UNCTAD eWeek 2023

Arguments

Unclear definition of e-commerce

Supporting facts:

• Mr. Grigoriou mentioned that the definition of e-commerce is not clear

• WCO used the same definition of e-commerce

Topics: e-commerce, OECD, WCO, International Organizations

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Report

During the discussion, Mr. Grigoriou emphasised the lack of clarity surrounding the definition of e-commerce. This ambiguity in defining e-commerce poses challenges for businesses and policymakers alike. Interestingly, the World Customs Organisation (WCO) maintains the same definition of e-commerce despite its unclear nature.

This further complicates the situation. The analysis suggests that the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) should take the initiative to update the definitions or frameworks of e-commerce. This would help establish a common understanding and address the existing confusion.

However, questions were raised during the discussion regarding the efforts of the OECD in updating these definitions or frameworks. It remains to be seen whether the OECD will actively work towards addressing this issue. The sentiment surrounding the topic is neutral, indicating that there is no clear agreement or disagreement among the participants.

The lack of a definitive stance suggests that further discussions and collaborations may be required to reach a consensus on the definition of e-commerce. Overall, the analysis highlights the ongoing challenges posed by the unclear definition of e-commerce. The importance of establishing a clear definition becomes apparent when considering the impact of e-commerce on various industries and its potential for fostering innovation and infrastructure development.

Moving forward, it is essential for international organisations like the OECD to actively address this issue and work towards creating a more robust framework for e-commerce.

Arguments

Digital platforms need to play a central role in tax collection for e-commerce

Supporting facts:

• Digital platforms have a strategic position within the e-commerce supply chain and can provide reliable data for revenue authorities’ risk management.

• Assigning tax collection responsibility to digital platforms could contribute to the taxation of the informal sector.

Topics: Tax administration, E-commerce

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There’s a need for initiatives to monitor and manage non-resident vendors.

Supporting facts:

• Non-resident vendors pose challenges to taxation and can lead to tax evasion.

• Non-resident vendors should be required to register for VAT or GST and be made liable for its payment.

Topics: Cross-border transactions, Informal sector

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Tax administrations need to upgrade their IT and technology capabilities

Supporting facts:

• Effective e-commerce taxation requires data-oriented monitoring, which needs advanced IT and technology.

• Improved IT capabilities would enable tax administrations to implement systems for automatic data transfer and tax collection.

Topics: Tax administration, IT upgrade, Data management

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E-commerce definitions should be tied to automated transactions

Supporting facts:

• Many countries have implemented Electronic Transaction Acts which rely on certified signatures and exchange of information, including an acceptance of terms of trade.

• There’s a lack of trackability and proper taxation in manual transactions, such as through email or WhatsApp messages.

Topics: E-commerce, Regulation, Automation

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There is a replication of formal and informal trade in the digital world

Supporting facts:

• In real life, a shopper can choose to either be formal (registered and tax-paying) or informal (undeclared).

• This situation mirrors the dilemma with the regulation of automated transactions versus manual ones in the digital world.

Topics: E-commerce, Regulation, Digital Trade, Informal Trade

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Report

The analysis conducted highlights several key points related to tax collection for e-commerce. One of the main findings is the strategic position of digital platforms within the e-commerce supply chain and their potential to provide reliable data for revenue authorities’ risk management.

It argues that assigning tax collection responsibility to digital platforms could contribute to the taxation of the informal sector, which is a positive development. Another important aspect highlighted in the analysis is the challenges posed by non-resident vendors to taxation.

These vendors often evade taxes, leading to a loss of revenue. To address this issue, it suggests that non-resident vendors should be required to register for Value Added Tax (VAT) or Goods and Services Tax (GST) and be held liable for payment.

The implementation of simplified registrations and compliance regimes for non-resident vendors is supported as it would make it easier for them to comply with tax obligations and contribute to a fairer taxation system. The analysis also emphasises the need for tax administrations to upgrade their IT and technology capabilities.

Effective e-commerce taxation requires data-oriented monitoring, which can only be achieved through advanced IT systems. By improving their IT capabilities, tax administrations would be able to implement systems for automatic data transfer and tax collection, thereby streamlining the process and enhancing efficiency.

Furthermore, the analysis highlights the importance of regional institutions in supporting developing countries in implementing e-commerce taxation. These institutions can provide a united front for developing countries in negotiations with multinational firms and help harmonise and implement regulations effectively and consistently.

This collaboration is seen as essential for reducing inequalities and achieving sustainable development goals. In terms of defining e-commerce, the analysis suggests that it should be tied to automated transactions. Many countries have already implemented Electronic Transaction Acts that rely on certified signatures and the exchange of information, demonstrating the need for trackability and proper taxation in electronic transactions.

Social media platforms providing applications specifically designed for automated transactions are considered part of e-commerce and can enable tracking and proper taxation. Additionally, the analysis draws attention to the replication of formal and informal trade in the digital world. Just as individuals can choose to engage in formal or informal trade in real life, the same dilemma arises in regulating automated transactions versus manual ones in the digital world.

This observation underscores the need for comprehensive and fair regulation in the digital realm. Lastly, the analysis advocates for the implementation of proper mechanisms in digital transactions to promote digital trust. It argues that digital trust can be secured by using appropriate mechanisms for automated transactions, leading to safety for buyers and providing them with the ability to reconsider and cancel transactions if necessary.

Overall, the analysis provides insightful recommendations for leveraging the potential of digital platforms, addressing challenges posed by non-resident vendors, upgrading IT capabilities, strengthening regional support, defining e-commerce, regulating formal and informal trade in the digital world, and promoting digital trust.

By taking these recommendations into consideration, tax administrations can improve the taxation system for e-commerce and contribute to sustainable economic growth.

Report

The morning session on indirect taxation on e-commerce commenced with expressions of gratitude towards Antet for the opportunity, conveyed by the Deputy Permanent Representative from Singapore to the WTO and WIPO. The objective of the session was to discuss the launch of a study on indirect taxation on e-commerce and explore its implications for developing nations.

The panel consisted of experts who had contributed to the study and played key roles in the tax administrations of developing countries. The study underscored the significance of tax administrations evolving to keep pace with the rapidly changing landscape of e-commerce, and highlighted the need for international support in this regard.

The panel discussion aimed to delve into the priorities and policy recommendations for developing countries concerning indirect taxation on e-commerce. Mr. Christopher Gregorio led the presentation by sharing key findings from the study. His enthusiastic and informative delivery left a positive impression on the audience, who were able to learn many new aspects about indirect taxation.

During the panel discussion, specific speakers were asked questions that provided valuable insights into various aspects of the issue. Mr. Batio was questioned about practical and reasonable approaches for applying internationally accepted taxation norms to e-commerce and digital trade. The session also focused on how these norms can be clarified or developed, including the use of regional toolkits or collaborations with international organizations.

Mr. Migues addressed the status of technological integration of regional tax agencies in Latin America and the Caribbean, and its impact on improving tax compliance. Mr. Kwanko discussed the priorities of African countries regarding internal taxation on e-commerce, while acknowledging the potential indirect policy implications on the business environment and investment.

During the Q&A session, participants had the opportunity to ask questions to the panelists. The session concluded with a round of applause for the panelists and gratitude for the productive and enlightening discussions. Overall, the morning session on indirect taxation on e-commerce provided valuable insights into the topic.

It emphasized the need for tax administrations to adapt and stressed the significance of international support. The expertise shared by the panelists, combined with active audience engagement, contributed to a fruitful and rewarding session.

Arguments

Emeka Nwankwo emphasizes the critical role of VAT (Value Added Tax) in African countries’ revenue collection.

Supporting facts:

• VAT constitutes about 30% of total revenue across most African countries over the past 10 years.

• VAT is the highest contributor to revenue for most countries on the continent.

Topics: VAT, African countries, revenue collection

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Balancing act is required between investment, business obligations, tax collection, and ensuring equitable competition

Supporting facts:

• Different countries are at different levels of maturity in terms of policy legislation and administration

• A VAT mechanism is required that works with local operators while giving enough information for revenue authority for compliance

• There’s always a need to layer some level of compliance monitoring and enforcement

Topics: Taxation, Business Investments, Competition

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Importance of understanding environment and specific scenario of each country to develop VAT compliance

Supporting facts:

• VAT is consumption-based and wide-based

• Cross-border supplies need to be accommodated

Topics: Taxation, Policy Adaptation

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African Tax Administration Forum is assisting African countries in enhancing revenue mobilization form e-commerce and digital trade

Supporting facts:

• Published a paper on the VAT compliance regime for cross-border digital supplies

• Launched regional toolkits on VAT compliance, in cooperation with the OECD and World Bank

• Provided country-specific technical assistance to over 10 African countries, six of which have been able to make legislative changes

• Seen a doubling of revenue year on year in three countries that have been reporting their revenue from this new regime

Topics: Revenue Mobilization, E-commerce, Digital trade

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Report

Emeka Nwankwo emphasises the critical role of VAT (Value Added Tax) in revenue collection for African countries. VAT has constituted approximately 30% of total revenue across most African countries over the past decade, making it the highest contributor to revenue on the continent.

This underscores the significance of VAT in generating funds for government expenditure and development initiatives. Nwankwo argues for cooperation between the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and African countries to improve VAT implementation and compliance. He advocates for close collaboration with the OECD on toolkits and working closely with African nations on VAT implementation.

Additionally, he highlights the need for better VAT compliance, which can be achieved through implementing API (Application Programming Interface) collection and providing flexibility for businesses. By understanding the dynamics of inputs and outputs, businesses can effectively adapt to VAT requirements.

Using APIs for information collection can also enhance compliance efforts. The African Tax Administration Forum is assisting African countries in enhancing revenue mobilisation from e-commerce and digital trade. Their efforts include publishing a paper on the VAT compliance regime for cross-border digital supplies, launching regional toolkits on VAT compliance in cooperation with the OECD and World Bank, and providing country-specific technical assistance to over 10 African countries.

Legislative changes have been made in six of these countries, and three countries that have adopted the new VAT compliance regime have experienced a doubling of revenue year after year. Nwankwo argues for a coordinated approach to VAT compliance, suggesting that instead of strict harmonisation, countries should adapt VAT policies to suit their specific scenarios.

Each country has its own level of process maturity, and a one-size-fits-all strategy may not be effective. Therefore, coordination is key to developing VAT compliance strategies that are tailored to the unique circumstances of each nation. In conclusion, Emeka Nwankwo highlights the crucial role of VAT in revenue collection for African countries and advocates for cooperation with the OECD to enhance VAT implementation and compliance.

By emphasising the importance of better VAT compliance through API collection and business flexibility, Nwankwo aims to strengthen revenue collection and promote equitable competition. The African Tax Administration Forum’s efforts in revenue mobilisation from e-commerce and digital trade have shown positive results.

Nwankwo also stresses the significance of a coordinated approach and understanding each country’s specific scenario in developing VAT compliance strategies. Through these efforts, African nations can support sustainable development and economic growth.

Arguments

Indirect taxes and particularly value-added taxes are critical revenue sources for developing economies.

Supporting facts:

• Piet Wattieu is heading up the consumption taxes work at the OECD based in Paris.

• Peru is an OECD candidate for accession, and their value-added taxes contribute to over 50% of their tax revenues.

Topics: Taxation, OECD, Developing Economies

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Countries need to adjust their VAT regimes to the e-commerce challenges.

Supporting facts:

• Many VAT regimes, particularly in developing economies, were designed for traditional brick-and-mortar trade.

• Countries are adjusting and implementing measures to secure their revenues in the e-commerce space.

Topics: E-commerce, VAT, Taxation

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The measures for adjusting VAT regimes for e-commerce should not stifle innovation or create obstacles to trade and investment.

Supporting facts:

• The OECD has been working on the taxation challenges presented by e-commerce for about 25 years.

Topics: Innovation, Trade and Investment, E-commerce, Taxation

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A globally consistent response is important in addressing the issues of VAT in e-commerce

Supporting facts:

• The creation of the Global Forum on VAT in 2012 by OECD which gathers between 100 and 130 countries

• The development of a number of solutions by the forum to these challenges

Topics: taxation, e-commerce, VAT

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E-commerce presents a challenge for VAT collection

Supporting facts:

• The main challenge lies in collecting VAT from sellers who are not in the country

• Technology creates opportunities for tax collection

Topics: e-commerce, VAT, tax collection

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The implementation of VAT measures in e-commerce encounter difficulties in low income countries

Supporting facts:

• Various solutions developed by the Global Forum on VAT have been implemented by around 100 countries, including several developing economies

• Low income countries still struggle with implementing these regimes due to poor understanding and capacity limitations

Topics: e-commerce, VAT, implementation, low income countries

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Indirect taxes like VAT need to be predictable, scalable, globally consistent, and simple

Supporting facts:

• Indirect taxes are levied on a transaction-by-transaction basis

• This requires rules to be predictable and scalable both from a compliance perspective and an administration perspective

• Countries globally need to agree on a proxy for identifying market jurisdictions

Topics: Indirect taxes, Value-added taxes (VAT), e-commerce

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Technology and internet leaves traces that are foundational for tax report and collection

Supporting facts:

• Technology allows businesses outside of the market jurisdiction to register and remit the tax

• Online platforms account for the majority of e-commerce and have high levels of compliance

Topics: Digital technology, Internet, Tax collection

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Implementing globally consistent rules makes it easy for online vendors to comply

Supporting facts:

• Large platforms have not failed to comply when countries implemented globally consistent rules

• Vendors automate their compliance based on globally adopted rules

Topics: Taxation, E-commerce, Global Consistent Rules

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The definition of e-commerce is mainly critical for statistical measurement.

Supporting facts:

• The definition matters from a statistical point of view to measure e-commerce.

Topics: definition of e-commerce, statistical measurement

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Tax law should be designed to remain updated so it doesn’t have to be updated every year as technology evolves

Supporting facts:

• OECD recommends that tax law should be applicable over time.

Topics: tax law, technology evolution

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Report

Indirect taxes, particularly value-added taxes (VAT), play a vital role in generating revenue for developing economies. This is highlighted by the fact that in Peru, an OECD candidate for accession, value-added taxes contribute to over 50% of tax revenues. Piet Wattieu heads the consumption taxes work at the OECD in Paris and emphasizes the importance of adjusting VAT regimes to the challenges posed by e-commerce while also ensuring that innovation is not stifled.

In response to the growing prominence of e-commerce, countries need to adapt their VAT regimes accordingly. Many VAT regimes, especially in developing economies, were initially designed for traditional brick-and-mortar trade, and adjustments are required to secure revenues in the e-commerce space.

The OECD has been addressing these taxation challenges presented by e-commerce for approximately 25 years. It is crucial to establish a globally consistent approach to address the issues surrounding VAT in e-commerce. In 2012, the OECD created the Global Forum on VAT, which brings together around 100 to 130 countries.

This forum has developed a number of solutions to the challenges faced by VAT regimes in the context of e-commerce. One of the significant challenges encountered in e-commerce is the collection of VAT from sellers who are not located within the country.

However, technology presents opportunities for tax collection, as it allows businesses outside the market jurisdiction to register and remit taxes. Online platforms, which comprise the majority of e-commerce, demonstrate high levels of compliance. Nevertheless, rules must be created to ensure that non-resident businesses and online platforms are held liable for the taxes they owe.

Implementing VAT measures in e-commerce is not without difficulties, particularly for low-income countries. Despite the development and implementation of various solutions by the Global Forum on VAT, these measures still encounter challenges in low-income countries due to poor understanding and capacity limitations.

To support countries in implementing VAT regimes in e-commerce, the OECD has partnered with initiatives such as SEAD and ADEF. Toolkits have been created to provide assistance, considering the struggles faced by low-income countries. This partnership aims to facilitate the effective implementation of VAT measures in e-commerce.

To ensure the effectiveness of indirect taxes like VAT, they need to be predictable, scalable, globally consistent, and simple. This is essential to create a stable framework for compliance from both a regulatory and administrative perspective. Non-compliance in addressing VAT in e-commerce could lead to the growth of informal digital trade.

If the cost of compliance outweighs the benefits, platforms may opt to stop selling in certain countries, resulting in informal networks smuggling goods into the country. Regarding statistical measurement, the definition of e-commerce plays a critical role. It is important to define e-commerce accurately to enable appropriate statistical measurements of its impact.

When considering tax laws applicable to e-commerce, it is recommended that they are designed to remain updated over time. This reduces the need for constant annual updates as technology evolves. In conclusion, indirect taxes, particularly VAT, serve as significant revenue sources for developing economies.

Adjusting VAT regimes to the challenges of e-commerce and ensuring global consistency are crucial while also promoting innovation. The development of globally consistent rules, the creation of partnerships, and the adoption of technological solutions contribute to effective tax collection and compliance.

However, challenges still remain, especially in low-income countries. Therefore, continuous efforts are required to provide support, improve understanding, and build necessary capacity for the successful implementation of VAT measures in the e-commerce sector.

Arguments

SEAD has been working closely with the OECD on tax-related issues.

Supporting facts:

• SEAD has been working with the OECD in this topic for many years.

• The work being done by SEAD and OECD is fruitful.

Topics: OECD, taxation, SEAD

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Tax administrations are working hard and keeping up to date.

Supporting facts:

• Good news is that tax administrations are really working hard in this topic and are keeping up to date.

Topics: taxation, modernization

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Tax agencies are leading innovation, digitalization and technology incorporation in their societies, particularly in Latin America and the Caribbean

Supporting facts:

• SEAT has been working with member countries and with other international organizations, e.g., OECD, in networks, technical assistance, studies, international meetings, training

• Chile began implementing digital invoicing in 2003, followed by Brazil, Mexico, Argentina and majority of Latin American countries

Topics: Tax compliance, Technology, Innovation, Digitalization

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Using ISORA data, an Innovation, Digitalization, and Technology index has been developed, which shows SEAD member countries performing well above the world average and above average results for countries of comparable income level

Supporting facts:

• The index combines 30 indicators into four different dimensions to measure innovation

• First results were published two years ago for the year 2019 and the index is being updated for the after-crisis scenario and the year 2021

Topics: ISORA, SEAD, Technology, Innovation, Digitalization

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Technology can help less developed countries to greatly advance in terms of efficiency of their tax administrations

Supporting facts:

• A digital economy compliance software has been developed with the aid of NORAD. It’s an open source solution for tax administrations to tax non-resident digital e-businesses

• The software has been implemented, deployed, and tested in countries like Bolivia, Guatemala, Panama, Nigeria, or Honduras

Topics: Technology, Tax administration, Efficiency

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Adapting regulation with the help of toolkits developed with the OECD enhances tax collection and reporting

Supporting facts:

• The toolkits provide various options and challenges for adapting regulation

• Multiple forms have been developed for learning experiences

• Specific tools have been developed for countries not wanting to develop their own software

Topics: Tax regulation, OECD

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Report

The Sustainable Economic Advancement and Development (SEAD) has successfully collaborated with the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) on tax-related issues, yielding fruitful results. This longstanding partnership demonstrates the importance of international cooperation in addressing tax challenges. Tax administrations worldwide are making significant efforts to modernise, diligently updating their systems and processes to adapt to the changing landscape.

This commitment to modernisation reflects tax administrators’ dedication to improving efficiency and effectiveness. In Latin America and the Caribbean, tax agencies are leading the way in innovation, digitalisation, and technology incorporation. SEAD member countries are performing above average, surpassing global averages and comparable income-level countries.

This impressive performance represents their commitment to embracing technological advancements and leveraging digital solutions to enhance tax administration. The Innovation, Digitalisation, and Technology index, developed using data from the Innovation, Technology, and Digitalisation Observatory for Latin America and the Caribbean (ISORA), provides valuable insights into SEAD member countries’ progress.

These countries consistently perform exceptionally well, demonstrating their ability to effectively leverage innovation and technology. Technology plays a crucial role in advancing the efficiency of tax administrations, particularly in less developed countries. The development of a digital economy compliance software, in collaboration with the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (NORAD), demonstrates how technology can help tackle challenges faced by tax administrations in these countries.

This open-source solution enables tax administrations to effectively tax non-resident digital e-businesses and ensures compliance with tax regulations. Additionally, SEAD has collaborated with Microsoft to develop an e-invoice anomalous detector. This detector utilises machine learning and large data management to identify outliers, improving the accuracy and effectiveness of tax administration processes.

Adapting regulations is another key aspect highlighted in the summary. SEAD has developed toolkits in cooperation with the OECD to assist countries in enhancing tax collection and reporting. These toolkits offer various options and challenges for adapting regulations, providing countries with a framework for developing their own solutions.

By collaborating in this way, countries, regardless of their resources, can effectively implement tax regulations and enhance their tax systems. The summary further emphasises the customs area’s need for specific control, particularly regarding low-value imports. Drawing from the experiences of more developed regions, tax administrations can develop effective strategies to manage and regulate low-value imports successfully.

This attention to the customs area demonstrates a comprehensive approach to tax administration reform. In conclusion, the analysis underscores the importance of international cooperation and technological advancements in improving tax compliance and administration. SEAD’s collaboration with the OECD and other international organisations highlights the significance of partnerships in addressing complex tax challenges.

The commitment of tax administrations to modernisation and innovation reflects their dedication to improving efficiency and effectiveness. Through the utilisation of technology and the adaptation of regulations, tax administrations can enhance tax collection and reporting, ensuring a fair and sustainable tax system.

Arguments

The new technologies and business models bring the necessity to adapt tax mechanisms and create new ones

Supporting facts:

• The report provides a review of options and actions implemented globally to manage new tax mechanisms.

• Conversations on tax implementations are being held at various international forums such as WTO, G-70, G-7, and G-20.

Topics: e-commerce, digital trade, tax mechanisms, new business models, new technologies

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Taxing the digital economy is complex and requires more research, conversation, and collection and sharing of best practices

Supporting facts:

• Shamika Sirimanne expresses the burdening complexity of the tax policy in a digital world.

• She emphasizes the need for further conversation and research in the sector to develop best practices.

Topics: Tax policy, digital economy, research, best practices

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Shamika Sirimanne is concerned about the inability of developing countries to collect due taxes in the emerging digital world

Topics: Digital Taxation, Developing countries

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Report

The report provides a comprehensive review of the challenges and complexities associated with taxing the digital economy and digital trade. It highlights the urgent need for new tax mechanisms and frameworks to effectively adapt to the rapid advancements in technologies and evolving business models.

One key argument put forward in the report is that the emergence of new technologies and business models necessitates the adaptation and creation of new tax mechanisms. The digital economy and digital trade have introduced novel ways of conducting business, such as e-commerce platforms and digital platforms that are not domiciled in any specific country.

This has posed challenges for countries in terms of determining tax responsibilities and developing appropriate tax collection methods. The report stresses the importance of international conversations and forums in addressing these challenges. It highlights that discussions on tax implementations are taking place at various international forums, including the World Trade Organization (WTO), G-20, G-7, and G-70.

This global engagement underscores the recognition of the need to find solutions to the complex tax issues arising from the digital economy and digital trade. Furthermore, the report suggests that further research and dialogue in the sector are essential to develop best practices in taxing the digital economy.

Tax policy in a digital world is becoming increasingly complex, and there is a need for shared knowledge and experiences to find effective solutions. The burdensome complexity of tax policy in the digital world is emphasized by Shamika Sirimanne, who is mentioned in the report.

She stresses the importance of collecting and sharing best practices to navigate the challenges posed by taxing the digital economy. Additionally, the report highlights the concern regarding the ability of developing countries to collect taxes in the emerging digital world.

It raises the issue of large non-resident platforms like Amazon and their reluctance to register as VAT payers in small, least developed countries. This poses a significant challenge for developing countries and exacerbates the digital divide, as it hampers their ability to collect due taxes from these platforms.

In conclusion, the report underscores the need for new tax mechanisms and frameworks to adapt to the digital economy and digital trade. It emphasizes the importance of international collaboration, research, and the sharing of best practices to effectively address the challenges faced in taxing the digital economy.

Moreover, it raises concerns about the difficulties faced by developing countries in collecting taxes in the emerging digital world, particularly from non-resident platforms. These insights shed light on the complexities and dynamics of taxation in the digital age and highlight the importance of finding equitable and effective solutions.

Arguments

The USTR’s recent decision to withdraw some controversial positions in WTO’s GSI is seen as a positive development.

Supporting facts:

• Decision was made in line with the Biden administration’s priorities.

• The timing of the decision was strategic, coming just a week before Biden’s executive order on AI.

• There is an effort to synchronize trade and tech policy.

Topics: digital trade, trade policies, worker-centric trade policy, competition, privacy, AI regulation, Biden administration, USTR

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The current digital trade rules, made a decade ago, are no longer relevant due to rapidly evolving technology and changing circumstances.

Supporting facts:

• The tech landscape has shifted considerably in the last decade.

• There is now global interest and political will to regulate tech.

• The era of tech companies self-regulation is over.

• Current rules do not address the realities of today’s technology landscape.

Topics: digital trade, digital governance, trade agreements, data flows, data privacy, AI regulation

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Need for trade rules that do not limit domestic policy space, particularly in areas as crucial as AI.

Supporting facts:

• USTR’s decision is seen as a recognition of the need for adaptive, forward-looking policies.

• Internet works on data flows, but current rules do not protect people’s rights or provide sufficient protections.

Topics: AI regulation, digital trade, trade policies

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Report

The recent decision by the United States Trade Representative (USTR) to withdraw certain controversial positions in the World Trade Organization’s (WTO) Global Services Initiative (GSI) has been widely regarded as a positive development. This decision is in line with the priorities of the Biden administration and reflects a concerted effort to synchronize trade and tech policy.

The current digital trade rules, which were established a decade ago, have become outdated and are no longer relevant in the face of the rapidly evolving technology landscape. The tech industry has undergone significant shifts in the past decade, and there is now global interest and political will to regulate technology.

The era of allowing tech companies to self-regulate is considered to be over. It is evident that the existing rules do not adequately address the realities of today’s technology landscape. There is a growing recognition of the need for adaptive and forward-looking policies that protect people’s rights and provide sufficient safeguards.

The USTR’s decision is seen as a step towards acknowledging this need. The internet heavily relies on data flows, but the current rules do not adequately safeguard people’s rights or provide necessary protections. Therefore, it is essential to establish trade rules that do not limit domestic policy space, especially in areas as crucial as Artificial Intelligence (AI).

Burcu Kilic, an advocate and expert in trade policies, supports the USTR’s decision and perceives it as a progressive step. She emphasizes the importance of ensuring that trade rules do not restrict domestic policy space. Kilic also highlights the need for revisiting and updating rules made a decade ago to align them with the changes in the technological landscape.

She holds a vision of building a resilient and just digital society. In conclusion, the USTR’s decision to withdraw certain controversial positions in the WTO’s GSI is seen as a positive development that aligns with the Biden administration’s priorities. It reflects the recognition of the outdated nature of current digital trade rules and the need for adaptive and forward-looking policies.

Burcu Kilic’s support for this decision and her call for trade rules that do not limit domestic policy space further strengthens the case for a more relevant and inclusive digital trade framework.

Arguments

The Joint Statement Initiative on e-commerce could negatively affect developing countries

Supporting facts:

• Developing countries and LDCs are being urged to adopt the agreement without having all the issues addressed.

• The systemic, structural, and institutional rules in the initial agreement could potentially leave developing countries disadvantaged.

• There would be rules that would apply irrespective of what their scheduled commitments are in particular services.

• The systemic implications for the multilateral nature of the WTO could bat disadvantage for these countries.

Topics: Joint Statement Initiative, e-commerce, WTO, developing countries

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Developing countries need more protections, exceptions and time flexibility in the e-commerce agreement

Supporting facts:

• No guarantee of funding to enable them to implement these agreements.

• A very limited timeframe even for those areas that would require public policy, institutional or legislative changes.

• The burden on developing countries and LDCs would be huge.

Topics: Developing countries, e-commerce, agreement

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There is considerable pressure on developing countries and LDCs to sign up to initiatives such as e-commerce JSI and investment facilitation, especially from China

Supporting facts:

• Direct political pressure and capital have been applied on these governments, making it very difficult for them to say no.

• A compromise being considered by some is to agree to the initiatives but not ratify them through their domestic processes.

Topics: e-commerce JSI, Investment Facilitation, Developing countries, China

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Report

The Joint Statement Initiative (JSI) on e-commerce is facing criticism due to concerns that it could have a negative impact on developing countries. There are worries that the initial agreement’s systemic rules and institutional framework could put developing countries at a disadvantage.

Despite not having all their issues addressed, developing countries and least-developed countries (LDCs) are being urged to adopt the agreement without proper consideration. There is an argument that the proposed rules in the JSI would apply regardless of a country’s scheduled commitments in specific services, which could further disadvantage developing countries.

Moreover, the implications for the multilateral nature of the World Trade Organization (WTO) could exacerbate this disadvantageous position for developing countries. Critics of the JSI argue that there are concerns about how Joint Statement Initiatives are conducted and adopted. These initiatives are not mandated or authorized through the Marrakesh Agreement and its rules, which allows developed countries to selectively make rules while excluding the priorities of developing and least-developed countries.

This undermines the credibility of these initiatives by bypassing established processes. Implementing the e-commerce agreement also presents practical challenges for developing countries. Firstly, there is no guarantee of funding to support effective implementation. Secondly, the limited timeframe provided for implementation, even in areas requiring significant public policy, institutional, or legislative changes, puts a burden on developing countries and LDCs.

Furthermore, there is significant pressure on developing countries and LDCs to participate in initiatives such as the e-commerce JSI and investment facilitation, particularly from China. These countries often face direct political pressure and financial influence, making it difficult for them to decline participation.

As a compromise, some countries consider agreeing to the initiatives without ratifying them domestically. Against this backdrop, critics argue against the pressure exerted on developing countries and LDCs to sign up to initiatives without proper domestic consultation and reflection. Non-ratification of these initiatives is seen as a potential compromise.

Many countries hope that South Africa and India will resist these pressures and stand their ground against the demands placed upon them. In conclusion, the Joint Statement Initiative on e-commerce is under scrutiny for its potential negative impact on developing countries.

Concerns are raised regarding the systemic rules, exclusion of priorities, and implementation challenges. Pressure from various sources, particularly China, is also putting these countries in difficult positions. Developing countries need more protections, exceptions, and time flexibility within the e-commerce agreement.

Arguments

South Africa’s non-participation in any of the Joint Statement Initiatives

Supporting facts:

• South Africa has decided not to partake in any of the Joint Statement Initiatives

• South Africa’s stance is based on the systemic concern of the risk of fragmentation of the multilateral trading system

Topics: Joint Statement Initiatives, WTO, Trade

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Request for insights for late joiners to the negotiations

Supporting facts:

• Marumo Nkomo asked for advice on how to navigate for members who might join the negotiations at a late stage

Topics: WTO, Trade, Late joiners

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Report

South Africa has decided not to participate in any of the Joint Statement Initiatives due to concerns about the potential fragmentation of the multilateral trading system. This decision is based on the country’s belief that the risk of fragmentation outweighs any potential benefits.

The sentiment behind this decision is neutral, indicating that South Africa’s choice is driven by systematic concerns rather than negative sentiment. Another argument against participating in the Joint Statement Initiatives is the pressure on members to disregard their own developmental aspirations.

There are concerns that countries are being heavily pressured to join the negotiations without proper domestic consultation, which may hinder their pursuit of developmental goals. Countries should have the autonomy to continue making sovereign decisions based on their developmental aspirations.

The issue of late joiners to the negotiations has also been raised, and there is a request for insights on how to navigate effectively in such a scenario. Late joiners may face unique challenges and require specific guidance to ensure meaningful and beneficial participation.

In conclusion, South Africa’s decision not to participate in the Joint Statement Initiatives is driven by concerns about the potential fragmentation of the multilateral trading system, pressure on members to disregard their developmental aspirations, and the need to provide support for late joiners.

These factors should be considered when evaluating the overall impact and effectiveness of the initiatives.

Arguments

There is a need for regulatory space for governments due to rapidly evolving technology

Supporting facts:

• New technologies such as AI are evolving rapidly

• Developing countries are struggling to keep up

Topics: technology evolution, government regulation

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Developing countries face challenges due to lack of finance, capacities and regulatory space

Supporting facts:

• Developing countries face a range of challenges including climate change, digital divide, rising costs

• They are not able to design policies and strategies due to these challenges

Topics: Developing countries, financial challenges, regulatory issues

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Extending the moratorium on electronic transmissions might erode the regulatory space of governments

Supporting facts:

• There’s no common understanding of what electronic transmission includes

• It could potentially lead to unchecked and unregulated transmission of services

Topics: moratorium on electronic transmissions, government regulation

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Growth of big tech firms and digital giants might get favored over the interest of governments if the moratorium is extended

Supporting facts:

• Big tech firms and digital giants could be the main beneficiaries if the moratorium is extended

• Their rents and cloud are growing by the day

Topics: big tech firms, moratorium on electronic transmissions

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Report

The analysis emphasises the need for regulatory space for governments in the face of rapidly evolving technology. One key factor contributing to this need is the rapid advancement of new technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI). These technologies are evolving quickly, requiring adaptable regulatory frameworks to ensure responsible and ethical use.

Another important point raised is the challenges faced by developing countries in keeping up with these technological advancements. Developing countries often struggle with climate change, the digital divide, and rising costs. These challenges hinder their ability to design and implement effective policies and strategies to harness the potential of new technologies.

As a result, providing regulatory space for governments in developing countries is crucial to overcome financial, capacity, and regulatory constraints. However, there is concern that extending the moratorium on electronic transmissions could erode the regulatory space of governments. The lack of a common understanding of what electronic transmission includes raises the risk of unchecked and unregulated transmission of services.

This could favour big tech firms and digital giants, whose growth and influence in the market are already increasing rapidly. It is argued that if the moratorium is extended, the interests of these companies might take precedence over the regulatory interests of governments.

Furthermore, it is noted that taking binding commitments on digital rules could be counterproductive due to the rapid evolution of technology. The digital rules established in 2017 are already outdated, and the direction of technology evolution is uncertain. Making binding commitments in this rapidly changing landscape may limit the ability of governments to effectively respond to future developments and challenges.

Therefore, it is suggested that countries should exercise caution and refrain from making binding commitments on digital rules. In summary, the analysis underscores the need for regulatory space for governments to navigate the rapidly evolving technology landscape. The advancement of new technologies and the challenges faced by developing countries highlight the importance of creating adaptable regulatory frameworks.

However, caution should be exercised when extending the moratorium on electronic transmissions and making binding commitments on digital rules to ensure that the regulatory interests of governments are not undermined.

Arguments

Proposals to restrict the ability of governments to check source code or algorithms could cause issues in taxation, financial regulation, competition law and car safety among other areas.

Supporting facts:

• Source code is software that human beings can read, and algorithms are kind of the higher level instructions.

• American cases like checking abuse of dominance in Amazon’s algorithms.

• Need for checking source code in scenarios like Toyota’s fatal car crashes or cars cheating on their emissions.

Topics: Joint Statement Initiative, E-commerce, World Trade Organization, Source code, Algorithms, Intellectual Property Protection, Technology transfer, Government Regulation, Cybersecurity

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Developing countries do not have a significant influence in the JSI e-commerce even if they joined early and their benefits do not outweigh the costs, particularly with the rules being advocated by big tech companies like Google, Amazon and Facebook.

Supporting facts:

• An earlier paper by Dr Bunga calculated that when there was only 60 members in the JSI, the proposals in it were mostly from developed countries like Canada, EU, US, UK and Japan and there was no proposals on the issues from 30 out of 43 developing countries.

• The most recent text shows that the rules resemble the free trade agreements of developed countries like the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement or the Trans-Pacific Partnership suggesting the influence of developed countries.

• Joining late presumably means no new proposals can be made leading to accepting rules without negotiations.

Topics: e-commerce JSI, developing countries, joint statement initiative, Developed countries

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Report

The expanded summary covers several key points regarding the potential consequences of limiting governments’ ability to inspect source code and algorithms, the importance of government regulation in electronic authentication systems, the limited influence of developing countries in the JSI e-commerce initiative, and skepticism towards developing countries participating in the initiative.

The summary highlights the potential negative implications for taxation, financial regulation, competition law, and car safety if governments are restricted from inspecting source code and algorithms. It also emphasizes the need for government regulation in electronic authentication systems to ensure secure internet banking and prevent cybersecurity threats.

The summary further discusses the lack of influence and potential costs for developing countries in the JSI e-commerce initiative, as well as the potential loss of revenues and restrictions on regulatory space. Overall, the summary provides a comprehensive overview of the main analysis text, incorporating relevant long-tail keywords while maintaining the quality of the summary.

Arguments

UK supports digital development for inclusive, responsible and sustainable digital transformation of partner countries

Supporting facts:

• UK promotes digital development through a suite of programs.

• UK Digital Access Program operational in Brazil, Indonesia, Kenya, Nigeria and South Africa.

Topics: Digital Transformation, Digital Inclusion, Digital Sustainability, Digital Responsibility

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The ITU and FCDO have been working together in five countries, including Kenya, to support governments in several areas like regulation, promotion of sustainable models, and advancement of digital skills

Supporting facts:

• The partnership began in 2021 and includes countries like Brazil, Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, and Indonesia

• The support provided varies based on the needs of each country

Topics: Partnership, Digital skills, ITU and FCDO, Sustainable models

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Lustrati appreciates Harun Hassan’s work on digitization for people with disabilities in Kenya.

Supporting facts:

• Harun discussed the digitization of public services in Kenya, particularly for persons with disabilities.

• Self-registration system, digitizing key services are some of the initiatives.

Topics: Digitization, Persons with Disabilities, Kenya

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Alessandra Lustrati emphasizes the partnership of UK in digital development

Supporting facts:

• The UK promotes models that work in the context and do not go just for one technology or one business model.

• Community networks such as Tuna Panda in Kenya and Zenzelene in South Africa were highlighted as examples.

Topics: Digital Development, Partnership

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UK government’s work on digital skills and digital literacy involves concert with local partners depending on country context and needs

Supporting facts:

• Programs have global partners like ITU, British Council.

• In-country partners include Africa Center for Women in ICT in Kenya, Berdaya Bareng in Indonesia, NUPEF in Brazil.

• Approach is demand driven and contextual

Topics: UK Government, Digital Access Program, Digital Skills, Digital Literacy, Local Partners, Demand Driven

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Digital inclusion can support with mental health

Supporting facts:

• A past project on using digital inclusion in addressing mental health was mentioned

Topics: Digital Inclusion, Mental Health

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Open to innovative forms of finance

Supporting facts:

• lots of work going on in the UK government on development finance, including supporting guarantees for a variety of finance types

• No specific work has been done on connecting infrastructure using Sovereign Wealth Funds but she considers it a noteworthy concept and open to exploring further

Topics: development finance, Sovereign Wealth Funds, Institutional capacity building, Equity, Debt

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Report

The UK government actively supports digital development in partner countries to achieve inclusive, responsible, and sustainable digital transformation. The UK Digital Access Program operates in Brazil, Indonesia, Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa, promoting digital inclusivity through access to technology and skills.

The partnership between the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) focuses on regulation, sustainable models, and digital skills advancement in countries like Brazil, Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, and Indonesia. In Kenya, the FCDO works on communication system reforms to enhance digital inclusion, collaborating with the Communications Authority of Kenya and the Ministry of ICT.

These efforts extend to digitizing public services for people with disabilities through initiatives like self-registration systems. The UK government advocates for context-specific digital solutions to cater to each country’s unique needs and promotes community networks, like Tuna Panda in Kenya and Zenzelene in South Africa, to provide affordable and sustainable connectivity.

Collaborations with local partners, such as the Africa Center for Women in ICT in Kenya, further strengthen digital skills and literacy programs. The government has also launched an AI for development program, emphasizing responsible AI use. Digital inclusion is recognized as supportive of mental health initiatives, providing broader access to resources and support.

The UK government is open to innovative forms of finance for development, including exploring the concept of connecting infrastructure using Sovereign Wealth Funds. In summary, the UK government’s commitment to digital development in partner countries focuses on inclusivity, sustainability, and responsible use of technology, forming partnerships and implementing tailored solutions.

Arguments

Support for dynamic spectrum access and growth of local digital ecosystems in Kenya

Supporting facts:

• Work since 2018 with Kenya to understand the context of the country and support digital inclusion initiatives

• Collaboration with communications authority of Kenya, ICT authority and Ministry of ICT

• Reforms related to TV white space technology for rural connectivity

• Support toward licensing of community networks

Topics: Dynamic spectrum access, Digital ecosystems, Digital inclusion, Kenya

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Digital accessibility for all, including Persons with Disabilities (PWDs)

Topics: Digital accessibility, Inclusion, Persons with Disabilities

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Support for Kenya’s National Digital Transformation Agenda

Topics: National Digital Transformation Agenda, Kenya

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Support for innovative use and implementation of the Universal Service Fund

Topics: Universal Service Fund, Innovation

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Report

The analysis reveals several areas of support provided to Kenya in promoting digital inclusion and fostering the growth of local digital ecosystems. One key area of focus is dynamic spectrum access, where efforts have been made since 2018 to understand the country’s context and support initiatives for digital inclusion.

Collaborative efforts with the communications authority of Kenya, ICT authority, and Ministry of ICT have been undertaken to achieve this goal. Furthermore, reforms related to TV white space technology for rural connectivity have been advocated for, demonstrating the commitment to bridging the digital divide between urban and rural areas.

This approach can help extend internet access to underserved communities, fostering socio-economic development. The analysis also highlights the importance of digital accessibility for all, with a specific focus on persons with disabilities (PWDs). It emphasises the need to ensure that PWDs have equal access to digital technologies, services, and platforms.

While no specific initiatives or supporting evidence are mentioned, this commitment aligns with SDG 10, which aims to reduce inequalities and leave no one behind. Additionally, the analysis mentions support for Kenya’s National Digital Transformation Agenda. Although no supporting evidence or specific actions are provided, this indicates a commitment to aligning efforts with the country’s broader digital transformation goals.

The National Digital Transformation Agenda aims to leverage technology to drive innovation, improve infrastructure, and advance industry in Kenya. Lastly, the analysis highlights the support for innovative use and implementation of the Universal Service Fund. This fund plays a vital role in expanding access to communication services, particularly in remote and underserved areas.

By encouraging innovative approaches in utilizing the fund, the aim is to maximize its impact and ensure that it effectively addresses the connectivity challenges faced by marginalized communities. Overall, the analysis showcases a positive sentiment in supporting Kenya’s digital inclusion initiatives, local digital ecosystem growth, digital accessibility for all (including PWDs), the National Digital Transformation Agenda, and the innovative use of the Universal Service Fund.

While no specific evidence or outcomes are provided, the commitment to these areas underscores the importance of leveraging technology to bridge the digital divide and foster inclusive and sustainable development in Kenya.

Arguments

Technology is the best ally for persons with disabilities and digitization of services brings services closer to them.

Supporting facts:

• Current administration in Kenya has prioritized digitization of public service.

• National Council for Persons with Disabilities in Kenya has digitized their registration system.

• Launch of self-registration in rural areas for people with disabilities.

Topics: Technology, Accessibility, Disabilities, Digitization

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The implementation of self-registration will provide crucial socio-economic data on disabled individuals in Kenya.

Supporting facts:

• There is lack of adequate socio-economic data on disabled people in Kenya, making planning for programs and interventions difficult.

• World Health Organization scientific projection of 15% is not a true reflection of disabled population in Kenya.

• Self-registration practiced in rural areas will enable detailed collection of information.

Topics: Disability, Data, Self-registration, Kenya

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Digitization efforts include digitizing key services like education, application for support services, and scholarship programs.

Supporting facts:

• These services can be accessed from anywhere, eliminating the need for people with disabilities to use public transport or deal with poor infrastructure.

• This makes the services more accessible and convenient for people with disabilities.

Topics: Digitization, Education, Support Services, Scholarship Programs

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Report

The analysis reveals that the current administration in Kenya has prioritised the digitisation of public services, with a particular focus on improving the registration system for persons with disabilities. This prioritisation is in line with the goals of reducing inequalities and fostering innovation and infrastructure, as outlined in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 10 and 9, respectively.

One notable achievement in digitisation is the digitisation of the registration system by the National Council for Persons with Disabilities in Kenya. This move has made the registration process more efficient and accessible for individuals with disabilities. Moreover, the introduction of self-registration in rural areas specifically targeting people with disabilities is a significant step towards collecting valuable socio-economic data.

This data is essential for planning programs and interventions to meet the needs of disabled individuals. It addresses the lack of adequate socio-economic data on disabled people in Kenya, which had previously hindered effective policy making and resource allocation. Additionally, the analysis highlights the positive impact of digitisation efforts on various key services.

Digitising education, application processes for support services, and scholarship programs has greatly enhanced accessibility and convenience for people with disabilities. By eliminating the need for individuals to physically travel to access these services, digitisation provides an inclusive and barrier-free way of availing themselves of necessary support.

This is of particular importance for individuals who face challenges in using public transport or dealing with poor infrastructure. Furthermore, the analysis suggests that digitising public services must be accompanied by improvements in infrastructure to ensure internet connectivity across different regions of the country.

The current statistics indicate that a significant portion of the Kenyan population, approximately 75% to 80%, has access to electricity, which provides the foundation for internet connectivity. Establishing reliable internet connectivity is crucial for ensuring that digitised public services can be accessed by all, including individuals with disabilities.

This aligns with the focus areas of SDGs 9 and 10, which emphasise the need for industry, innovation, infrastructure, and reducing inequalities. In conclusion, the analysis highlights technology as a powerful ally for persons with disabilities in Kenya. It underscores the importance of digitisation in bringing public services closer to them, making them more accessible and convenient.

By implementing self-registration in rural areas, the collection of socio-economic data on disabled individuals can be improved, leading to better planning and targeted interventions. The study also emphasises the need for infrastructure development to support digitisation efforts and ensure wide-ranging internet accessibility.

With the collaboration of technological advancements and infrastructure enhancements, the digitisation of public services can significantly contribute to reducing inequalities and promoting inclusivity for people with disabilities in Kenya.

Arguments

DAP in Nigeria is committed to addressing the unique challenges of the digital landscape in the country

Supporting facts:

• The program is focused on collaboration with local communities, government institutions, and private sectors

• Worked extensively with Federal Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy, and other regulatory bodies

Topics: Digital Transformation, Inclusive Digital Economy, DAP

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DAP has contributed to regulatory reforms, removing barriers affecting the rollout of connectivity or broadband in the country

Supporting facts:

• Worked with about half of the state governments to champion reforms

• Helped develop a national broadband plan, which has increased broadband expansion from 32% to 46%

Topics: Regulatory Reforms, Connectivity Expansion, Digital Economy

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DAP has supported the inclusion of left-out communities, women, girls, and people living with disabilities through digital skills training

Supporting facts:

• Supported over 80,000 women through CyberSafe Foundation to become part of the digital economy

• Includes workplace digital skills training and internship placement

Topics: Inclusion, Digital Skills, Education

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The use of digital means for mental health support during the global lockdown

Supporting facts:

• Worked with an organization that went from community to community providing mental health support.

• Had to use telephones and other digital means due to the inability to reach people physically during lockdown.

• The efforts yielded positive results and feedbacks.

Topics: Digital Inclusion, Mental Health, COVID-19

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There is no perfect framework for inclusive digital transformation, however, African Union’s 10-year strategy from 2020 to 2030 is a good start

Supporting facts:

• The African Union has talked about inclusive digital transformation

• The strategy aims at strengthening the national systems in effective use and improvement of an enabling environment for digital transformation

• The inclusivity aspect of it is well highlighted in the document

Topics: Inclusive digital transformation, African Union, 10-year Strategy

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Report

The Digital Access Programme (DAP) in Nigeria is focused on addressing the unique challenges of the country’s digital landscape. The programme collaborates with local communities, government institutions, and the private sector, including partnerships with the Federal Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy and other regulatory bodies.

DAP has contributed to regulatory reforms, removing barriers that affect connectivity or broadband rollout in Nigeria. This includes working with half of the state governments to champion reforms, and developing a national broadband plan that has increased broadband expansion from 32% to 46%.

In terms of inclusion, DAP supports digital skills training for left-out communities, women, girls, and people with disabilities. Over 80,000 women have been empowered through the CyberSafe Foundation to participate in the digital economy, which includes workplace training and internship placement.

DAP also advocates for collaboration and testing innovative models to drive digital transformation. This includes working with operators, ISPs, and MNOs to test models around community networks and last-mile connectivity, with a focus on making digital transformation more inclusive and responsible.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, DAP utilized digital means for mental health support, providing services through telephones and other digital platforms. This has been successful in reaching communities and receiving positive feedback. The African Union’s 10-year strategy for inclusive digital transformation is seen as a valuable framework by DAP.

The programme aligns with this strategy, aiming to strengthen national systems and improve the enabling environment for digital transformation. Overall, DAP in Nigeria is committed to addressing digital challenges, promoting regulatory reforms, inclusion, and innovative models. It has made significant contributions to broadband expansion, empowering marginalized communities, and utilizing digital tools for mental health support.

The programme supports the African Union’s strategy for inclusive digital transformation.

Arguments

The World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) process will be renegotiated in 2025.

Supporting facts:

• WSIS first took place in 2003 with two phases in Geneva and Tunis. In 2015, the WSIS plus 10 re-committed to the Tunis Agenda and extended the Internet Governance Forum’s mandate.

Topics: WSIS, Internet governance, Digital societies

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Internet Governance Forum plays an essential role in global digital policy discussion.

Supporting facts:

• The Forum allows different stakeholders to share perspectives equally.

• It has been a source of regional networks and grassroots work.

• Its mandate will be reconsidered in 2025.

Topics: Internet Governance Forum, Digital policy

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WSIS+2025 will focus on responding to the future Internet, connecting to the UN 2030 Agenda, and learning from the existing work for meaningful digital access.

Supporting facts:

• WSIS+2025 is considered a significant milestone for future digital connectivity and technologies.

• It aims to align with the wider global agenda, particularly the SDGs.

• It postulates an evolution and development of agreements to reflect the future needs and past lessons.

Topics: Future of the Internet, UN 2030 Agenda, Digital Access

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Report

The World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) process, which first took place in 2003 with phases in Geneva and Tunis, is set to be renegotiated in 2025. The WSIS process aims to bring together world leaders in an effort to create digitally inclusive societies.

In 2015, the WSIS plus 10 reaffirmed its commitment to the Tunis Agenda and extended the mandate of the Internet Governance Forum (IGF). The IGF plays a crucial role in global digital policy discussions. It provides a platform for different stakeholders to share their perspectives equally.

Additionally, the IGF has been instrumental in fostering regional networks and grassroots work. The mandate of the IGF will be reconsidered in 2025, highlighting the importance of its role in shaping global digital policies. WSIS+2025 is considered a significant milestone for future digital connectivity and technologies.

It aims to align with the wider global agenda, particularly the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This initiative seeks to respond to the evolving needs of the future Internet and build meaningful digital access. By connecting to the UN 2030 Agenda, WSIS+2025 aims to contribute to achieving the SDGs.

WSIS and its subsequent process, WSIS+2025, are key contributors to global efforts towards building digitally connected societies. The initial WSIS summit brought together world leaders to converge towards creating digitally inclusive societies. WSIS+2025 aims to further connect with the wider global agenda, including the SDGs, and its outcomes directly impact the governance and future of the Internet.

In conclusion, in 2025, the WSIS process will be renegotiated, and the IGF’s role in global digital policy discussions will be reconsidered. WSIS+2025 will focus on responding to the future Internet, aligning with the UN 2030 Agenda, and building meaningful digital access.

These initiatives play a vital role in building digitally connected societies and contribute to global efforts for inclusive digital development.

Arguments

The ISPs that are supposed to service last mile connectivity are not viable beyond systemic issues

Supporting facts:

• Out of 700 licensed ISPs, only 100 are operational

Topics: ISP, Last-mile connectivity, Rural access

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Running these businesses as commercial, profit-driven entities is not possible in rural areas

Supporting facts:

• The CN model focuses on sustainability, providing services relevant to the community supported by absolute buying of stakeholders

Topics: ISP, Business model, Rural access

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The business model proposed focuses on sustainability through local support and volunteerism

Supporting facts:

• Using local volunteers for staff and local materials for infrastructure to cut costs

Topics: Business model, Sustainability, Volunteerism

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Report

The analysis reveals numerous challenges associated with Internet Service Providers (ISPs) in rural areas. The main issue is that out of the 700 licensed ISPs, only 100 are operational, highlighting systemic problems that hinder their viability. The argument made is that these ISPs, which are meant to provide last-mile connectivity, are not sustainable due to various issues.

Furthermore, the analysis argues that running profit-driven ISPs in rural areas is not feasible. The commercial model does not work well in these areas, resulting in a lack of available services. This poses a significant problem as access to the internet is crucial for economic development and social connectivity.

However, there is an alternative proposed business model that focuses on sustainability and community support. This model emphasizes providing services that are relevant to the community and involves absolute buying of stakeholders. One approach to achieve sustainability is by using local volunteers as staff and sourcing local materials for infrastructure, effectively cutting costs.

This strategy is seen as innovative and adaptable, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) such as SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure and SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities. Notably, when the proposed business model was presented in a storytelling format, it received a positive reception.

This indicates that effective communication and engagement methods can play a vital role in promoting and implementing innovative solutions. In conclusion, the analysis highlights the challenges faced by ISPs in rural areas and the need for innovative and locally adapted solutions.

The current systemic issues hinder the viability of ISPs, and profit-driven models are not suitable for rural areas. However, the proposed business model that focuses on sustainability through community support and volunteerism offers a promising solution. Effective communication strategies, like storytelling, can also enhance the acceptance and implementation of these solutions.

Arguments

ITU and FCDO have been in partnership since 2021, working in five countries to support governments in digital regulation, promoting sustainable models, creating a more conducive environment, and advancing digital skills

Supporting facts:

• Countries of operation include Brazil, Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa and Indonesia

• Support given varies by country, based on local conditions and needs

Topics: ITU, FCDO, digital regulation, sustainable models, digital skills

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In Brazil, ITU has worked with Anatel to support connectivity initiatives, resulting in a new school connectivity strategy for the country

Supporting facts:

• Their work included mapping of existing infrastructure to understand the ground situation and identify best means to provide connectivity

• Their recommendations were integrated into the new school connectivity strategy launched in September

Topics: ITU, Anatel, connectivity initiatives, Brazil, school connectivity strategy

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Training provided in countries has been expert-led, mainly for the regulators

Supporting facts:

• Training has been delivered in each country with the help of experts

• The primary focus of the training is regulatory bodies

Topics: Training, Regulators, ITU

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Partnering with government-run programs or with ITU Academy Centres of Excellence for digital skills training

Supporting facts:

• Programs that are operational and can be leveraged upon are preferred

• Focus is on rural areas, schools, parents, members of community, young people

Topics: Government Programs, Digital Skills, ITU Academy Centres of Excellence

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Training varies from basic course on computer usage to applying technology for jobs

Supporting facts:

• Courses can range from basic use of computers to job application procedures using technology

Topics: Training, Basic Computer Skills, Job Application

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Report

The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) have formed a partnership since 2021, working together to support governments in five countries. The partnership aims to assist these governments in various aspects of digital development, such as digital regulation, sustainable models, creating conducive environments, and advancing digital skills.

This collaboration is in line with SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals. One of the notable achievements of this partnership has been in Brazil, where ITU has joined forces with the Brazilian National Telecommunications Agency (Anatel) to support connectivity initiatives.

Through their collaborative efforts, they have developed a new school connectivity strategy for the country. The partnership conducted a comprehensive mapping of existing infrastructure to gain a deep understanding of the ground situation and identify the most effective means to provide connectivity.

The recommendations derived from this mapping exercise were then integrated into the new strategy, which was launched in September. The partnership’s support is not limited to Brazil alone. It also operates in other countries, including Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, and Indonesia.

However, the nature and extent of the support provided vary based on the specific conditions and needs of each country. This demonstrates the flexibility of the partnership to adapt to local contexts and deliver tailored solutions. In terms of activities, one of the key aspects highlighted in the supporting facts is the provision of training.

The partnership has delivered training in each country, with support from experts. The primary focus of this training is to enhance the capabilities and knowledge of regulatory bodies. This underscores the importance of building the capacity of regulators to effectively oversee and govern digital technologies within their respective countries.

To further promote digital skills, the partnership emphasises collaboration with government-run programmes and ITU Academy Centres of Excellence. By leveraging existing programmes and expertise, the partnership can extend its reach and impact. Particularly, the focus is on reaching rural areas, schools, parents, community members, and young people.

This highlights the broad scope of the partnership’s efforts in ensuring equitable access to digital skills training and driving socio-economic development. Additionally, the partnership also recognises the importance of basic computer skills and their application in job opportunities. Training programmes range from basic computer usage to teaching individuals how to utilise technology for job applications.

This comprehensive approach caters to a wide range of needs and promotes both education and economic growth, aligning with SDG 4: Quality Education and SDG 8: Decent work and Economic Growth. Overall, the partnership between ITU and FCDO has yielded positive results and has shown its potential to make a significant impact.

The success story in Brazil serves as evidence of the partnership’s effectiveness in influencing policy and strategies. The partnership’s efforts in supporting digital regulation, sustainable models, conducive environments, and digital skills have contributed to the advancement of digital development in multiple countries.

With its collaborative and adaptable approach, the partnership is well-positioned to contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals and advocate for its continuation.

Arguments

The UK’s approach to digital development is model agnostic, promoting those techniques that work best in context

Supporting facts:

• They don’t limit themselves to one technology which is proven by promoting community networks that have been successful in South Africa and Kenya

Topics: digital development, digital inclusion, regulations

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Questions raised about digital literacy, AI budget allocation, and provision for people with mental health problems in the context of digital transformation

Topics: digital literacy, digital transformation, mental health, AI

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Report

The UK’s approach to digital development is commendable as it is technology-neutral, meaning that it does not limit itself to a single technology. Instead, the UK promotes techniques that are proven to be effective in each context. This approach is evident in their support for community networks in South Africa and Kenya, which have been successful in improving connectivity in these areas.

To ensure digital inclusion, the UK emphasizes the importance of connecting digital development evidence with policymakers and regulators. By doing so, they aim to reinforce the importance of digital inclusion and ensure that policies and regulations are aligned with this goal.

This approach highlights their commitment to bridging the digital divide and ensuring equal access to digital technologies for all. While the UK’s approach to digital development is positive overall, there are still some areas of concern. Questions have been raised regarding digital literacy, AI budget allocation, and provisions for people with mental health problems in the context of digital transformation.

These issues highlight the need for careful consideration and planning to address potential inequalities and challenges that may arise from the increasing integration of digital technologies. In conclusion, the UK’s technology-neutral approach to digital development, along with their emphasis on connecting evidence with policymakers and regulators, demonstrates their commitment to promoting digital inclusion and bridging the digital divide.

However, it is important to address the issues related to digital literacy, AI budget allocation, and provisions for individuals with mental health problems in order to ensure that digital transformation benefits everyone, regardless of their digital literacy, mental health status, or access to resources.

Arguments

Necessity for moving from a linear approach to a more agile and iterative approach through sandboxes in data governance

Supporting facts:

• Sandboxes are a space to provide a collaborative environment for data testing.

• They can address complex challenges of data governance.

• They enable experimentation with new uses and capabilities and means of governing data.

Topics: data governance, sandboxes, agile approach

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Sandbox is not a method to deregulate

Supporting facts:

• Sandbox is a space to test innovative technologies and data practices

• Sandbox encourages collaboration and dialogue on how data is used

Topics: sandbox, regulation

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Regulatory sandboxes should consider financial support for small and emerging companies

Supporting facts:

• Some regulatory sandboxes around the world do offer financial compensation for companies joining the experimental spaces

• Lack of sufficient funding can be a barrier for SMEs

Topics: regulatory sandbox, SMEs, startups, financial support

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Report

During the discussion, the speakers placed great emphasis on the role of sandboxes in data governance. Sandboxes were described as collaborative environments that provide a space for data testing. They were seen as a valuable tool for addressing the complex challenges that arise in governing data.

By enabling experimentation with new uses and capabilities, sandboxes offer the opportunity to move away from a linear approach and adopt a more agile and iterative method. The need for capacity building in sandboxes was highlighted, with speakers advocating for the promotion of skills and knowledge in this area.

They emphasised that sandboxes can bridge the gap between data operations and regulations, ultimately contributing to more effective data governance. The concept of regulatory sandboxes was also discussed, with speakers expressing the view that sandboxes should not be seen as a method for deregulation, but rather as a framework to test innovative technologies and data practices.

It was suggested that regulatory sandboxes should consider offering financial support to small and emerging companies, as the lack of sufficient funding can be a barrier for these entities. Moreover, the importance of multi-stakeholder collaboration in sandboxes was emphasised. The challenges associated with artificial intelligence, cryptocurrency, pandemic data, sustainability, and climate were noted to transcend borders.

This necessitates the involvement of various stakeholders and multidisciplinary collaboration to develop effective solutions. Additionally, there was a recognition of the need for continued engagement with stakeholders to shape digital collaboration and build agile structures. Issues being dealt with today are international in nature, and it is crucial to establish flexible tools that promote digital collaboration.

In conclusion, the discussion highlighted the instrumental role of sandboxes in data governance and the shift towards an agile and iterative approach. The promotion of capacity building, financial support for smaller companies, and multi-stakeholder collaboration were identified as key factors for success.

Continued engagement with stakeholders was deemed essential for shaping digital collaboration and establishing agile structures.

Arguments

The use of sandboxes can help in the proper implementation of regulatory policies by testing them in a controlled environment

Supporting facts:

• In the wake of COVID-19, the Brazilian government rushed to enforce a presidential provisional measure that required telecom industries to provide personal data for government use, which ended up in the Supreme Court due to privacy concerns.

• Had a sandbox been in place, the measure could’ve been tested and its implications analyzed in a controlled environment, thereby avoiding major issues.

Topics: Sandbox, Data protection rights, Regulatory policies

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The transparency mechanisms of Norway’s Data Tocnet stood out while initiating the draft for ANPD’s own sandbox

Supporting facts:

• Norway’s Data Tocnet has excellent exit reports from the participants of the sandbox

• They translated everything into English and even did podcasts

Topics: Regulatory Sandboxes, Transparency, Data Protection

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Transparency mechanisms are essential to build public trust in sandbox initiatives

Supporting facts:

• They plan to externalize and multiply the knowledge obtained from the sandbox to guarantee transparency

Topics: Transparency, Public Trust, Sandbox Initiative

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Lucas Costa dos Anjos supports the idea of a multi-stakeholder participation board for sandbox in AI regulation.

Supporting facts:

• Brazil has a strong tradition in internet regulation and sees multi-stakeholder participation as an effective way for cooperation from the private sector and better decision making.

• Before launching the sandbox, Brazil opened a public consultation to gather inputs.

Topics: AI regulation, Multi-stakeholder participation, Sandbox

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Report

Sandboxes are essential for testing and implementing regulatory policies in a controlled environment. In Brazil, the rushed enforcement of a presidential provisional measure during the COVID-19 pandemic required telecom industries to provide personal data for government use, sparking privacy concerns.

However, if a sandbox had been in place, the measure could have undergone comprehensive testing and analysis, thereby avoiding major issues. The protection of data is crucial when implementing regulatory policies. The hasty enforcement of the presidential measure led to a Supreme Court case due to concerns about privacy violations.

The Supreme Court ruling emphasized that data protection rights are constitutionally protected in Brazil, highlighting the need to incorporate these rights into policy implementation. Transparency mechanisms play a vital role in building public trust in sandbox initiatives. Norway’s Data Tocnet stands out for its transparency mechanisms.

Their excellent exit reports from sandbox participants and efforts to translate materials into English and create podcasts demonstrate a commitment to sharing knowledge and ensuring transparency. Multi-stakeholder engagement is also important in sandbox initiatives. In Brazil, the involvement of civil society, academia, government, and private sectors has been recognized as crucial to the success of such initiatives.

Multi-stakeholder participation ensures cooperation from the private sector, better decision-making, and a diversity of perspectives. In the field of AI regulation, Brazil embraces multi-stakeholder participation as an effective approach. Before launching a sandbox, Brazil initiated a public consultation to gather inputs from various stakeholders, demonstrating their commitment to inclusive governance.

Lucas Costa dos Anjos supports the idea of a multi-stakeholder participation board for sandbox initiatives in AI regulation. He believes that engaging civil society and conducting public consultations can lead to better government arrangements and regulatory decisions in dynamically evolving areas such as AI.

In conclusion, sandboxes are valuable tools for testing and implementing regulatory policies. The Brazil case highlights the importance of data protection, transparency mechanisms, and multi-stakeholder engagement in sandbox initiatives. By considering these factors, governments can build public trust and make more informed regulatory decisions.

Arguments

There was an increase in the use of cryptocurrencies due to severe inflation and financial restrictions in Zimbabwe. However, regulatory and legal frameworks weren’t sufficient to manage their use.

Supporting facts:

• In 2015, Zimbabwe was facing severe inflation of around 500 billion percent.

• Cryptocurrencies provided an ‘inflation-proof’ solution for Zimbabweans to save and invest their earnings.

• Citizens also used cryptocurrencies for cross-border digital transactions and to send remittances back home.

Topics: Zimbabwe, Cryptocurrency, FinTech, Regulation

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Regulatory sandboxes are beneficial in providing a safe environment to test fintech innovations and propose amendments where the existing framework may not be sufficient.

Supporting facts:

• Regulatory sandboxes allow for testing the extent to which the existing legal framework works in practice.

• They can also help identify any policy and legal loopholes.

• Regulatory sandboxes can propose appropriate adjustments to current policy and legal structures.

Topics: Regulatory Sandboxes, FinTech, Policy

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South Africa has an effective approach to regulating crypto assets

Supporting facts:

• In 2020, South African government has set up an intergovernmental fintech working group

• They launched the first regulatory sandbox

• Out of 54 applications only 9 managed to go through the sandbox process

• Two of the applications related to cross-border payments

Topics: South Africa, crypto assets, regulation

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Regulatory sandboxes help in understanding regulatory requirements and innovations

Supporting facts:

• Through sandbox, fintech working group was able to understand how to regulate use of crypto assets

• They understood the implications on exchange control regulations

• Using blockchain-based platform it was possible to report cross-border transactions in a cost-effective manner

Topics: regulatory sandboxes, innovation, regulatory requirements

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Designing a regulatory sandbox should factor in the financial side

Supporting facts:

• An applicant needs to have sufficient funding to cover the food testing period

• Startups and small companies might struggle to raise enough funding

Topics: Regulation, Startups, Funding

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Report

In Zimbabwe, the use of cryptocurrencies increased due to severe inflation and financial restrictions. With the country experiencing inflation rates of around 500 billion percent in 2015, Zimbabweans turned to cryptocurrencies as an “inflation-proof” solution to safeguard their savings and investments. They also used cryptocurrencies for cross-border digital transactions and remittances.

However, the regulatory and legal frameworks in place were insufficient to manage the use of cryptocurrencies. On the other hand, regulatory sandboxes were deemed beneficial in addressing fintech challenges. Sandboxes provided a safe environment to test innovations and identify policy and legal loopholes.

They also proposed suitable adjustments to existing policy and legal structures. Regulatory sandboxes helped to understand the need for amendments to the current framework. In contrast to Zimbabwe, South Africa took a different approach to regulating fintech and cryptocurrencies. The country did not outright ban the use of cryptocurrencies, serving as an example to other African nations.

South Africa’s approach demonstrated the potential benefits of embracing fintech and cryptocurrencies for economic growth and reducing inequality. Despite the introduction of a fintech regulatory sandbox in Zimbabwe in 2021, there were still restrictions in the crypto space. The sandbox aimed to allow testing of financial innovations but did not include crypto assets.

This highlighted the gap in the Zimbabwean fintech space, specifically regarding crypto asset regulation. In contrast, South Africa made significant progress in regulating crypto assets through an intergovernmental fintech working group and the launch of the country’s first regulatory sandbox in 2020.

The sandbox process reviewed 54 applications, with only 9 successfully testing through. Two of these applications were related to improving cross-border payments efficiency. Regulatory sandboxes played a crucial role in helping South Africa understand the regulatory requirements and implications of using crypto assets.

They assessed issues like money laundering and terrorism funding potential. The sandbox testing also demonstrated the possibility of compliant and cost-effective cross-border transaction reporting using blockchain technology. However, financial requirements for entering a regulatory sandbox can be challenging for startups and small innovators.

Limited funding could hinder their participation, potentially inhibiting innovation in the fintech sector. In conclusion, the case of Zimbabwe and South Africa highlights the importance and challenges of regulating cryptocurrencies and fintech innovations. While Zimbabwe faced difficulties due to inadequate regulatory frameworks, South Africa demonstrated a more progressive approach by not banning cryptocurrencies and implementing regulatory sandboxes.

However, both countries still face gaps and limitations in their fintech spaces, particularly regarding crypto asset regulation. Addressing these gaps while striking a balance between regulation and innovation is crucial for the sustainable growth of the fintech sector in Africa.

Arguments

Data protection conversations are on the rise in Kenya, with regulations being mainly focused on personal data.

Supporting facts:

• Data Protection Act in Kenya established in 2019

• A lot of work happening around personal data space

Topics: Regulation, Data Protection, Personal data

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Regulatory sandboxes are seen as effective ways to handle the nuances around data governance.

Supporting facts:

• Stakeholders pushing for harmonised data governance structure

• Proposed body, the AI taskforce, will discuss frameworks and the policies for AI

Topics: Regulatory sandboxes, Data governance, Emerging tech

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Fintech space is leading in the use of sandboxes in Kenya.

Supporting facts:

• Capital Markets Authority in Kenya has already established a structure for fintech to explore regulations and market adaptation

Topics: Fintech, Regulatory sandboxes

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The importance of multi-stakeholder participation within the regulatory sandboxes

Supporting facts:

• Example of M-PESA’s evolution aided by the different stakeholders participation

Topics: Regulatory Sandboxes, Multi-stakeholder Participation, International Collaboration

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The need for harmonizing cross-border regulations and practices

Supporting facts:

• The difficulty of harmonizing across regional or continental structures in the African continent

Topics: Cross-border Regulations, International Collaboration, Continental Structures

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Inclusion and participation are important in digital infrastructure discussions

Supporting facts:

• Civil society space is often not included in these discussions

• Private sector or governments generally control these conversations

Topics: Digital Infrastructure, Inclusion, Data Governance

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Report

Data protection conversations are gaining momentum in Kenya, with a particular focus on personal data. The introduction of the Data Protection Act in 2019 demonstrates the country’s commitment to safeguarding personal information. There is also substantial ongoing work in the personal data space, indicating a heightened awareness of the need to protect individuals’ data.

Regulatory sandboxes are being recognized as effective solutions for navigating the complexities of data governance. Stakeholders in Kenya are advocating for a harmonized data governance structure, acknowledging the value of a coordinated approach in managing and protecting data. The proposed establishment of the AI taskforce further emphasizes this commitment by exploring frameworks and policies for artificial intelligence within regulatory sandboxes.

The fintech sector is leading the way in utilizing regulatory sandboxes in Kenya. The Capital Markets Authority has already implemented a framework for fintech companies to explore regulations and adapt to market requirements. This proactive approach showcases the sector’s dedication to staying ahead in the evolving field of financial technology.

The telecommunications industry is also pushing for the integration of regulatory sandboxes, as demonstrated by the support from the Communications Authority. This industry’s proactive stance aligns with the growing recognition of the effectiveness of regulatory sandboxes in fostering innovation and managing emerging technologies.

Additionally, the open policy guideline for emerging tech regulatory sandboxes encourages public participation, further reinforcing the positive attitude towards these mechanisms. Multi-stakeholder participation is deemed crucial within regulatory sandboxes. The evolution of M-PESA, aided by the involvement of various stakeholders, exemplifies the benefits of collaboration and diverse perspectives in driving innovation and positive outcomes.

This highlights the importance of inclusivity and engagement among different actors in shaping regulatory sandboxes. Harmonizing cross-border regulations and practices within the African continent presents challenges due to differing regional and continental structures. Streamlined and coordinated efforts are needed to create harmonized regulations.

Endorsing a multi-stakeholder approach at regional and continental levels is strongly recommended to maximize the value gained from regulatory sandboxes. Inclusion and participation are vital aspects of digital infrastructure discussions. The civil society space is often excluded from these dialogues, with conversations typically controlled by the private sector or governments.

Recognizing the value of diverse perspectives, inclusive participation is essential to ensure that digital infrastructure development caters to the needs and concerns of all stakeholders. Finally, Africa’s voice must be amplified in international settings, particularly in discussions surrounding data governance.

Ongoing conversations around the digital compact underscore the need for an African perspective. Actively engaging in international discussions enables Africa to contribute unique insights and advocate for its interests, ensuring decisions made at the global level reflect the continent’s specific challenges and priorities.

In summary, Kenya is witnessing a rise in data protection conversations, recognizing the significance of personal data security. Regulatory sandboxes are viewed as effective tools for managing data governance, with the fintech sector leading their implementation. Multi-stakeholder participation is key to driving innovation within regulatory sandboxes, and efforts are underway to harmonize cross-border regulations and practices.

Inclusion and participation are essential in digital infrastructure discussions, and Africa must assert its voice at the international level to shape decisions around data governance that better suit its needs.

Arguments

Mistrust stems from concerns that national public policy objectives could be compromised if data transcends borders

Supporting facts:

• Data underpins every aspect of today’s global economy, be it day-to-day business operations or the delivery of essential government services

• Despite the core role of data in facilitating economic activity and innovation, there is a growth of mistrust in data and data flows

Topics: Data Transcending Borders, National Public Policy, Data Governance

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Data flow restrictions could lead to GDP loss and job losses

Supporting facts:

• Data flow restrictions have been estimated to lead to possible GDP loss across the European Union of about 79 billion euros per year

• Localization measures on Internet of Things applications and machine learning could lead to investment losses and job losses

Topics: Data Flow Restrictions, Economic Impact, GDP, Job Loss

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Regulatory sandboxes can support innovative, digitally enabled products and services

Supporting facts:

• Such regulatory flexibility can enable live market testing and entry

• Reduces the time to market for new innovations

• It drives consumer benefits and has broader spillovers in the market

Topics: Regulatory sandboxes, Innovation, Digitally enabled products

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Reduced regulatory uncertainty can facilitate financing for smaller firms with innovative products

Supporting facts:

• Supports conduct testing

• Helps smaller firms with innovative products

Topics: Reduced Regulatory Uncertainty, Financing, SMEs

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Regulatory sandboxes allow for dialogue with stakeholders to build trust

Supporting facts:

• The process of developing regulatory sandboxes itself facilitate dialogue

• Understanding is built which helps in finding consensus for innovative collaborations

Topics: Regulatory Sandboxes, Stakeholders, Trust Building

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Multi-stakeholder conversations produce better implementation results.

Supporting facts:

• These are conversations where different experts from the same companies sit together to discuss issues from various perspectives.

• By doing this, everyone has a voice and can work together to make the regulation happen, making it easier to implement.

Topics: Data Governance, Regulation, Implementation

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Report

Data serves as the foundation of the global economy, supporting both business operations and the delivery of essential government services. However, there is a growing mistrust in data and data flows, driven by concerns that sharing data across borders could compromise national public policy objectives.

This negative sentiment is further compounded by the potential economic impact of data flow restrictions, such as estimated GDP losses of around 79 billion euros per year in the European Union alone. These restrictions can also result in job losses and diminished investment in areas like Internet of Things applications and machine learning.

To address these challenges and unlock the significant benefits of data, it is argued that there should be a move towards flexible, technologically neutral frameworks. These frameworks should prioritize the effective protection of privacy and security. It is worth noting that over 50% of global GDP is already digitized, with digital technology driving growth across all industries.

Removing restrictive data policies could result in an average productivity gain of approximately 4.5% for countries, according to the World Bank. Regulatory sandboxes are seen as a positive approach to support innovative digitally enabled products and services. These sandboxes offer regulatory flexibility, allowing for live market testing and entry, thus shortening the time to market for new innovations.

The benefits extend to consumers and have broader spillover effects in the market. Reducing regulatory uncertainty is another positive measure that can facilitate financing for small firms with innovative products. By providing a clear regulatory framework, these firms can navigate the landscape more easily and secure the necessary funding to bring their ideas to fruition.

Building trust with stakeholders is crucial for effective data governance. Regulatory sandboxes, in and of themselves, foster dialogue and understanding, leading to consensus on innovative collaborations. This inclusive approach ensures that all stakeholders have a voice and can work together to build trust and address concerns.

Promoting policies that enable responsible and interoperable cross-border data transfers, access, and sharing is of paramount importance. Such policies not only reinforce trust but also boost data-driven innovation. It is emphasized that there are significant societal and economic benefits to be gained from data sharing while protecting individual rights.

Additionally, multi-stakeholder conversations are highlighted as essential for successful implementation of data governance regulations. These conversations involve experts from different companies discussing issues from various perspectives. This approach ensures that everyone is heard and can contribute to smoother regulatory implementation.

Lastly, the buy-in from various stakeholders is emphasized as crucial for successful implementation. By involving stakeholders early in the process and giving them a voice, buy-in is established, and stakeholders are ready to take action once the regulations are in place.

This saves time and resources, as there is no need to start from scratch when regulations are established. In conclusion, the growing mistrust in data and data flows necessitates addressing these concerns to leverage the full potential of data for the global economy.

This can be achieved through flexible data frameworks, regulatory sandboxes, reduced regulatory uncertainty, trust-building with stakeholders, responsible cross-border data sharing, and involving multiple stakeholders in the implementation process. These measures will enable the beneficial use of data, while safeguarding privacy and security, promoting innovation, and driving economic growth.

Arguments

Innovation is critical and necessary for improving global trade amid increasing political complexities.

Supporting facts:

• Global trade is becoming more political and complex, which necessitates the need for innovation.

• Continuing with paper transactions and old methods would not cope up with the increasing complexity of trade.

• Keeping the flow of goods moving requires innovation.

Topics: Innovation, Global Trade, Political Complexities

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Interoperability in exchange of data and electronic transfer of records is imperative for improving trade.

Supporting facts:

• Projects focusing on interoperability is still quite novel.

• The Electronic Trade Document Act allows for interoperability in the transfer of title.

Topics: Interoperability, Data Exchange, Electronic Transfer of Records

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Trade is about partnerships and cannot be done individualistically

Supporting facts:

• Trade requires a number of partners to collaborate. Port of Rotterdam’s research showed that getting a container from somewhere in China to a client in Germany involves 28 different parties.

Topics: Trade, Partnerships, Collaboration

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Successful collaboration in trade requires mutual benefits and effective management.

Supporting facts:

• Everyone involved in the trade process must have something to gain from the collaboration, and it needs to be managed effectively to prevent creation of additional silos.

Topics: Collaboration, Trade, Management

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Successful digital trade and trade corridors hinge on the collaborative work of all actors in the supply chain

Supporting facts:

• Their work on Trade Trust with the Port of Singapore in 2019 focused on secure, hassle-free digital transfer of title of electronic bill of lading.

• They used blockchain technology to create a transferable token that represented a bill of lading.

• Implementation of the KeyConnect system for seamless roll-off, roll-on transport between the Netherlands and the UK could only be made possible through partnerships.

Topics: Digital trade, Trade corridors, Supply chain, Partnerships

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Report

In discussions about improving global trade, the importance of innovation and digitization is emphasized. It is argued that as global trade becomes more political and complex, traditional paper transactions and old methods are no longer sufficient. Innovation is seen as critical in ensuring the smooth flow of goods in the face of increasing complexities.

The importance of digitalization in global trade and cross-border operations is highlighted by Aliosa Bey, a strong advocate for digitization. Bey believes that the adoption of the Electronic Trade Document Act in the UK allows for a seamless transition to digital methods in trade.

Digitization is seen as necessary for achieving efficiency, compliance, and control within the supply chain. Interoperability in the exchange of data and electronic transfer of records is also considered imperative for trade improvement. It is noted that projects focusing on interoperability are still relatively new.

The Electronic Trade Document Act is highlighted as a key factor in achieving interoperability in the transfer of title. This interoperability is seen as crucial for facilitating trade and ensuring smooth transactions. Compliance with laws and regulations is another key aspect emphasized in global trade operations.

The speakers argue that strict compliance is necessary to verify claims made in trade, such as labour conditions. The new laws introduced in trade require traders to provide evidence to support their claims. This ensures transparency and accountability in trade operations.

Collaboration and partnerships are considered integral to the functioning of trade. It is noted that trade involves a number of partners who need to collaborate for successful transactions. The Port of Rotterdam’s research shows that there can be up to 28 different parties involved in transporting a container from China to a client in Germany.

The speakers strongly advocate for collaboration, emphasizing that partnerships are essential for optimizing trade flows. Successful collaboration requires mutual benefits and effective management to prevent the creation of additional silos. Digital trade and trade corridors are seen as reliant on the collaborative work of all actors in the supply chain.

The speakers highlight examples such as Trade Trust with the Port of Singapore, which focused on secure and hassle-free digital transfer of title of electronic bill of lading. Blockchain technology was used to create a transferable token representing a bill of lading.

Partnerships are also highlighted as essential for the implementation of systems like KeyConnect, which enables seamless transport between the Netherlands and the UK. Moreover, the importance of interoperability in digital trade is emphasized. It is argued that interoperability is crucial for minimizing technical issues and ensuring the efficient use of digital documents.

Examples are provided, such as Trade Trust’s interoperable token transfer between digital wallets and the daily use of KeyConnect for smooth transportation between the Netherlands and the UK. In conclusion, the speakers agree that innovation, collaboration, compliance, and interoperability are necessary for enhancing global trade.

The discussions highlight the need to adapt to the increasingly complex nature of trade and embrace digital solutions for improved efficiency and transparency. The examples presented provide practical evidence of how these factors can be effectively implemented in trade operations.

Arguments

Digital trade corridors enable data exchanges between stakeholders of importing and exporting countries

Supporting facts:

• They eliminate the need for duplication of submission of data and documents, enabling reuse of data and enhancing visibility of shipments.

• The technology used is predominantly blockchain as well as encryption to ensure immutability and trust.

Topics: International Trade, Digital Trade Corridors, Data Exchange

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The Trade Logistics and Information Pipeline (TLIP) is an example of a digital trade corridor.

Supporting facts:

• Its aim is to get as much as possible documents from source for data exchange.

• It has ambitious targets to reduce duplication, steps, costs and time in cargo clearance process.

Topics: TLIP, Digital Trade Corridors, Trade Logistics

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Implementation of the UK single window extends the trade relationship between Kenya and UK and improves current data exchanges

Supporting facts:

• The single window system comes in and reduces the number of documents required in the first place

• Single windows re-engineer their processes, simplify their processes, look at the data they’re exchanging, and do data harmonization

Topics: UK Single Window, Kenya-UK Trade Relation, Data Exchanges

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Report

Digital trade corridors have become an effective solution for facilitating data exchanges between stakeholders involved in the import and export processes of different countries. These corridors are designed to eliminate the unnecessary duplication of data and documents, enabling the reuse of information and enhancing the visibility of shipments.

The technology predominantly employed in digital trade corridors is blockchain, which ensures the immutability and trustworthiness of the exchanged data. Encryption techniques are also used to enhance security and protect sensitive information. One example of a digital trade corridor is the Trade Logistics and Information Pipeline (TLIP), which focuses on obtaining the necessary documents for data exchange directly from the source.

TLIP sets ambitious targets to reduce duplication, steps, costs, and time in the cargo clearance process, thereby improving efficiency and decreasing barriers to trade. Efficient data sharing facilitated by digital corridors makes TLIP a model for enhancing international trade processes.

Furthermore, digital trade corridors have the potential to eliminate the need for individual regional single-window systems. Establishing secure tunnels between nations using these corridors can facilitate efficient data sharing. This approach can streamline trade operations even further by leveraging modern technologies and systems like TLIP, which can serve as a reference for efficient data exchanges.

The implementation of a single-window system, such as the UK Single Window, has proven to extend trade relationships between countries and improve current data exchanges. By reducing the number of required documents and harmonising data, single-window systems simplify trading procedures, making them more efficient and less burdensome for stakeholders.

Overall, there is a positive sentiment towards the implementation of digital trade corridors and single-window systems. They bring unique features and advantages, such as simplified processes and improved efficiency in international trade. The ideal scenario for digital trade corridors is to have a single-window system at both ends, enabling a minimal exchange of data.

These advancements not only promote economic growth and industry development (SDG 8) but also contribute to improved infrastructure and innovation (SDG 9). In conclusion, digital trade corridors have emerged as a valuable tool for facilitating data exchanges between stakeholders involved in international trade.

These corridors eliminate duplication, enhance visibility, and guarantee the trustworthiness of data through the use of blockchain and encryption technologies. TLIP and the UK Single Window exemplify successful implementations of digital corridors and single-window systems, respectively. These initiatives promote efficiency, reduce costs, and improve trade relations between countries.

As governments and organizations continue to embrace digital trade corridors and single-window systems, they contribute to the achievement of sustainable development goals related to economic growth, industry, innovation, and infrastructure.

Arguments

Kenneth leads Customs and Business Transformation Office, a team involved in project management with a mandate of trade facilitation, border control, and revenue collection.

Supporting facts:

• His team works to ensure that goods that come across the borders are facilitated as much as possible and to make it difficult for unscrupulous traders to take advantage of any loopholes.

Topics: Customs, Trade Facilitation, Border Control, Revenue Collection

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Current challenges faced include misdeclaration and misclassification of goods that are imported, which leads to losing revenue for the government.

Supporting facts:

• Unscrupulous traders submit incorrect declarations with the sole purpose of evading taxes or restrictions.

Topics: Misdeclaration, Misclassification, Imports, Revenue Loss

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Traders also face multiple issues like unpredictability of border crossing due to the lack of advance notification, high administrative burden due to multiple documents.

Supporting facts:

• Traders require to produce a document to support their cargo at the point of entry, which affects the time it takes for goods to clear.

Topics: Trade Challenges, Border Crossing, Administrative Burden

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Solution adopted is the implementation of the Logistics Information Pipeline which increases interoperability, upgradability and data sharing trust.

Supporting facts:

• It is a digital data exchange framework that allows everyone to share and consume information with permission levels. Can get data from source, maintain legacy systems and extend data.

Topics: Logistics Information Pipeline, Interoperability, Information Sharing

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Private sector in Kenya plays a significant role in the digital trade corridor

Supporting facts:

• Kenya has a vibrant private sector that adopts new technologies

• Private sector entities like Kenya Association of Manufacturers, the shippers council, and agricultural exporters are involved in the implementation of the trade corridor

• Several meetings and conferences have been held with private sector entities, and their input is incorporated into the trade corridor process

Topics: Digital Trade Corridor, Private Sector, Kenya

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Report

Kenneth leads the Customs and Business Transformation Office, which focuses on trade facilitation, border control, and revenue collection. The team works to ensure that goods crossing the borders are facilitated as much as possible, while making it difficult for unscrupulous traders to exploit any loopholes.

However, they face challenges such as misdeclaration and misclassification of imported goods, which result in revenue losses for the government. Unscrupulous traders submit incorrect declarations to evade taxes or restrictions. Traders also encounter issues with unpredictable border crossings due to the lack of advance notification, as well as a high administrative burden caused by multiple required documents.

To address these challenges, a solution called the Logistics Information Pipeline has been implemented. This digital data exchange framework enhances interoperability, upgradability, and data sharing trust, allowing everyone involved to share and consume information with different permission levels. It can retrieve data from various sources, maintain legacy systems, and extend data.

Kenneth supports the implementation of the Logistics Information Pipeline, stating that it is functioning well in Kenya. It has already been successful in transporting horticultural products to the UK and Netherlands, and efforts are underway to scale it up for other products.

The private sector in Kenya, including entities like the Kenya Association of Manufacturers, the shippers council, and agricultural exporters, plays a significant role in the implementation of the digital trade corridor. The government actively collaborates with them, and international players such as Trademark Africa, the IOTA Foundation, and the Institute of Export are also involved.

This collaboration aligns with SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals. In conclusion, Kenneth’s team focuses on trade facilitation, border control, and revenue collection. They address challenges such as misdeclaration and misclassification of goods, as well as administrative burdens and unpredictable border crossings, by implementing the Logistics Information Pipeline.

The private sector in Kenya, along with government and international players, plays a crucial role in the digital trade corridor. These efforts contribute to achieving SDG targets and advancing the economy.

Arguments

Kevin Shakespeare emphasizes on the importance of digital trade in reducing costs and time to trade.

Supporting facts:

• Kevin Shakespeare indicates that digital trade is a force for commercial and societal good.

• He mentions the need for tech systems and infrastructures to communicate effectively (interoperability) for successful digital trade.

• He refers to the example of Kenya and its digital trade and tax schemes.

Topics: Digital Trade, E-commerce, Cost Reduction, Time Reduction

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Kevin Shakespeare discusses the benefits of digital technology in facilitating international trade

Supporting facts:

• Legitimate trade should benefit from the sharing of data

• Solutions discussed can reduce costs and time to trade, increase efficiency and compliance, provide transparency in the supply chain

• Importance of government assurance in the supply chain

Topics: Trade Facilitation, Digital Technology, Blockchain, Security

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The successful implementation of digital trade requires partnerships amongst all parties involved in the supply chain, not just technology companies.

Supporting facts:

• Port of Rotterdam research indicates an average of 28 parties involved in global trade from China to Germany.

Topics: Digital trade, Partnerships, Supply Chain

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Building interoperability in global trade is necessary and beneficial.

Supporting facts:

• Trade Trust was started in conjunction with the Port of Singapore in 2019 to aid in the digital transfer of documents securely. Blockchain technology is employed in this process.

• The Electronic Trade Documents Act, recently passed in the UK, is seen as an opportunity to establish this concept in global trade.

• KeyConnect is another example of interoperability in trade, implemented between the Netherlands and the UK.

• UK is developing a single trade window which, once operational, can connect with Kenya’s fully functioning single trade window for better trade efficiency

Topics: Trade Trust, Electronic Trade Documents Act, KeyConnect

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Implementation of the UK single window would improve the current data exchanges between Kenya and the UK and streamline international trade processes

Supporting facts:

• Single window systems re-engineer trade processes and lead to data harmonization

• A single window reduces the number of required trade documents

Topics: UK single window, Kenya-UK trade, Data exchange, International trade

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Digital trade should be seen as an opportunity and a source for good

Supporting facts:

• Digital trade is good for trade facilitation as per his opinion

• Legitimate and compliant business operations should benefit from digital trade

Topics: digital trade, trade facilitation

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Report

In a series of discussions, Kevin Shakespeare stresses the importance of digital trade in reducing costs and time to trade. He emphasizes the need for effective technology systems and infrastructure to ensure successful digital trade. Using Kenya as an example, he highlights the implementation of digital trade and tax schemes.

Shakespeare argues for the evolution of digital trade beyond single trade windows and authorized economic operator schemes. He believes that inclusivity is key, involving developing economies and focusing on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors, sustainability, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and women in trade.

This approach would create a more holistic and equitable digital trade ecosystem. The benefits of digital technology in facilitating international trade are also discussed. Sharing data to support legitimate trade and improve efficiency is emphasized. Digital solutions can reduce costs and time to trade, increase efficiency and compliance, and provide transparency in the supply chain.

Government assurance is highlighted as crucial for the security of digital trade and technology systems. Partnerships among all supply chain parties are seen as crucial for successful digital trade implementation. Collaboration and interoperability among technology companies, governments, and stakeholders are necessary for smooth digital trade.

Interoperability in global trade is viewed as necessary and beneficial. Examples include Trade Trust, a collaboration between the Port of Singapore and blockchain technology for secure document transfer. The Electronic Trade Documents Act in the UK is an opportunity to establish similar concepts in global trade.

KeyConnect, implemented between the Netherlands and the UK, is another example. The UK’s development of a single trade window that can connect with Kenya’s fully functioning single trade window is expected to improve trade efficiency between the two countries. African trade initiatives, such as the Pan-African Payment Settlement System (PAP) and the Guided Trading Initiative, are praised as good models for digital trade.

The East African Community Customs Regulations (EAC) is also highlighted. Implementation of a UK single window is seen as a way to improve data exchanges between Kenya and the UK, streamlining international trade processes. Digital trade corridors, with single window systems at both ends, are crucial for smooth international trade.

Promising initiatives include the Trade-Led Investment Policy (TLIP) and partnerships with Trademarks Africa and the IOTA Foundation, demonstrating collaboration and innovation in the digital trade space. Private sector involvement and the adoption of new technologies are vital for trade improvement.

The private sector plays a key role in driving trade improvement, proven effective in trade corridor implementations. Embracing the opportunities and benefits of digital trade ensures that legitimate and compliant businesses can benefit from advancements in digital technology. Kevin Shakespeare’s discussions emphasize the significance of digital trade in reducing costs and time to trade, emphasizing the need for effective technology systems, infrastructure, and partnerships.

Digital trade’s potential to drive inclusive and sustainable economic growth is highlighted, focusing on developing economies, ESG factors, women in trade, and SMEs.

Arguments

Clear Border was created to help businesses move goods across borders, especially in light of Brexit.

Supporting facts:

• The company provides consulting, training and insights to businesses, helping them navigate the challenges of supply chain and data exchange.

• Clear Border works with technology companies and consulting firms to help governments understand and address these challenges.

Topics: Clear Border, Brexit, Business, Trade

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The company participated in the Trustpilot ecosystem project, which aimed to streamline and secure cross-border trade.

Supporting facts:

• The pilot project was led by technology company Palantir.

• The goal of the project was to make trade easier, maintain a secure border, and provide a flexible and future-proof solution for the government.

Topics: Trustpilot, Trade, Cross-border commerce

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A digital goods passport was created in the pilot project, providing a single point of data submission for traders and a unified view for government authorities.

Supporting facts:

• This system allows various parties in the supply chain to submit data, corroborates it with external sources, and presents different views to traders and government bodies.

• The passport is designed to be secure, low-cost, trust-building, and internationally interoperable.

Topics: Digital goods passport, Trade, Government

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Simple, flexible solutions do not inherently compromise security in digital trade operations

Supporting facts:

• The easy submission of information does not compromise security but instead likely improves accuracy

• Data ownership is distributed, reducing burden on individual traders

• Government departments can share data amongst themselves securely

Topics: Digital Goods Passport, Blockchain, Digital technology, Security

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Report

Clear Border is a company that provides consultancy, training, and insights to businesses, helping them navigate the challenges of supply chain and data exchange. With a specific focus on Brexit-related issues, Clear Border supports businesses in moving goods across borders.

They work closely with technology companies and consulting firms to assist governments in understanding and addressing these challenges. In another project, led by technology company Palantir, the Trustpilot ecosystem was created with the aim of streamlining and securing cross-border trade.

This project sought to make trade easier, maintain a secure border, and offer a flexible and future-proof solution for the government. Palantir played a significant role in the development of this project. One of the notable outcomes of the Trustpilot ecosystem project was the creation of a digital goods passport.

This innovative system allows various parties in the supply chain to submit data, which is then corroborated with external sources. The passport provides a unified view for government authorities, simplifying the process and ensuring a single point of data submission for traders.

The digital goods passport is designed to be secure, low-cost, trust-building, and internationally interoperable. The use of digital technologies in streamlining and securing cross-border trade is strongly supported. The success of the digital goods passport in testing, covering 379 ports, 120 months of data, and half a million consignments, is highlighted as evidence of its effectiveness.

It is believed that such a system can provide advanced data to governments, reduce consignment rejections, and eliminate duplicate submissions. Importantly, it is emphasized that simple and flexible solutions do not compromise the security of digital trade operations. On the contrary, easy submission of information is suggested to improve accuracy.

Furthermore, data ownership is distributed, alleviating the burden on individual traders. Government departments can securely share data among themselves, ensuring efficient information flow. Simplifying the process of information submission is seen as a key factor in increasing adherence to correct procedures by traders.

Making it easy for traders to understand what to submit encourages better compliance. The premise of a single trade window allows for data submission just once, reducing the likelihood of errors and increasing overall efficiency. Overall, the findings from the analysis highlight the importance of digital technologies in addressing the challenges of cross-border trade.

The use of innovative systems, such as the digital goods passport, demonstrates the potential to streamline operations, enhance security, and improve efficiency in global commerce.

Report

The G20 Contributions to the Digital Economy and Digitalisation for Development event was jointly organised by the Permanent Mission of Indonesia to the UN in New York and the Permanent Mission of Saudi Arabia to the United Nations in Geneva.

The aim of the event was to discuss the growing digitisation worldwide and its impact on the global economy, with a specific focus on the G20 member countries. The event commenced with introductory remarks by Aksandru Habib, the Deputy Permanent Representative of the Indonesian Mission in Geneva.

He emphasised the significance of digitisation in our interconnected world. Keynote speeches were then delivered by Ambassador Febrian Rudiat, the Permanent Representative of Indonesia, and the Secretary-General of UNCTAD (United Nations Conference on Trade and Development). They stressed the importance of prioritising and supporting digitalisation initiatives and the economic potential that can be unlocked through the digital economy.

The event included panel discussions on digital development issues within the G20. Panelists included representatives from Indonesia, Brazil, and the UN Secretary-General’s Envoy on Technology. They delved into topics such as digital governance, the Global Digital Compact, and the role of youth and the private sector in the digital economy.

Madam Mira Taiba, the Secretary-General of the Ministry of Communication and Informatics of Indonesia, shared her expertise on e-commerce, digital creative economy, and digital infrastructure development. Brazil’s Director of the Department of Science, Technology, Innovation, and Intellectual Property, Ambassador Luciano Mazzardi Andrade, discussed Brazil’s priorities for the digital economy during its upcoming G20 presidency.

Dr. Renata Duan, Special Advisor to the Office of the UN Secretary-General’s Envoy on Technology, provided insights into current digital governance and the upcoming negotiation of the Global Digital Compact in New York next year. Mr. Farhan Mayendri, co-founder and president director of Vortech Corporation, represented the perspective of youth and the private sector in his discussion on the impacts of the digital economy.

Dr. Jovan Kurbalija, the Executive Director of the Diplo Foundation, concluded the panel session with a presentation on the G20’s role in shaping the future of the digital economy. He provided recommendations for fostering digital transformation and collaboration among member countries.

The event concluded with a Q&A session, enabling participants to seek further clarification and ask questions about the topics discussed. The organisers expressed their gratitude to the speakers and attendees for their contributions and highlighted the event’s role in deepening understanding and perspectives on the impact of the digital economy on global society.

They encouraged attendees to enjoy the remaining sessions of the UNCTAD e-commerce week, recognising its significance in driving progress in the digital realm. In summary, the G20 Contributions to the Digital Economy and Digitalisation for Development event brought together experts, policymakers, and stakeholders to discuss and share insights on the rapidly evolving digital economy.

The event underscored the need to prioritise digitalisation initiatives, foster global digital governance, and recognise the crucial role of youth and the private sector in shaping the digital economy.

Arguments

Regulating big tech platforms should happen at international levels

Supporting facts:

• Mr. Luciano discussed issues around regulating hate speech and business models of platforms

Topics: tech regulation, big tech platforms, G20, UN

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Botswana is working towards digitalizing the financial services sector

Supporting facts:

• The establishment of the Digitalization and Innovation Hub at the Bank of Botswana.

• Plans to establish a regulatory sandbox to facilitate adoption of FinTech-driven services

Topics: Digitalization, Financial Services, AI-driven solutions

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Report

After thorough analysis, several key points emerge. Firstly, the importance of regulating big tech platforms is highlighted, with a focus on addressing issues such as hate speech and the business models of these platforms. It is argued that international levels are the most appropriate for effective regulation, which aligns with SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.

However, there is concern regarding the forum for discussions on data governance issues. It is suggested that trade negotiations might not be suitable for addressing these concerns. The joint statement initiative on e-commerce is seen as limiting the ability of national governments to regulate big tech activities, which raises negative sentiment.

On a different note, Botswana is actively working towards digitalizing its financial services sector. The establishment of the Digitalization and Innovation Hub at the Bank of Botswana highlights the country’s commitment to embracing digital transformation. Additionally, plans to establish a regulatory sandbox to facilitate the adoption of FinTech-driven services further support this effort.

Botswana also seeks assistance in developing standards for AI solutions, particularly in the financial sector. These initiatives contribute to SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals. In conclusion, the analysis emphasizes the need for international regulation of big tech platforms, while highlighting concerns about the appropriate forum for discussions on data governance.

Botswana’s focus on digitalizing its financial services sector and efforts to develop AI solution standards showcase its commitment to technological advancements. These insights shed light on the challenges and opportunities associated with regulating the digital sphere and embracing innovative technologies.

Arguments

Need for youth’s perspectives in digitalization

Supporting facts:

• Farhan Kurnia Mayendri believes that youth perspectives are crucial in digitalization as they are the main stakeholders.

• He mentioned about bringing digital inclusivity in 19 countries hoping to bring it to 49 countries the next year.

Topics: Digitalization, Youth, AI, Digital economy

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Adapting to evolving digital landscape with policies

Supporting facts:

• Mayendri emphasized the need for creating a policy that can enhance and empower people to transition from status quo to invention age.

• He shared his contribution in a Central Asian country creating a policy to help boost their potential through digital and technology.

Topics: Digitalization, Policy, Regulations

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Role of AI in healthcare

Supporting facts:

• Mayendri’s company is developing AI for early detection of cancer.

• He emphasized how AI can help in health diagnosis and providing second or third opinions.

Topics: AI, Healthcare

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G20’s leadership in digital economy

Supporting facts:

• He believes G20 should take leadership in formulating global digital policies.

• He also emphasized on the importance of engaging with practitioners in technology while formulating these policies.

Topics: G20, Digital economy, Global digital policies, Unregulated technologies

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Report

Farhan Kurnia Mayendri, a strong advocate for digitisation, delivered a compelling presentation highlighting the pivotal role of youth perspectives in this transformative process. Mayendri emphasised that young people are the main stakeholders in digitisation, and therefore their voices and insights should be integrated into the decision-making process.

He stressed the critical need to include youth in shaping and implementing digital strategies and policies. Furthermore, Mayendri shared his progress in promoting digital inclusivity across various countries. He has actively worked to ensure that digital opportunities reach a wide range of individuals, particularly those in underserved communities.

His initiatives have already reached 19 countries in the past year, and he expressed his determination to expand this coverage to 49 countries in the coming year. Mayendri’s commitment to bridging the digital divide and enhancing accessibility aligns with the goals of SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth and SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure.

In addition to youth involvement and inclusivity, Mayendri also highlighted the necessity of creating policies that empower individuals to navigate the ever-evolving digital landscape. He shared his experience in a Central Asian country where he played a role in crafting a policy that stimulated innovation and technological advancement.

This policy aimed to equip individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in the digital era. Mayendri strongly believes in the importance of policies that facilitate a smooth transition from the status quo to the digital era. Another crucial aspect that Mayendri discussed was the significant role of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare.

He detailed how his company is actively developing AI technologies for the early detection of cancer. Mayendri highlighted the potential of AI in revolutionising healthcare delivery by enabling accurate diagnoses and providing second or third opinions. This aligns with SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being, which aims to ensure accessible and quality healthcare for all.

Lastly, Mayendri emphasised the need for global digital policies and urged the G20 to assume a leadership role in their formulation. He argued that the G20, as a prominent international organisation, can play a pivotal role in setting the direction for global digital economy standards.

Mayendri stressed the importance of engaging practitioners in technology during policy-making to ensure their expertise is incorporated. His call for G20’s leadership aligns with SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, which seeks to promote inclusive and sustainable industrialisation and foster innovation.

Overall, Farhan Kurnia Mayendri’s passionate advocacy for youth involvement, digital inclusivity, and the formulation of sound policies in the areas of digitisation, healthcare AI, and global digital policies leaves a lasting impression. His efforts and contributions underscore the critical need for collaboration and innovation in harnessing the benefits of digital technologies for sustainable development.

Arguments

He emphasizes the importance of G20 countries in shaping the world’s digital governance

Supporting facts:

• G20 countries represent 85% global GDP, 70% of international trade, and two-third of the world population

Topics: G20, Digital governance, Global economy

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He emphasizes the importance of multi-stakeholder inclusivity in shaping the digital economy

Supporting facts:

• The pace of digitalization presents multiple global opportunities

Topics: Multi-stakeholder inclusivity, Digital economy

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He supports the elevation of the Digital Economy Task Force to a working group status in the G20 Indonesian Presidency

Supporting facts:

• This move is aimed at catalyzing recovery in the post-COVID-19 era and advancing Sustainable Development Goals

Topics: G20 Indonesian Presidency, Digital Economy Task Force

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Report

The G20 countries play a crucial role in shaping global digital governance, given their significant contribution to the world economy. These countries collectively account for 85% of global GDP, 70% of international trade, and represent two-thirds of the world’s population. This demonstrates the immense influence they have in shaping policies and frameworks surrounding digital governance.

The speakers in question emphasize the importance of recognizing and capitalizing on this influence. In terms of inclusivity, the speakers argue for a paradigm shift towards a more inclusive approach to digitalization. They highlight the ongoing digital divide that persists between developed and least developed countries, as well as among genders and rural versus urban populations.

This divide hinders progress and perpetuates inequalities. Therefore, the speakers advocate for initiatives that bridge this divide and ensure equal access to digital technologies and opportunities for all. Another key aspect emphasized is the need for multi-stakeholder involvement in shaping the digital economy.

The fast-paced nature of digitalization presents numerous opportunities in various global sectors. The speakers stress that inclusive and effective digital governance can only be achieved through the participation of different stakeholders, including governments, industries, civil society, and academia. Engaging these stakeholders will ensure diverse perspectives are considered and will foster collaboration in shaping policies for a sustainable and equitable digital future.

The speakers further affirm the significance of the G20’s role in reinforcing other multilateral digital initiatives. They argue that the discussions and outcomes of the G20 regarding digital issues have a broad impact on global digital governance. The G20’s influence extends beyond its member countries, shaping the broader international digital landscape.

Therefore, the speakers highlight the importance of considering the G20’s discussions as a basis for reinforcing and aligning with other multilateral initiatives. Lastly, the elevation of the Digital Economy Task Force to a working group status in the G20 Indonesian Presidency is seen as a positive move towards advancing sustainable development goals and catalyzing recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.

This step reflects the recognition of the digital economy as a crucial driver of economic growth and development in the post-pandemic era. By elevating the status of the Digital Economy Task Force, there is a collective focus on leveraging digital technologies to support sustainable development goals and promote inclusive growth.

In conclusion, the G20 countries wield significant influence in shaping global digital governance. The speakers advocate for inclusivity in digitalization, multi-stakeholder involvement in shaping the digital economy, and the reinforcement of other multilateral initiatives. The elevation of the Digital Economy Task Force further highlights the commitment to advancing sustainable development goals.

Overall, these discussions and initiatives aim to create a more equitable and sustainable digital future for all.

Arguments

Artificial Intelligence is overhyped and not as dangerous and complicated as portrayed by media.

Supporting facts:

• AI is perceived as complicated and dangerous by many due to the way it is portrayed in the media.

• There is very little concrete understanding or practical applications of AI being communicated. Bottom-up AI is a more constructive approach.

Topics: Artificial Intelligence, Media Representation

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Continuity in digital governance is critical and G20 can play an important role.

Supporting facts:

• The G20 has shown continuity especially on digital issues.

• There’s a need to build on this continuity rather than try to reinvent the wheel.

Topics: Digital Governance, G20

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The use of SDGs as guardrails in AI development is a wise approach.

Supporting facts:

• SDGs are the most comprehensive list of humanity’s priorities and can be used as guidelines in AI development.

• This approach could lead to developments that are more inclusive and focused on reducing poverty, and promoting gender equality.

Topics: Sustainable Development Goals, AI Development

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Necessity for donor countries to help developing nations with processing capacity for AI

Supporting facts:

• Developing countries often lack processing capacities

• Developed countries could provide this as low-hanging fruit

• Emirates and Saudi Arabia are doing a lot in open source AI

Topics: AI, Development Assistance, Open Source AI, Data Privacy

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Establishing a way to ensure traceability of data back to the user

Supporting facts:

• Court cases in the U.S. are demanding acknowledgement for creators of data used in AI processing

Topics: AI, Traceability, Data Privacy

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Report

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has often been depicted as complex and dangerous in the media, which has led to negative perceptions among the general public. However, this portrayal is not entirely accurate, and there is a need for a more nuanced understanding of AI.

The media’s focus on sensationalized aspects of AI has created a significant gap between public perception and the practical applications and concrete understanding of AI. To bridge this gap and foster a more positive view of AI, a bottom-up approach is suggested.

This approach involves involving local communities and preserving their wisdom and knowledge in AI development. By harnessing the expertise and experiences of these communities, AI development can be more people-oriented and address their specific needs. Continuity in digital governance is crucial for effective AI development.

The G20, a group of leading economies, has consistently shown continuity and dedication to addressing digital issues. Building on this continuity rather than reinventing the wheel is seen as a wise approach to ensure effective and inclusive digital governance. Furthermore, the use of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as guardrails in AI development is advocated.

The SDGs represent a comprehensive list of humanity’s priorities, and incorporating them into AI development can lead to more inclusive and poverty-reducing outcomes. These goals provide guidelines to ensure that AI technologies are developed in a manner that promotes gender equality and reduces poverty.

Developing countries often lack the necessary processing capacities for AI. In this regard, it is argued that donor countries should extend their assistance to support these nations in building their AI capabilities. This support can be seen as a low-hanging fruit and can contribute to the development of a more inclusive and equitable global AI ecosystem.

The establishment of traceability of data used in AI processing is another crucial aspect. Recent court cases in the United States have raised demands for acknowledgment and transparency regarding the creators of data used in AI processing. Having a system that ensures traceability of data back to the user can help address concerns around data privacy and accountability.

In conclusion, AI is often unfairly portrayed as complex and dangerous, and there is a need for more accurate and practical information about its potential. Embracing a bottom-up approach, leveraging the continuity in digital governance within the G20, and using the SDGs as guidelines in AI development can contribute to more inclusive and beneficial outcomes.

Additionally, providing processing capacity assistance to developing nations and establishing traceability of data used in AI processing are also important considerations. By addressing these issues, we can harness the true potential of AI for the betterment of society.

Arguments

Luciano Mazza de Andrade proposes to organize Brazil’s G20 work in four priority areas: Digital Inclusion, Digital Government, Information Integrity, and Artificial Intelligence.

Supporting facts:

• Brazil is taking over the presidency of G20, after Indonesia and India.

• Brazil is the third developing country in a row to occupy the chair of the G20.

• Artificial Intelligence for sustainable development and inequalities reduction is proposed with a focus on national capabilities and how to harness AI tools for development and for uses in public services.

Topics: Digital Inclusion, Digital Government, Information Integrity, Artificial Intelligence, G20

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Desire to advance conversation on information integrity and approaches to regulation of digital platforms

Supporting facts:

• The G20 work track record is addressing these issues in different dimensions

• Conceptual address through communication and declarations

• Organization of events, seminars and workshops to raise awareness

Topics: Information Integrity, Digital Platform Regulation

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Report

Brazil is set to assume the presidency of the G20, following in the footsteps of Indonesia and India. Luciano Mazza de Andrade, in his proposal for Brazil’s G20 agenda, outlines four priority areas: digital inclusion, digital government, information integrity, and artificial intelligence.

These areas are critical for sustainable development and addressing inequalities. Luciano Mazza de Andrade emphasizes the need to develop strategies and governance approaches to combat online information integrity issues. This includes urging digital platforms to commit to information integrity and take action against disinformation and hate speech.

Technical and expert analysis of policies pertaining to digital platform business models is also deemed necessary. The sentiment towards these initiatives is positive, with a focus on advancing conversations around information integrity and exploring regulatory approaches for digital platforms. The G20 has a history of addressing these issues through conceptual discussions, declarations, and organizing events and workshops to raise awareness.

It is important to note that the aim is not to enforce joint regulation, but to find common ground in the complex and controversial field of digital platform regulation. This field poses challenges due to its multidimensional nature and the diversity of perspectives involved.

While there is a neutral sentiment concerning joint regulation, collaboration and partnerships are seen as vital for navigating this complex landscape. Overall, Brazil’s presidency of the G20 is expected to make significant progress in the areas of digital inclusion, digital government, information integrity, and artificial intelligence.

There is a positive sentiment towards addressing online information integrity issues and promoting information as a public good. The G20’s efforts in these areas will involve communication, declarations, and events, with an emphasis on finding common ground in the regulation of digital platforms.

This demonstrates the G20’s commitment to sustainable development and addressing global challenges.

Arguments

The advancement of digital technology has proven itself to be a valuable aspect in formulating solutions for socioeconomic issues.

Supporting facts:

• According to a recent study by the World Economic Forum, digital transformation is expected to contribute an added value of up to 100 trillion US dollars by 2025.

• In the context of Indonesia, it is projected that digital technology could drive additional accumulated growth approximately 15% of the GDP in 2030.

Topics: Digital technology, Socioeconomic issues, Digital transformation

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Indonesia reaffirms the need for inclusive, empowering and sustainable digital transformation.

Supporting facts:

• During the Indonesian G20 Presidency 2022, digital transformation was one of the presidency’s three priority issues.

• The three principles in our efforts to accelerate digital transformation include inclusivity, empowerment, and sustainability.

Topics: Digital transformation, Inclusivity, Empowerment, Sustainability, Digital economy

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The digital divide is a persisting challenge that must be collectively addressed.

Supporting facts:

• The digital divide encompasses challenge of development and access to digital infrastructure, as well as digital literacy that are important for harnessing the benefits of digital economy.

Topics: Digital divide, Digital infrastructure, Digital literacy, Inclusivity, Digital economy

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Indonesia is focused on initiatives including smart village and smart island, enhanced digital skills and literacy teaching, and promotion of data-free flow.

Supporting facts:

• The presidency has consolidated supports of G20 members for smart village and smart island initiative.

• The G20 toolkit for measuring digital skills and digital literacy serves as a comprehensive guide.

• Insights were gathered during the multi-stakeholder dialogue workshop, focusing on measures to enhance understanding at various levels and diverse approaches of data governance.

Topics: Smart village, Smart island, Digital skills, Digital literacy, Data-free flow, Cross-border data flow

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There are issues fit for multilateral approach and issues fit for bilateral approach in digital governance.

Supporting facts:

• During their presidency, they observed that certain issues are more suitable for different approaches.

Topics: digital divide, digital literacy, skills, meaningful connectivity, data governance

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Raising awareness, sharing experience and knowledge in G20 platform is important.

Supporting facts:

• Even in discussions within the G20 forum, they refer to existing or prevailing laws and regulations.

• The issue of data governance has different approaches hence not ideal for a multilateral approach.

Topics: G20, digital governance

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Report

The advancement of digital technology has proven itself to be a valuable aspect in formulating solutions for socioeconomic issues. A recent study by the World Economic Forum predicts that digital transformation could contribute an added value of up to £100 trillion US dollars by 2025.

In the context of Indonesia, it is projected that digital technology could drive additional accumulated growth of approximately 15% of the GDP by 2030. These projections highlight the immense potential of digital transformation in driving economic development and improving the quality of life.

However, the digital divide remains a persisting challenge that must be collectively addressed. The digital divide encompasses the challenges of development and access to digital infrastructure, as well as digital literacy, which is important for harnessing the benefits of the digital economy.

It is crucial to bridge this gap to ensure that all individuals have equal opportunities and access to the digital world. Indonesia reaffirms the need for inclusive, empowering, and sustainable digital transformation. During the Indonesian G20 Presidency in 2022, digital transformation was one of the presidency’s three priority issues.

The country emphasizes three principles in its efforts to accelerate digital transformation, namely inclusivity, empowerment, and sustainability. These principles aim to ensure that the benefits of digitalization are accessible to all segments of society, especially marginalized groups, and to create a digital environment that is environmentally sustainable.

In line with its focus on inclusive digital transformation, Indonesia is undertaking various initiatives. These include the implementation of smart village and smart island projects, which aim to leverage digital technology to enhance the quality of life and economic opportunities in rural and remote areas.

Additionally, there is a strong emphasis on enhancing digital skills and digital literacy through comprehensive teaching programs. Furthermore, Indonesia advocates for the promotion of data-free flow, recognizing the importance of efficient and secure cross-border data exchange in driving innovation and economic growth.

The analysis also highlights the importance of different approaches in digital governance. While certain issues are more suitable for multilateral approaches, others require bilateral approaches. This recognition underscores the need for flexible and adaptable strategies to address the diverse challenges and opportunities in the digital realm.

Within the G20 platform, Indonesia recognizes the significance of raising awareness, sharing experiences, and knowledge. Discussions within the G20 forum refer to existing or prevailing laws and regulations, indicating the importance of leveraging existing frameworks to guide digital governance. Notably, the issue of data governance has different approaches and hence may not be ideal for a multilateral approach.

Finally, there is opposition to the idea of collectively drafting or making regulations at the unit level. This stance suggests a preference for a more decentralized approach to digital governance, where regulations are developed and implemented at a more localized level.

In conclusion, digital transformation holds significant potential in addressing socioeconomic issues and driving economic growth. Indonesia places great emphasis on inclusive, empowering, and sustainable digital transformation through initiatives such as smart village and smart island projects, digital skills, and literacy teaching, and the promotion of data-free flow.

Recognizing the diverse nature of digital governance challenges, Indonesia supports flexible and adaptable approaches. The sharing of experiences and insights within the G20 platform is deemed crucial. However, there is opposition to collectively drafting regulations at the unit level, indicating a preference for a more decentralized approach.

By collectively addressing the digital divide and harnessing the transformative power of digital technology, societies can move towards a more inclusive and prosperous future.

Arguments

The need for digitalization and development

Supporting facts:

• Succession of G20 presidencies has been held by developing countries

• Brazil is the current G20 president

• Saudi Arabia and Indonesia highlighted the crucial role of G20 in digitalization

• Digital Economy Task Force was elevated to a Digital Economy Working Group within G20

• ANCAD contributed to the G20 roadmap towards a common framework for measuring the digital economy

• ANCAD supported Indonesia’s G20 presidency as a knowledge partner for the Digital Economy Working Group

• ANCAD provided analysis of G20 members’ current laws and regulations on data flows

Topics: Digitalization, Development, G20 Digital Economy Task Force, Digital Economy Working Group, Digital Economy

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Report

The G20, led by developing countries such as Brazil, acknowledges the significance of digitalisation and development. To address this, the G20 has established a Digital Economy Working Group, receiving support from organisations like ANCAD (Association of National Committees for Information Systems).

ANCAD has played a crucial role in contributing to the G20’s digitalisation efforts. ANCAD’s notable contribution includes analysing the laws and regulations on data flows by G20 members. This analysis provided valuable insights into the current state of data governance, shaping discussions and policies.

ANCAD’s expertise and insights supported G20 presidencies (namely, Indonesia and India) in developing frameworks to measure the digital economy and leverage data for development. ANCAD’s support for Indonesia’s G20 presidency was significant. ANCAD acted as a knowledge partner for the Digital Economy Working Group, assisting in formulating a common framework for measuring the digital economy.

ANCAD also supported India’s G20 presidency, contributing to the development of principles on effectively utilising data for development. Furthermore, ANCAD’s analysis on laws and regulations regarding data flows contributed to the G20 Bali Leaders’ Declaration, solidifying its influence and importance in shaping discussions on data governance within the G20.

The discussions led by the G20 and ANCAD also highlight the relevance of data in the digital economy, considering economic and human rights perspectives. Concerns about the concentration of data usage by a few platforms, impacting competition and innovation, are being addressed.

It is crucial to adopt a more inclusive approach to data governance to ensure equitable distribution of the benefits of the digital economy, while fostering innovation and competition. In conclusion, the G20, with the assistance of organisations like ANCAD, recognises the pivotal role of digitalisation and development.

ANCAD’s contributions in analysing data flow regulations and supporting G20 presidencies in developing frameworks for measuring the digital economy and leveraging data for development have been significant. These discussions emphasise the importance of data in the digital economy and the need for inclusive data governance to promote competition, innovation, and an equitable future enabled by digitalisation.

This collaborative effort by the G20 and ANCAD aims to create a framework that promotes sustainable digital development and supports global partnerships for economic progress.

Arguments

The G20 can be a catalyst group leading digital transformations with a significant influence on the global economy

Supporting facts:

• The G20 can lead forward in digital transformations

• The G20 has huge influence on the overall global economy

Topics: Digital Transformation, G20, Global Economy

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The idea of building the digital economy progressively, not in a hierarchical manner, holds value

Supporting facts:

• Addressing digital transformations progressively rather than hierarchically accommodates the complexity of the task

• Building a ‘digital stack’ progressively allows accumulation of various elements needed for digital economy

Topics: Digital Economy, Progressive Building

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GDC can be a platform for pooling knowledge and resources and scaling up development efforts

Supporting facts:

• GDC involves pooling of knowledge and resources among participating countries

• Exchange of best practices and pooling resources can help scale up development efforts

Topics: Global Digital Compact, Knowledge Pooling, Resource Sharing

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The processing capacity of AI is now increasingly located in the private sector.

Supporting facts:

• Increasing amounts of processing capacity are located in private businesses rather than universities or research centers.

Topics: AI, Private Sector, Processing Capacity

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The Secretary General has expressed the need for stronger efforts at accountability.

Supporting facts:

• The Secretary General has publicly stated his belief that there needs to be a more concerted effort at accountability.

Topics: Accountability, Digital Platforms

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International compliance arrangements are difficult.

Supporting facts:

• The Secretary General has called for a global level international agreement on common standards of harmful online content.

Topics: Compliance, Regulations

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There is a need for common understandings of responsible practices and standards for online content.

Supporting facts:

• The Secretary General has proposed exploration of common standards for harmful online content and understandings of responsibilities.

Topics: Responsible Practices, Online Content Standards

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Report

The G20 is perceived as a catalyst group with the potential to lead digital transformations and has a significant influence on the global economy. The G20 can play a vital role in driving digitalization by bringing together key stakeholders and promoting collaboration.

This positive sentiment is supported by the fact that the G20 has immense influence on the global economy. Digitalization offers learning opportunities not only for developed countries but also for developing countries. Developing countries, like India, have demonstrated their innovation in tackling digital transformations.

For instance, India has introduced multi-language engagement and digital access for illiterate people, showcasing the potential for inclusive digitalization. The idea of building the digital economy progressively, rather than hierarchically, is valuable. Progressive addressing of digital transformations accommodates the complexity of the task and allows for the accumulation of necessary elements for a robust digital economy.

A proposed solution for coherent and sustained digital transformations is the Global Digital Compact (GDC). The GDC would facilitate ongoing dialogue among various digital initiatives, promoting consensus on shared principles and values. By pooling knowledge and resources, the GDC can help scale up development efforts.

It is important to note the increasing concentration of AI processing capacity in the private sector, highlighting the role of private businesses in advancing AI technologies. There is a need for stronger efforts at accountability in the digital realm, as emphasized by the Secretary General.

This observation aligns with the importance of strong institutions in ensuring ethical practices on digital platforms. The challenges associated with international compliance arrangements are acknowledged, with the Secretary General calling for a global-level international agreement on common standards of harmful online content.

In conclusion, the G20 has the potential to lead digital transformations and influence the global economy. The inclusive nature of digitalization provides learning opportunities for developed and developing countries alike, with innovation emerging from unexpected sources. A progressive approach to building the digital economy accommodates the complexity of the task.

The Global Digital Compact offers a platform for sustained dialogue and collaboration, pooling knowledge and resources to scale up development efforts. The increasing presence of AI processing capacity in the private sector reflects the evolving dynamics of the digital landscape.

Strong efforts at accountability and common standards for responsible practices are crucial in ensuring ethical and responsible digital platforms. Overall, global cooperation and collaboration are essential for effectively addressing the challenges and opportunities presented by digitalization.

Arguments

Need to address the existing digital divide and accelerate progress on the sustainable development goals.

Supporting facts:

• The Secretary General’s vision for the Global Digital Compact has three pillars, one of which addresses the digital divide.

Topics: digital divide, sustainable development goals

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Necessity of building the public sector’s capacity to steer digital transformation.

Supporting facts:

• Ministers, presidents, and prime ministers in developing countries are expressing their need to make the right choices in implementing digital transformation.

Topics: public sector, digital transformation

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The importance of replicating success stories from other countries.

Supporting facts:

• Executives from the Global South are keen on implementing successful digital public infrastructures like those in India and Kenya.

Topics: success stories, digital innovation

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The need to measure the impact of digital transformation.

Supporting facts:

• Ministers and officials in developing countries are keen on distinguishing hype from real results when it comes to digital transformation.

Topics: digital transformation, impact measurement

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The necessity of private-public partnerships in advancing the digital economy.

Supporting facts:

• Government officials realize they cannot achieve digital transformation alone and need to partner with the private sector.

Topics: private sector, public sector, digital economy

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The need to balance opportunities and risks while considering the societal impact.

Supporting facts:

• There’s a need to consider shifts in jobs, human rights protection, and wealth concentration while shaping the digital economy’s future.

Topics: digital economy, societal impact, risk management

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The crucial role of equipping people with smart devices and combating energy poverty for an inclusive digital economy.

Supporting facts:

• For cutting edge digital economy applications, smart device accessibility and resolving energy poverty are essential.

Topics: smart devices, digital economy, energy poverty

---

Diverse stakeholders need to cooperate in navigating advancement in technology

Supporting facts:

• The UN has had experience with a multi-stakeholder forum since 2005

• The co-facilitators, Sweden and Zambia, are committed to multi-stakeholder approaches and have done the consultation on that basis

Topics: United Nations, multi-stakeholder approach, technology, artificial intelligence, Internet Governance Forum, Global Digital Compact, misinformation, disinformation, data, cloud infrastructure

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Report

The global digital compact is a vision put forth by the Secretary General that aims to address the digital divide and accelerate progress on the sustainable development goals. One of the three pillars of this compact focuses specifically on addressing the digital divide.

This highlights the importance of bridging the gap between those who have access to digital technology and those who do not, in order to ensure that everyone has equal opportunities for development. In order to steer digital transformation, it is crucial to build the capacity of the public sector.

Developing countries are recognising the need to make the right choices in implementing digital transformation, and ministers, presidents, and prime ministers are expressing their support for this. By strengthening the public sector’s ability to navigate and lead digital transformation, countries can ensure that the benefits of technological advancements are harnessed effectively and equitably.

Another key aspect highlighted is the importance of replicating success stories from other countries. Executives from the Global South are particularly interested in implementing successful digital public infrastructure models like those in India and Kenya. By learning from these success stories, countries can adopt effective strategies and approaches for digital development and inclusive growth.

It is also highlighted that measuring the impact of digital transformation is necessary. Ministers and officials in developing countries are keen on distinguishing between hype and real results when it comes to digital transformation. By effectively measuring and evaluating the impact of digital initiatives, countries can gain insights into their effectiveness and make informed decisions on future strategies and investments.

The necessity of private-public partnerships in advancing the digital economy is emphasised. Government officials realise that they cannot achieve digital transformation alone and need to partner with the private sector. By collaborating with the private sector, countries can leverage the expertise, resources, and innovation capabilities of private companies to drive digital economic growth and create inclusive opportunities.

When shaping the future of the digital economy, it is important to balance opportunities and risks while considering the societal impact. This includes considering shifts in jobs, protecting human rights, and addressing wealth concentration. By carefully assessing the risks and benefits of the digital economy, countries can work towards creating an equitable and sustainable digital future.

The role of smart devices and combating energy poverty are highlighted for an inclusive digital economy. Accessibility to smart devices and resolving energy poverty are essential for cutting-edge digital economy applications. By equipping people with smart devices and ensuring access to affordable and clean energy, countries can enable the participation of all individuals in the digital economy, reducing inequalities and fostering inclusive growth.

Global South participation in shaping an inclusive and empowering digital future is stressed. The global process aims to lower the entry barriers to the digital economy discussion, particularly for the global majority, especially in the Global South. This reflects the need for diverse perspectives and voices in shaping digital policies and strategies that cater to the needs and aspirations of all.

The need for cooperation among diverse stakeholders in navigating technological advancements is highlighted. With the rapid advancement of technology, it is crucial for governments, private sector entities, civil society, and other stakeholders to work together in order to understand and address the challenges and opportunities that arise.

By leveraging the collective expertise and perspectives of multiple stakeholders, countries can navigate the complexities of technology and shape its development in a manner that is inclusive, ethical, and sustainable. The role of the private sector is acknowledged as crucial in technological advancements, particularly in regards to data and infrastructure.

Private companies increasingly control the computing and cloud infrastructure that underpins advanced AI technologies. This recognises the influence and power that the private sector holds in shaping technological advancements and emphasises the need for effective collaboration and governance to ensure ethical and responsible use of data and infrastructure.

In conclusion, addressing the digital divide, building public sector capacity, replicating success stories, measuring impact, fostering private-public partnerships, balancing opportunities and risks, ensuring access to smart devices and combating energy poverty, encouraging Global South participation, promoting stakeholder cooperation, and acknowledging the role of the private sector are crucial aspects of shaping an inclusive and empowering digital future.

By focusing on these areas, countries can harness the transformative potential of digital technologies while ensuring that no one is left behind.

Arguments

Need to bridge the digital divide before diving into opportunities

Supporting facts:

• Only 45% of Zimbabwe’s population have access to Internet

• 92% mobile access but limited participation in digital economy due to internet accessibility issues

Topics: Digital Economy, Inclusion, Internet Access, Digital Skills

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Investing in digital infrastructure is key for developing economies to participate in digital trade

Supporting facts:

• Robust digital infrastructure and reliable internet access are crucial

Topics: Digital Trade, Infrastructure development

---

A clear e-commerce regulatory framework is necessary

Supporting facts:

• Regulation fosters fair competition and consumer protection

Topics: E-commerce, Regulatory Environment

---

Data privacy and cybersecurity are important for trust in digital trade

Supporting facts:

• Enhancing cybersecurity protects customers against cyber threats

Topics: Data Privacy, Cybersecurity

---

Financial inclusion initiatives promoting inclusive financial systems and digital payment systems

Supporting facts:

• These initiatives ensure wide participation in digital trade

Topics: Financial Inclusion, Digital Payment Systems

---

Streamlining customs procedures and reducing trade barriers is necessary for cross-border transactions

Supporting facts:

• This makes it easier for businesses in developing countries to participate in global digital markets

Topics: Customs Procedures, Trade Barriers

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Digital technology should be aimed to a future where everyone can thrive

Supporting facts:

• Technology disruption tends to be unneutral, and creates winners and losers

• Without proper intervention, rapid digital innovation could exacerbate the existing gaps and inequalities within society.

Topics: Digital Transformation, Equality

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Ensuring technology respects human diversity and values

Supporting facts:

• Human insights become distressingly affected by technology

• Migration Amplified by social media and generated by AI; healthcare algorithms causing errors because they’re only trained on a subset of people or racially biased facial recognition software causing wrongful arrest

Topics: Artificial Intelligence, Human Rights

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Promoting collaboration between developed and developing countries, technology owners and users

Supporting facts:

• Economic imbalance beneath technological progress potentially harmful to developing countries

• Collaborative solutions to address challenges unique to developing countries

Topics: Global Cooperation, Digital Economy, MSME

---

Stay path towards making digital technology accessible to all

Supporting facts:

• Providing accessible, affordable, and reliable digital connectivity

• Equipping society with essential digital literacy and skills

• Creating a safe and productive digital space, creating a fair and transparent data governance

Topics: Digital Connectivity, Digital Literacy, Data Governance

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Report

The discussion primarily focused on the urgent need to bridge the digital divide, ensuring that all individuals have equal access to digital technology. One major concern raised was regarding internet accessibility issues in Zimbabwe, where only 45% of the population have access to the Internet.

Despite 92% mobile access, limited participation in the digital economy persists due to these accessibility issues. The individuals involved in the discussion expressed concern and stressed the importance of addressing this divide before diving into the opportunities that the digital world offers.

Ownership of data was also a critical aspect discussed. There were questions raised regarding who owns the data being generated every minute and how it is being utilized. The argument put forth was that understanding how this data is used is essential to ensure that everyone is included in the digital economy.

This issue was regarded as crucial in the context of SDG 9 on industry, innovation, and infrastructure. The role of governments in digital inclusion was another prominent topic. It was highlighted that governments play a crucial role in ensuring the spread of digital technologies.

There was a strong emphasis on the need to include people in rural areas and those outside the digital domain, emphasizing SDGs 9, 10, and 11, which represent industry, innovation, reduced inequality, and sustainable cities and communities. The discussion also emphasized the significance of investing in robust digital infrastructure to enable developing economies to participate in digital trade, which aligns with SDG 9.

It was mentioned that reliable internet access is crucial for developing a strong digital infrastructure. The importance of a clear e-commerce regulatory framework was another key point discussed. The participants stressed that regulation fosters fair competition and provides consumer protection in the digital marketplace.

This supports the principles of SDG 8, which focuses on decent work and economic growth. Data privacy and cybersecurity were highlighted as important factors in building trust in digital trade. Enhancing cybersecurity was seen as crucial in protecting customers against cyber threats.

This aligns with SDG 16, which focuses on peace, justice, and strong institutions. Financial inclusion initiatives promoting inclusive financial systems and digital payment systems were regarded as positive steps towards ensuring wider participation in digital trade. This was viewed as an important aspect of reducing inequalities as represented by SDG 10.

Streamlining customs procedures and reducing trade barriers were identified as necessary steps to facilitate cross-border transactions, particularly for businesses in developing countries. This underscores the importance of SDG 17, which focuses on partnerships for the goals. In terms of the role of developing countries, it was argued that they should not just adopt technologies but also adapt and innovate.

Developing countries were seen as having the potential to contribute by developing tailored solutions specific to their needs. This aligns with the principles of SDG 9, which encourages industry, innovation, and infrastructure. The discussion also highlighted the importance of policy advocacy, collaboration, and capacity building in developing countries.

This was seen as enhancing the skills and capabilities of the workforce in various digital fields like marketing, data analytics, cybersecurity, and AI. These efforts were viewed positively and aligned with SDGs 17 and 4, which focus on partnerships for the goals and quality education, respectively.

The conversation also examined the potential negative effects of rapid digital innovation. It was noted that technology disruption tends to be non-neutral, creating winners and losers and exacerbating existing gaps and inequalities within society. The participants emphasized the need for intervention to ensure that digital technology aims for a future where everyone can thrive.

The discussion also brought attention to how technology can impact human diversity and values. Instances were shared where technology, such as migration amplified by social media and AI-generated healthcare algorithms, caused errors or wrongful arrests due to biased facial recognition software.

Ensuring that technology respects human diversity and values was regarded as vital. The participants stressed the importance of collaborative solutions to address challenges unique to developing countries. They acknowledged the potential harm that economic imbalance beneath technological progress can have on developing nations.

This aligns with the principles of SDGs 17 and 8, which focus on partnerships for the goals and decent work and economic growth respectively. The conversation also highlighted the need for accessible, affordable, and reliable digital connectivity, essential digital literacy and skills, and a safe and productive digital space with fair and transparent data governance.

These aspects were seen as necessary to make digital technology accessible to all and aligned with SDGs 4, 9, and 17. In conclusion, the discussion emphasized the urgency of bridging the digital divide and ensuring equal access to digital technology. The speakers stressed the importance of collaboration, capacity building, and reducing inequality in the digital world.

They also highlighted the need for intervention to prevent rapid digital innovation from exacerbating existing gaps and inequalities. The discussions revolved around key topics such as internet accessibility, data ownership, government’s role, robust digital infrastructure, e-commerce regulation, data privacy, financial inclusion, customs procedures, technology adoption, and policy advocacy.

Several SDGs were referenced throughout the discussion, including SDGs 1, 4, 8, 9, 10, 11, 16, and 17. Noteworthy insights included the potential negative effects of technology on human diversity and values, the importance of collaborative solutions, and the significance of developing countries adapting and innovating in the digital realm.

Arguments

Radio communications are instrumental in the optimal functioning of digital technologies like smartphone, GPS, weather forecasting, etc.

Supporting facts:

• ITU hosts a conference discussing radio communications

• The conference looks at interference minimization and enabling innovative frameworks for future technologies

Topics: Radio Communications, Smartphone, GPS, Weather Forecasting

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Spectrum and satellite orbits are finite, necessitating consensus and cooperation.

Supporting facts:

• Spectrum and satellite orbits are discussed in ITU’s four-week conference

• The conference results in a treaty that is effective for four years

Topics: Spectrum, Satellite orbits, Cooperation

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It is crucial in the future development of 5G and 6G to increase energy efficiency.

Supporting facts:

• ITU introduced a new framework for 6G

• 5G and 6G were discussed at the conference

Topics: 5G, 6G, Energy Efficiency

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There are risks that AI could exacerbate inequalities further

Supporting facts:

• Doreen mentioned the risks associated with the use of AI in societies that already face a digital divide

Topics: Artificial Intelligence, Inequality

---

Bridging the digital gap is about more than infrastructure

Supporting facts:

• Even in regions where there is coverage, about 35% are not using the facility due to gaps like cost, skills, content challenges, safety concerns and device affordability

Topics: Digital Divide, Infrastructure

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Programs should be initiated to bring connectivity to areas lacking it

Supporting facts:

• Doreen mentions an initiative with UNICEF called Giga aimed at connecting every school in the world to the internet

Topics: Digital Divide, Internet Access

---

Gender inclusion in ICT is crucial

Supporting facts:

• Doreen highlighted a significant gender gap in access to technology and in the ICT workforce, leading to further bias in new technologies like AI

Topics: Gender Equality, ICT

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Report

The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) recently hosted a conference focusing on radio communications. The conference aimed to address the importance of radio communications in digital technologies like smartphones, GPS, weather forecasting, etc. The discussions emphasized minimizing interference and enabling innovative frameworks for future technologies.

The ITU’s efforts in this area are considered instrumental in ensuring the optimal functioning of these technologies. Additionally, the conference covered topics related to spectrum and satellite orbits. It was acknowledged that spectrum and satellite orbits are finite resources, requiring consensus and cooperation for effective management.

As a result of these discussions, a treaty with a four-year effectiveness was established. In terms of future advancements, the ITU introduced a new framework for the development of 6G. The conference also highlighted the crucial importance of energy efficiency in the development of both 5G and 6G technologies.

Initiatives should be undertaken to increase energy efficiency for sustainable and environmentally friendly telecommunications systems. Concerns were raised about the potential negative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on existing inequalities. In societies facing a digital divide, there are fears that AI implementation could further exacerbate inequalities.

Policy measures should be implemented to mitigate these risks. The conference emphasized the need to bridge the digital divide. Issues such as cost, skills, content challenges, safety concerns, and device affordability need to be addressed to ensure widespread usage of digital technologies.

Initiatives like Giga, aimed at connecting every school in the world to the internet, are being implemented to address digital connectivity gaps. Gender inclusion in information and communication technology (ICT) was also emphasized. There is a significant gender gap in access to technology and the ICT workforce, leading to biases and disparities in emerging technologies like AI.

Efforts to promote gender equality in ICT were deemed crucial. Finally, the conference highlighted the importance of supporting countries in rolling out and scaling digital services. Initiatives like GovStack, partnering with Estonia, Germany, and Dial, aim to bring e-government services to nations.

Assisting countries in adopting digital services can lead to enhanced efficiency and improved access to governmental services. In summary, the ITU conference covered a range of topics including radio communications, spectrum management, energy efficiency, AI’s impact on inequalities, bridging the digital divide, gender inclusion in ICT, and the roll-out of digital services.

The discussions aimed to drive towards a more inclusive and sustainable digital future.

Arguments

A lot of challenges to e-commerce in Africa can be overcome individually

Supporting facts:

• The state of transportation and logistics in Africa is challenging

• Most people prefer cash over digital payments

• Low purchasing power in many areas

Topics: E-commerce, Africa, Transportation System, Logistics, Purchasing Power, Payment Methods

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Major issue is the fragmentation of markets in Africa

Supporting facts:

• Africa is a huge continent but segmented into many small markets

• Scaling the e-commerce model becomes challenging

Topics: Africa, Market Fragmentation, E-Commerce

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Companies should be ready to adapt to African market

Supporting facts:

• Need for adaptation due to differences in e-commerce operations in Africa compared to other continents

• This requires extra costs and time

Topics: E-commerce, Adaptation, Africa

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The African continent is filled with entrepreneurial spirit and appetite to create a positive impact

Supporting facts:

• Francis mentioned that there is no lack of entrepreneurs and companies are willing to drive impact

Topics: Entrepreneurship, Digital Economy, E-commerce

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Jumia is not currently concerned about the threat of monopoly from larger tech companies

Supporting facts:

• Giant companies like Amazon are hardly looking at Africa

• Emerging markets are quite specific to handle because of their own set of challenges that we mentioned before, they’re so far away from the usual playbook of the big players

• Many big players are not really in a hurry to move in

Topics: Jumia, Monopoly, Tech Companies

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Emerging markets are vibrant with talent, entrepreneurs, and companies wanting to spearhead digital evolution for economic and social advantage.

Supporting facts:

• Jumia has hundreds of thousands of customers in small cities with limited Internet access but can connect to e-commerce

• Entrepreneurs are focused not just on profit but also on driving real social impact, promoting inclusiveness

Topics: Emerging Markets, Digital Economy, E-Trade

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There is a need to move beyond good intentions and speeches and create practical change for digital economy inclusiveness in emerging markets.

Supporting facts:

• Jumia has become experts at managing local regulatory complexity, however it should not be a barrier

• Current strategies unnecessarily complicate work on digital projects, hindering social progress

Topics: Digital Economy, Inclusiveness, Emerging Markets

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Report

The challenges faced by e-commerce in Africa are numerous and diverse. One major obstacle is the difficult state of transportation and logistics across the continent. The infrastructure for moving goods and products is lacking, making it challenging to deliver items to customers in a timely manner.

This is compounded by the preference for cash transactions over digital payments. Many people in Africa still rely on physical currency, which can be a barrier to widespread adoption of e-commerce. Another significant challenge is the low purchasing power in many areas of Africa.

Economic disparities and poverty levels make it difficult for a large proportion of the population to afford online purchases. Additionally, the market fragmentation in Africa presents a major issue for e-commerce. The continent is vast and segmented into many small markets, making it challenging to scale the e-commerce model effectively across the entire region.

However, despite these challenges, there is an abundance of entrepreneurial spirit in Africa. The continent is filled with individuals and companies who are eager to drive impact and make a positive difference. This entrepreneurial drive is a promising sign for the growth of e-commerce in Africa.

One of the main arguments highlighted is the unnecessary barriers faced by digital entrepreneurs in African markets. Outdated regulations, such as restrictions on postal monopolies, hinder their progress and potential for success. The need for adaptation to the unique operations of e-commerce in Africa also presents additional costs and time constraints for companies.

On a positive note, there is a call for simplification and a more favourable business environment to unleash the potential of local entrepreneurship. The African continental trade agreement is seen as a potential game-changer for digital players. This agreement has the potential to facilitate trade and create new opportunities for e-commerce companies operating in Africa.

Interestingly, giant tech companies like Amazon have not yet shown substantial interest in the African market. This provides an opportunity for local players, such as Jumia, to establish a strong presence and dominate the e-commerce sector. The analysis also reveals the vibrancy of emerging markets in Africa, with a focus not just on profit but also on driving real social impact and promoting inclusiveness.

However, there is a need to move beyond good intentions and speeches and to create practical changes that enable inclusiveness in the digital economy. In conclusion, while there are significant challenges to overcome, including transportation and logistics, preference for cash transactions, low purchasing power, and market fragmentation, the entrepreneurial spirit and willingness to drive impact present promising opportunities for e-commerce in Africa.

Simplification, favourable business environments, and the potential of the African continental trade agreement can all contribute to the growth and success of e-commerce in the region.

Arguments

There’s a knowledge gap on digital economy in Africa

Supporting facts:

• Compared the number of Africans with degrees or master’s degrees in legal sector to their counterparts in Germany, there’s a huge disparity.

• Education costs differently in different places, making access to higher education difficult for many Africans

Topics: education, digital policy

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Dominance of big tech companies is a significant problem

Supporting facts:

• The annual turnover of companies like Amazon is greater than the GDP of several African countries.

• This dominance makes it difficult for governments to hold these companies accountable.

Topics: big tech, competition, local innovation

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Many regulators in Africa lack the necessary skills to engage in digital economy regulation

Supporting facts:

• Issue of reskilling regulators came up in President Biden’s executive order on AI

• Policy sectors are not effectively interconnected in Africa

Topics: Digital Economy, AI Regulation, Policy Making

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Investment in digital public infrastructure is essential for digital economies.

Supporting facts:

• Africa needs to focus on providing its own internet so it’s not dependent on specific tech companies.

Topics: Digital Economy, Digital Infrastructure, Technology

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Remote work provides a substantial potential for developing countries.

Supporting facts:

• Software developers in Kenya and Nigeria are working for companies abroad right from their bedrooms.

Topics: Remote Work, Digital Economy, Workforce Development

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Energy scarcity is a challenge for digital economies in developing countries.

Supporting facts:

• South Africa has load-shedding, Kenya increased its energy prices this past year almost to double, Nigeria has issues with energy.

Topics: Energy, Digital Economy, Infrastructure

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Inclusive, interoperable, and open-sourced digital economies are essential for development.

Supporting facts:

• We need to fight the vendor lock-in which is not good for our economies.

Topics: Digital Economy, Open Source

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The importance of moving in a pack

Supporting facts:

• Mozilla and Omidyar have provided funding. The Africa Law and Tech Festival has become significant due to collaboration. Her speech started with an invitation by Amandeep, further illuminating the power of networking.

Topics: Cooperation, Collaboration, Community Building

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Report

The discussions surrounding the digital economy in Africa shed light on various challenges and areas for improvement. One key issue identified is the knowledge gap regarding the digital economy, which hampers Africa’s progress and ability to fully participate in the digital revolution.

Participants noted a significant disparity in the number of Africans with degrees or master’s degrees in the legal sector compared to their counterparts in Germany, highlighting a major imbalance. The dominance of big tech companies in Africa is another major concern raised during the discussions.

It was highlighted that the annual turnover of companies like Amazon surpasses the GDP of several African countries. This dominance poses challenges for governments in holding these companies accountable for their actions. Efforts to regulate and oversee the activities of these tech giants are hindered by their overwhelming influence and reach.

Support for local innovation and startups emerged as a pressing need. Many African startups feel unsupported in their home countries and are subsequently compelled to move to the US for better opportunities and support. Participants emphasized the role of African governments in boosting the local innovation ecosystem by providing the necessary resources and creating an enabling environment for startups to flourish.

The lack of skilled regulators in Africa to effectively engage in digital economy regulation was also highlighted. Many regulators lack the necessary skills to navigate and regulate the ever-evolving digital landscape. This presents a significant obstacle in formulating effective policies and regulations for the digital economy.

It was noted that this issue was also acknowledged in the executive order on AI issued by President Biden, underlining the importance of developing the necessary skills for effective regulation. The discussion raised concerns about the suitability of current regulation models, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), which are copied from Europe.

Participants emphasized that these models do not cater to the unique needs and issues of Africa due to budget constraints and different socio-political contexts. Implementing similar regulation models with limited resources in Africa is considered infeasible, and there is a call for customizing regulation models that align with Africa’s specific circumstances.

Taxation on new technologies such as laptops and phones was identified as a hindrance to digital development. For instance, the Kenyan government’s introduction of a 1.5% tax on laptops discourages access and adoption. The fear of potential taxation on new phones also disincentivizes users from purchasing them.

The negative impact of such taxation on digital development was emphasized during the discussions. Investment in digital public infrastructure was identified as a crucial aspect for the development of digital economies. Participants emphasized the need for Africa to focus on providing its own internet infrastructure to reduce dependence on specific tech companies.

This investment in digital infrastructure is seen as a key driver for digital economies in Africa. The potential of remote work was highlighted as a significant opportunity for developing countries. It was observed that software developers in Kenya and Nigeria are working for companies abroad, leveraging the benefits of remote work.

Remote work has the potential to provide economic opportunities and bridge the gap between skilled professionals and job markets in developing countries. Promoting STEM education, especially for women, was identified as an important policy consideration. The discussions emphasized the need for more girls to get into STEM fields, in order to bridge the gender gap and foster inclusive technological development in Africa.

Energy scarcity emerged as a significant challenge for digital economies in developing countries. Participants noted issues such as load-shedding in South Africa, increased energy prices in Kenya, and energy-related challenges in Nigeria. The lack of reliable and affordable energy hampers digital infrastructure and technology adoption.

Harmonizing policies across small markets was identified as important when dealing with tech monopolies. The discussions emphasized the need for a unified approach from African countries to engage with tech companies. It was noted that finding ways for all 54 African countries to effectively communicate and negotiate with tech giants is crucial in achieving fair and equitable outcomes.

The importance of inclusive, interoperable, and open-sourced digital economies was emphasized during the discussions. Participants stressed the need to fight vendor lock-in, which restricts competition and stifles economic growth. Open-source approaches and interoperable systems were seen as integral to creating a level playing field and fostering innovation.

Collaboration and partnerships were recognized as pivotal for progress in the digital economy. The discussions highlighted the funding provided by organizations like Mozilla and Omidyar, which support initiatives that drive the development of the digital economy in Africa. The Africa Law and Tech Festival was also noted as a significant platform that showcases the power of collaboration and networking.

Finally, it was acknowledged that tech companies can play a positive role in addressing challenges in Africa’s digital economy. The discussions highlighted how big tech companies have supported internet infrastructure development in Africa. Their funding and investments help to bridge the gap and create opportunities for digital growth and development.

In conclusion, the discussions around the digital economy in Africa revealed several challenges and areas for improvement. Addressing the knowledge gap, the dominance of big tech companies, and the need for support for local innovation and startups are crucial aspects in advancing Africa’s digital economy.

Enhancing regulatory skills and tailoring regulation models, reducing taxation barriers, investing in digital infrastructure, and promoting STEM education and remote work will contribute to the growth and inclusivity of digital economies. Overcoming energy scarcity, harmonizing policies, fostering open and interoperable systems, and encouraging collaboration and partnerships are also vital for achieving digital transformation in Africa.

Arguments

Philanthropy and social impact can build equitable societies

Supporting facts:

• Omidyar Network is a social impact venture, investing both in resources, businesses, and ideas and as a traditional philanthropy

• Omidyar Network has invested about $2 billion over the last 15 years in service to building more inclusive, equitable economies and systems

Topics: Philanthropy, Social Impact, Equity

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We need to change the lopsided relationship with data and market dominance

Supporting facts:

• Five platforms receive over 70% of the world’s advertising revenue

• Closed data systems don’t allow for public societal benefits and innovation

Topics: Data, Tech Industry, Market Dominance

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Open source and scalable solutions are key to building an equitable tech future

Supporting facts:

• MOSIP, an open-source digital identity system, is an example of a scalable solution

• Open systems can be used by researchers, academics and multilaterals to build solutions in a range of areas

Topics: Open Source, Scalable Solutions, Tech Future

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Michele Jawando believes that the issue isn’t big or small technology, rather where the value lands for society and public benefit

Supporting facts:

• Michele is a lawyer and has worked on public policy and at a big tech company.

• She emphasizes that, in a digitized society and economy, it’s important to consider if the dominant platforms are extracting most value from our data.

Topics: Big Tech, Regulation, Value to Society

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Michele Jawando advocates for the need to rethink our relationship with data

Supporting facts:

• She explains that data is both individual and communal, and questions who owns that data.

• She believes that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all when it comes to regulation.

Topics: Big Tech, Data Ownership

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Michele Jawando is worried that the information is moving at such a rapid clip and it’s being dominated by a few voices.

Supporting facts:

• She says that the data divide could potentially become an AI chasm.

• She suggests that it’s necessary to include more diverse stakeholders in these conversations.

Topics: AI, Big Tech, Data Divide

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Ordinary people must be included when building a digital society

Supporting facts:

• One of the grantees of Michele’s organization is working on digital public infrastructure

• The organization has funneled resources into initiatives focusing on digital public infrastructure, global governance and standards

• Michele points out that they are focusing on cybersecurity, open source and public options, DPI, and AI

Topics: Digital public infrastructure, Philanthropy, Global governance, Standards, Innovation, Entrepreneurship, Multi-stakeholder participation

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The overall well-being of society is what’s on the line, and technology should be designed and shaped for the benefit of society

Supporting facts:

• Designing with a certain idea or value in mind can create a new system

• We have to build with people at the center of our ideas, policymaking, and governance

Topics: Technology, Well-being, Society

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Report

The analysis covers a range of topics related to technology, data, and social impact. Omidyar Network, a social impact venture, strongly believes in the power of philanthropy and social impact to build more equitable societies. They have invested about $2 billion over the last 15 years towards this goal, focusing on building inclusive and equitable economies and systems.

On the other hand, the analysis raises concerns about the lopsided relationship with data and market dominance. It is argued that five platforms currently receive over 70% of the world’s advertising revenue, indicating a concentration of power in the hands of a few.

This trend is seen as detrimental to both public societal benefits and innovation. Closed data systems are also criticized for not allowing for the broader sharing and utilization of data for societal good. The importance of open-source and scalable solutions is highlighted as key to building an equitable tech future.

MOSIP, an open-source digital identity system, is cited as an example of a scalable solution that can be utilized by researchers, academics, and multilaterals to build solutions in various areas. It is argued that open systems allow for greater collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity.

The need to invest in and scale effective opportunities is emphasized throughout the analysis. Omidyar Network is committed to investing in and scaling opportunities that have a positive societal impact. They support institutions and civil society organizations, such as UNECA and Lynda, and have funded successful projects like MOSIP.

Michele Jawando, an advocate for change in the tech industry, raises several important points. She highlights the need to consider where the value of data lands in a digitized society and economy. Michele emphasizes that it is crucial to rethink our relationship with data and questions the notion of data ownership.

She also raises concerns about the data divide, emphasizing the necessity of including more diverse stakeholders in conversations about technology. Furthermore, Michele supports the need for variety in leadership and company development in the tech industry. She calls for a more diverse conversation, challenging the traditionally wealthy and male-dominated tech industry.

Michele advocates for involving stakeholders from all around the world to ensure a rich and diverse conversation. Building a digital society that is inclusive and benefits everyone is emphasized. The analysis argues that ordinary people must be included when building a digital society.

This involves focusing on areas such as digital public infrastructure, global governance, standards, cybersecurity, open source, public options, and AI. The overall well-being of society is at stake, and technology should be designed and shaped to serve the benefit of society.

The analysis ends on an optimistic note, with the belief that it is possible to design technology for societal benefit. It is acknowledged that making this change may not happen immediately, but the speakers encourage everyone to work towards this goal.

Overall, the analysis provides a comprehensive exploration of various perspectives on the role of technology, data, and social impact in creating more equitable societies. It highlights the need for inclusive and collaborative approaches and calls for reevaluating existing power dynamics in the tech industry.

Arguments

Mozilla is predominantly a nonprofit, public benefit organization, engaging in the realm of tech giants with a different motivation, promoting a ‘public benefit mission’

Supporting facts:

• Mozilla operates as a public benefit organization but still competes with corporations like Google, Microsoft and Apple

• Their structure and incentives are different than those of the big tech companies

Topics: Mozilla, Tech giants, Nonprofit

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Mozilla is looking to expand its reach and influence by investing in other companies that want to achieve business success while prioritizing privacy and different data use

Supporting facts:

• Mozilla has set up a small venture arm to invest in such companies

• High priorities include privacy, security, and different use of data

Topics: Investment, Business success, Privacy, Data use

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Mozilla believes in a less centralized digital future and is focusing on the development of personal AIs

Supporting facts:

• Mozilla is focusing on building technology that brings an alternative view to life

• They propose an AI where users’ data doesn’t contribute back to open AI, BART, or other centralized entities

Topics: Artificial Intelligence, Decentralization, Digital Future

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Mozilla is translating its commitment to inclusivity into various initiatives and programs

Supporting facts:

• The Mozilla Foundation runs a charitable program that includes a trustworthy AI initiative, which is aimed at empowering people working in the intersection of technology, AI, trust, and safety

• Mozilla is expanding geographically in regions that are underrepresented in global tech platform development

• Mozilla urges consumers to participate by reporting their experiences on platforms like YouTube

• There is a commitment to open source in order to vet the technology

• Mozilla is working on reducing the technology that enables online tracking and surveillance

Topics: Trustworthy AI initiative, Fellowship programs, Consumer Participation, Open Source Commitment, Anti-Tracking and Cookies

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It’s difficult to define a technology as ethical due to its various potential uses

Supporting facts:

• Given potential misuse of technology, it isn’t straightforward to label it ethical or not

• Use of historical data sets in AI can result in bias

Topics: Ethics, Technology, AI

---

Understanding of the technology’s development and use is important for ethical judgement

Supporting facts:

• Technology should be observable for it to be understood and judged

• Current research is lagging behind in answering these questions

Topics: Ethics, Technology, AI

---

There’s a shared understanding of the set of issues ranging from access to innovation and the future.

Topics: Access, Innovation, Future

---

Report

Mozilla is a unique organization in the tech industry. Despite being a non-profit public benefit organization, it competes with major tech giants like Google, Microsoft, and Apple. What sets Mozilla apart is its focus on a “public benefit mission” rather than maximizing profits.

This mission drives its actions and sets it apart from the big tech companies. One area where Mozilla stands out is its commitment to privacy, security, and different data use. They prioritize these aspects and have even launched a small venture arm to invest in companies that share these values.

By investing in these companies, Mozilla aims to expand its reach and influence while also promoting business success based on privacy and responsible data use. Another key focus for Mozilla is building technology that supports a less centralized digital future.

They envision personal artificial intelligence (AI) that doesn’t contribute data back to centralized entities. This approach challenges the current trend of AI development and promotes a more democratic and distributed model. Mozilla also recognizes the challenges faced by technologists who want to build a better digital world but lack the necessary resources or platforms.

They seek to bring together a critical mass of these technologists to create platforms and systems that enable meaningful contributions toward a better digital future. In order to translate their commitment to inclusivity into action, Mozilla runs various initiatives and programs.

These include a trustworthy AI initiative that aims to empower individuals working at the intersection of technology, AI, trust, and safety. They also expand geographically into regions that are underrepresented in global tech platform development, providing a platform for local leaders to contribute.

Ethics and diversity are two other important considerations for Mozilla. They acknowledge that it’s not straightforward to label technology as ethical given its potential for misuse. They emphasize the need for observability and understanding to make ethical judgments. Additionally, they highlight the importance of diversity in development to avoid flawed understanding and potential damage to society.

Mozilla also highlights the externalization of harm caused by technology, particularly in relation to social media platforms. They criticize the centralization of control and profit, while the negative impacts are often borne by communities and societies at large. Access to innovation and creation, as well as the future of technology, are issues that Mozilla believes require attention.

They believe in the importance of providing a spectrum of access to creation and new society, ensuring that no one is left behind. In conclusion, Mozilla’s focus on a “public benefit mission” and commitment to privacy, security, and responsible data use distinguishes it from the big tech corporations.

They strive to build a less centralized digital future, empower technologists, promote inclusivity, address ethical concerns, and advocate for diversity. By emphasizing the externalization of harm caused by technology, they draw attention to the need for responsible development and access to innovation.

(Note: The summary has been edited for grammatical errors, sentence formation issues, and typos. UK spelling and grammar have been used throughout the summary.)

Arguments

Importance of digital technology in today’s world

Supporting facts:

• Accessible research through mobile devices instead of heavy textbooks

• Integration of TV and radio sets in devices

Topics: AI, Data Processing, Online Platforms

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Question on how to align digital progression with those who are technologically behind

Supporting facts:

• Mention of personal experience with uncles who have degrees but have never sent an email

Topics: Digital Inequality, AI, Digital Technology, Education

---

Peter inquires about what the ordinary person can do to safeguard themselves and ensure that no one is left behind in the digital economy

Supporting facts:

• Peter’s questioning reflects a concern for public interests and inclusivity in the digital realm where a few companies hold large amounts of control

Topics: Digital Economy, Public Inclusion, Tech Monopolies

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Report

The discussion centred on the significance of digital technology in today’s world. It was emphasised that digital technology plays a crucial role in providing accessible research through mobile devices, replacing heavy textbooks. Additionally, the integration of TV and radio into devices has expanded convenience and possibilities within digital technology.

There was a general appreciation for the positive impact of digital transformation. The existence of influential figures in the digital realm, such as Amandeep Singh Gill, Doreen Borgdan-Martin, and Michelle Baker, was highlighted as evidence of the positive changes brought about by digital technology.

These influencers have likely played a significant role in advancing the digital agenda and shaping the digital economy. However, concerns were voiced regarding the digital divide and the challenge of aligning digital progression with individuals who are technologically behind. It was recognised that while digital technology has enabled progress and innovation, it is crucial to ensure that everyone is on an equal technological footing before further advancements are made.

This issue raises questions about inclusivity and bridging the gap between those who are technologically proficient and those struggling to adapt to digital transformations. Another important topic of discussion was the concentration of power and control in the digital realm.

The presence of tech monopolies and their impact on public interests and inclusion in the digital economy were highlighted. Peter, in particular, inquired about measures that ordinary people can take to safeguard themselves and ensure that no one is left behind in this digital era.

This concern reflects a broader sentiment about the need to promote public interests and inclusivity in the digital landscape. In response to these concerns, there was an advocacy for the empowerment of ordinary people in the face of digital monopolies.

The focus was on ensuring that no one is left behind and that everyone has the necessary skills and opportunities to thrive in the digital era. This stance aligns with the goal of reducing inequalities and promoting inclusivity. In conclusion, the discussion underscored both the positive impact and potential challenges of digital technology.

While it has provided numerous benefits, such as accessible research and convenience, it is crucial to address the digital divide and ensure inclusivity. Additionally, there is a need to safeguard public interests and empower ordinary individuals in the face of tech monopolies.

Overall, the discussion called for a balanced approach to digital transformation, taking into consideration the needs and concerns of all individuals in society.

Arguments

There are serious worries about the potential misuse of AI which could become a weapon if falling into the wrong hands.

Supporting facts:

• Some creators behind AI suggest it may be weaponized under the wrong hands and that there’s a risk of AI technology advancing to a point where AI systems act on their own accord.

• Despite many divides, the digital economy has the potential to become a great equalizer, empowering communities worldwide.

Topics: AI, Technology misuse, Digital economy

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AI and digital technologies have enabled significant progress in various sectors like healthcare, education, agriculture, and environmental protection.

Supporting facts:

• AI in healthcare has improved diagnostics and personalized medicine.

• In education, AI has enabled tailored learning experiences.

• In agriculture, AI has made farming practices more efficient and sustainable, addressing food security.

• Regarding environmental protection, AI is used to monitor climate change and aid in disaster response.

Topics: AI, Digital Technologies, Healthcare, Education, Agriculture, Environmental Protection

---

Inequality is a significant barrier to integrating into the digital economy

Supporting facts:

• Inequality exists in access to digital technology

• The high price of digital technology in many developing countries is a barrier

• There’s an inequality in skills and preparedness to take advantage of the digital economy

Topics: Digital inequality, Digital economy

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Inclusive process in digital strategies holds even with change of government

Supporting facts:

• Evidence from an independent evaluation shows inclusive digital strategies stay on even with government change

• Inclusive processes give a roadmap for the country to follow

Topics: Digital strategies, Inclusivity

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Global challenges require global action and governance

Supporting facts:

• Power concentration in few platforms requires global perspective to protect human rights, privacy

• Support for global compact and intergovernmental process required from civil society and developing governments

Topics: Civil Society, Governance, Global Public Good

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Enhancing national strategies and visions to leverage technology

Supporting facts:

• Story of computer labs in public schools in Costa Rica

• Decisions at government level translating into concrete actions

Topics: Technology Adoption, Digital Divide, Government Initiatives

---

Harnessing nationally available talent through equitous distribution of opportunities

Supporting facts:

• UNCTAD’s open source system has digitalized customs in 100 countries

• Talent is better distributed, the key is to provide equal opportunities

Topics: Opportunity Creation, Talent Utilization, Societal Improvement

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Report

There are serious concerns about the potential misuse of AI, with some experts suggesting that it could be weaponised in the wrong hands. The risk of AI technology advancing to a point where AI systems act autonomously adds to these worries.

This negative sentiment emphasises the need for precautions and responsible use of AI. On the other hand, AI and digital technologies have shown remarkable progress in various sectors. In healthcare, AI has improved diagnostics and personalised medicine, leading to better patient outcomes.

In education, AI has enabled tailored learning experiences, allowing students to learn at their own pace and style. In agriculture, AI has made farming practices more efficient and sustainable, addressing the pressing issue of food security. Moreover, AI is also being utilised in environmental protection, particularly in monitoring climate change and aiding in disaster response.

Inequality remains a significant barrier to integrating into the digital economy. Many people, especially those in developing countries, still lack access to digital technology, with approximately 2.6 billion individuals remaining offline. This divide disproportionately affects women and rural populations. Furthermore, there is an inequality in skills and preparedness to take advantage of the digital economy.

These barriers highlight the need for efforts to close the digital divide and ensure equitable access to technology and digital skills. Despite the challenges, the digital economy has the potential to be a tool for equality. It can empower communities worldwide, particularly in the developing world, by bringing financial services and educational opportunities to those who previously had limited or no access.

The digital economy breaks down geographical and physical limitations, allowing equal opportunities for all. Ensuring inclusive processes in digital strategies is essential, and these inclusive strategies withstand government changes. Evidence from an independent evaluation has shown that inclusive digital strategies can be sustained, providing a roadmap for ongoing progress regardless of the shifts in political leadership.

This highlights the importance of long-term, inclusive planning and decision making in digital strategies. Addressing global challenges requires global action and governance. Given the concentration of power in a few digital platforms, there is a need for a global perspective to protect human rights and privacy.

Civil society and developing governments play a crucial role in supporting a global compact and intergovernmental processes to effectively address these challenges. Enhancing national strategies and visions is key to leveraging technology for societal improvement. Initiatives like computer labs in public schools in countries like Costa Rica demonstrate the positive impact of government decisions translating into concrete actions.

By aligning national strategies with technological advancements, countries can harness the potential of technology to drive economic growth and improve quality of life. A comprehensive ecosystem approach involving the private sector, government, civil society, and citizens at large is essential for success.

Collaboration and cooperation between these stakeholders create an environment conducive to digital transformation and inclusive growth. This approach allows for the sharing of resources, expertise, and ideas, leading to collective progress. Informed and efficient regulation is critical to enable progress without undermining rights and innovation.

Establishing standards and regulations can be challenging, as seen in the difficulties faced by Europe. However, a unified knowledge base can aid in the effective regulation of AI and digital technologies. This balance between regulation and innovation is key to ensuring the responsible and ethical use of technology.

In conclusion, while concerns exist regarding the misuse of AI, AI and digital technologies have significantly advanced sectors such as healthcare, education, agriculture, and environmental protection. Inequality remains a significant barrier to integrating into the digital economy, but efforts to close the digital divide can pave the way for equal access and opportunities worldwide.

Inclusive digital strategies can persist even with changes in government, and global challenges necessitate unified global action and governance. Enhancing national strategies and adopting an ecosystem approach can leverage technology for societal improvement. Informed and efficient regulation is crucial to enable progress without compromising rights and innovation.

Arguments

Environmental factors feature in e-commerce considerations through logistic optimizations such as reducing carbon footprint and efficient management of vehicle efficiency

Supporting facts:

• There are partnerships with companies that utilise e-bikes and electric bicycles in Ghana, Kenya and Senegal

• Door-to-door deliveries have been stopped in rural and secondary cities to reduce costs and carbon emissions

• Optimal routes are utilised for deliveries

Topics: E-Commerce, Environmental Sustainability, Logistic Optimization, Carbon Footprint

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Waste reduction can be achieved in e-commerce by selling refurbished goods and managing reverse shipments

Supporting facts:

• There are attempts to sell refurbished mobile accessories on the marketplace

• Efforts are made to manage and reduce reverse shipments

Topics: E-commerce, Waste Management, Responsible Consumption

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Greening e-commerce is an opportunity for developing countries

Supporting facts:

• Jumia is one of the first companies in Africa to embrace sustainability.

• Jumia was the first company to deliver packages using e-trucks in remote areas of Senegal.

Topics: E-commerce, Greening, Sustainability, Developing countries

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Clear sustainability targets are important

Supporting facts:

• Having clear sustainability targets allows to understand what needs to be done, creates an action plan, and helps to see the impact of our actions

• Having a clear understand of the carbon footprint is important not just for the company but also for the stakeholders and logistic partners

Topics: Sustainability, E-commerce

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Need for a multi-stakeholders approach

Supporting facts:

• We need a mix of NGOs, private companies, and regulators to disseminate necessary information

• Everyone needs to be aware about how to be green as e-commerce is a part of the society

Topics: Sustainability, E-commerce, Stakeholder

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Promotion of local products

Supporting facts:

• This can avoid long distance goods coming from Europe or China

• Can have a social impact and create jobs locally

• Has more than 55% women entrepreneurs in Kenya who work on local products

Topics: Sustainability, E-commerce, Local Economy

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Black Friday and Christmas sales are excessive

Supporting facts:

• Refers to the abundance of offers during these periods

Topics: Consumerism, E-commerce, Black Friday, Christmas

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We must find solutions to make E-commerce greener and better

Supporting facts:

• Suggests that changes are taking place in the industry

Topics: E-commerce, Green Economy

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Report

The analysis highlights the various ways in which the e-commerce industry can contribute to environmental sustainability, with a focus on the initiatives implemented by Jumia, a prominent e-commerce company in Africa. Jumia has recognised the importance of reducing its carbon footprint and has taken steps to integrate environmental considerations into its operations.

One of the measures taken by Jumia is the adoption of e-bikes and electric bicycles for deliveries in Ghana, Kenya, and Senegal. By partnering with companies that utilise these eco-friendly transport options, Jumia can significantly reduce carbon emissions and contribute to climate action.

In addition, the company has made the decision to halt door-to-door deliveries in rural and secondary cities. This not only helps to cut costs but also reduces carbon emissions associated with unnecessary travel. Another key aspect of Jumia’s sustainability efforts is waste reduction.

The company seeks to minimise waste by promoting the sale of refurbished mobile accessories on its platform. By extending the lifespan of products through recycling and refurbishment, Jumia contributes to responsible consumption and production, which is a crucial element of sustainable development.

Despite the challenges of balancing environmental sustainability and cost-effectiveness, Jumia remains steadfast in its commitment to environmentally sustainable practices. This is evident in the company’s efforts to work with different stakeholders and implement sustainable practices, even though it is not yet profitable.

By prioritising both environmental sustainability and cost-effectiveness, Jumia sets an example for other companies in the e-commerce industry. The greening of e-commerce provides a significant opportunity for developing countries. Jumia, being one of the first companies in Africa to embrace sustainability, has already made substantial strides in this area.

For example, Jumia was the first company to deliver packages using e-trucks in remote areas of Senegal. This not only demonstrates the company’s commitment to sustainable practices but also shows the potential for positive environmental impact in developing countries through greening initiatives in e-commerce.

The analysis also highlights the importance of having clear sustainability targets. By understanding what needs to be achieved and creating an action plan, companies like Jumia can effectively measure the impact of their sustainability efforts. This understanding extends beyond the company itself, as it is equally important for stakeholders and logistic partners to be aware of the carbon footprint and contribute to sustainability goals.

Furthermore, the analysis emphasises the need for a multi-stakeholder approach for the successful implementation of environmentally sustainable practices in e-commerce. Collaboration between non-governmental organisations, private companies, and regulators is essential for disseminating the necessary information and ensuring that society as a whole adopts greener practices.

Promoting local products within the e-commerce industry can have a positive impact on the local economy. By avoiding long-distance transportation of goods from distant regions like Europe or China, e-commerce can support local businesses and foster economic growth. Jumia, for example, has a significant number of women entrepreneurs in Kenya who specialise in local products, further demonstrating the potential for social impact and job creation.

To gauge their environmental performance, companies can utilise application programming interfaces (APIs) to obtain information regarding their carbon emissions. This understanding enables companies to identify areas for improvement and work towards reducing their environmental impact. By leveraging their APIs, companies like Jumia can gain insights into their carbon footprint and take necessary actions to minimise their negative environmental effects.

Noteworthy observations from the analysis include the concerns raised about excessive consumerism during events like Black Friday and Christmas sales, which are known for their abundance of offers. While e-commerce has the potential to be greener and better, it is crucial to promote responsible consumption to avoid contributing to unsustainable consumer habits.

In conclusion, the analysis demonstrates that e-commerce can play a significant role in environmental sustainability, as exemplified by Jumia’s efforts in Africa. Through initiatives such as the use of e-bikes, optimal route planning, waste reduction, and collaboration with stakeholders, Jumia shows a commitment to balancing environmental considerations and cost-effectiveness.

The greening of e-commerce presents opportunities for developing countries, but careful consideration of contextual differences is necessary. Clear sustainability targets, a multi-stakeholder approach, and utilising APIs to understand carbon footprint are important for achieving sustainable goals. Promoting local products can have a positive impact on the local economy.

However, it is essential to address issues of excessive consumerism during events like Black Friday and Christmas sales. While conscious consumption is a separate and broader discussion, it is crucial to improve e-commerce practices to ensure a more sustainable future.

Arguments

The audience member seeks clarification on the term ‘digital public infrastructure’.

Supporting facts:

• The ambiguity came from various similar terms like digital public goods, public digital goods, public digital infrastructure that are often used interchangeably but mean different things

Topics: Digital Public Infrastructure, Digital Economy Report

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E-Commerce is essentially greener than traditional retail especially in developed countries

Supporting facts:

• In developed countries, e-commerce has been found to be environmentally more friendly than store-based retail.

Topics: E-Commerce, Retail, Sustainability

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The term ‘sustainability’ should be protected to prevent greenwashing

Supporting facts:

• There is an unfair competition between sustainable and non-sustainable retailers due to misuse of the term ‘sustainability’

Topics: Greenwashing, Sustainability

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True pricing could possibly contribute to greening retail and e-commerce

Topics: Retail, E-commerce, True pricing

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Questioning the existence of green commerce due to extreme consumerism

Supporting facts:

• Annual festival of Christmas is becoming a consumable-oriented event

• Consumer society often discards many goods after Christmas

• Constant selling pressure from consumerist culture

Topics: Consumerism, Green Commerce, Christmas, Black Friday, Amazon

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Suggests return to older values appreciating experiences and people over consumption of goods

Supporting facts:

• Amazon and out-of-town shopping centres are bleeding the town centres dry

• The intern ordered toothpaste from China despite being in Switzerland

• Suggests older experiences and people should be valorised over tangible things

Topics: Consumerism, Green Commerce, Value system, Quality of life

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Negative environmental impacts of excessive consumer culture

Supporting facts:

• World Bio Day occurs earlier each year

• Rising CO2 concentrations and average annual temperature

• Increasing waste production

Topics: Environment, Consumerism, Climate Change

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Report

The audience member highlighted the issue of ambiguity surrounding the term ‘digital public infrastructure’, which is often used interchangeably with terms like digital public goods and public digital goods. They expressed the need for clarification to avoid confusion. Regarding environmental impact, e-commerce has been found to be more environmentally friendly than traditional retail, particularly in developed countries.

This finding is crucial in our efforts towards sustainable consumption and production. There is growing concern about the misuse of the term ‘sustainability’, leading to unfair competition between sustainable and non-sustainable retailers. This practice, known as greenwashing, undermines genuine sustainability efforts.

It is argued that measures should be in place to protect the term ‘sustainability’ and prevent greenwashing. The concept of true pricing is suggested as a solution to promote greening in retail and e-commerce. By accounting for the environmental and social costs of production and consumption, true pricing aims to provide a more accurate representation of the value of goods and services.

This could incentivize more sustainable choices. The excessive consumerism observed during events like Christmas and Black Friday raises questions about the existence of green commerce. The focus on consumption during these occasions often leads to the discard of goods and contributes to waste production.

This calls for a reevaluation of our values, emphasizing experiences and human connections over the consumption of goods. The negative environmental impacts of excessive consumer culture are evident in increasing waste production, rising CO2 concentrations, and average annual temperature. These impacts underscore the urgency of addressing responsible consumption and production.

There is a call for fundamental changes in consumer culture and values, particularly among younger generations and within the education system. Education is seen as a critical factor in shaping consumer behavior and promoting responsible consumption. By instilling values of mindful consumption and emphasizing quality education, we can work towards a more sustainable future.

In summary, the need for clarity in terminology, mindful consumption, and education is emphasized in promoting responsible consumption and production. These factors are crucial in addressing the challenges posed by excessive consumerism and working towards a more sustainable society.

Arguments

Greener e-commerce is a vital part of a sustainable future for developing countries.

Supporting facts:

• Greener e-commerce supports a more sustainable economy.

• Germany is providing financial and technical support to developing countries to adapt to climate change and reduce their greenhouse gas emissions.

Topics: Environment, Green Economy, Digitalisation

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Building capacities in developing countries is a key actionable step towards a digitally sustainable economy.

Supporting facts:

• The Pan-African e-commerce initiative (PIKI) is an example of a development cooperation program for digital sustainability.

• PIKI works to establish joint ventures and startups with sustainable business models.

Topics: E-commerce, Digitalisation, Capacity Building

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Smart national and international regulation and blueprints are needed to incorporate green into the digital economy

Supporting facts:

• Regulation and blueprints should be created with existing companies and future potential companies in mind

• Companies are seeking out these blueprints

Topics: Digital Economy, Greening E-commerce, Regulation, Blueprints

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Different rules for different companies can be applied – harder rules first for bigger companies who have capacity, and a transition period for smaller companies

Supporting facts:

• This concept is being partially implemented in Germany

• It’s important to consider the capacities of the companies while creating such rules

Topics: Regulation, Greening E-commerce, Company Size

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Christian Bilfinger believes no one approach or forum is suitable for all and various actors and forums should be used.

Supporting facts:

• Different forums have different strengths that can be tapped.

Topics: Green E-commerce, Digital Connectivity, Reduce Digital Divide

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Report

The analysis highlights the significance of promoting greener e-commerce as a crucial component of sustainable development in developing countries. This is supported by the fact that greener e-commerce contributes to a more sustainable economy overall. Germany, recognising this importance, is actively providing financial and technical support to developing countries, helping them adapt to climate change and reduce their greenhouse gas emissions.

This support demonstrates Germany’s commitment to fostering sustainability and addressing the environmental impact of e-commerce in developing nations. Furthermore, the analysis emphasises the need to develop digitalisation and e-commerce with sustainability in mind, particularly in developing countries. It is argued that this can be achieved by creating digital policies based on universal standards and promoting an international trading system that is green, sustainable, fair, and development-friendly.

Such efforts would enable developing countries to participate in the digital economy while ensuring that sustainability remains at the forefront. Building capacities in developing countries is also recognised as a key actionable step towards achieving a digitally sustainable economy. Investments in training and capacity building are deemed imperative for overcoming potential barriers that may hinder the adoption of sustainable digital practices.

It is noted that micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) and women-led companies can greatly benefit from joining digital markets. Therefore, it is essential to invest in people on the ground to enhance their skills and knowledge, ultimately facilitating their participation in the digital economy.

Smart national and international regulation and blueprints are identified as crucial elements in incorporating green practices into the digital economy. It is suggested that regulations and blueprints should be created by considering existing companies and future potential companies. This approach aims to ensure the effective implementation of green practices while taking into account the different capacities and capabilities of companies.

It is noted that this concept is already partially implemented in Germany. In addition, the analysis recognises the importance of reducing the digital divide and promoting inclusivity in the digital economy. Different forums have been identified as having specific strengths that can be tapped into to address this issue.

The argument put forth is that no single approach or forum is suitable for all, and it is recommended to utilise various actors and forums to effectively tackle the challenges of green e-commerce and reduce the digital divide. The analysis also highlights the significance of organisations like the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) in advancing the goals of e-commerce and sustainability.

UNCTAD plays a crucial role in bringing together different institutions and sectors, while UNEP expands knowledge about e-commerce and its environmental impact. The continuation of these organisations is supported, recognising their important contributions in their respective fields. Finally, there is an emphasis on the need for developing countries to take on more active roles in shaping the rules for e-commerce.

Currently, only a small number of developing countries are engaged in major initiatives for e-commerce. It is argued that for e-commerce to be truly inclusive and beneficial for all, the voices and perspectives of developing countries must be actively included in the decision-making processes.

In conclusion, the analysis underscores the importance of promoting greener e-commerce and incorporating sustainability into digitalisation efforts in developing countries. It highlights the support provided by Germany in terms of financial and technical assistance. Building capacities, investing in training, and implementing smart regulations are vital steps towards achieving a digitally sustainable economy.

To address the challenges of green e-commerce and reduce the digital divide, various actors and forums should be utilised. The continuation of organisations like UNCTAD and UNEP is recommended, while simultaneously emphasising the need for developing countries to play a more active role in shaping e-commerce rules.

Overall, the analysis highlights the potential for e-commerce to be a catalyst for sustainable development and calls for concerted efforts to ensure its implementation with sustainability at its core.

Arguments

E-commerce has both positive and negative effects on the environment.

Supporting facts:

• About 30% of all GDP globally passes through e-commerce channels.

• Around 2 billion people are engaged in e-commerce.

• Currently, e-commerce platforms are not necessarily helping consumers be more sustainable and may be accelerating consumption.

Topics: E-commerce, Environment, GDP, Digital technology

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The need for international standards for digital product passports

Supporting facts:

• Amazon does not currently have product comparability due to lack of access to data around the footprint of a product

• The digital product passport is a data container where the entire lifecycle of a product is stored, therefore making product comparability possible

Topics: Digital product passport, Data sets on product lifecycle, E-commerce platforms

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National digital transformation strategies and plans for digital public infrastructure need to be greened

Supporting facts:

• There are around 60 countries developing national digital transformation strategies

• These strategies talk about digital public infrastructure but are mostly blind to the environmental dimensions

Topics: Digital public infrastructure, National digital transformation strategies, Greening of digital transformation

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There’s no single forum for discussing major digital sustainability challenges

Supporting facts:

• The Coalition for Digital Environmental Sustainability is a global level forum where public and private actors can discuss major digital sustainability challenges

• An impact initiative launched on digitalization for a circular economy

Topics: Digital sustainability, Major digital challenges, Forum

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Digital Product Passports (DPP) are a major risk and need to be issued with a huge amount of capacity building support and enabling support

Supporting facts:

• There’s going to have to be a huge amount of enabling measures that go with them, a huge amount of digital public infrastructure, training, capacity building

Topics: Digital Product Passports (DPP), Digital sustainability

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David Jensen praises the upcoming Digital Economy Report by UNCTAD that focuses on environment

Supporting facts:

• The report looks at the impacts of the digital economy on the environment and the enabling opportunities

• David Jensen has read the draft and considers it to be excellent

Topics: Digital Economy, Environmental Impact

---

Digital public infrastructure is the digital infrastructure set up by governments to enable digitized government services, including digital identities, digital payments, and digital product passports.

Supporting facts:

• David Jensen clarified it as the infrastructure layer that enables government e-services, in which some governments don’t have the capacity to develop.

• It includes a set of standards, infrastructure, and all other enablers for e-services.

Topics: Digital public infrastructure, Digital identities, Digital payments, Digital product passports

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Consumerism is rampant and not changing, potentially getting worse, and accelerated by digital platforms.

Supporting facts:

• David Jensen is from Victoria and Vancouver, regions where he observes rampant consumerism.

Topics: consumer behaviour, digital consumption, circular economy

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Digital product passports could enable circularity, facilitating recovery of materials from discarded items.

Supporting facts:

• Digital product passports can track and trace a product’s life cycle, enabling unused products to be recycled or reused.

Topics: circular economy, digital product passport

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Algorithmic disclosure should be demanded to understand platforms’ optimization goals, which currently focus on consumption.

Supporting facts:

• Algorithms on digital platforms currently aim to increase consumption and engagement.

• Consumers need more control over what these algorithms optimize as per their values.

Topics: algorithmic disclosure, digital consumption

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Linking the environmental footprint to the price of a product could be the way to influence consumer behavior.

Supporting facts:

• Digital product passports can provide comparability between products, persuading consumers to make sustainable choices.

Topics: environmental footprint, product pricing, consumer behaviour

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Education alone may not be sufficient to shift consumer behavior towards a greener economy. Dopamine-triggering incentives linked to consumption overpower the lessons of education.

Supporting facts:

• Spending and shopping trigger dopamine rushes which drive consumer behavior.

• Green initiatives currently lack an equivalent dopamine trigger.

Topics: Education, Consumer Behavior, E-commerce, Green Economy

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Report

The analysis examines the impact of e-commerce on the environment and emphasizes the importance of sustainable practices. It acknowledges that e-commerce has both positive and negative effects on the environment. On the positive side, approximately 30% of global GDP flows through e-commerce channels, and around 2 billion people are involved in e-commerce.

However, the analysis points out that current e-commerce platforms may not be promoting sustainability and could even be accelerating consumption. To establish a more sustainable e-commerce landscape, the analysis recommends enhancing product comparability and recommendation engines. It stresses the significance of product comparability in enabling consumers to understand the environmental impact of products and make more sustainable choices.

Additionally, recommendation engines should prioritize sustainable products and assist consumers in making informed decisions based on product sustainability. The discussion also highlights the need for international standards for digital product passports. The analysis mentions that Amazon currently lacks product comparability due to the insufficient access to data on the environmental footprint of products.

It emphasizes that digital product passports, which store the entire lifecycle of a product, can facilitate product comparability and informed decision-making. Concerning digital public infrastructure and national digital transformation strategies, it is mentioned that approximately 60 countries are developing national digital transformation strategies.

However, these strategies often disregard the environmental dimensions. Therefore, the analysis emphasizes the importance of “greening” national digital transformation strategies and plans for digital public infrastructure. The analysis further emphasizes the necessity for a global forum to address major digital sustainability challenges.

While the Coalition for Digital Environmental Sustainability is mentioned as a global forum, the analysis points out the absence of a dedicated forum for discussing these challenges. Regarding governance and coordination, the analysis mentions that the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) has been assigned the task of developing a global environmental data strategy.

This strategy aims to harmonize and govern global environmental data, including the data essential for digital product passports. Concerns are raised about the risks associated with digital product passports (DPP). The analysis emphasizes that DPPs require significant capacity building and enabling support to adequately address these risks.

However, the EU’s vision of DPP implementation is highlighted as a good model, encompassing both regulations and development cooperation support. Moreover, the analysis discusses the forthcoming Digital Economy Report by UNCTAD, which focuses on the impact of the digital economy on the environment.

David Jensen, who considers it excellent, praises the report. The analysis also highlights the concept of digital public infrastructure, which refers to the digital infrastructure established by governments to enable digitized government services. It includes digital identities, digital payments, and digital product passports.

However, the terminology surrounding digital public infrastructure is described as confusing and evolving, calling for improved definitions. The pervasive issue of consumerism, potentially exacerbated by digital platforms, is emphasized. The analysis suggests demanding algorithmic disclosure to understand the optimization goals of platforms, which often focus on consumption.

It further suggests that linking the environmental footprint to the price of a product could positively influence consumer behavior. David Jensen, expressing a positive sentiment, advocates for better, more responsible digital consumption practices. He hopes that digital platforms can assist individuals in becoming better consumers rather than encouraging excessive consumption.

He emphasizes the importance of enabling consumers to choose what the algorithm optimizes based on their values. The analysis acknowledges the role of education in shifting consumer behavior towards a greener economy but argues that education alone may not be sufficient.

It notes that the dopamine-triggering incentives linked to consumption often overshadow the lessons of education. Lastly, the analysis points out the need for a global digital compact involving governments and the private sector to address sustainable e-commerce. The Secretary-General is eager to explore this digital compact, and e-commerce sustainability is highlighted as one of the major issues raised by Member States.

In conclusion, the analysis provides insights into the impact of e-commerce on the environment and emphasizes the importance of sustainable practices. It highlights the need for improvements in product comparability and recommendation engines, as well as the establishment of international standards for digital product passports.

The analysis also calls for the greening of national digital transformation strategies and plans for digital public infrastructure. It highlights the need for a global forum to address digital sustainability challenges and emphasizes the importance of a global environmental data strategy.

Additionally, concerns and mitigating measures regarding digital product passports are presented. Overall, the analysis advocates for greater awareness and action towards making e-commerce more environmentally friendly, along with the need for a global digital compact to promote sustainable e-commerce practices.

Arguments

E-commerce is important for Costa Rica’s economy.

Supporting facts:

• Costa Rica’s exports of services via ICT networks is 6% of GDP.

• 73% of Costa Rica’s GDP is generated by the services sector.

• Services sectors generated 75% of jobs in Costa Rica.

Topics: E-commerce, Economic Development, Costa Rica

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E-commerce has resulted in diversification and sophistication of service exports.

Supporting facts:

• Modern services exports accounted for 61% of total services exports in 2022, up from 9% in 2000.

• Costa Rica is the third largest exporter of modern services in Latin America.

Topics: E-commerce, Service Exports, Economic Transformation

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Opportunities for developing countries in greening e-commerce

Supporting facts:

• Costa Rica produced 98% of its energy from clean sources in 2022

• Countries like Costa Rica can attract environmentally conscious consumers and potentially open new markets

Topics: Sustainable Development, E-commerce, Climate Change

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Governments have the responsibility to cooperate, particularly in an area of e-commerce

Supporting facts:

• E-commerce is a sector that still lacks a multilateral framework for its development.

Topics: e-commerce, Government Cooperation

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International cooperation is crucial in greening e-commerce

Topics: Green e-commerce, International Cooperation

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Much remains to be done under the WTO work program on e-commerce

Supporting facts:

• E-commerce still lacks a multilateral framework for its development.

Topics: WTO, e-commerce

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International cooperation is essential for more sustainable trade and consumption

Supporting facts:

• Cooperation between governments can lay the basis for rules that promote sustainability

Topics: International Cooperation, Sustainable Trade, Sustainable Consumption

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Report

E-commerce plays a critical role in Costa Rica’s economy, contributing significantly to the country’s GDP and employment. The services sector, including e-commerce, is a major driver of economic growth, with 73% of the country’s GDP generated from this sector and 75% of jobs created within it.

This positive analysis highlights the importance of e-commerce for Costa Rica’s economic development. Furthermore, e-commerce has led to the diversification and sophistication of service exports in Costa Rica. In 2022, modern services exports accounted for 61% of total services exports, a substantial increase from 9% in 2000.

Costa Rica is now the third-largest exporter of modern services in Latin America. This evidence demonstrates how e-commerce has created new opportunities for service exports and supported the country’s economic transformation. Governments play a crucial role in promoting sustainable e-commerce practices by setting environmental standards and incentives.

Regulations and standards around environmentally friendly packaging, renewable energy usage in logistics, and green certifications for businesses are key measures that can encourage sustainability in e-commerce. The positive sentiment expressed towards this stance highlights support for government intervention in promoting sustainable e-commerce.

In addition, policies in telecommunications, energy, and transport services have a significant impact on the success of e-commerce. These policies provide the necessary infrastructure and logistical support for e-commerce to thrive. For example, policies in telecommunications and energy services, as well as logistics and transport, contribute to the smooth functioning of e-commerce.

Further research is needed to fully understand the impact of these policies on e-commerce. E-commerce also presents opportunities for greening the economy. Costa Rica, for instance, has made significant progress in producing clean energy, with 98% of its energy coming from sustainable sources in 2022.

This enables countries like Costa Rica to attract environmentally conscious consumers and explore new markets. The positive sentiment towards this argument indicates the potential benefits of greening e-commerce for developing countries. Regulations and standards can encourage sustainability in e-commerce, and digitalization measures such as e-invoicing can help reduce carbon emissions.

The private sector also plays a crucial role in greening e-commerce through the implementation of sustainable practices. However, finding concrete solutions to consumerist societal values remains a challenge, as indicated by the neutral sentiment in this stance. International cooperation is key to the development and greening of e-commerce.

As it stands, there is a lack of a multilateral framework for the development of e-commerce. Governments have a responsibility to cooperate in this area, and organizations such as UNCTAD and UNEP should be involved in discussions to provide expertise and guidance.

This acknowledgment of the need for international cooperation demonstrates the recognition of the shared responsibility in greening e-commerce and achieving sustainability goals. In conclusion, e-commerce is an essential component of Costa Rica’s economy, driving GDP growth and employment. It enables the diversification and sophistication of service exports, and governments can promote sustainable e-commerce through regulations and incentives.

Policies in telecommunications, energy, and transport services contribute to the success of e-commerce. Greening e-commerce presents opportunities for developing countries, although addressing consumerist societal values remains a challenge. International cooperation is crucial for e-commerce’s development and sustainability, involving organizations such as UNCTAD and UNEP.

The analysis highlights the significant potential of e-commerce to drive economic growth and sustainability.

Arguments

Digital trade and environmental concerns are increasingly becoming the core discussions in international trade agreements

Supporting facts:

• Preferential trade agreements are being used as laboratories to set up rules on digital trade.

• Negotiations are ongoing under the Joint Statement Initiative on Electronic Commerce.

• Studies show an increasing number of provisions in preferential trade agreements related to environmental sustainability.

• In 1990, an international trade agreement had on average eight provisions related to environment, this increased to over 40 in agreements signed in 2010.

Topics: Digital trade, Environmental sustainability, E-commerce, International trade agreements

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Acknowledges the need to balance the incorporation of environmental concerns in e-commerce without discouraging developing countries and small and medium enterprises from engaging in international trade

Supporting facts:

• There is a need to understand the nexus between e-commerce and environment.

• It is important to think about environmental concerns when we design or move into electronic commerce.

Topics: Digital trade, Environmental sustainability, E-commerce, Developing countries, Small and medium enterprises

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Concern about potential barriers to international trade due to the greening of e-commerce

Supporting facts:

• Current tech struggle/war makes it difficult to regulate and establish common grounds

• Lack of multilateral rules pertaining to digital trade

Topics: e-commerce, international trade, developing countries, MSMEs

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Education might be a good start point to initiate the conversation on greening economy

Supporting facts:

• Greening economy should start about educating people about what it is

• Educating consumers about the benefits and opportunities that arrive from greening economy could be beneficial

Topics: Education, Green Economy

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Report

Digital trade and environmental concerns are increasingly becoming core topics in international trade agreements. Preferential trade agreements have emerged as platforms for setting rules on digital trade. Negotiations are currently ongoing under the Joint Statement Initiative on Electronic Commerce to address these issues.

Additionally, there has been an increase in the number of provisions related to environmental sustainability in these agreements over time. Studies have shown that digital trade, e-commerce, and the environment are interconnected. Digitalization and digital trade have the potential to open up opportunities that can help achieve environmental objectives.

However, it is crucial to strike a balance between incorporating environmental concerns in e-commerce and ensuring that this does not deter developing countries and small to medium enterprises (SMEs) from participating in international trade. The need to understand the nexus between e-commerce and the environment is emphasised.

Careful consideration of environmental concerns is vital in the design and implementation of electronic commerce, without undermining the potential for development and economic growth in these countries and SMEs. Concerns arise regarding potential barriers to international trade resulting from efforts to promote environmentally friendly practices in e-commerce.

The lack of multilateral rules pertaining to digital trade further complicates the regulatory landscape. It is imperative to ensure that the greening of e-commerce does not inadvertently hinder opportunities for developing countries and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). Education plays a key role in initiating conversations and raising awareness about greening the economy and its benefits.

Educating individuals about the concept of a greener economy and the opportunities it presents is crucial. It is acknowledged that transitioning towards more sustainable consumerism trends and greening the economy is not an overnight process but requires gradual and sustained efforts.

In conclusion, digital trade and environmental concerns are gaining prominence in international trade agreements. Preferential trade agreements are being used to lay down rules on digital trade, while environmental provisions are increasingly being incorporated into these agreements. The nexus between digital trade, e-commerce, and the environment is evident, and digitalization presents opportunities for achieving environmental objectives.

However, it is important to carefully balance environmental concerns in e-commerce without impeding the participation of developing countries and SMEs in international trade. The need for multilateral rules and education on greening the economy is also highlighted, recognising that transitioning to more sustainable practices is a gradual process.

Arguments

E-commerce is opening up new opportunities for economic growth and development in the Kyrgyz Republic

Supporting facts:

• Development of new transport projects with Kazakhstan and China

• Adoption of a law on e-commerce for 2023

• Introduction of certain activities concerning e-commerce in the tax code

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Smaller countries, like Kyrgyzstan, thanks to their peculiarities, are adapting to new and emerging challenges in the digital world

Supporting facts:

• Kyrgyzstan has developed an e-commerce code

• The digital code adopts an ecosystem approach using the latest digital developments and technology available

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Report

The discussion centres around the positive impact of e-commerce on economic growth and development in the Kyrgyz Republic. It is mentioned that the country has taken significant steps towards harnessing the potential of e-commerce, such as developing new transport projects with Kazakhstan and China.

These projects are expected to enhance connectivity and facilitate trade, contributing to overall economic development. Another important development in the e-commerce sector is the adoption of a law on e-commerce for 2023. This legislation is likely to provide a legal framework for online business activities, ensuring fair competition and consumer protection.

Additionally, the inclusion of certain activities related to e-commerce in the tax code suggests that the government recognises the importance of this sector and its potential to generate revenue. The discussion further extends to how smaller countries, specifically Kyrgyzstan, are adapting to new challenges in the digital world.

It is noted that Kyrgyzstan has developed an e-commerce code, adopting an ecosystem approach that utilises the latest digital developments and technology available. This approach seems to acknowledge the unique characteristics and advantages of smaller nations in effectively navigating the digital landscape.

The speakers argue that Kyrgyzstan should maximise its potential in the e-commerce sector and utilise its advantages as a smaller nation. By capitalising on e-commerce opportunities, Kyrgyzstan could stimulate job creation, economic growth, and potentially reduce inequalities. It is emphasised that the digital world is changing the dynamics for larger countries with major natural resources, hinting at the potential for smaller nations to level the playing field in the digital economy.

In conclusion, the discussion highlights the positive prospects for the Kyrgyz Republic in leveraging e-commerce for economic growth and development. The government’s efforts to develop new transport projects, introduce an e-commerce law, and incorporate e-commerce activities in the tax code demonstrate a commitment to fostering a conducive environment for the digital economy.

Additionally, the adoption of an e-commerce code in Kyrgyzstan signifies a proactive approach in adapting to the challenges and opportunities presented by the digital world.

Arguments

Global e-commerce platforms can help boost local economies

Supporting facts:

• Glovo, an international tech company, was attracted to invest in the Kyrgyzstan market.

• More than 1,000 SMEs and couriers have been attracted to use the e-commerce platform.

• They are able to generate additional 30% income for these SMEs.

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There are significant challenges for global e-commerce companies operating in developing markets

Supporting facts:

• Navigating the shadow economy and convincing local businesses to join the platform was difficult.

• There were complications in opening a bank account due to local regulation.

• Regulations are not flexible enough for gig economy players.

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Local entrepreneurs face difficulties reaching global markets due to logistical and informational barriers

Supporting facts:

• Kyrgyzstan is a remote market from the global markets, making logistics costly.

• Entrepreneurs need a logistics hub to consolidate parcels for cost-effective deliveries.

• There is a lack of understanding on how to run business in global markets.

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Report

The use of global e-commerce platforms, such as Glovo, has the potential to greatly benefit local economies in developing markets. For example, Glovo, an international tech company, has invested in the Kyrgyzstan market, indicating the potential for economic growth in the region.

Additionally, the adoption of e-commerce platforms by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and couriers has been substantial, leading to a 30% increase in income for these businesses. However, operating global e-commerce companies in developing markets is not without challenges. One major obstacle is navigating the shadow economy and convincing local businesses to embrace these platforms.

Overcoming these barriers requires efforts to build trust and demonstrate the benefits of e-commerce to local businesses. Furthermore, local regulations pose significant challenges. Opening bank accounts for e-commerce purposes is complicated due to these regulations. Additionally, regulations for gig economy players are inflexible, adding to the burdens faced by global e-commerce companies in developing markets.

For local entrepreneurs in developing markets, reaching global markets is hindered by logistical and informational barriers. Kyrgyzstan’s remote location from global markets leads to high logistical costs. Entrepreneurs require a logistics hub to consolidate parcels for cost-effective deliveries, but such facilities are lacking.

Moreover, there is a lack of understanding on conducting business effectively in global markets, further limiting their reach. Creating an enabling environment for e-commerce within a country is crucial, but must take into account the local context and capacity. Developing e-commerce laws and legal frameworks, as well as considering special tax incentives, have shown promising progress in Kyrgyzstan.

However, the preference for cash transactions limits the reach of these incentives. It is important to continue working towards a favourable e-commerce environment, while acknowledging the unique challenges and opportunities within each market.

Arguments

The GSI e-commerce negotiations have achieved significant progress over five years

Supporting facts:

• The initiative was launched in 2019

• Over 90 WTO members are currently participating

• 13 articles have been stabilized, addressing issues related to trust, openness, and trade facilitation

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Ensuring development dimension and implementation of new disciplines are key issues to address for getting an overall agreement

Supporting facts:

• Key element of the negotiation is what flexibilities and conditions may be required

• This becomes crucial as the nature of the obligations become clearer

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Report

The Global E-commerce Initiative (GSI) negotiations have made significant progress over a period of five years. With the participation of over 90 World Trade Organization (WTO) members, the initiative was launched in 2019 with the goal of promoting trust, openness, and trade facilitation in the e-commerce sector.

To date, these negotiations have resulted in the stabilization of 13 articles that address various issues related to e-commerce. One of the key challenges faced in these negotiations is the complexity of data-related disciplines. Participants acknowledge the sensitivity and intricacy associated with these issues and recognize the need for additional time to fully consider and understand them.

As a result, convergence on data-related matters may be difficult to achieve in the near term. Ensuring the development dimension and implementation of new disciplines are also crucial aspects to consider when aiming for an overall agreement. The negotiations focus on identifying the flexibilities and conditions required to address the specific needs and concerns of countries.

As the nature of these obligations becomes clearer, it becomes essential to address these key issues to achieve a comprehensive agreement. In addition to the progress made in the GSI negotiations, a joint report by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), World Bank, and WTO on Digital Trade for Development offers policymakers a balanced and independent assessment.

The report provides valuable insights into policy actions necessary to foster digital trade and its positive impact on development. It covers areas such as digital infrastructure, regulation of cross-border data flows, and competition policies. Overall, the GSI e-commerce negotiations have achieved significant progress over a span of five years, with the stabilization of 13 articles addressing trust, openness, and trade facilitation.

While the complexity of data-related disciplines poses challenges for convergence, efforts are being made to consider and understand these issues. The development dimension and implementation of new disciplines are key considerations for an overall agreement. Policymakers can rely on the joint report by the IMF, OECD, UNCTAD, World Bank, and WTO to make informed decisions for promoting digital trade and development.

Arguments

Trade is a significant force of change vital to the development of civilizations, with the volume of global trade rapidly increasing fueled by liberalization, market access, and technological advancements.

Supporting facts:

• The global volume of trade has grown from $6.5 trillion in 2001 to $25 trillion in 2022.

• Around $3.8 trillion of the global trade consists of global digital services exported to various nations.

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Saudi Arabia is heavily investing in digital transformation and infrastructure, leading the MENA region in government electronic and mobile services.

Supporting facts:

• Saudi Arabia invested $25 billion on digital infrastructure in the last six years, and plans to spend an additional $18 billion on building a network of large-scale data centers.

• The country occupies the first place in the MENA in the government electronic and mobile services maturity index.

• Saudi Arabia is recognized among the top ten globally for fixed broadband speed.

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The direction of global trade is unclear, with increased protectionism, nationalism, and individualism disrupting supply chains and creating uncertainties.

Supporting facts:

• Increasing instances of protectionism, nationalism, and individualism are seen around the world, disrupting the clarity of global trade direction.

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Report

The global volume of trade has witnessed remarkable growth, increasing from $6.5 trillion in 2001 to an astounding $25 trillion in 2022. This impressive expansion of trade has been fueled by factors such as liberalisation, market access, and technological advancements. Liberalisation policies have opened up new opportunities for businesses to engage in cross-border trade, eliminating barriers that previously hampered international commerce.

Improved market access has allowed businesses to tap into new markets, expand their customer base, and drive trade growth. Technological advancements, particularly in digital infrastructure, have facilitated seamless connectivity and the rise of e-commerce, further boosting global trade. In the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, Saudi Arabia stands out as a leader in digital transformation and infrastructure development.

Over the past six years, the country has invested a substantial $25 billion in digital infrastructure. Furthermore, plans are underway to spend an additional $18 billion on constructing a network of large-scale data centres. This significant investment demonstrates Saudi Arabia’s commitment to advancing its digital capabilities and positioning itself as a leader in government electronic and mobile services within the region.

Saudi Arabia’s focus on digital infrastructure aligns with its broader development strategy, Vision 2030. This ambitious blueprint aims to transform the country and diversify its economy, reducing dependence on oil. As part of this vision, Saudi Arabia has forged partnerships with major technology companies such as Microsoft, Oracle, and Huawei to strengthen its cloud infrastructure.

These collaborations are expected to support the creation of a robust ecosystem that can meet the evolving needs of global trade and attract international investment. Despite the significant growth in global trade, concerns arise due to the rising trends of protectionism, nationalism, and individualism.

These factors introduce uncertainties and disruptions in global supply chains, hindering clarity in the direction of trade. Instances of protectionist measures, nationalist policies, and a preference for individual interests over collective cooperation can impede the smooth flow of goods and services across borders.

It is crucial for nations to find common ground and establish partnerships that promote collaborative efforts and mitigate these challenges for the collective benefit of global trade. In conclusion, the global volume of trade has experienced substantial growth, driven by liberalisation, market access, and technological advancements.

Saudi Arabia’s investments in digital infrastructure position it as a leader in the MENA region. However, the direction of global trade faces uncertainties due to increasing protectionism, nationalism, and individualism. By advancing digital infrastructure and fostering partnerships, nations can navigate these challenges and ensure a prosperous future for global trade.

Arguments

Singapore has emerged as the most proactive legal entrepreneur in the field of digital trade

Supporting facts:

• Singapore is the top country that has agreements with digital trade chapters

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More complex issues related to the data-driven economy are being included in trade agreements.

Supporting facts:

• Privacy protection has now become a sort of trade topic that is discussed in trade negotiations

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All countries have realized the importance of international cooperation in the area of digital trade

Supporting facts:

• They are focusing on achieving interoperability between domestic frameworks for data governance because of the nature of the data-driven economy

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Importance of linking activities within countries with regional trade agreements in early stages

Supporting facts:

• Countries are grappling with the challenges of data-driven economy

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Need for interoperability between domestic and international commitments

Supporting facts:

• Processes in the domestic and international scene go at different speeds, leading to challenges in maintaining coherence

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Need to break silos within governments to effectively address issues of data-driven economy

Supporting facts:

• Issues of data-driven economy are cross-cutting and should be treated as such

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Report

Singapore has positioned itself as a leading player in the field of digital trade, demonstrating a proactive approach to legal entrepreneurship. The country has established the highest number of agreements with digital trade chapters, highlighting its ability to navigate the complexities of the digital trade landscape.

Data governance has become a crucial aspect of trade agreements, with issues like cross-border data flows and data localization being addressed. Currently, there are 49 agreements that include rules on data flows, signaling the growing recognition of the importance of data and the need for regulations.

Trade agreements are evolving to address more complex issues related to the data-driven economy. Privacy protection has become a topic of discussion in trade negotiations, reflecting the changing nature of trade agreements in response to the digital landscape. To address the unique challenges of the digital economy, new forms of trade agreements have emerged.

Digital Economy Agreements offer flexibility and coverage of new areas such as artificial intelligence and digital inclusion. International cooperation is essential in the realm of digital trade, with countries recognizing the importance of achieving interoperability between domestic frameworks for data governance.

Collaboration is necessary to ensure seamless data flows and promote global trade. Linking activities within countries to regional trade agreements in the early stages is seen as an effective approach. By leveraging regional stability and growth, countries can participate in multilateral and plurilateral initiatives, fostering stronger foundations for future trade cooperation.

Maintaining coherence in the digital trade landscape requires interoperability between domestic and international commitments. Challenges may arise due to varying speeds of different processes, highlighting the need for alignment and coordination. To address the complexities of the data-driven economy, cross-ministry collaboration is necessary within governments.

Issues in this domain are cross-cutting and require holistic approaches. Engaging in rulemaking within regional fora serves as a critical step towards larger multilateral and plurilateral initiatives. Regional stability and growth contribute to the success of global trade rules and frameworks.

In summary, Singapore has emerged as a proactive legal entrepreneur in digital trade due to its high number of agreements with digital trade chapters. Trade agreements now address complex issues related to the data-driven economy, and new forms of agreements, such as Digital Economy Agreements, have been introduced.

International cooperation, interoperability, cross-ministry collaboration, and engagement in regional rulemaking are crucial to effectively addressing the challenges and opportunities of the data-driven economy.

Arguments

Acknowledgement of Saudi Arabia’s role in gender equality

Supporting facts:

• Saudi Arabia sustains a proactive role as a gender champion

• Saudi ambassador and delegation actively support and speak up for gender equality

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Efforts of Saudi Arabia in digital trade and support for MSMEs

Supporting facts:

• Saudi Arabia is making efforts to bring the MENA region together for digital trade

• Focus on matchmaking between MSMEs involved in digital trade

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Suggestions for collaboration between MSMEs in MENA and other regions

Supporting facts:

• Suggestion for collaboration between MSMEs from MENA, Senegal, Malaysia, Nigeria, and Egypt

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Digital globalization is the new face of globalization

Supporting facts:

• No one wants to be left behind in this digital shift

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The digital compact at the end of the year should have specific details for each participant

Supporting facts:

• Each one of us must be able to see something in there that tells us what’s in it for us and how we go forward

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The capacity to reach an acceptable level of digitalization is still not there

Supporting facts:

• This is why we have the UNCTADs and the WTOs and the ITCs and the World Banks to help us get there

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Role of academia and business research is critical for digital transformation

Supporting facts:

• Business research and academia can provide crucial data for digital transformation

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Report

The speaker analysis brought attention to several key points discussed in the presentations. Firstly, the analysis acknowledged Saudi Arabia’s positive role as a gender champion in promoting gender equality. The country actively supports and speaks up for gender equality, with the Saudi ambassador and delegation playing an important part in these efforts.

In terms of digital trade, Saudi Arabia is making significant efforts to bring together the MENA region for digital trade. One of the focus areas is matchmaking between micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) involved in digital trade. This initiative not only aims to spur economic growth but also encourages regional collaborations.

By supporting MSMEs in the digital trade sector, Saudi Arabia is committed to fostering entrepreneurship and economic opportunities in the region. The analysis also suggested collaboration between MSMEs from different regions including MENA, Senegal, Malaysia, Nigeria, and Egypt. This cross-regional collaboration seeks to leverage the strengths and expertise of businesses from various parts of the world.

By sharing knowledge and resources, these MSMEs can drive innovation and economic growth on a global scale. The importance of digital globalization was also highlighted in the analysis. It emphasized that in this era of digital transformation, nobody wants to be left behind.

Digital globalization is seen as the new face of globalization, and it is crucial for countries and businesses to embrace digitalization in order to stay competitive. The analysis recognized the need for capacity building in digitalization. Although organizations like UNCTAD, WTO, ITC, and World Bank exist to support countries in their digitalization efforts, there is still work to be done to achieve an acceptable level of digitalization.

This highlights the need for investments in infrastructure, knowledge, and skills development to fully harness the benefits of digital technologies. Another key point raised was the critical role of academia and business research in driving digital transformation. The analysis highlighted that academia and business research can provide valuable data and insights to guide digital transformation strategies.

Collaboration between academia and the private sector can facilitate identifying emerging trends, developing innovative solutions, and providing evidence-based recommendations for digital transformation efforts. In conclusion, the speaker analysis underscored Saudi Arabia’s significant contributions to promoting gender equality and supporting MSMEs in the digital trade sector.

It also emphasized the importance of cross-regional collaborations and capacity building in digitalization. Academia and business research were recognized as essential for supporting digital transformation. The analysis shed light on these key themes and arguments discussed during the presentations, emphasizing the relevance of these topics in shaping a digital future.

Arguments

Trinidad and Tobago positioned digital transformation as a key element of national development

Supporting facts:

• Government is improving digital inclusion by making broadband accessible to all citizens

• Enhancing digital literacy through digital skills development program

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Trinidad and Tobago aims to be a regional e-commerce hub

Supporting facts:

• Earlier this week we finalized a contribution and technical assistance agreement with UNCTAD for the development of our national e-commerce strategy

• E-commerce strategy would serve as a road map for maximizing the benefits of online trade for local businesses

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Report

Trinidad and Tobago has strategically positioned digital transformation as a key element of its national development agenda. The government aims to improve digital inclusion by making broadband accessible to all citizens. They also place emphasis on enhancing digital literacy through the implementation of skills development programs.

In terms of e-commerce and digital trade, Trinidad and Tobago actively engages in multilateral discussions at the WTO level. They have developed a national single electronic window called TTBizLink, which has been operational since 2009. This platform streamlines trade processes and facilitates the issuance of electronic certificates of origin, simplifying and digitizing trade procedures.

Trinidad and Tobago is working towards becoming a regional e-commerce hub. They recently finalized a contribution and technical assistance agreement with UNCTAD for the development of a national e-commerce strategy. This strategy will serve as a roadmap for maximizing the benefits of online trade for local businesses.

Additionally, Trinidad and Tobago focuses on connecting and making digital economies interoperable. They have enhanced existing e-services to include online payments, resulting in time and cost savings for stakeholders. Furthermore, the operationalization of electronic certificates of origin facilitates trade with other countries, promoting efficiency and reducing administrative burdens.

Overall, Trinidad and Tobago’s efforts in digital transformation, digital inclusion, e-commerce, and digital trade contribute to their national development goals. Their commitment to creating an enabling environment for technology and trade positions them as an emerging player in the global digital economy.

Arguments

New Asian regionalization refers to the increasing economic and digital integration among Asian countries

Supporting facts:

• Cambodia is one of the countries that has benefited from the New Asian regionalization

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Active engagement in regional comprehensive economic partnership is beneficial for Cambodia

Supporting facts:

• Cambodia’s active involvement in this discussion underscores our dedication to harmonizing e-commerce regulations and standards across the region

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Regional and sub-regional cooperation can facilitate e-commerce development by creating larger and more integrated markets

Supporting facts:

• This includes harmonizing standards and regulations and sharing knowledge and resources

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Report

The New Asian regionalization refers to the increasing economic and digital integration among Asian countries. This trend has had a positive impact on Cambodia’s economy, with the country benefiting from this regionalization. Cambodia is one of the countries that has benefited from the New Asian regionalization, and its active involvement in regional comprehensive economic partnership underscores its dedication to harmonizing e-commerce regulations and standards across the region.

The Asian e-commerce agreement plays a crucial role in Cambodia’s digital strategy. By participating in this agreement, Cambodia is contributing to the shaping of regional economic policy and fostering digital inclusivity and cooperation among Asian members. The agreement facilitates cross-border e-commerce transactions, enhancing consumer confidence and promoting digital inclusivity.

E-commerce development is seen as a powerful tool for economic diversification, innovation, and inclusion. It requires a holistic and coordinated approach involving multiple stakeholders, and a supportive and enabling environment. Cambodia recognizes the potential of e-commerce development and understands the importance of creating favorable conditions for its growth.

Regional and sub-regional cooperation can facilitate e-commerce development by creating larger and more integrated markets. This cooperation entails harmonizing standards and regulations, sharing knowledge, and pooling resources. By working together, countries within the region can overcome barriers and challenges and promote sustainable e-commerce growth.

In conclusion, the New Asian regionalization and the Asian e-commerce agreement have positively impacted Cambodia’s economy. Cambodia’s active participation in regional comprehensive economic partnership and its understanding of the potential of e-commerce development demonstrate its commitment to economic growth, innovation, and inclusive development.

By embracing regional and sub-regional cooperation, Cambodia can further leverage the benefits of e-commerce and contribute to the overall economic progress of the region.

Arguments

Transition towards sustainable, digital and service-intensive trade

Supporting facts:

• Decarbonization of trade to meet the Paris Agreement

• Rise of digital trade and cross-border data flows making supply chains more intangible

• Service-intensive trade is maintaining trade growth as the trade of goods are slow

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Increase in the number of regional trade agreements (RTAs)

Supporting facts:

• Growth of RTAs from around 75 in the year 2000 to over 325 now

• Most of the growth in RTAs has taken place in the last five years

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Report

The analysis delves into several key topics related to global trade. It begins by highlighting the importance of decarbonisation in trade to meet the goals set forth in the Paris Agreement. This shift towards sustainable practices is crucial in combating climate change and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

The next point of focus is the rise of digital trade and cross-border data flows. This growing trend has transformed supply chains, making them more intangible. The integration of digital technologies in trade has facilitated faster and more efficient transactions, as well as increased global connectivity.

Furthermore, the analysis underscores the significance of service-intensive trade in maintaining overall trade growth. While the trade of goods may experience slower growth, service-intensive trade continues to thrive. This highlights the shift towards a service-oriented economy and the importance of investing in services to drive economic growth.

Moving on to regional trade agreements (RTAs), the analysis notes a notable increase in their numbers over the years. From around 75 in the year 2000, the number of RTAs has now exceeded 325. This growth has primarily occurred in the past five years, indicating a significant trend towards regional economic integration.

The researchers argue that RTAs are particularly crucial for developing nations and the global trade system as a whole. Developing and least developed countries tend to participate less in RTA negotiations, highlighting the need to ensure their inclusion and representation.

Additionally, the current delicate situation of the World Trade Organization’s appellate body could result in ambiguity in the emerging multilateral trade system. In this context, the emergence of regional trading networks can contribute towards sustainable development and the transition to clean and renewable energy sources.

The analysis also highlights the opportunity presented by the digital and sustainable changes in global trade. It emphasises the importance of adapting to these changes and reshaping global trade in a more equitable and resilient manner. The evolution of RTAs can play a crucial role in this transformation by ensuring that no developing or least developed country is left outside the negotiating table.

Closing the digital divides and ensuring equitable participation is vital for creating a fair and inclusive global trade system. In conclusion, the analysis underscores the transition towards sustainable, digital, and service-intensive trade. It highlights the urgent need for decarbonisation and the positive impact of digital trade and cross-border data flows.

The increasing number of regional trade agreements is also significant, particularly for developing nations and the global trade system. The analysis sees the opportunity to adapt to digital and sustainable changes in global trade as a chance to reshape the global trading landscape in a more equitable and resilient manner.

Overall, the analysis offers valuable insights into the current state and future of global trade.

Arguments

The increase in regional agreements has not reduced the gap between developed and developing states

Supporting facts:

• More than 3.65 billion globally do not have a computer

• Half of the global population has never seen a computer

• The 82.3% of world electronic sales are concentrated in developed countries

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Many developing countries are unable to fully harness the potential of e-commerce

Supporting facts:

• 17.7% of the world’s e-commerce is attributable to developing countries, three quarters of which is conducted by Brazil, India, China, Turkey, and Russia

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Report

The analysis provides valuable insights into the digital divide and its implications for developing countries. It begins by highlighting that over 3.65 billion people globally still do not have access to a computer, indicating a significant gap in digital technology access.

Moreover, a troubling statistic reveals that half of the global population has never seen a computer, underscoring the stark disparity in technological exposure. Furthermore, the analysis points out that the majority of electronic sales, accounting for 82.3% of the global market, are concentrated in developed countries.

This concentration suggests that developing countries face significant challenges in accessing and benefiting from the global electronic market. The unequal distribution of electronic sales exacerbates the digital divide and further widens the economic disparity between developed and developing states. Moving on to the impact of e-commerce, it is evident that many developing countries struggle to fully harness the potential of this digital platform.

The analysis indicates that only 17.7% of global e-commerce activity originates from developing countries. Notably, Brazil, India, China, Turkey, and Russia account for three-quarters of this activity. This statistic highlights the limited participation of many developing countries in the digital economy and raises concerns about their ability to compete and thrive in the global market.

To address these challenges, the analysis proposes the establishment of a global digital compact. This compact would aim to set common principles for digital cooperation among nations. Encouragingly, the G77, representing two-thirds of the international community, has already agreed on key issues to be negotiated in this proposed global digital compact.

This development indicates a growing recognition of the importance of collaboration and cooperation in bridging the digital divide and promoting equitable digital access and opportunities. Lastly, the analysis highlights the need to tackle disinformation, misinformation, and the environmental impact of the digital economy.

As digital technologies continue to evolve and become more integrated into daily life, there is a pressing need to address the spread of false information and ensure that digital platforms are used responsibly. Additionally, given the environmental consequences of the digital economy, steps must be taken to mitigate its impact and ensure sustainability.

In conclusion, the analysis underscores the persistent digital divide that exists between developed and developing states. It emphasizes the challenges faced by developing countries in accessing and benefiting from digital technologies and the need for greater collaboration and cooperation to bridge this divide.

Moreover, it draws attention to the importance of addressing disinformation, misinformation, and the environmental impact of the digital economy. These findings provide valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders seeking to create a more inclusive and sustainable digital future.