits related to trade in small island developing states and other developing countries

Topics: inclusivity, gender equality, trade, border management

---

The importance of partnerships and integrating postal operators into trade facilitation and customs processes

Supporting facts:

• The National Trade Facilitation Committee needs to be established under the WTO TFA obligation

• The significance of a single window in trade facilitation

Topics: Trade Facilitation, Postal Network, Custom Processes

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The need for postal operators’ involvement in emergency response and early warning systems

Supporting facts:

• A third of the world’s population isn’t connected to the internet or have a mobile phone

• The postal service provides an opportunity for connection

Topics: Emergency Response Systems, Early Warnings for All initiative

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World Bank Group offers various financial instruments for member countries to access.

Supporting facts:

• The World Bank has several financial instruments that member countries can use

• Availability of support depends on context, topic, fiscal envelopes and the income level of a particular country

Topics: World Bank Group, Financial Support, Postal Network, Infrastructure

---

Contacting the local World Bank Office is the starting point for this conversation.

Supporting facts:

• The World Bank has an office in nearly every country

Topics: World Bank Group, Local Office

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Report

The World Bank Group plays an active role in trade, trade logistics, and trade facilitation worldwide. They place particular emphasis on digitization, digitalization, and e-commerce, working in collaboration with postal networks, logistics providers, and both the public and private sectors.

The success of the postal logistics supply chain depends on the adoption of standards, which are considered critical. By implementing global standards, the risks associated with the movement of goods across borders can be effectively managed. Inclusivity is another important aspect in the movement of goods across borders, with a focus on gender equality and access to markets.

The World Bank has identified constraints and gaps in trade-related information and benefits for women traders in small island developing states and other developing countries. The integration of postal services into public and private sector dialogues is seen as a crucial strategy for facilitating cross-border trade.

Postal operators can operate as both public and private sector entities, which enables them to garner support and financing. The seamless movement of goods across borders heavily relies on the involvement of postal services. Furthermore, there is a need for an emergency preparedness and response framework for the movement of critical items, especially in small developing countries.

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of efficient logistics in the importation of vaccines in Pacific Islands. Stakeholders from various sectors had to come together to ensure the smooth transportation of critical items. The postal service also presents an opportunity for connection, particularly in emergency response and early warning systems.

As a significant portion of the global population is without internet access or mobile phones, the postal service can play a vital role in providing connectivity and disseminating information during emergencies. The existing postal infrastructure holds great potential for repurposing it for various purposes.

COVID-19 has brought different sectors, such as the Ministry of Health, into trade facilitation committees. Additionally, the rise of e-commerce is driving innovation and presenting an opportunity to involve postal authorities in trade dialogues. The integrated model of a national single window, which incorporates all related border agencies, is crucial for effective trade facilitation.

Integration of the latest technology is essential for integrating legacy systems. The World Bank Group offers various financial instruments for member countries to access based on the specific context and income level of the country. Support for investment in postal network infrastructure is sought, whether it is part of the government or wholly owned by the private sector, with different financial approaches.

In conclusion, the World Bank Group’s involvement in trade, trade logistics, and trade facilitation is driven by the goal of achieving economic growth and partnerships for sustainable development. By implementing standards, ensuring inclusivity, integrating postal services, and establishing emergency response frameworks, the movement of goods across borders can be streamlined and risks can be effectively managed.

The utilization of existing postal infrastructure and investment in postal network infrastructure are important for improving trade facilitation and connectivity worldwide.

Arguments

Affordability of connectivity is a major issue in achieving digital connectivity for MSMEs

Supporting facts:

• Global metric for connectivity affordability is no more than 2% of GNI

• More than half of the 134 low middle income countries have costs higher than this

• In Africa, 2GB data costing roughly 4.5 times more than this threshold

• On rural level, data package can cost 10 to 50% of monthly GNI

Topics: Digital Connectivity, Affordability, MSMEs

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Economic models and innovative solutions are crucial to lower the cost of digital connectivity

Supporting facts:

• Broadband Commission’s report on Smartphone Affordability provides suggestions like reducing taxes and import duties, creating efficient local supply chain, innovative financing mechanisms

• Giga initiative is mapping every school’s connectivity status

• Reduction of 90% connectivity cost is possible through commercial means on innovative strategies

Topics: Digital Connectivity, Economic Models, Innovation, Smartphones

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Connectivity costs are a barrier to sustainable MSME growth

Supporting facts:

• A major hindrance to connectivity is the lack of a backhaul network

• Most initiatives to connect MSMEs fail due to prohibitive connectivity costs after initial grants

Topics: MSMEs, Digital connectivity, Technology

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Access, affordability, relevance, knowledge and skills, and safety and security are crucial in addressing the MSME challenge

Supporting facts:

• The five points mentioned are from the framework proposed by Michael.

Topics: MSME challenge, Affordability, Knowledge and Skills, Safety and Security, Access, Relevance

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Reducing taxes and duties on ICT equipment could stimulate more business and economic potential

Supporting facts:

• Governments are taxing ICT equipment at the same rate as luxury items in some cases

Topics: ICT equipment, Taxes, Economic potential

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Report

The affordability of digital connectivity poses a major obstacle for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in low and middle-income countries. Currently, the cost of connectivity in many of these nations surpasses the recommended threshold of 2% of Gross National Income (GNI).

In fact, more than half of the 134 low and middle-income countries face costs higher than this threshold. For instance, in Africa, the cost of a 2GB data package can be around 4.5 times the recommended threshold. Even in rural areas, the expense of a data package can range from 10 to 50% of the monthly GNI.

To tackle this challenge, the Broadband Commission and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) are actively working to enhance the affordability and accessibility of digital connectivity. The Broadband Commission has established an advocacy platform dedicated to resolving the issue of digital connectivity for MSMEs.

Their recommendations include reducing taxes and import duties, establishing efficient local supply chains, and introducing innovative financing mechanisms. A notable initiative, the Giga initiative, in collaboration with the ITU and other organizations, aims to map the connectivity status of every school worldwide.

By utilizing schools as connectivity nodes, the goal is to create a global backhaul network that facilitates connectivity solutions. To make this approach sustainable, they are exploring the use of machine learning and satellite technology. Leveraging the ubiquity of schools and the strong political support for connecting them is a strategic move, as it is widely acknowledged that linking schools is paramount for providing quality education.

In addition to addressing connectivity costs, it is imperative to consider other factors in addressing the MSME challenge. Access, affordability, relevance, knowledge, and safety and security are crucial aspects that need to be tackled. Michael’s proposed framework highlights these points, emphasizing their significance in enabling sustainable MSME growth.

Lowering taxes and import duties on ICT equipment is another potential solution to stimulate business and economic potential. Currently, some governments impose the same tax rate on ICT equipment as luxury items, hindering progress in the digital sector. Reducing these taxes could encourage more businesses to adopt and leverage ICT tools.

Moreover, it is essential to have the support of government leaders who possess a deep understanding of the power of digital technology and can implement policies that foster its growth. Rwanda serves as a positive example, with its head of state recognizing the relevance of ICT in driving economic development and enacting supportive policies.

In conclusion, the affordability of digital connectivity remains a significant challenge for MSMEs, particularly in low and middle-income countries. The Broadband Commission and ITU, through their initiatives, are actively working towards making connectivity more affordable and accessible. Utilizing schools as connectivity nodes, reducing taxes on ICT equipment, and promoting supportive government policies are key strategies in lowering connectivity costs and enabling sustainable MSME growth.

Arguments

Small businesses are more exposed to digital risks and threats due to their increased connectivity

Supporting facts:

• In Brazil, many micro and small businesses are heavily users of social media

• These businesses use tools such as WhatsApp for selling goods and services

Topics: Small Business, Digital Security, Digital Risks, Online Threats

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Taxes and trade issues can escalate the costs of connectivity devices and digital transmissions

Supporting facts:

• Customs on connectivity devices make costs higher

• Discussion about introducing customs on electronic transmissions could make things costlier

Topics: trade openness, customs, connectivity devices, electronic transmissions

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Developing economies can gain significant benefits from e-commerce and digitalisation, especially through enabling MSMEs to access global markets.

Supporting facts:

• A certain channel that numerous SMEs in a developing economy were using to export was banned, which resulted in six million sellers losing their access to the market overnight.

• This serves as an example of why it is essential for developing economies to embrace digitalization in e-commerce.

Topics: e-commerce, digitalisation, MSMEs, global markets, developing economies

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Navigating the tension between affordability and security in tech for small businesses

Supporting facts:

• Adam Sachs from the Center for International Private Enterprise raised the question

• Mention of cheaper tech that comes with baggage such as data tracking apps and cybersecurity vulnerabilities

Topics: security, affordability, technology, small businesses, competition

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Report

The analysis highlights several important aspects regarding digital risks and connectivity in small businesses. It underscores that small businesses are particularly vulnerable to digital risks due to their increased connectivity. This reliance on digital platforms exposes them to various online threats, necessitating the implementation of effective digital security practices.

One significant observation is the need for policies or actions to enhance digital security practices in companies. Small businesses often handle a significant amount of personal data, making them susceptible to data breaches that can severely impact their operations. Implementing robust digital security measures is crucial to protect this sensitive information and safeguard business operations.

The analysis also emphasizes the impact of taxes and trade issues on the costs of connectivity devices and digital transmissions. Customs on connectivity devices significantly increase expenses for small businesses, hindering their ability to access and afford the necessary tools for digital connectivity.

Furthermore, proposed discussions about introducing customs on electronic transmissions could further exacerbate the financial burden on small businesses. It is essential to address these trade-related challenges to promote widespread digital connectivity, particularly in developing countries. In contrast, advocates argue for a trade openness approach while promoting digital connectivity.

They contend that reducing customs barriers could significantly benefit developing countries. Drawing on the example of Sweden’s history with trade openness and development, they support initiatives by the International Trade Centre (ITC) and the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD).

By embracing trade openness, these advocates believe that developing countries can enhance their digital connectivity, fostering economic growth and reducing inequalities. The analysis further emphasizes the importance of digitalization in e-commerce for developing economies. It highlights a particular example where numerous small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in a developing economy lost access to a certain channel they used for exporting.

The banning of this channel resulted in approximately six million sellers losing their market access overnight. This example underscores the critical role of digitalization in enabling SMEs from developing economies to participate in e-commerce and access global markets. Embracing digitalization can be a transformative catalyst for economic growth and reducing inequalities.

However, a significant challenge mentioned in the analysis relates to regulatory frameworks failing to keep pace with the growth of e-commerce and digitalization. While businesses in developing economies recognize the benefits of digitalization and e-commerce, they often face regulatory barriers that hinder their operations.

The banning of the aforementioned channel used by SMEs to export serves as an example of this regulatory disconnect. Efforts are needed to bridge this gap and create regulatory frameworks that facilitate, rather than impede, digitalization and e-commerce. Lastly, the analysis highlights the tensions between affordability and security in technology for small businesses, which are a matter of concern.

Adam Sachs from the Center for International Private Enterprise raises the question about navigating this trade-off. Cheaper technology options may come with associated risks, such as data tracking apps and cybersecurity vulnerabilities. Balancing affordability and security is essential for small businesses to ensure they have access to suitable technology while adequately safeguarding their operations.

In conclusion, the analysis underscores the vulnerability of small businesses to digital risks, the need for improved digital security practices, the impact of taxes and trade issues on connectivity costs, the benefits of trade openness and digitalization for developing economies, the challenges posed by regulatory frameworks, and the tensions between affordability and security in technology.

These insights provide valuable considerations for policymakers, businesses, and stakeholders involved in developing strategies and policies to enable secure and connected digital ecosystems for small businesses.

Arguments

MasterCard aims to financially include one billion individuals and 50 million small businesses, with half of them being women-owned, by 2025

Supporting facts:

• MasterCard has increased its initial pledge due to a high uptake

• The company regards this target as an essential part of their corporate responsibility

Topics: MasterCard’s pledge, small businesses, financial inclusion, women-owned businesses

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Private-public partnerships are considered crucial in successfully implementing digital inclusion strategies

Supporting facts:

• MasterCard leverages its network, reach, and technologies to support digital inclusion efforts

• Collaboration with governments helps in providing suitable frameworks and tools for small businesses

Topics: private-public partnerships, digital inclusion, business and government collaboration

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Affordable payment tools, along with proper infrastructure and connectivity, are important to ensure small businesses’ survival and growth

Supporting facts:

• MasterCard advocates for the provision of affordable payment tools to small businesses

• SMEs can have payment and e-commerce capabilities if they have a decent smartphone and connectivity

Topics: affordable payment tools, infrastructure, connectivity, small businesses

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Government’s role in providing supportive mandates, tax incentives, and regulations is important

Supporting facts:

• Governments can motivate SMEs to adopt digital payments by offering tax breaks

• Digitization can actually optimize businesses and support their growth

Topics: government regulations, tax incentives, digital payments, cybersecurity

---

The education provided to small businesses should cater to their specific needs

Supporting facts:

• The education provisions for small businesses differ greatly among regions

• Providing knowledge and literacy components tailored to specific SMEs is very important

Topics: education, literacy, small businesses, MSMEs

---

Small businesses need cash flow and access to credit

Supporting facts:

• In order to grow, small businesses need to build a transaction history that can be used for micro-lending or bank loans

• Secure and immediate payments are also needed

Topics: MSMEs, Payments, Digital Economy

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A micro-credit program in Kenya, Jazaduka, helped small businesses

Supporting facts:

• The program offers zero-interest credit, allowing small businesses to buy goods from wholesalers

• They can then sell the goods and pay back the credit

• Through this system, they are building a purchasing history which increases their access to credit

Topics: Micro-credit, Jazaduka, Kenya, MSMEs, FMCG

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Cyber security and security in general, interoperability and affordability are extremely important.

Supporting facts:

• MasterCard works very heavily on and very involved in is cyber security.

• MasterCard has done seven or eight acquisitions and cyber security capabilities that have been built up in the last couple of years.

Topics: Cyber Security, Interoperability, Affordability

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Affordability should not be a reason to compromise whether it is interoperability or safety or security.

Topics: Interoperability, Safety, Security

---

Education component is important because it infoms people what information should and should not be shared through social media or other places.

Topics: Education, Security, Social Media

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Report

Mastercard has set a goal to include one billion individuals and 50 million small businesses financially by 2025, with a particular focus on supporting women-owned businesses. This commitment reflects Mastercard’s corporate responsibility and recognition of the importance of financial inclusion in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 1: No Poverty, SDG 5: Gender Equality, SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities, and SDG 8: Decent work and economic growth.

Private-public partnerships are considered crucial in successfully implementing digital inclusion strategies. Mastercard leverages its network, reach, and technologies to support digital inclusion efforts, especially in collaboration with governments. This collaboration helps provide suitable frameworks and tools for small businesses to thrive in the digital economy.

Mastercard also advocates for providing affordable payment tools, along with developing proper infrastructure and connectivity, to ensure the survival and growth of small businesses. Enabling small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to have payment and e-commerce capabilities through affordable technology adoption can expand their market reach and enhance competitiveness.

Governments play a key role in motivating SMEs to adopt digital payments by offering tax incentives. This drives the transition towards a digital economy and enables SMEs to optimize their business operations and support growth. Furthermore, government regulations are important in providing supportive mandates and regulations that create a conducive environment for digital payments and cybersecurity.

Education tailored to the specific needs of SMEs is vital for small business success. The provision of knowledge and literacy components empowers SMEs to navigate challenges and seize opportunities. However, education provisions for small businesses vary significantly across regions, highlighting the need for tailored support.

Small businesses require cash flow and access to credit for growth and expansion. Building a transaction history is crucial for SMEs to access micro-lending or bank loans, and secure and immediate payments support daily operations. Successful micro-credit programs like Jazaduka in Kenya have helped small businesses by offering zero-interest credit, allowing them to buy goods and build a purchasing history.

Connectivity and infrastructure remain significant challenges for small businesses. While some solutions can function offline, the scalability of operations is limited without internet connectivity. Overcoming this hurdle is essential for small business growth and success. Partnership models like Jazaduka, in collaboration with big corporates such as Unilever, assist small businesses in achieving growth and sustainability.

These partnership models can be replicated across various industries and contribute to SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals. Mastercard’s commitment to cybersecurity is crucial in an increasingly digital world. The company has heavily invested in acquiring cybersecurity capabilities to ensure the safety and security of its payment network and facilitate secure transactions.

Interoperability and affordability are also key factors to consider when implementing digital solutions, providing accessible and seamless financial services. In conclusion, Mastercard’s efforts to financially include one billion individuals and 50 million small businesses, with a focus on women-owned enterprises, by 2025 align with the SDGs.

By leveraging private-public partnerships, advocating for affordable payment tools and infrastructure, providing suitable education and credit opportunities, and prioritizing cybersecurity, Mastercard aims to facilitate the growth and success of small businesses and achieve sustainable and inclusive economic development.

Arguments

Digital connectivity is essential for small businesses

Supporting facts:

• Under the Broadband Commission framework, study on the subject of digital connectivity for MSMEs has been conducted to cover big data gaps and big understanding gaps

• Online trade and business has become an essential requirement

Topics: Digital connectivity, MSMEs, Broadband Commission

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There is a persistent usage gap in digital connectivity

Supporting facts:

• There is a lack of understanding where small businesses are benefiting from being online and where they encounter barriers

• A broad use of the internet, from watching videos to identifying economic opportunities, could be useful in encouraging the usage of digital connectivity

Topics: Usage gap, Digital connectivity

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The private sector has a crucial role in driving digital connectivity

Supporting facts:

• Many initiatives and developments are happening in the private sector

• Private sector involvement can make digital connectivity more self-sustaining

Topics: Digital connectivity, Private sector role

---

Policy makers in Africa and beyond should prioritize micro and small businesses’ participation in the digital economy

Topics: Smart Africa, Digital Economy, Micro and Small businesses

---

James Howe acknowledges the central role of Rwanda and its president in pushing for initiatives that promote innovation and digital progression in Africa

Supporting facts:

• President Kagame of Rwanda is the board chair of Smart Africa, he has shown commitment to innovation.

Topics: Rwanda, Innovation, Digital Progression

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James Howe considers import duties on devices as part of the problem affecting the cost of internet in Africa.

Supporting facts:

• Import duties on devices play a part in the high cost of internet in some areas.

Topics: Import Duties, Internet cost

---

James Howe supports more efficient non-discriminatory measures such as consumption taxes as a way of raising money, and more sophisticated ways of protecting and promoting local industries.

Supporting facts:

• He differentiated the revenue issue from that of protecting or promoting local industries.

• He suggested that there are better ways for developing countries to protect their nascent industries other than import duties.

Topics: Import Duties, Consumption Taxes, Local Industries

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Report

Title: The Importance of Digital Connectivity for Small Business Growth Summary: Digital connectivity is crucial for the growth and success of small businesses, enabling online trade and expanding business opportunities. The Broadband Commission has conducted a study to address data and understanding gaps related to the digital connectivity of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

However, there is a persistent usage gap in digital connectivity, with small businesses facing barriers and lacking understanding of its benefits. Bridging this gap is essential to encourage broad internet usage for economic growth. The private sector plays a vital role in driving digital connectivity initiatives and making them self-sustaining.

Closing the gender divide in digital connectivity can bring significant returns on investment, and efforts are being made to empower women and improve their access to digital connectivity. Policymakers must prioritize the participation of micro and small businesses in the digital economy to promote economic growth and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.

Rwanda, led by President Kagame, has shown commitment to innovation and digital progression, serving as an inspiration for other countries. Import duties on devices contribute to the high cost of internet, highlighting the need for alternative approaches to promote affordability and accessibility.

James Howe suggests efficient measures like consumption taxes to protect and promote local industries while ensuring a fair and competitive environment. Prioritizing digital connectivity for small businesses is essential for their economic growth and overall development. Keywords: digital connectivity, small businesses, online trade, Broadband Commission, usage gap, private sector, gender divide, Sustainable Development Goals, innovation, digital progression, import duties, affordability, consumption taxes, local industries.

Arguments

Concern over the drop in the rate of mobile internet adoption

Supporting facts:

• Mobile is primary way of accessing internet in low-middle income countries.

• In 2020, there was a drop in mobile internet adoption and gender gap in mobile internet use didn’t show significant progress for two years.

Topics: Mobile Internet Adoption, Digital Inclusion, Gender Gap

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Role of mobile in increasing profitability of micro enterprises

Supporting facts:

• In Ghana, use of mobile can increase profitability by almost 50% for micro-enterprises.

Topics: Mobile Usage, Micro Enterprises, Profitability

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Need to address awareness and usage of digital platforms by micro enterprises

Supporting facts:

• Most micro enterprises use mobile for voice and text but unaware of using digital platforms like e-commerce.

• A significant difference in the use of voice and text and e-commerce platforms among micro enterprises.

Topics: Digital Platforms, Micro Enterprises

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Gender-specific challenges to digital inclusion

Supporting facts:

• Challenges include lack of right type of device.

• Structural inequalities and restrictive social norms, including domestic responsibilities and dependency on men for mobility.

Topics: Digital Inclusion, Gender-specific Challenges

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The mobile industry has a big role to play in addressing the gender divide

Supporting facts:

• An operator in Bangladesh had 80% of their female customer base registered as a man which creates a problem for operators with targeted marketing campaigns

Topics: gender divide, technology, mobile industry

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Lack of awareness and digital skills should be addressed

Supporting facts:

• GSMA supports the industry with a mobile Internet skills training toolkits which has impacted 65 million people

Topics: digital skills, awareness, education

---

Usage gap in mobile internet use is a big problem

Supporting facts:

• In sub-Saharan Africa, 85% of the population has access to a mobile broadband network, but only 25% of the population actually uses it

Topics: usage gap, digital divide, mobile internet

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Micro enterprises use limited digital services with usage rate varying from 1 to 10%

Supporting facts:

• Example of invoicing, which as a digital service every business would benefit from is used only by 1 to 10% of micro enterprises

Topics: Micro enterprises, Invoicing, Digital Services

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Balance is needed between security requirements and innovation in digital services uptake

Topics: Innovation, Digital Services, Security Requirements

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Skills training is crucial for security in cyber services usage

Topics: Skills Training, Cyber Services, Security

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Report

The analysis of the provided statements reveals several important insights regarding mobile internet adoption, digital inclusion, gender equality, and the role of governments and the mobile industry. One concern highlighted in the analysis is the drop in the rate of mobile internet adoption in low-middle-income countries.

This drop is especially significant as mobile is the primary way of accessing the internet in these regions. Additionally, there has been little progress in reducing the gender gap in mobile internet use over the past two years. This indicates a need for interventions and strategies to address the barriers to mobile internet adoption and promote gender equality in access.

On a positive note, the use of mobile technology has been shown to significantly increase profitability for micro-enterprises, as evidenced by a study conducted in Ghana. The study found that micro-enterprises that utilise mobile technology can increase their profitability by almost 50%.

This underlines the important role that mobile technology plays in fostering economic growth and supporting the livelihoods of small businesses. However, there is a significant lack of awareness and usage of digital platforms like e-commerce among micro-enterprises. Many micro-enterprises primarily use mobile technology for voice and text communication but are unaware of the opportunities offered by digital platforms.

This highlights the need to address the awareness and usage of digital platforms among micro-enterprises to unlock their full potential for growth and innovation. Gender-specific challenges also pose a significant obstacle to digital inclusion. These challenges include the lack of the right type of device and structural inequalities, such as restrictive social norms and dependency on men for mobility.

Overcoming these challenges requires collective efforts, including men speaking out on gendered challenges and the global community setting ambitious targets, such as reducing the gender gap by half by 2030. The mobile industry has a crucial role to play in addressing the gender divide.

For example, an operator in Bangladesh faced a problem with targeted marketing campaigns when 80% of their registered female customers were actually men. This implies that the industry needs to take proactive measures to ensure accurate gender representation in their customer base and tailor their services accordingly.

To foster digital inclusion and address the lack of awareness and digital skills, initiatives like the GSMA’s mobile internet skills training toolkits have proven to be impactful. These toolkits have already reached and impacted 65 million people. This highlights the importance of providing accessible training and education to empower individuals with the necessary digital skills.

The analysis also sheds light on the role of governments in supporting the digital economy. One of the significant costs for mobile operators is spectrum prices, which tend to be much higher in developing countries. Additionally, taxation remains a major issue for operators.

Governments can play a crucial role in addressing these challenges by reducing spectrum prices and implementing favourable tax policies. Furthermore, government support in digital skill development is essential for creating an enabling environment for the digital economy to thrive. Despite the availability of mobile broadband networks, there is a significant usage gap in mobile internet use, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa.

While 85% of the population in the region has access to mobile broadband, only 25% actually use it. This indicates that barriers to adoption, along with infrastructure, need to be addressed to bridge the usage gap and ensure that the benefits of mobile internet access are fully realised.

Additionally, micro-enterprises have a limited uptake of digital services. For example, only 1 to 10% of micro-enterprises utilise digital services like invoicing. This highlights the untapped potential and the need to increase the adoption of digital services by micro-enterprises to drive their growth and integration into the digital economy.

However, imposing strict data protection regulations on micro-enterprises may pose challenges. Micro-enterprises usually have a small number of employees and limited resources, making compliance with stringent data protection regulations overwhelming. Therefore, a balanced approach is needed to ensure data protection while considering the specific challenges faced by micro-enterprises.

A balance between security requirements and innovation in digital services uptake is crucial. As digital services become more prevalent, ensuring adequate security measures is of paramount importance. Skills training plays a vital role in this area, as individuals need to be equipped with the necessary cybersecurity skills to protect themselves and their organisations from digital threats.

In conclusion, the analysis of the provided statements highlights the need for concerted efforts to address challenges related to mobile internet adoption, digital inclusion, and gender equality. The mobile industry, governments, and the global community all have key roles to play in bridging the gender divide, improving access to digital platforms, and fostering the digital skills needed for the future.

By addressing these challenges collectively, we can work towards a more inclusive and equitable digital society.

Arguments

Micro, small, and medium enterprises need more recognition for a successful digital economy

Supporting facts:

• Smart Africa supports implementation of recommendations within member states

• There’s a need for policies specifically addressing role of micro small and medium enterprises in national policies

• Smart Africa proposes practical steps in policy framework to ensure MSMEs get necessary connectivity

Topics: Digital Economy, Smart Africa, Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs)

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Investment in digital infrastructure and skill development are vital

Supporting facts:

• Governments should prioritize investment in digital infrastructure and broadband access

• Closing the connectivity and usage gaps is important

• MSMEs must be trained to use digital devices and services effectively into their work including agriculture and e-health

• Public-private partnerships can create an enabling environment for MSMEs

Topics: Digital Infrastructure, Skill Development, Digital Services, E-commerce

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Addressing challenges for inclusive participation requires comprehensive and inclusive collaboration between governments, private sector, stakeholders, civil society

Supporting facts:

• South Africa is ready to support to ensure that we address these challenges, particularly within our member states

• Lack of adequate digital infrastructure is a common problem among rural communities

• Efforts should be made to integrate the informal sector into the digital economy

Topics: Inclusion, Collaboration, Participation

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Rural communities lack adequate digital infrastructure, meaning innovative economic models are needed

Supporting facts:

• Rural communities often lack basic infrastructure like water, power, roads, which makes digital development difficult

• Mobile network operators and internet service providers find it unattractive to deploy in these areas

Topics: Rural Communities, Digital Infrastructure, Economic Models

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Youth and startups lack the resources to invest in digital technologies, meaning they need targeted support

Supporting facts:

• Young entrepreneurs often find resources to invest in digital technologies scarce

• Providing additional support could enable these groups to overcome their challenges

Topics: Youth, Startups, Digital Technologies

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Effort should be made to integrate the informal sector into the formal digital economy

Supporting facts:

• In many African countries, a significant portion of economy occurs in informal sector

Topics: Informal Sector, Digital Economy, Integration

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Accessibility challenges disproportionately affect their people with disabilities

Supporting facts:

• Policies and technologies need to be designed with consideration for persons with disabilities

Topics: Accessibility, Disabilities, Inequality

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Top mobile operators in Africa united in working group to demonstrate to governments the economic effects of removing taxes on ICT

Supporting facts:

• Rwanda President’s commitment to innovation cited as a positive example

• Studies conducted to demonstrate the potential economic advantages of such tax cuts

• Research conducted with the support of GSME

• Preparing to present findings to finance ministers at African Union meeting

Topics: Taxes, ICT, Regulation, Government, Economy

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Report

The analysis highlights several key points related to the digital economy and the need for policies to support micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). One of the main arguments is that MSMEs require more recognition to contribute to a successful digital economy.

Smart Africa proposes practical steps in the policy framework to ensure that MSMEs have access to the necessary connectivity. This argument is supported by the fact that Smart Africa supports the implementation of recommendations within member states and emphasizes the importance of policies specifically addressing the role of MSMEs in national policies.

Another important point emphasized in the analysis is the significance of investment in digital infrastructure and skill development. Governments are encouraged to prioritize investment in digital infrastructure and broadband access. It is argued that closing the connectivity and usage gaps is crucial, and MSMEs must be trained to effectively use digital devices and services in various sectors such as agriculture and e-health.

The analysis suggests that public-private partnerships can create an enabling environment for MSMEs to thrive. The analysis also provides insights into SmartAfrica’s initiatives for implementing the digital transformation of Africa. SmartAfrica collaborates with the Africa Union and ITU and plans to work with the private sector to implement recommendations.

The focus is on affordable access devices to close the usage gap, as well as offering capacity building around digital transformation. It is worth noting that Smart Africa plans to start initiatives in Rwanda, Nigeria, Kenya, and Congo-Brazzaville in the second quarter of 2024.

Addressing challenges for inclusive participation in the digital economy requires comprehensive and inclusive collaboration between governments, the private sector, stakeholders, and civil society. South Africa is ready to support efforts in addressing these challenges, particularly within member states. It is acknowledged that the lack of adequate digital infrastructure is a common problem in rural communities.

Therefore, it is crucial to integrate the informal sector into the formal digital economy. The analysis also highlights the lack of resources for youth and startups to invest in digital technologies. Providing additional support to these groups is seen as necessary to overcome their challenges.

Moreover, it is argued that accessibility challenges disproportionately affect people with disabilities and that policies and technologies should be designed with consideration for their needs. Another noteworthy observation is the gender inequality in access to devices, particularly in certain communities where men traditionally own smartphones before women.

This represents a challenge to economic development, as women often drive economic activities but are not given priority when it comes to access to devices. Finally, the analysis discusses the potential economic gains from removing taxes on ICT. Studies conducted with the support of GSME demonstrate the potential economic advantages of such tax cuts.

Finance ministers need to be convinced of these economic benefits, and a working group has been formed by top mobile operators in Africa to demonstrate the effects of removing taxes on ICT. The findings will be presented to finance ministers at an African Union meeting.

In conclusion, the analysis highlights the need for policies supporting the role of MSMEs, investment in digital infrastructure and skill development, SmartAfrica’s initiatives for digital transformation, the challenges of inclusive participation, the lack of digital infrastructure in rural communities, the resource challenges faced by youth and startups, the integration of the informal sector, accessibility considerations for persons with disabilities, gender inequality in access to devices, and the potential economic gains from removing taxes on ICT.

These insights provide valuable information for policymakers and stakeholders in driving a successful digital economy in Africa.

Arguments

Uruguay is slowly progressing in terms of studying the digital economy, with a lack of specific studies on the digital economy and scatter of available information

Supporting facts:

• AGESIC manages official statistics, sectoral studies and specific ago-statistics in the Uruguay state.

• There are a few established surveys on the Demand side

• The existing data is mainly about general indicators like internet access and usage, digital skill

Topics: Digital Economy, Uruguay, Statistical Measurements

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There is a need to build a digital economy measurement ecosystem in Uruguay, gathering scattered information and collaborating with key actors in the field

Supporting facts:

• No coordinated multisectoral initiative on this topic specifically

• Uruguay has a very reliable and available survey data and service provider data

• The start of talks with chambers of e-commerce to pave path towards common efforts

Topics: Digital Economy, Uruguay, Statistical Measurements, Collaboration

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Methodological issues of data reliability and accuracy in reporting financial data

Supporting facts:

• Data involving monetary issues like investment, sales, expenditures is difficult to source and often unreliable

• Current data sources mainly include household surveys

Topics: Data Reliability, Methodology, Digital Economy

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Uruguay has a regional leadership in some areas

Topics: Uruguay, Leadership

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There is a lot to learn from Mexico’s digital economy

Topics: Digital Economy, Mexico

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Report

Uruguay is making slow progress in studying the digital economy, with a lack of specific studies and scattered available information. AGESIC, the government organization responsible for managing official statistics and sectoral studies, mainly focuses on general indicators such as internet access, usage, and digital skills.

The absence of a coordinated multisectoral initiative in measuring the digital economy hinders data collection and analysis. To address this, Uruguay should build a measurement ecosystem, centralising scattered information and collaborating with key actors. Although reliable survey and service provider data are available, more specific studies are needed.

Methodological issues regarding data reliability and accuracy, particularly concerning financial data, pose challenges. Sourcing and assessing data on monetary issues like investment, sales, and expenditures prove difficult. Currently, household surveys are the primary source of data. Uruguay has demonstrated regional leadership in some aspects of the digital economy.

This shows the country’s potential to contribute to the development of the region. By learning from Mexico’s successful digital economy, Uruguay can further enhance its own progress. In conclusion, Uruguay acknowledges the significance of studying the digital economy, but faces challenges of specific studies, scattered information, and data reliability.

Building a measurement ecosystem and collaborating with key actors are essential for comprehensive and reliable data analysis. Inspired by Mexico’s success, Uruguay can strive for better outcomes. A concerted effort and collaboration are necessary to unlock the full potential of the digital economy.

Arguments

Leonardo Melo Lins is hosting a meeting on measuring the digital economy in Latin America

Supporting facts:

• The session aimed to bring together different types of data and sources

• Leonardo works for CETIC, the statistics department of the Brazilian Network Information Center

Topics: Digital Economy, Data Analysis, Latin America

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Latin America has a diversity of data sources and many indicators on digital economy

Topics: Digital Economy, Latin America, Data Sources

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Report

Leonardo Melo Lins, a member of Brazil’s CETIC, recently hosted a meeting focused on measuring the digital economy in Latin America. The objective of the session was to bring together different data sources and types to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the digital landscape in the region.

Lins emphasised the importance of utilising diverse data sources in this initiative. During the meeting, Lins highlighted key elements in measuring the digital economy. He advocated for incorporating administrative data, web scraping, and the use of an index. These various data collection methods provide a more thorough and accurate representation of the digital economy, enabling policymakers and researchers to make more informed decisions.

Lins praised the contributions and unique approaches of Uruguay and Brazil to measuring the digital economy. Latin America offers a wide range of data sources and indicators on the digital economy. This diversity allows for a comprehensive analysis of the region’s digital landscape, facilitating the identification of patterns, trends, and areas for improvement.

With access to numerous data sources, policymakers and researchers can gain a holistic understanding of the digital economy’s impact on various sectors and leverage this knowledge for further development. Furthermore, Lins expressed a keen interest in forging partnerships to enhance learning and advancement in the field of the digital economy.

Collaboration and knowledge-sharing are crucial in maximizing growth and innovation. By working with other institutions and experts, Lins aims to foster continuous improvement in measuring the digital economy and its implications. In conclusion, Leonardo Melo Lins, through his role at CETIC, hosted a meeting highlighting the significance of diverse data sources in measuring the digital economy in Latin America.

By promoting the use of administrative data, web scraping, and indices, Lins underscored the importance of accurate and comprehensive data. With a variety of data sources and indicators available, the region can gain a deeper understanding of the digital landscape and drive further progress.

Lins’s commitment to partnerships and collaboration showcases his dedication to advancing the field of the digital economy and leveraging knowledge for ongoing improvement.

Arguments

The Brazilian government has embarked on improving statistical information on national e-commerce.

Supporting facts:

• Brazil launched an initiative in May this year to improve statistics on national e-commerce.

• The initiative gives statistics on national e-commerce based on anonymized data from electronic invoices provided by the Brazilian Federal Revenue Service.

Topics: Brazilian E-commerce, Statistic Information

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The definition and clear parameters of e-commerce are essential in obtaining a reliable database for measuring the sector.

Supporting facts:

• In their initiative, the Brazilian government defined e-commerce as operations performed over the internet.

• They used certain parameters like the presence of indicator number 2 which relates to operations performed over the internet, and fiscal operation codes number 5 and 6 which relate to operations that occur within the same or different Federative units respectively.

Topics: E-commerce Definition, Measure of E-commerce, Database

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Integration of different information sources is necessary for a holistic measure of e-commerce.

Supporting facts:

• According to Silva, different indicators and statistics from varied sources can give a more comprehensive measure of e-commerce.

Topics: Information Integration, Holistic Measure, E-commerce

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E-commerce growth in Brazil has been significant over the years.

Supporting facts:

• The Brazilian e-commerce sector increased from around 36 billion R$ in 2016 to 187 billion R$ in 2022.

Topics: E-commerce, Growth

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Measuring the digital economy is a big challenge

Topics: digital economy, measurement

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Connected ideas can provide common points for a solution

Topics: connected ideas, common points, solution

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Report

The Brazilian government has launched an initiative to improve statistical information on national e-commerce. This initiative aims to provide accurate and reliable data by using anonymised data from electronic invoices provided by the Brazilian Federal Revenue Service. By collecting and analysing this data, the government seeks to obtain comprehensive statistics on the size, growth, and trends of the e-commerce sector in Brazil.

To ensure the accuracy and consistency of the data, the Brazilian government has defined e-commerce as operations performed over the internet. They have set specific parameters to determine whether an operation falls under the category of e-commerce, such as the presence of indicator number 2, which relates to operations conducted online, and fiscal operation codes number 5 and 6, relating to operations that occur within the same or different Federative units, respectively.

These clear parameters are essential for obtaining a reliable database for measuring the sector. Furthermore, it is important to integrate different sources of information when measuring e-commerce to achieve a holistic understanding of the sector. Silva highlights the significance of using various indicators and statistics from diverse sources to obtain a comprehensive measure of e-commerce.

This integration allows for a more accurate and complete assessment of the sector’s impact and potential. The growth of the e-commerce sector in Brazil has been remarkable in recent years. From approximately 36 billion R$ in 2016, the sector has expanded to 187 billion R$ in 2022.

This substantial growth showcases the increasing importance and influence of e-commerce in Brazil’s economy and highlights the need for accurate and up-to-date statistical information. In measuring the e-commerce sector, it is crucial to segregate domestic and international e-commerce due to their distinct operational differences.

Márcia Lins e Silva emphasises the importance of considering these differences when measuring the sector to gain a more accurate assessment of its performance and impact. This segregation allows for a more nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities associated with both domestic and international e-commerce in Brazil.

Measuring the digital economy, including e-commerce, presents significant challenges. The digital economy is constantly evolving, and traditional measurement methods may struggle to capture its full scope and impact. Developing effective measurement techniques and indicators to track the digital economy accurately is crucial for policymakers, businesses, and researchers.

To address the challenges in measuring e-commerce and the digital economy, more initiatives and partnerships are needed. The sharing of ideas and dynamic problem-solving approaches can help drive innovation in measurement techniques and overcome the complexities associated with e-commerce and the digital economy.

By fostering collaboration and partnerships, stakeholders can work together to find common points and solutions to the measurement challenges faced. In conclusion, the Brazilian government’s initiative to improve statistical information on national e-commerce is a significant step towards obtaining accurate and reliable data on the sector.

The definition and clear parameters of e-commerce are essential for creating a reliable database for measuring its size and growth. Integration of different information sources and the segregation of domestic and international e-commerce are necessary for a comprehensive understanding of the sector.

However, measuring the digital economy, including e-commerce, remains challenging, and more initiatives and partnerships are needed to find innovative solutions and address the measurement complexities. By connecting ideas and working collaboratively, stakeholders can overcome these challenges and unlock the full potential of the e-commerce sector in Brazil.

Arguments

The Latin American AI index measures enabling factors, research development, adoption, and governance

Supporting facts:

• The index consists five parts, covering a broad overview of AI in Latin America from societal perception to future of AI.

Topics: Artificial Intelligence, Latin America, Research Development, Adoption, Governance

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There is a lot for countries in the region to learn from each other to empower and improve their AI environment

Supporting facts:

• While a country like Chile leads the index, it has poor performance in some areas where other countries like Paraguay or Panama, which are worse performers overall, have better indicators.

Topics: Artificial Intelligence, Learning, Country Collaboration

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The region has developed its own ecosystem for training AI researchers

Supporting facts:

• There’s a decrease in the percentage of authors trained outside Latin America from 95% to 60% over the last 30 years.

Topics: Workforce Training, Artificial Intelligence, Latin America

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Countries should develop a shared AI vision and strategy

Supporting facts:

• The strongest correlation between score and a particular indicator was the presence of a vision and strategy.

Topics: Artificial Intelligence, Strategic Planning, Vision, Governance

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Countries need to increase AI-associated skills in workforce and develop AI literacy

Supporting facts:

• Relative penetration of tech skills and disruptive skills (specific to AI) is below global average in countries like Chile.

Topics: Workforce Training, Artificial Intelligence, Skill Improvement

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Latin America and the Caribbean is very diverse with different challenges

Supporting facts:

• Latin America and Caribbean is not a town-south states

• We are very different

Topics: Diversity, Regional Challenges

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Report

The Latin American AI Index is a comprehensive measurement tool that assesses various factors related to the development and adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) in the region. The index measures enabling conditions for AI, research development, adoption rates, and governance.

It provides an overview of AI in Latin America, from societal perception to the future of AI. While Chile is identified as the leading country in AI development, Paraguay and Panama show better indicators in certain areas. This suggests that countries in the region can learn from each other to improve their AI environments.

Collaboration and knowledge-sharing can empower the AI ecosystem in Latin America. The region has developed its own ecosystem for training AI researchers over the past three decades. The percentage of authors trained outside of Latin America has significantly decreased, indicating the growth of a native AI research workforce.

To strengthen the AI landscape in Latin America, it is recommended that countries develop a shared vision and strategy for AI. A clear vision and strategic planning have a strong correlation with the overall AI development score. A unified approach is important in harnessing the potential of AI in the region.

Additionally, countries need to invest in increasing AI-associated skills in the workforce and promoting AI literacy. The current penetration of tech skills and disruptive skills specific to AI in countries like Chile is below the global average. Enhancing the workforce’s skill sets and promoting AI literacy are essential for successful integration of AI technologies.

There are also opportunities for public investment in AI to address social problems in the region. Latin America currently accounts for only 2% of global private investment in AI. Greater investment can help reduce poverty, improve healthcare, reduce inequalities, and strengthen institutions.

Latin America and the Caribbean are diverse regions with unique challenges. Recognizing and addressing these challenges is important in finding effective solutions. By working together as a community, Latin American countries can overcome common challenges. In conclusion, the Latin American AI Index highlights the current state and potential for AI development in the region.

Collaboration, a shared vision, investment in skills, and public investment are key steps towards harnessing the full potential of AI in Latin America and addressing societal challenges.

Arguments

More than 60% of online companies have a passive presence on the internet, reflecting a low degree of digitalization.

Supporting facts:

• 10% of online businesses have internet-based business models.

• 70% of micro, small and medium firms do not have web presence at all.

Topics: Digitalization, E-commerce, Internet economy

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There was a surge in the number of new business websites and e-commerce platforms during the pandemic.

Supporting facts:

• The figures for new business websites doubled in Brazil and Chile during the first year of the pandemic, and tripled in Colombia and Mexico.

• E-commerce platforms in Brazil and Mexico saw a growth of more than 50%.

Topics: Digitalization, COVID-19 pandemic, E-commerce

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There’s a big challenge in defining priorities on the areas of measurement in digital economy

Supporting facts:

• Valeria sees it as a challenge in terms of defining what areas should be prioritized

• Variety of actors need coordination for generation of data

Topics: Digital Economy, E-commerce, Economic Measurement

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Integration and evaluation of different types of sources is critical

Supporting facts:

• Web traffic and other innovative sources should be integrated and evaluated

Topics: Data Collection, E-commerce

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Report

The analysis focuses on digitalisation and e-commerce in Latin America and the Caribbean, highlighting several important points. Firstly, it reveals that a significant majority of online businesses in the region, specifically 70% of micro, small, and medium-sized firms, do not have a web presence at all.

This indicates a lack of digitalisation in these businesses, hindering their ability to reach a wider market and take advantage of online platforms for growth. Furthermore, the analysis points out that even among the online businesses present in the region, a large number, more than 60%, only have a passive presence on the internet.

This means that they have a limited degree of digitalisation and are not fully leveraging the potential of online platforms to expand their customer base or enhance their operations. This low level of digitalisation is seen as a negative aspect of the region’s digital landscape.

However, the analysis also notes a positive development during the COVID-19 pandemic. It states that there was a surge in the number of new business websites and e-commerce platforms in Latin America and the Caribbean. In particular, Brazil and Chile saw the number of new business websites double, while Colombia and Mexico experienced a threefold increase.

E-commerce platforms in Brazil and Mexico also witnessed significant growth of over 50%. This indicates that the pandemic had a positive impact on the digitalisation of businesses in the region, as more companies embraced online platforms to adapt to the changing business landscape.

The analysis also explores the use of big data for measuring digitalisation in the region. It highlights the limitations of big data, stating that it requires specific in-house skills and a multidisciplinary team to process and produce indicators. It argues that while big data has the potential to measure digitalisation, it cannot replicate the control and quality of official statistics.

The analysis suggests that more case studies and the development of methodological tools are necessary to better utilise big data for accurately measuring digitalisation. The establishment of an institutionalised framework for measuring digitalisation at a regional level is considered crucial.

This framework would aid in standardised evaluation, allowing for a better assessment of progress in digitalisation. It could also facilitate regional alignment, setting goals and targets to drive digitalisation efforts effectively. Coordination among various actors and the integration of different data sources are also highlighted as important factors in measuring digitalisation.

The analysis emphasises the need to integrate and evaluate various sources, including web traffic and other innovative sources, to gain a comprehensive understanding of the digital landscape. Moreover, fostering efforts for coordination among a variety of actors, particularly national authorities, is seen as essential for the production and sharing of accurate information on digitalisation.

Lastly, the analysis suggests that the digital agenda for Latin America and the Caribbean could serve as a valuable collaborative platform for addressing the challenges faced in measuring digitalisation. This highlights the importance of regional collaboration in finding solutions and making progress in the digital sphere.

In conclusion, the analysis brings attention to the current state of digitalisation and e-commerce in Latin America and the Caribbean. Despite low levels of digitalisation, the COVID-19 pandemic has led to an increase in the number of new business websites and e-commerce platforms in the region.

However, there are challenges in accurately measuring digitalisation, where big data has limitations and the need for an institutionalised framework and coordination among actors are of the utmost importance. The digital agenda is seen as a potential space for collaboration in addressing measurement challenges and driving digitalisation efforts forward.

Arguments

BEA produces statistics on trade in ICT services and potentially ICT-enabled services

Supporting facts:

• BEA started publishing these official statistics in 2016, and the data go back to 1999

• Exports of potentially ICT-enabled services were valued about $626 billion in 2022

Topics: BEA, Digital Trade, ICT-enabled services

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A fraction of sales by U.S. parents and foreign affiliates were digitally delivered or ordered.

Supporting facts:

• About 25% of those sales of services reported by U.S. parents were either digitally delivered or ordered

• For foreign affiliates, the shares were about 10 percentage points higher

Topics: Digital Trade, US Parents, Foreign Affiliates

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Report

The Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) plays a vital role in providing official statistics on trade in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) services. These statistics have been published since 2016, with data dating back to 1999. In 2022, exports of potentially ICT-enabled services reached an impressive value of approximately $626 billion.

One of BEA’s areas of focus is improving the response rate to surveys that gather information on digital activities. While the desired response rate was not met, BEA is actively working to enhance its efforts and increase participation. This reflects BEA’s commitment to accurate and comprehensive data collection in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Another noteworthy finding is that a portion of the sales made by U.S. parents and foreign affiliates were digitally delivered or ordered. Roughly 25% of sales reported by U.S. parents and approximately 35% of sales reported by foreign affiliates were made or received through digital means.

Interestingly, the share of digitally delivered sales was higher for foreign affiliates, indicating potential differences in the digital engagement strategies of U.S. businesses and their international counterparts. However, it is important to note that BEA acknowledges the limitations of its existing statistics in capturing digitally delivered trade comprehensively.

While the current statistics provide valuable insights into ICT services and potentially ICT-enabled services, BEA considers them a stepping stone towards understanding digitally delivered trade. BEA aims to be transparent and clear about the coverage of its statistics, emphasizing that they are not synonymous with digitally delivered trade.

In conclusion, the BEA’s production of official statistics on trade in ICT services and potentially ICT-enabled services offers valuable insights into the digital economy. The agency’s efforts to improve the response rate to digital activity surveys demonstrate its commitment to capturing a comprehensive understanding of the evolving digital landscape.

By recognizing the distinction between existing statistics and digitally delivered trade, BEA paves the way for further research and analysis in this field.

Arguments

Audience member questioned about the policy objective of measuring digitally ordered trade

Supporting facts:

• The audience member is an analyst of a policy management consulting group working on development consulting

Topics: digital trade, policy, measurement

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Concern over clarity and accuracy of responses in the survey about digital trade

Supporting facts:

• Queried if it’s clear for respondents that certain means of communication are excluded

• Expressed doubt over the trustworthiness of the responses, citing another presentation where 90% respondents provided the same answer

Topics: digital trade, survey, data accuracy

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Query regarding the means and cases used in B2B transactions when digitally ordered

Supporting facts:

• The majority of sales made through digital orders is related to B2B

Topics: digital trade, B2B transactions

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Daniel Ker emphasizes the importance of digital ordering and digital delivery to overcome geographical isolation and integrate into the global economy.

Supporting facts:

• Digitally ordered trade and digitally delivered trade can help countries to overcome geographical isolation.

• Measurement of engagement in digital trade is crucial to understanding barriers and opportunities.

Topics: Digital trade, E-commerce, Global economy

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Report

During the discussion, several concerns and points were raised regarding the measurement, accuracy, and clarity of digital trade. An audience member, working as an analyst in a policy management consulting group, questioned the policy objective of measuring digitally ordered trade, seeking further clarification on the purpose and goals of such measurement.

Another concern raised in the discussion related to the clarity and accuracy of responses in a survey about digital trade. Specifically, participants questioned whether respondents understood which means of communication were excluded from the survey. Furthermore, doubts were expressed regarding the trustworthiness of the responses, citing a previous presentation where 90% of participants provided the same answer.

These concerns highlight the need to ensure the validity and reliability of data collected through surveys. The discussion also highlighted the importance of measuring digitally ordered trade in business-to-business (B2B) transactions. It was noted that a significant portion of sales made through digital orders are in the context of B2B transactions.

This underscores the need to understand the means and cases used in such transactions when they are conducted digitally. Furthermore, the potential of digitally ordered and delivered trade to help countries overcome geographical isolation and integrate into the global economy was emphasised.

The speakers highlighted the importance of measurements that allow for a better understanding of the barriers and opportunities countries face. Digitally ordered trade and digitally delivered trade can contribute to economic growth and the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure).

In addition, a member from the Ministry of Trade of the Republic of Turkey criticised the outdated definition of e-commerce by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), arguing that it fails to consider modern practices such as social media and fulfillment.

This highlights the need for an updated and comprehensive understanding of e-commerce that encompasses contemporary business practices. In conclusion, the discussion covered various aspects of digital trade, including policy objectives, survey data accuracy and clarity, B2B transactions, and the importance of digitally ordered and delivered trade in overcoming geographical isolation.

The critique of the outdated definition of e-commerce drew attention to the necessity of adapting definitions and frameworks to reflect the evolving nature of digital trade. Policymakers should address these concerns and incorporate modern practices to better understand and leverage the opportunities presented by digital trade for economic growth and development.

Arguments

Digital trade involves multiple definitions developed by various institutions aiming to capture the same concept

Supporting facts:

• Different definitions have created confusion among statistical compilers and data users

Topics: Digital Trade, ICT

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Digitally delivered trade refers to international trade transactions delivered remotely over computer networks and is equivalent to mode one WTO got mode one cross-border supply for services

Supporting facts:

• Only services can be digitally delivered

• A digitally delivered service can be digitally ordered but not necessarily so

Topics: Digitally Delivered Trade, WTO

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A service being digitally deliverable doesn’t necessarily mean it is always digitally traded

Supporting facts:

• The actual digital delivery depends on factors like digital skills, infrastructure and regulatory environment

Topics: Digital Trade, Services

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The best source for measuring digitally delivered trade are international trading services surveys

Supporting facts:

• In the absence of surveys or reliable data, the handbook recommends the use of expert judgment shares

Topics: Digital Trade, Surveys

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The handbook, especially the second edition, represents a significant step forward in the measurement of digital trade.

Supporting facts:

• There is a reporting template for digital trade statistics.

• Clarified many concepts and provided clear compilation guidance.

Topics: handbook, digital trade

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Measuring digitally delivered trade is easier than digitally ordered trade.

Supporting facts:

• Digitally delivered services already have standards, definition, recording principle in balance of payments.

• Getting the international dimension for digitally ordered goods is difficult since total e-commerce sales data is hard to carve out.

Topics: digitally delivered trade, digitally ordered trade

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The handbook launched a coordinated statistical capacity building program to support countries in implementing its guidance.

Topics: handbook, capacity building program

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A Handbook on Measurement of the Digital Trade is in use.

Supporting facts:

• The Handbook has been put into action.

• The first regional workshop on measuring digital trade has taken place.

• The workshop was held for the Arab region. It was funded by the WTO and the Arab Monetary Fund and organized with other institutions.

Topics: Digital Trade, Measurement Methods, Capacity Building

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More regional workshops are being planned for 2024.

Supporting facts:

• Workshops are in the pipeline for the Caribbean region, Africa and Asia.

• These are part of the joint capacity building initiative in the field of digital trade measurement.

Topics: Digital Trade, Measurement Methods, Capacity Building

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The importance of measuring digitally ordered trade due to policy implications and negotiations ongoing at the WTO

Supporting facts:

• All regional trade agreements cover digital trade provisions

• 90 economies covering 90% of trade are involved in negotiations on e-commerce rules at the WTO

Topics: Digital Trade, WTO, Policy Implications, E-commerce rules

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The question of applying customs duties on electronic transmissions will need deciding by WTO ministerial conference

Supporting facts:

• There has been a moratorium on customs duties for electronic transmissions since 1998

• The current practice might be made permanent, continued or scrapped

Topics: WTO, Digital Trade, Customs Duties, Electronic Transmissions

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Goods and services simultaneously digitally ordered and digitally delivered depend on what is being sold

Topics: Digital Trade, Goods and Services

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Barbara D’Andrea Adrian believes that the definition of e-commerce includes the cost of marketing incurred in trading goods

Supporting facts:

• She stated that WTO definition of e-commerce includes marketing

• She added that marketing costs are incurred in trading a good digitally through computer networks

Topics: e-commerce, social media, marketing

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Report

Digital trade is a complex concept with various definitions created by different institutions, leading to confusion among statistical compilers and data users. This lack of uniformity in definitions has hindered the accurate measurement and understanding of digital trade. However, digitally delivered trade, which involves remote international trade transactions conducted over computer networks, has gained importance.

To accurately measure digital trade, factors such as digital skills, infrastructure, and regulatory environment need to be considered. Digitally delivered services have been growing at a faster rate than goods trade, emphasizing their significance. The Handbook on Measurement of Digital Trade has provided clear guidance and launched a capacity-building program to support countries in measuring digital trade.

Regional workshops have been organized, and ongoing negotiations at the WTO focus on e-commerce rules and potential customs duties on electronic transmissions. Aligning with the WTO’s definition of e-commerce is crucial, as it covers the cost of marketing incurred in trading goods.

In conclusion, while the multiple definitions of digital trade have caused confusion, accurately measuring digitally delivered trade and aligning with the WTO’s definition will help countries harness the potential of digital trade for economic growth and development.

Arguments

Ruth Bicepi has been appointed head of the newly created Bank of Botswana Digitalization and Innovation Hub

Supporting facts:

• Ruth Bicepi started in this position from January 1st this year.

• The Hub aims to monitor local and global fintech development in Botswana.

• The Hub is tasked with providing appropriate regulatory responses to fintech developments.

Topics: Banking, Digitalization, Innovation, Regulation

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The Bank of Botswana Digitalization and Innovation Hub aims to foster financial inclusion and fintech activity in Botswana

Supporting facts:

• The Hub plans to establish a regulatory sandbox to catalyze and accelerate the adoption of innovative fintech-driven digital payment solutions.

• The Hub is to lead measurement of fintech activity in Botswana.

• One of their priorities is research in fintech-related areas such as the central bank digital currencies, regtech, subtech, and virtual assets.

Topics: Financial inclusion, Fintech, Regulation

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Ruth Bicepi has extensive experience in central banking and digitalization.

Supporting facts:

• Ruth Bicepi has had a 25-year career in central banking, holding executive and leadership positions.

• She has in-depth knowledge and expertise in multiple fields including ICT at the Bank of Botswana.

• She has led numerous digitalization projects, including the SADC fintech landscape mapping survey.

Topics: Banking, Digitalization, Innovation, Leadership

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E-commerce is about ordering and has both a domestic and an international component

Supporting facts:

• Orders placed via the seller’s own websites or apps or via third party marketplaces or platforms, via machine generated and readable messages, as well as voice commands or voice orders issued to virtual assistants and chat bots are included under the concept of digital ordering.

Topics: E-commerce, Digital trade

---

Digital trade is about ordering and delivery and only has an international connotation

Supporting facts:

• Both goods and services can be digitally ordered, including digitally delivered services and the financial services.

Topics: Digital trade

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Businesses are the main users of e-commerce from a production and selling point of view

Supporting facts:

• Businesses exist to produce and sell things. E-commerce is a way for them to sell things and therefore it’s not surprising that businesses are going to be the main users of e-commerce from a production and selling point of view. And that extends to the international arena as well.

Topics: E-commerce, Business

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Daniel Ker emphasizes the importance of written requests for capacity building, he states that without them it is very hard to mobilize resources and donors

Supporting facts:

• The first regional workshop on measuring digital trade has already been held

• Demand for capacity building and measuring digital trade is demand-driven

Topics: Digital Trade, Capacity Building, Regional Workshop

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High degree of confidence in the data received from respondents

Supporting facts:

• Questionnaires are developed through qualitative testing

• Specific includes/excludes statements are provided to respondents

• Data is checked for consistency over time

Topics: Data Accuracy, Questionnaire Design

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digital trade offers businesses a global shop window

Supporting facts:

• The internet can offer businesses anywhere in the world a global shop window

• Digital ordering is the means by which they can purchase

• Digital delivery in some cases the means by which they can receive what they get

Topics: digital trade, internet, global economy

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Report

Ruth Bicepi has recently been appointed as the head of the newly established Bank of Botswana Digitalisation and Innovation Hub. This Hub has been created with the objective of monitoring and responding to fintech developments, promoting financial inclusion, and leading the measurement of fintech activity in Botswana.

Bicepi brings extensive experience in central banking and digitalisation, having held executive and leadership positions throughout her 25-year career. Notably, she has demonstrated strong knowledge and expertise in multiple areas, including information and communication technology (ICT) at the Bank of Botswana.

Bicepi has also led various digitalisation projects, including the SADC fintech landscape mapping survey. The Bank of Botswana Digitalisation and Innovation Hub aims to foster financial inclusion and encourage fintech activity within the country. To achieve this, the Hub plans to establish a regulatory sandbox, which will serve as a platform for testing and implementing innovative fintech-driven digital payment solutions.

This initiative aims to catalyse and accelerate the adoption of such solutions, enhancing financial inclusion in Botswana. The Hub will also take the lead in measuring fintech activity in the country, ensuring that accurate data is available to inform policy-making and strategic decision-making processes.

As part of their research priorities, the Hub will explore fintech-related topics, such as central bank digital currencies, regtech, subtech, and virtual assets. In the realm of e-commerce, it is highlighted that ordering is a fundamental aspect of this digital trade practice.

It encompasses both domestic and international components. Businesses, particularly those involved in production and selling, are the main users of e-commerce. This applies not only to domestic transactions but also extends to the international arena. A significant observation is that cross-border trade still predominantly revolves around the exchange of goods, rather than services, in many countries.

However, some nations have successfully modified their customs reporting procedures to identify and flag digitally ordered shipments crossing their borders. This adaptation accommodates the growing influence of e-commerce in international trade. Daniel Ker emphasises the importance of measuring digital trade and engaging in capacity-building efforts.

He underscores that it is crucial for potential beneficiaries to initiate conversations, as this facilitates the allocation of resources and donor support. Ker notes that capacity-building requests can be made at both the regional and bilateral levels, encouraging interested parties to reach out via the provided email addresses.

In terms of data collection, there is a high degree of confidence in the received data from respondents. Questionnaires undergo qualitative testing and are designed to ensure the accuracy and consistency of the collected information over time. This meticulous approach contributes to reliable and robust data analysis.

Regarding digital trade, it serves as a global shop window for businesses worldwide, offering them the opportunity to expand their reach and access new markets. Digital ordering plays a central role in facilitating business-to-business transactions, especially in manufacturing industries, where a significant volume of goods is exchanged.

The integration of supply chains has led to an increased number of digital orders. Overall, Ruth Bicepi’s appointment as the head of the Bank of Botswana Digitalisation and Innovation Hub represents a significant step towards promoting fintech activity and financial inclusion in the country.

The Hub’s focus on monitoring and responding to fintech developments, along with its commitment to measuring fintech activity, will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the digital economy in Botswana. Additionally, the insights gained from the analysis highlight the importance of e-commerce, cross-border trade, capacity building, and accurate data collection in understanding and harnessing the potential of digital trade.

Arguments

The second edition of the handbook on measuring digital trade provides more defined and rich guidelines for compilation

Supporting facts:

• The 2nd edition provides a richer compilation guidance for statisticians

• It provides clarifications and is more defined compared to the first edition

Topics: Digital Trade, Measurement Handbook, Trade Statistics

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Digital trade includes transactions included in the National Accounts Production Boundary

Supporting facts:

• Digital trade is defined by the nature of transaction

• It includes all international trade that is digitally ordered or delivered

Topics: Digital Trade, National Accounts Production Boundary, International Trade Statistics

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All economic sectors can be both buyers and sellers in digitally ordered trade

Supporting facts:

• Orders can be placed via sellers own websites or apps or via third party marketplaces or platforms

• Even voice commands or voice orders issued to virtual assistants and chat bots are included under digital ordering.

Topics: Economic sectors, Digital Trade, Buyers and sellers

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Digital intermedia platforms play a significant role in facilitating digital trade and have a significant role in the economy

Supporting facts:

• DIPs enable new activities, new business models

Topics: digital trade, economy, Digital intermedia platforms

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Transactions intermediated by DIPs should be included in international trade statistics

Supporting facts:

• Transactions intermediated by DIPs are covered by concepts like digitally ordered trade and digitally delivered trade

Topics: Digital intermedia platforms, international trade

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Report

The second edition of the handbook on measuring digital trade provides statisticians with clearer and more specific guidelines. This edition is an improved version, offering richer guidance for compiling data on digital trade. The handbook aims to assist in accurately measuring digital trade by providing clarification and definition.

Digital trade is defined by the nature of the transaction, encompassing all international trade that is digitally ordered or delivered. This includes transactions conducted through various channels, such as sellers’ own websites or apps, third-party marketplaces, or even through voice commands issued to virtual assistants.

The handbook emphasizes the importance of considering these different channels when measuring digital trade. Businesses are identified as the main users of e-commerce, making their contributions to digital trade crucial. Measuring digitally ordered trade by businesses is considered a priority.

The handbook highlights that both domestic and international transactions can be measured, underscoring the importance of accurately capturing this data. Digital intermedia platforms (DIPs) play a significant role in facilitating digital trade and have a notable impact on the economy.

These platforms enable new activities and business models and serve as intermediaries for digital transactions. They are essential in connecting buyers and sellers, contributing to the growth of digital trade. To accurately record transactions, the handbook emphasizes the need to distinguish the supply of goods and services from the intermediation services provided by DIPs.

It is essential to break out the fee charged by these platforms and track its allocation. The handbook provides examples and compilation guidance on how to effectively break down and track these fees, ensuring accurate measurement. Lastly, the handbook states that transactions intermediated by DIPs should be included in international trade statistics.

By recognizing the significance of these transactions, international trade data can better reflect the true scope of digitally enabled trade. In conclusion, the second edition of the handbook on measuring digital trade provides statisticians with clearer guidelines, contributing to an improved understanding and accurate measurement of digital trade.

It highlights the importance of businesses as key participants and emphasizes the role of digital intermedia platforms in facilitating digital trade. By distinguishing intermediation services and accurately tracking fees, the handbook ensures comprehensive and accurate data collection. Including transactions intermediated by DIPs in international trade statistics enhances the recognition of digitally enabled trade’s impact on the global economy.

Arguments

Canada has two large e-commerce survey programs: Canadian Internet Use Survey and Survey of Digital Technology and Internet Use

Supporting facts:

• Canadian Internet Use Survey is the main source of household e-commerce statistics, while the Survey of Digital Technology and Internet Use is for enterprises

• Business to business online sales account for the majority of the value of online sales

Topics: E-commerce, Surveys, Canada

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ICT use and e-commerce survey measures the impact of digital technologies on the operations of Canadian enterprises across all sectors

Supporting facts:

• The survey is conducted every second year and targets all enterprises with five or more employees

• Stats Canada’s business register is used to draw sample

Topics: Digital technology, Business operations, Canada

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E-commerce sales in Canada are significant with $400 billion in 2021, majority from the manufacturing, wholesale trade and transportation sectors

Supporting facts:

• 72% of all e-commerce sales are business-to-business

• Retail trade was approximately 9% of all e-commerce trade

Topics: E-commerce, Economic sectors, Canada

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Six out of every $10 that are ordered online in Canada are for physical goods

Supporting facts:

• 23% are digitally delivered goods or services

• 18% of the value for other services

Topics: Online sales, Physical goods, Canada

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80% of the value of online sales from Canada goes to other customers in Canada

Supporting facts:

• 16% goes to the United States

• 4% of the value of online sales goes to other regions

Topics: Online sales, Canada

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E-commerce definition is not exclusive of social media but the transactional aspects should be considered

Supporting facts:

• Social Media has evolved to include instant buy now systems integrated which can be part of e-commerce

• Facebook marketplace enables buying and selling, serving as an online marketplace

Topics: E-commerce, Social media, Definition of e-commerce

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Report

Canada has two main e-commerce survey programs: the Canadian Internet Use Survey and the Survey of Digital Technology and Internet Use. These surveys provide statistics on household and enterprise e-commerce in Canada. The ICT use and e-commerce survey focuses on measuring the impact of digital technologies on Canadian enterprises across all sectors.

E-commerce sales in Canada are flourishing, with a projected $400 billion in sales for 2021. The majority of these sales come from the manufacturing, wholesale trade, and transportation sectors. Business-to-business online sales account for 72% of the value of online sales, while retail trade contributes approximately 9% of all e-commerce trade.

When it comes to online purchasing habits, physical goods make up the majority of online sales in Canada, with six out of every $10 spent online going towards physical goods. Additionally, while 80% of the value of online sales from Canada stays within the country, 16% of the value is directed towards customers in the United States, highlighting the international reach of Canadian e-commerce.

The role of social media in e-commerce is expanding, with platforms like Facebook integrating instant buy now systems and serving as an online marketplace. As a result, the definition of e-commerce has evolved to include these transactional aspects. In summary, Canada’s e-commerce landscape is experiencing significant growth, driven by various sectors.

The Canadian Internet Use Survey, the Survey of Digital Technology and Internet Use, and the ICT use and e-commerce survey provide valuable insights into the extent and impact of e-commerce in the country. The evolving role of social media underscores the need for a comprehensive understanding of the definition and boundaries of e-commerce.

Arguments

The significance of measuring digital trade and fintech activities

Supporting facts:

• The advent of digital technologies has brought about instant cross-border digital trade

• An agreed appropriate measurement framework and standards are needed for visibility, inclusion and coverage of digital trade in macroeconomic statistics

• The Bank of Botswana Digitalization and Innovation Hub established a Fintech Landscape Mapping Survey to measure digital economy activities in Botswana

Topics: Digital Trade, FinTech, Regulatory Policies

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Effective regulatory policies needed to further catalyze the digital economy

Supporting facts:

• Digital payment services and mobile money issuance are the most predominant fintech activities in Botswana

• The Hub established a regulatory sandbox to manage the risks posed by the FinTech sector to the financial system

Topics: Regulatory Policies, Digital Economy, FinTech

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Digitally deliverable services have been on the rise and need to be included in macroeconomic statistics

Supporting facts:

• The panel indicated that digitally deliverable services have been on the rise

• The need to modify customs forms where necessary to capture digital trade

Topics: Digitally Delivered Services, Macroeconomic Statistics

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The handbook on measurement of digital trade provides comprehensive guidance

Supporting facts:

• Handbook provides guidance on identification and measurement of digitally ordered and delivered services

• OECD, IMF, UNCTAD and World Trade Organization are open to requests for capacity building

Topics: Digital Trade, Measurement

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Report

The analysis of the given information highlights the importance of measuring digital trade and fintech activities. It emphasizes the need for aligning these measurements with recommended frameworks and standards to ensure accurate and consistent data. The Bank of Botswana Digitalisation and Innovation Hub has taken a proactive step in this regard by establishing a Fintech Landscape Mapping Survey to measure digital economy activities in Botswana.

This survey aims to provide visibility, inclusion, and coverage of digital trade in macroeconomic statistics. Furthermore, effective regulatory policies are crucial in further catalysing the digital economy. In Botswana, digital payment services and mobile money issuance are the most predominant fintech activities.

To manage the risks posed by the fintech sector to the financial system, the Hub has set up a regulatory sandbox, providing a controlled environment for testing and assessing innovative financial technologies. Continuous measurement and monitoring of the digital economy are also essential.

The Bank of Botswana Digitalisation and Innovation Hub conducted a survey, which revealed a significant adoption of Fintech-driven services by the financial services sector in Botswana. This indicates the growing importance of fintech in shaping the country’s economy. Another notable observation is the rise of digitally deliverable services, which need to be included in macroeconomic statistics.

It is suggested that customs forms should be modified, if necessary, to accurately capture these digital trade activities. To assist in the measurement of digital trade, a handbook has been developed, providing comprehensive guidance on the identification and measurement of digitally ordered and delivered services.

International organisations such as the OECD, IMF, UNCTAD, and World Trade Organization are open to requests for capacity building in this area, reflecting their recognition of the importance of accurate measurement in understanding and facilitating digital trade. In conclusion, the analysis emphasises the significance of measuring digital trade and fintech activities, highlighting the need for alignment with recommended frameworks and standards, effective regulatory policies, continuous measurement and monitoring, inclusion of digitally deliverable services in macroeconomic statistics, and the availability of a comprehensive handbook for measurement guidance.

These factors are essential for better understanding and promoting the digital economy.

Arguments

A significant digital divide exists in Latin America and the Caribbean

Supporting facts:

• 80% of people are internet users

• 65% households are connected to the internet

• One third of children between five and 12 are not connected to the internet

• 25% of young people between 13 and 25 are not online

Topics: Digital Divide, Internet Access

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Need for mission-oriented policy innovation to bridge the gender-digital divide and boost digital skills

Supporting facts:

• The gender access gap is relatively small, but there is an issues regarding digital skills

• Women are underrepresented in STEM fields

• Women represent only 30% of all STEM graduates

Topics: Mission-oriented Innovation, Gender-Digital Divide, Digital Skills

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Advocacy for clear governance and institutional frameworks for the design of digital policies and agendas

Supporting facts:

• Promotion of the development of clear strategies to close the digital divide

• Assessment of the maturity of governance and framework around digital strategies

• Advocacy for intergovernmental coordination committees within governance models

• Promotion of spaces for work with other stakeholders, especially private sector

Topics: Governance, Institutional Frameworks, Digital Policies

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Report

Latin America and the Caribbean face a significant digital divide, with a large portion of the population lacking access to the internet. While 80% of people in the region are internet users, there is still a sizable proportion without connectivity. Specifically, one-third of children aged five to 12 and 25% of young people aged 13 to 25 are not connected.

This digital divide presents a challenge that needs to be addressed to ensure equal opportunities for education and information access. Furthermore, there is a need to bridge the gender-digital divide and enhance digital skills in the region. Although the gender gap in internet connectivity is relatively small, there are issues concerning digital skills.

Women are underrepresented in STEM fields, accounting for only 30% of all STEM graduates. This gender disparity hinders progress towards achieving gender equality and limits the overall development potential of the region. Therefore, there is a call for mission-oriented policy innovation to tackle this divide by promoting initiatives that encourage women’s participation in STEM fields and provide them with the necessary digital skills.

To design effective digital policies and agendas, there is a strong argument for clear governance and institutional frameworks. Promoting the development of clear strategies to close the digital divide is essential. Assessing the maturity of governance and framework surrounding digital strategies can help identify areas for improvement and establish effective mechanisms for implementation.

Advocating for intergovernmental coordination committees within governance models can facilitate collaboration and coordination between different stakeholders. Additionally, promoting collaboration with other stakeholders, particularly the private sector, can bring together resources and expertise for the successful implementation of digital policies. In conclusion, the region of Latin America and the Caribbean faces significant challenges in terms of internet access and the gender-digital divide.

Addressing these issues requires a comprehensive approach that includes bridging the digital divide, enhancing digital skills, and promoting gender equality. Mission-oriented innovation can provide a comprehensive solution by incorporating various methodologies and perspectives. Collaboration with partners is crucial in closing the gender gap and effectively addressing the digital divide in the region.

Advocacy for clear governance and institutional frameworks is essential for successfully designing and implementing digital policies and agendas.

Arguments

More focus is required on the lack of adoption and use, beyond just infrastructure investment

Supporting facts:

• 95% of the world population is covered by infrastructure, but there’s lack of uptake

• Challenges include affordability of handsets and data, lack of basic digital skills, safety and security concerns and the availability of relevant content and services

Topics: Digital Inclusion, Telecommunication, Investment, Adoption

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Correct data is necessary for setting right mission and target, especially for achieving gender-equality in digital space

Supporting facts:

• In one telecom operator in Bangladesh, 80% of their female customer base was registered in the customer base as male

• Lack of correct data can lead to wrong target-setting

Topics: Gender Equality, Employee Registration, Data

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Bank of Botswana has established a national fintech working group to adopt innovative fintech initiatives

Supporting facts:

• National fintech working group includes stakeholders from different departments, industries and sectors

• The strategy aims to facilitate adoption of innovative fintech solutions to drive and deepen financial inclusion

Topics: Fintech Initiatives, Bank of Botswana, National Fintech Working Group

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Report

The analysis highlights several key points regarding digital inclusion and the challenges that need to be addressed. Firstly, it emphasizes the need for more focus on the lack of adoption and usage of digital infrastructure, going beyond just investing in it.

While 95% of the world population has access to infrastructure, there is a significant lack of uptake. This can be attributed to various challenges, including the affordability of handsets and data, a lack of basic digital skills, safety and security concerns, and inadequate availability of relevant content and services.

Furthermore, the analysis stresses the importance of collaboration in solving the digital inclusion challenge. It is noted that working across different ministries and entities is challenging and often requires the involvement of international partners. Multiple stakeholders need to come together to address the complex issue of digital inclusion.

Organizations such as the World Bank and UN agencies play a crucial role in bringing together these multi-stakeholder partnerships within countries to find solutions. Another significant point raised in the analysis is the need for correct data in setting targets, particularly in achieving gender equality in the digital space.

In one example, it is highlighted that 80% of the female customer base of a telecom operator in Bangladesh was registered as male, due to incorrect data. This underscores the importance of accurate data to ensure that the right mission and targets are set for gender equality in the digital ecosystem.

Moreover, the analysis emphasizes the urgency of focusing on women in digital inclusion efforts. It is noted that women are already lagging behind in the digital ecosystem, and simply aiming for 50% funding for women in micro-enterprise programs may not effectively bridge the digital divide.

More comprehensive and targeted approaches are required to address the specific challenges faced by women in the digital space. Additionally, the analysis highlights the establishment of a national fintech working group by the Bank of Botswana to adopt innovative fintech initiatives.

This working group includes stakeholders from different departments, industries, and sectors, aiming to drive and deepen financial inclusion. The presence of a cross-sectoral strategy for the group is considered essential, and the speaker welcomes any guidance in developing such a strategy.

In conclusion, the analysis underscores the need for a holistic approach towards digital inclusion, beyond infrastructure investment. Collaboration, accurate data, and targeted efforts towards women are crucial to bridge the digital divide. The establishment of a national fintech working group illustrates a proactive step towards adopting innovative fintech solutions for financial inclusion.

The analysis provides valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities for achieving digital inclusion and highlights the importance of multi-stakeholder collaboration and targeted strategies.

Arguments

Mission-oriented innovation is about formulating measurable, time-bound goals that necessitate investment in different sectors and require a portfolio of projects and investments.

Supporting facts:

• Mariana Mazzucato’s work influenced EU policies and triggered new thinking among governments.

• Missions often combine quantifiable and intangible goals.

• Viable Cities Commission in Sweden developed an interesting dynamic portfolio approach.

Topics: Innovation, Mission-oriented Innovation, Sustainable Development Goals

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Mission-oriented innovation in the global south potentially requires the adaptation of existing practices and coordination mechanisms.

Supporting facts:

• Jal Jeevan mission in India provides tap water to all households by 2024 through strategic investments in technological innovations.

• In London conference 2008, multiple global south governments committed to provide access to family planning methods by 2020, and now by 2030 with country-specific goals.

Topics: Global South, International Development, Policy Coordination

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Mission should have longevity beyond electoral cycles, it requires agreement and traction from populace and industry

Supporting facts:

• Transition to net zero by 2050

• Change of administration or government should not deter mission

Topics: Policy Design, Election, Industry, Public

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Difference in emergence of mission between top-down and bottom-up approaches

Supporting facts:

• Top-down missions often have clear commitments without much public consideration

• Bottom-up missions result from grassroots movement, eg. Germany’s Energiewende or nuclear energy exit

Topics: Policy Design, Public participation

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Mission formulation needs to consider those parts of society and industry who might lose out

Supporting facts:

• Gas and oil industry and their substantial lobbying power are example of incumbents who might be disadvantaged

Topics: Policy Design, Industry, Lobbying

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Need for level of innovation ecosystem maturity

Supporting facts:

• In Global South there’s often insufficient infrastructure and production capabilities, as seen in lack of Covid vaccine production. These should be assessed and invested in.

Topics: Innovation, Covid-19, Global North and South

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Report

Mission-oriented innovation is a strategic approach that involves setting measurable, time-bound goals that require investment across different sectors and a diverse portfolio of projects. This approach has had a significant impact on EU policies and has stimulated new thinking among governments worldwide.

In the Global South, mission-oriented innovation requires the adaptation of existing practices and coordination mechanisms to address specific challenges in those regions. For example, India’s Jal Jeevan mission aims to provide tap water to all households by 2024 through strategic investments in technological innovations.

This demonstrates the need for tailored approaches to innovation in different contexts. The public sector has historically played a crucial role in driving innovation. Governments often provide support for scientific research and development, leading to transformative breakthroughs. One notable example is the smartphone, which emerged as a result of publicly-funded research and development.

Additionally, government-backed institutions like CERN have made groundbreaking contributions to innovation. However, managing innovation investments in the public sector can be challenging. Balancing risks and rewards is particularly important in this context, as public organizations often lack portfolio management strategies.

The prevalent problems include the fallacy of isolated and insufficiently aligned investments, as well as the dominance of hype cycles and over-reliance on senior management. These issues need to be addressed to ensure the effective and efficient use of resources.

Longevity beyond electoral cycles and gaining agreement and traction from the populace and industry stakeholders are crucial for missions. This underscores the importance of establishing a sustainable and inclusive framework for mission-oriented innovation. Furthermore, missions can emerge through different approaches.

Top-down missions are often characterized by clear commitments but may lack public consideration. On the other hand, bottom-up missions result from grassroots movements and can be more responsive to the needs and aspirations of the affected communities. In formulating missions, it is essential to consider the potential impact on different sectors of society and industry.

For instance, the gas and oil industry may be disadvantaged due to the shift towards sustainable goals. Therefore, inclusive mission formulation is necessary to ensure that all stakeholders are taken into account. Assessing and investing in infrastructure and production capabilities are crucial for innovation ecosystem maturity, particularly in the Global South.

The lack of Covid vaccine production in the region highlights the insufficient infrastructure and production capacity. Addressing these gaps is important to foster innovation and ensure equitable access to new technologies and solutions. Lastly, prioritizing and dictating solutions from the Global North to the Global South is not ideal.

Instead, missions in low-income countries should originate from inquiry and differential understanding, driven by the people affected. It is vital to empower and involve local communities to ensure that their needs and aspirations guide mission formulation. In conclusion, mission-oriented innovation represents a strategic and measurable approach to driving positive change.

It has the potential to influence policies, trigger new thinking, and address complex challenges. However, it requires careful consideration of different factors, including adaptation to local contexts, portfolio management strategies, engagement with stakeholders, and a focus on equity and inclusivity.

By implementing these principles, mission-oriented innovation can contribute to sustainable development and the achievement of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Arguments

Mission-oriented innovation is seen as a powerful tool to address the gender-digital gap in partner countries

Supporting facts:

• German Development Corporation is committed to a feminist development policy in the digital age, focusing on inclusive digital public infrastructure, fair regulation and digital skill

• The collaboration with OECD aims to explore the potential of mission-oriented innovations

Topics: mission-oriented innovation, gender-digital gap, low and middle-income countries

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Technical advancements should not perpetuate existing discrimination, particularly based on gender

Supporting facts:

• Despite increased global connectivity, 260 million fewer women than men have internet access

• Women, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, face exclusion from digital opportunities, impacting areas like health services and employment in the digital economy

Topics: Gender Equality, Discrimination, Digital Transformation

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Achieving gender equality in the digital sphere is crucial

Supporting facts:

• Closing the digital gender divide is an important priority for the ministry

• Women in low and middle-income countries face exclusion from digital opportunities

Topics: Gender Equality, Digital Sphere

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Report

In a collaborative effort between the German Development Corporation and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), mission-oriented innovation is seen as a powerful tool to address the gender-digital gap in partner countries. The focus of this initiative is on creating inclusive digital public infrastructure, establishing fair regulations, and developing digital skills.

The aim is to bridge the gender divide in access to and usage of digital technologies in order to achieve gender equality in the digital sphere. It is crucial to ensure that technical advancements do not perpetuate existing discrimination, particularly based on gender.

Despite increased global connectivity, there are still 260 million fewer women than men who have internet access. This disparity is particularly evident in low- and middle-income countries, where women face exclusion from digital opportunities. This exclusion has negative consequences in areas such as access to healthcare services and employment in the digital economy.

Therefore, addressing this issue and striving for equal digital opportunities for all genders is imperative. The achievement of gender equality in the digital sphere is considered a significant priority. The ministry recognises the importance of closing the digital gender divide and is committed to taking action to ensure that women in low- and middle-income countries are not left behind in the digital revolution.

By providing equal access to digital opportunities and resources, women can actively participate in and benefit from the digital sphere. In conclusion, the collaborative efforts of the German Development Corporation and the OECD in promoting mission-oriented innovation offer a promising approach to addressing the gender-digital gap in partner countries.

Prioritising inclusive digital infrastructure, fair regulation, and digital skill development are key in creating equal opportunities for all genders. It is vital to be cautious and ensure that technical advancements do not perpetuate gender-based discrimination. Bridging the digital gender divide is crucial for achieving gender equality in the digital sphere and enabling women in low- and middle-income countries to fully participate in the digital revolution.

Arguments

The session is about exploring mission-oriented innovation and its usefulness in addressing the gender digital divide

Supporting facts:

• Conducting a session to discuss mission-oriented innovation and gender digital divide

• Some audience members are unfamiliar with mission-oriented innovation

• Few audience members work on the gender digital divide

Topics: mission-oriented innovation, gender digital divide

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Stella Deppe acknowledges and appreciates the initiative of the Bank of Botswana to establish a fintech working group

Supporting facts:

• Bank of Botswana has established a fintech working group that is aimed at facilitating the adoption of innovative fintech initiatives at the national level

• The group comprises stakeholders from various sectors such as the financial service sector, and government departments, among others

Topics: Bank of Botswana, Fintech working group

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Stella Deppe emphasizes the importance of comprehending the role of development cooperation providers and actors in mission-oriented innovation

Supporting facts:

• Stella Deppe indicated that GIZ and the ministry are collaborating with the OECD to better understand their role in mission-oriented innovation

Topics: Mission-oriented innovation, Development cooperation providers

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Report

This session explores the concept of mission-oriented innovation and its potential in addressing the gender digital divide. One of the supporting facts is that some audience members are unfamiliar with mission-oriented innovation, while few audience members actually work on the gender digital divide.

The session aims to explore the usefulness of mission-oriented innovation in bridging this divide. Stella, who works for GIZ, an organisation that implements projects on subjects like the gender digital divide, supports the use of mission-oriented innovation to work on this issue.

She aims to understand the background and experiences of the audience regarding the gender digital divide. The Bank of Botswana has taken an initiative by establishing a fintech working group with the goal of facilitating the adoption of innovative fintech initiatives at the national level.

This group comprises stakeholders from various sectors, such as the financial service sector and government departments. Stella Deppe acknowledges and appreciates this initiative, recognizing its potential to drive and deepen financial inclusion, particularly for marginalised communities and small and medium enterprises.

Ruth Baitsepi mentioned that the fintech group aims to deepen financial inclusion for these communities and enterprises. Stella also emphasises the importance of comprehending the role of development cooperation providers and actors in mission-oriented innovation. GIZ and the ministry she works with are partnering with the OECD to better understand this role.

She believes that a better understanding and implementation of mission-oriented innovation in a concrete and evidence-based way is crucial to avoid any “mission washing.” To summarise, this session explores the potential of mission-oriented innovation in addressing the gender digital divide.

Stella Deppe fully supports this approach and appreciates the efforts made by the Bank of Botswana in establishing a fintech working group to promote innovative fintech initiatives. She believes in working towards a better understanding and implementation of mission-oriented innovation in a concrete and evidence-based manner, emphasising the importance of comprehending the role of development cooperation providers in this process.