As the process towards a Global Digital Compact (GDC) advances, the co-facilitators – the Permanent Missions of Sweden and Zambia to the United Nations – have published in their letter dated February 23, 2024, shared structural elements for a Global Digital Compact based on the input provided during the consultations on February 12 and 13, 2024.
The possible elements of a Global Digital Compact can be summarized as follows:
- Preamble: acknowledges the vast potential of digital technologies, emphasizing the need to harness their benefits while mitigating associated risks. It reaffirms the importance of strengthened digital cooperation, rooted in foundational documents like the UN Charter, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and Agenda 2030. The role of the UN in fostering such cooperation is also recognized.
- Principles: highlight key aspects guiding digital cooperation, such as closing digital divides, promoting human rights, and advancing inclusive, safe digital futures.
- Commitments and actions: including four main areas: (1) closing the digital divide and accelerating progress across the SDGs; (2) fostering an inclusive, open, safe, and secure digital space; (3) advancing data governance; and (4) governing emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence.
- Follow-up and review mechanisms: aim to monitor implementation, facilitate knowledge-sharing, promote coordination, and foster inclusive partnerships, emphasizing transparency and building on existing mechanisms. These elements collectively outline a comprehensive framework for global digital cooperation, underscoring the importance of inclusivity, accountability, and human rights protection in the digital age.
To inform the preparation of a draft that will be presented to Member States on April 5, 2024, Member states, observers, and stakeholders are invited to provide input during the consultations on February 29 and March 1, 2024, and provide written comments on these possible structural elements of the GDC via an online form by 8 March 2024.
Below are the comments submitted by NetMission.Asia:
Principles
The principles outlined in the possible structural elements of the Global Digital Compact resonate strongly with the values and aspirations of young people in our community. Promoting human rights, advancing an inclusive digital future, and encouraging innovation are key priorities for youth advocates. The emphasis on closing digital divides aligns with youth concerns regarding equitable access and ethical technology use.
However, it’s crucial to recognize the role and responsibility of all stakeholders, including youth, in addressing multifaceted challenges. Equal opportunities for youth from marginalized communities are paramount. Dismantling barriers and creating inclusive spaces where all young people can thrive in the digital economy is essential.
To truly bridge the digital divide, collaboration among stakeholders, including governments, private sectors, civil society, and youth, is necessary. Prioritizing digital literacy and skill development for people in marginalized groups, while upholding ethical considerations, is vital in this digital age. By adhering to these principles, the Global Digital Compact can pave the way for an inclusive, secure, and open digital future.
Commitments
The commitments and actions outlined in possible structural elements present possible steps towards addressing key challenges in the digital realm, but more concrete and tangible action plans must be laid out to reflect the concerns and priorities of youth in the internet governance community. Youth voices bring unique perspectives and insights to the table, reflecting the evolving needs and aspirations of digital natives in today’s interconnected world.
Efforts to close digital divides and accelerate progress across the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are particularly crucial for ensuring equitable access to digital technologies and innovation. Access to digital technologies and innovation plays a pivotal role in empowering individuals and communities, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds. It is imperative to provide digital literacy and skills development programs tailored specifically for youth because it empowers young people to navigate the digital landscape safely and effectively. It will not only foster inclusivity and drive sustainable development but responsible digital citizenship as well.
Moreover, fostering an inclusive, open, safe, and secure digital space, and advancing data governance principles, including data privacy and security, are essential for creating a digital environment that safeguards the rights and freedoms of all users, including youth and children.
Prioritizing youth perspectives and investing in capacity-building initiatives are fundamental for bridging the digital divide and enhancing digital literacy across generations. By empowering youth with the necessary skills and knowledge, we can ensure their active participation in shaping the digital landscape and driving positive change.
In conclusion, collaborative efforts and collective action are essential in addressing the multifaceted challenges posed by the digital age. By committing to these actions, the Global Digital Compact can effectively address the evolving needs of the next generation in the digital age and contribute to building a more inclusive and equitable digital future.
Follow-up and review mechanisms
The follow-up and review mechanisms outlined in the Global Digital Compact hold immense significance for youth engagement. The emphasis on inclusivity and transparency in the review process aligns with the call for meaningful youth participation in shaping digital policies and interventions. As advocates for youth empowerment in Internet governance, we recognize the pivotal role of a multi-stakeholder mechanism in ensuring that the rights and interests of young people are upheld and prioritized.
We believe that monitoring implementation with periodic review is essential to safeguarding the rights of youth and children. By tracking progress and identifying areas for improvement, we can effectively address emerging challenges and adapt strategies to better meet the needs of young users. Furthermore, advancing knowledge-sharing and promoting partnerships are key for amplifying the voices and perspectives of youth in decision-making processes. By promoting collaboration and information exchange, we can create synergies and leverage collective expertise to drive positive change.
Additionally, we strongly recommend prioritizing youth engagement and participation in the follow-up and review process, to ensure that policies and interventions are inclusive, responsive, and reflective of the diverse needs and aspirations of future generations. Youth engagement not only empowers young individuals but also enriches the quality and effectiveness of digital governance efforts. By harnessing the creativity, innovation, and energy of young people, the Global Digital Compact can truly realize its potential in shaping a more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable digital future for all.
Additional messages
We must have policies that protect the privacy and digital rights of youth in place to prevent online harassment, cyberbullying, and exploitation. It is crucial to safeguard the well-being of youth online and foster a positive digital environment.
Additionally, it is extremely important to incorporate environmental sustainability principles into digital innovation and development efforts. By prioritizing eco-friendly practices, we can ensure a more sustainable digital future for the next generation, aligning technological advancements with environmental stewardship.
Edited by Jenna Manhau Fung and Harisa Shahid