Science, technology and innovation have the potential to accelerate the realization of the aspirations of the United Nations across all three pillars of its work. We will only realize this potential through international cooperation to harness the benefits and take bold, ambitious and decisive steps to bridge the growing divide within and between developed and developing countries and accelerate progress on the 2030 Agenda. Billions of people, especially in developing countries, do not have meaningful access to critical life-changing technologies. If we are to make good on our promise to leave no one behind, sharing science, technology and innovation is essential. Innovations and scientific breakthroughs that can make our planet more sustainable and our countries more prosperous and resilient should be affordable and accessible to all.
At the same time, we must responsibly manage the potential risks posed by science and technology, in particular the ways in which science, technology and innovation can perpetuate and deepen divides, in particular the gender gap and patterns of discrimination and inequality within and between countries and adversely impact the enjoyment of human rights and progress on sustainable development. We will deepen our partnerships with relevant stakeholders, especially the international financial institutions, the private sector, the technical and academic communities and civil society, and we will ensure that science, technology and innovation is a catalyst for a more inclusive, equitable, sustainable and prosperous world for all, in which all human rights are fully respected.
Digital and emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, play a significant role as enablers of sustainable development and are dramatically changing our world. They offer huge potential for progress for the benefit of people and planet today and in the future. We are determined to realize this potential and manage the risks through enhanced international cooperation, engagement with relevant stakeholders, and by promoting an inclusive, responsible and sustainable digital future. We have annexed a Global Digital Compact to this Pact in this regard.
- ACTION 28. We will seize the opportunities presented by science, technology and innovation for the benefit of people and planet.
- ACTION 29. We will scale up the means of implementation to developing countries to strengthen their science, technology and innovation capacities.
- ACTION 30. We will ensure that science, technology and innovation contribute to the full enjoyment of human rights by all.
- ACTION 31. We will ensure that science, technology and innovation improve gender equality and the lives of all women and girls.
- ACTION 32. We will protect, build on and complement Indigenous, traditional and local knowledge.
- ACTION 33. We will support the Secretary-General to strengthen the role of the United Nations in supporting international cooperation in science, technology and innovation.