Global Digital Compact
Definition
The Global Digital Compact is an international initiative facilitated by the United Nations aimed at fostering global cooperation to address the opportunities and risks associated with digital technologies. It seeks to establish a set of shared principles and commitments to ensure an open, free, secure, and inclusive digital future that aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Key Characteristics
- Multi-stakeholder focus: Encourages collaboration between governments, the private sector, civil society, and international organizations.
- Goal-oriented: Explicitly connects digital policy and technological advancement to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.
- Standardization-led: Advocates for the integration of international standards to provide a technical, interoperable foundation for digital governance.
- Human-centric: Emphasizes the protection of human rights and the mitigation of digital divides.
Applications
- Shaping international frameworks for the governance of emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence.
- Providing policy guidelines for countries to modernize digital infrastructure while maintaining interoperability.
- Aligning private sector innovation with global public interest and sustainable development objectives.
Mentions in Source
- “Informal consultations towards a Global Digital Compact have highlighted the immense potential of digital technologies and supporting cooperation, including the governance of emerging digital technologies, to support sustainable development and promote and protect human rights.” — statement-gdc-wsc_march-2024