Opening session | UNCTAD eWeek 2023

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Digitalization offers opportunities for remote job creation

Supporting facts:

• Mention of remote coding as a potential job opportunity

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.

SDGs should guide AI development

Supporting facts:

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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.

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.