From Inequality and Vulnerability
to Prosperity for All

08 December 2023

More than 3,500 participants from 159 countries outlined actions needed to transform digital opportunities into shared and eco-friendly progress.

 

UNCTAD eWeek 2023, held in Geneva and online from 4 to 8 December, united more than 3,500 participants from 159 countries to outline actions needed to turn digital opportunities into shared and sustainable progress.

Featuring over 150 sessions, the event brough together government leaders, CEOs, heads of international organizations, civil society representatives and other key stakeholders. See the photos.

Shaping the future of the digital economy

eWeek 2023 addressed critical issues such as governing digital platforms and artificial intelligence (AI), promoting eco-friendly digital practices, empowering women in the digital economy and enhancing developing countries’ digital readiness.

Positioned strategically between the 2023 SDG Summit and the Summit of the Future, and ahead of negotiations on the Global Digital Compact, eWeek served as a springboard for meaningful dialogue and change.

A clear call to action

Participants echoed a clear call: Scale up global efforts to boost digital readiness and establish effective governance frameworks. Shaping a better digital future for all hinges on a collective commitment and inclusive, global collaboration.

  • On digital infrastructure and skills: Leaders agreed on the pressing need to empower the least developed countries through enhanced digital infrastructure, connectivity, skills and regulatory frameworks.
  • On data governance: Experts stressed the need for a global governance approach to data, digital platforms and technologies like AI, aiming to ensure equal access, shared benefits and a balance between innovation and the protection of human and social rights.
  • On environmental sustainability: The discussions emphasized the importance of reducing the digital economy's environmental footprint through innovation in device production, better waste management and consumer awareness, and a swift shift to renewable energy.
  • On empowering women: Participants underlined the critical need to support women entrepreneurs in the digital economy, focusing especially on improving their access to finance and actively involving them in policymaking processes.