Check Against Delivery
Thank you to the co-facilitators Sweden and Zambia for convening this consultation, and for your dedication to reaching an inclusive and ambitious Global Digital Compact.
Denmark aligns itself with the statement delivered by the European Union.
Denmark is fully committed to engaging constructively in the process to achieve an ambitious Compact that addresses global digital challenges and risks, shows a path where digital technologies are harnessed to advance the Sustainable Development Goals, and is firmly rooted in human rights. We believe the Global Digital Compact can and should serve as humanity’s North Star for a digital future where technology delivers solutions to global challenges, and brings peace, prosperity and opportunity for all.
Despite the potential of digital technologies for advancing progress on the 2030 Agenda, the fact remains that a third of the world’s population remains unconnected to the internet. If we really wish to see technology expanding and democratizing access to education, enabling freedom of expression, assembly, and association, and support lifting people out of poverty, we need to enhance access to digital technologies and to further develop digital literacy. The latter is critically important given the threats to fundamental freedoms posed by the misuse of digital technologies.
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To achieve this, the Global Digital Compact must address the digital divide.
We can only achieve this goal through an inclusive, effective and meaningful multi-stakeholder model that is based on human rights.
The multi-stakeholder model must be the bedrock for the governance of the Internet, and for developing and improving technological solutions. Only with this model can we harness diverse expertise, promote transparency and global cooperation to address the dynamic and transnational nature of technology.
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As the world shifted its attention towards artificial intelligence with the advent of ChatGPT, it has become clearer that the future of technology is ever-changing and complex. Yet again, a new technology is promising to deliver on the world’s greatest challenges. A promise we have a responsibility to fulfil. To deliver on this, we must ensure respect for human rights.
The UN sits in a unique position to marshal momentum, commitments, and not least resources to ensure that digital technologies, including AI, deliver on our shared goals. For digital technologies to truly serve all people, the UN must champion a robust and efficient multi-stakeholder model, that is grounded in the human rights framework.
Technologies shall grant access for people to be empowered to participate in societies and fully engage in civic life, and – just as importantly – grant access to reduce disparities and fostering equitable participation and innovation in the digital age.
Digital inclusion and global connectivity leverage the power of digital innovation, accelerate nations’ progress towards achieving the SDGs, and foster a more sustainable and inclusive future for all of us.
I thank you for your time. Denmark looks forward to working with you all towards the Summit for the Future.
