DIALOGUE OF THE EXECUTIVE SECRETARIES OF THE REGIONAL COMMISSIONS WITH THE SECOND COMMITTEE OF THE UN GENERAL ASSEMBLY
“Building an inclusive and sustainable digital future for accelerated implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals, with a focus on poverty eradication and advancement of gender equality: experiences from the regions”
79th session of the UN General Assembly
Monday, 21 October 2024, 10 AM – 12 PM EST
As the world continues to grapple with complex challenges - from conflict and climate change to chronic poverty and rising inequalities - and the 2030 Agenda towards a more equitable, resilient and sustainable future remains off track, digital innovation and cooperation emerge as an increasingly powerful enabler of hope and transformation.
The Ministerial Declaration of the high-level segment of the 2024 session of ECOSOC and the high-level political forum on sustainable development called for concerted action to bridge the digital divides and spread the benefits of digital transformation and financial inclusion for all.
Realizing the potential of digital technologies to reduce poverty is contingent on policy, regulatory frameworks and institutions to manage digital change in a sustainable and inclusive manner. The Regional Commissions have been spearheading analytical work, convening stakeholders and delivering tailored capacity development support in the regions to build digital capabilities, foster inclusive digital change, promote competitiveness, leaving no one behind.
With the support of enabling policy and regulatory environments, and with investments in quality education and skills, and adequate social protection, the digital transition is helping to expand and improve basic public services, supporting progress across the regions and the SDGs, including by enhancing the inclusion and resilience of the poor and those in vulnerable situations. Digital finance is also contributing to women’s empowerment, granting women and marginalized communities’ access to essential services such as banking and insurance, thereby contributing to lower gender and income inequalities.
The Dialogue with the Executive Secretaries will focus on the theme of “Building an inclusive and sustainable digital future for accelerated implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals and advancement of gender equality: experiences from the regions” and will afford space to zoom in and debate on regional perspectives and policy pathways.
Key objectives of the Dialogue will be to:
- share latest trends and regional perspectives, including best practices and lessons learned, on addressing the digital divide, harnessing digitalization to enable SDG progress and building a sustainable and inclusive digital future for all.
- demonstrate how Regional Commissions’ work is contributing to mobilizing innovative regional pathways to support countries maximize the opportunities around the digital transition.
- reflect and exchange views on opportunities for regional cooperation on digital matters in meeting the promise of the 2030 Agenda and leaving no-one behind.
- raise awareness on the critical contribution of regional cooperation and the role of Regional Commissions to an effective and inclusive multilateralism and to a safe and inclusive digital future.
- discuss ways in which the Regional Commissions can support and facilitate a global conversation on how to leverage the power of new technologies to advance sustainable development for all.