UN Transcripts — https://transcripts.un.org/en/ga/80/67 General Assembly: 67th Plenary meeting, 80th session — General Assembly — 17 December 2025 Language: en Automatically generated transcript — may contain errors. Not an official United Nations record. --- GA · PGA [19:34]: Sam, Good morning. The 67th plenary meeting of the General assembly is called to order. Before continuing with the High Level Meeting on the overall review of the implementation of the outcomes of the World Summit on the Information Society mandated for December 16 and 17, 2025, the assembly will now resume its consideration of the report of the Third Committee. The documentation under this item is listed in the Journal of the United Nations. Members will recall at the 62nd plenary meeting on December 15, 2025. The vote on draft amendment A Str. 80 L40 to draft resolution 23, entitled Implementation of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the Optional Protocol thereto amplified barriers in diverse contexts, was equally divided. Subsequently, at its 63rd planner meeting on the same day, the assembly decided to postpone consideration of the draft amendment instead of proceeding to the second vote on it. That meeting, as Members, were informed at that time in accordance with Rule 95 of the Rules of Procedure, I quote, if a vote is equally divided on matters other than elections, a second vote shall be taken at a subsequent meeting which shall be held within 48 hours of the first vote. Accordingly, while briefly suspending the ongoing High Level meeting, members are now invited to proceed to the second vote on the draft amendment, to be immediately followed by the vote on draft resolution 23 as announced in the Journal of the United Nations. Action on the remaining draft resolutions and decision recommended by the Committee will be taken tomorrow afternoon. In accordance with Rule 95 of the Rules of Procedure, a second vote will now be taken on the draft amendment contained in document A80 L40. We will now begin the voting process. Those in favor of draft amendment A80L40, please signify. Those against Abstentions. The assembly is now voting for the second time on draft amendment A80 L40. This vote is not listed on the information note. Will all delegations confirm that the votes are accurately reflected on the screen? And let's go slowly now. 79, 78. I repeat. Will all delegations confirm that their votes are accurately reflected on the screen? May I ask. We see some delegations in the corridor, so we take our time. Because this is our second vote. We want to be clear. So this is now the final call. I hand over to the Secretariat again to follow the rules of procedure for the final time. Will all delegations confirm that the votes are accurately reflected on the screen immediately after which the voting machine will be locked. The voting has been completed. Please lock the machine. The result of the vote is as follows. In favor, 81. Against, 77, abstentions, 15. Draft amendment A80L40 is adopted. I now put to the vote draft resolution 23 recommended by the Committee in its report entitled Implementation of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the Optional Protocol thereto amplified barriers in diverse contexts, as amended. We shall now begin the voting process. Those in favor of the draft resolution as amended, please signify. Those against abstentions. The assembly is now voting on Draft Resolution 23 3, as amended, entitled Implementation of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and the Optional Protocol thereto amplified barriers in diverse context. Will all delegations confirm that the votes are accurately reflected on the screen? The voting has been completed. Please lock the machine. The result of the vote is as Follows. In favor 176 against 2 abstentions 0. Draft resolution 23, as amended, is adopted. Action on draft resolution 25 onwards in the report will be taken as I said, Tomorrow, Thursday, December 18, 2025 in the afternoon, as announced in the Journal of the United Nations. As mentioned at the 62nd plenary meeting, after action on all draft resolutions and decisions recommended by the Committee, there will be an opportunity for State statements in explanation of vote after the vote on any or all of them in one intervention. The assembly has thus concluded this stage of its consideration of the report of the Third Committee. I thank you. The assembly will now resume its high level meeting and if delegations have to change because this is an important high level meeting, I give a couple of seconds but. But I would like to ask you to move that we can restart with your high level meeting. It. Thank you very much for the smooth process. Good morning and welcome to those who joined now for the High level meeting. The assembly will resume its high level meeting on the overall review of the implementation of the outcomes of the World Summit on the Information Society under Agenda Item 15. Before proceeding further, I should like to inform members that action on the outcome document contained in a 80L41 will be taken this afternoon following the conclusion of statements in plenary. The assembly will continue to hear statements in plenary in accordance with Resolution 79 277. Delegations are reminded that statements are limited to 3 minutes for individual delegations and 5 minutes for statements made on behalf of a group of states. Like yesterday, I would like to encourage all speakers to stay in this time limit. Having said this, I would like to appeal to all speakers as well to deliver their statements and at a reasonable pace to facilitate interpretations into the six official languages. I now give the floor to His Excellency Peter Siato, Minister of Foreign affairs and Trade of Hungary. Hungary · Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade · Peter Siato [31:37]: Madam Minister, Madam Chair. Dear colleagues, it is obvious that both the global economy and global politics have been entering into a new era. Simultaneously, we are living in the age of dangers and in time of global technological revolution. And it is simultaneously true that we are being faced with the threat of the outbreak of the Third World War. And in the meantime, we see the way towards the most modern economy we could imagine. This brings the world to face a tremendous question, may I say a dramatic dilemma. Whether we go for a peaceful global cooperation based on connectivity, enjoying a sustainable growth of global economy and the modern economy, including information society. Or we become the victims of a war fanaticism in a world which might be divided into blocks, A world which might come into a war situation which would end up in destroying ourselves. We Hungarians have been living in a neighborhood of a war in the heart of Europe for the fourth consecutive year now. We have been faced with tremendous political attacks for four continued years because of representing a position which can be described as pro peace. And in the meantime, we have been witnessing hundreds of billions of euros being spent senseless on a war on a corrupt state system. Instead of spending money on peaceful economic development, taking advantage of the latest developments in global economy, including artificial intelligence, digitalization and information society. I would like to express our greatest respect to those who are standing up for peace, for peaceful cooperation and a peaceful economic development. We show our greatest respect for to the President of the United States for all his efforts in order to make peace all over the world, thus making the basis for an economic development all over. Hungary supports these efforts worldwide wholeheartedly. We would like to welcome and encourage the highest possible level talks between the United States and the Russian Federation. Because we know that this is the only way to solution. We all know that many try to undermine such kind of efforts. We know that so far many attempts have been made in order to undermine efforts towards peace. But we hope that those who have done such kind of attempts will not continue in the future. We Hungarians want peace. We Hungarians want a peaceful development. We Hungarians have lost four decades in the last century as being on the wrong end of a world being divided into blocks. We know how war fanaticism can ruin those opportunities which are being offered by a global economic development, by modern technology, by information society, by digitalization and by artificial intelligence. We Hungarians do not want to lose another decades in this century. We don't even want to lose one single year anymore because we know how it feels. You can always count on us Hungarians when it comes to peace. When it comes to peaceful development and when it comes to creating the most modern economy, to the benefit of our people all over the world. Thank you so much, Dan Kishan. GA · PGA [35:46]: I thank the Minister of Foreign affairs and Trade of Hungary. I give the floor to the distinguished representative of Cuba, followed by Thailand and Colombia. Cuba [36:11]: Madam President Excellencies. The World Summit on the Information Society and marking its 20th anniversary today clearly established a connection between ICTs and development. Developing countries managed to have the digital divide recognized as a new form of structural inequalities. The Summit raised this issue from the technical level up to the multilateral political agenda. And today, two decades later, it has been shown without a doubt that digital technologies represent fundamental tools for countries development. Nevertheless, we have, however, also confirmed that the positive impact of these technologies is considerably lower in developing countries compared to that in developed countries. This inequality is not accidental. It is the result of an unjust and undemocratic international economic order and and also of the implementation of unilateral coercive measures which contravene international law and the Charter of the United nations, hindering the development in affected countries. In the case of Cuba, the illegal economic, commercial and financial blockade imposed by the Government of the United States for more than six decades constitutes the main obstacle to our technological, economic and social development. It prevents us from acquiring technology, accessing, financing and fully participating in the global knowledge economy. And we therefore underscore the urgent need for the structural barriers that prevent emerging digital technologies from contributing to the fulfilment of the 2030 Agenda to be removed. To achieve this, the efforts of developing countries are not enough. They must be supported by concrete actions that facilitate access to markets, financing on fair and preferential terms, unconditional transfer of technology and genuine north south cooperation alignment in the implementation of the World Summit of the Information Society. The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the Pact for the Future and the Global Digital Compact offers an opportunity to move in this direction and to strengthen international cooperation. However, it is crucial for the Monitoring and review framework to be streamlined and inclusive strength strengthening intergovernmental spaces so that all governments and especially those of developing countries can perform their roles and responsibilities with regard to digital governance at the global level. It is imperative for the countries of the south to participate actively in discussions relating to decisions that affect us directly. President Excellencies, the Declaration of Principles in the first phase of the World Summit on the Information Society established a shared vision to build a people centered, inclusive and development oriented information society where everyone has the opportunity to create, share and use knowledge to improve lives. Regrettably, that noble purpose continues to be aspirational for a large proportion of humanity. It is now down to us to make the shared vision that we had 20 years ago a reality. Let us ensure that the Information Society does not become an empty promise, but an effective right for all. I thank you. GA · PGA [39:35]: I thank the distinguished representative of Cuba. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Thailand. Thailand [39:55]: Madam President, at the outset I wish to extend on behalf of my delegation, our sincere appreciation to you and the Secretariat for organizing this important and very timely meeting. 20 years ago in Geneva, we came up with a shared vision through the creation of principles and plan of action with the common objective of building a people centered, development oriented, equitable and inclusive information society that would enable all individuals and communities to benefit from the opportunities offered by information and technologies. Ten years later, the Tunis Agenda further strengthened the foundations for addressing the evolving digital landscape, emphasizing international cooperation and enabling role of ICTs in advancing sustainable development and bridging the digital divide. Now, as we approach the 20th anniversary of the Wises process, are we collectively where we wanted to be? Madame President, the digital landscape has evolved at an unprecedented rate, driven by rapid innovation and technological development. Indeed, this process has demonstrated adaptability and continued relevance. But we must also be vigilant of the challenges that have emerged alongside this transformation. Digital devices persist and in some cases have widened access remains uneven, inequalities are deepening and technological developments. Resources remained unaffordable or inaccessible to many, many people. Thailand believes that this high level meeting provides an excellent opportunity to reflect on how we can be more effective in addressing the structural and emerging challenges that may hinder the full realization of research objectives. Allow me to share a few points. First of all, innovation must be inclusive. Digital development should be designed to benefit people. Bridging the digital device requires target investment in connectivity, affordability and digital skills, as well as policies that promote universal and meaningful access to digital technologies. And at the same time, digital innovation must be sustainable in the long term. This includes ensuring that digital transformation supports environmental sustainability, promotes responsible use of resources and contributes positively to economic and social development. Secondly, digital development must be safe, equitable and rooted in trust. Adequate, appropriate governance frameworks of digital development are essential to ensure transparency, accountability and protection of users. Such governance should also promote broader participation and meaningful engagement of stakeholders in line with multi stakeholder spirit of the process. Ensuring safe digital development also means addressing the increasingly serious and complex challenges related to cybersecurity and cybercrime. These threats undermine trust in the digital environment and can erode the socioeconomic benefits of Digitalization. Therefore, it is very essential, very crucial to invest in capacity building to enhance national and individual resilience against cyber threats. Equally important is of course the promotion of digital literacy and awareness. Empowering people with the skills to navigate the digital space safely, enable them to protect themselves from online fraud, misinformation and cyber threats. And lastly, multi stakeholders cooperation remains key. The complexity of cross border nature of digital issues require inclusive collaboration among governance, private sectors, technical communities, civil society, academia and of course international organizations. Strength and partnerships can foster innovation, share best practices, mobilize resources and ensure that diverse perspectives contribute to shaping the future direction of digital development. Madam President, Thailand reaffirms our steadfast commitment to the Visa's vision. We also look forward to working with all partners to advance future digital transformation and to shape a digital future that empowers people, bridges, divides and strengthens trust which serve as a catalyst for sustainable development and prosperity for all. Thank you so much for your kind attention. GA · PGA [45:42]: I thank the distinguished representative of Thailand. May I remind delegations again of speaking limits of three minutes for individual delegations. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative representative of Austria, followed by Colombia and the Federated States of Micronesia. Austria [46:26]: Madam President, Excellencies, distinguished delegates, Let me begin by aligning with the statement made on behalf of the European Union during the World Summit on the Information Society. We came together with a shared vision of a digital space open to all and to promote sustainable development by ensuring that everyone everyone can benefit from the opportunities of digitalization. Since then our phones got smart, an increasing number of jobs can be done remotely and AI has entered our homes, offices and classrooms. Yet, while digital innovation is at full speed, digital divides persist. This makes it all the more important to strengthen our efforts for an inclusive and open information society for all. Austria therefore welcomes the WICIS Plus 20 review and supports the adoption of the outcome document. I would like to highlight four quick points. First, the strength of the WISES process lies in its multi stakeholder approach. Austria has actively promoted this approach from the beginning, not least by the Austrian member of the IGF Leadership Panel, Governor Caroline Etstadler. We welcome the anticipated outcome document that the anticipated outcome document renders the Internet Governance Forum permanent. Second, digital transformation needs to be driven by a human centric and a human rights based approach. This is also a necessity for sustainable development. Third, we need coherence in our approach and avoid fragmentation. Hence, it is crucial to ensure a strong link between the Wysis processes and activities, the Global Digital Compact as our strategic guide and the SDGs fourth and last, Austria advocates for the strengthening of partnerships, especially with developing countries, to stay on track for sustainable development, reduce persisting inequalities and close all digital divides. Madam President, Austria will continue to be actively engaged in the WIS process. We will continue to strive for an information society in which everyone, everywhere can participate and benefit from the potential of digital transformation. In this context, I'm also proud to co chair the next Forum for Science, Technology and Innovation together with my friend from Zambia in New York in May 2026. I thank you under the time limit. Thank you. GA · PGA [49:18]: I thank the distinguished representative of Austria. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Colombia. Colombia [49:45]: Madam President, Excellencies, distinguished delegates. Colombia recognizes the importance of this 20 year review of the World Summit on the Information Society. It comes at a critical juncture for us to reaffirm a person centered, inclusive and development oriented vision. Under the leadership of President Gustavo Petro in Colombia, we have adopted a national policy which links digital technologies to social justice, environmental protection and human dignity. In this framework, we recognize that technology and innovation are essential tools for us to address global challenges, for us to close structural gaps and to achieve the full implementation of the 2030 Agenda. We do not want to stay on the current course in which the countries of the south are trapped in technological dependence which will further deepen global asymmetries. We are grateful for the work of Kenya and Albania as the co facilitators that carried out a broad consultation process with the interested stakeholders, stressing the multi stakeholder governance model that has been strengthened through spaces such as the Internet Governance Forum. Madam President, my country values the progress that has been achieved since Geneva and Tunis, such as the expansion of connectivity and access to the Internet. Today, these are essential things for having access to essential services. However, digital divides and structural gaps remain and they threaten to deepen inequalities, especially in developing countries and with a disproportionate effect on vulnerable groups. For that reason, looking ahead, we need to adopt an articulated joint implementation of the WIS and the Global Digital Compact and to coordinate these digital governance mechanisms and to avoid duplication as well as strengthening interoperability and compatibility in regulatory terms between countries. We trust that cooperation mechanisms will help ensure common principles and approaches that protect human rights, as well as advancing the development of local capacities and inclusive technologies and defending an open, secure and equitable digital infrastructure. Madam President, we are aware of the risks associated with accelerated technological development and it is necessary that we protect privacy, the ethical processing of personal data, and also that we combat disinformation, hate speech and human rights violations in digital environments. We must act together to eradicate all forms of sexual and gender based violence that are facilitated by technologies and which limit the full participation of women in the digital environment and prevent them from benefiting from it. Lastly, we call for the mobilization of adequate and predictable funding for digital infrastructure and for capacity building, ensuring the effective participation of the Global south in the Information Society. Thank you very much. GA · PGA [53:51]: I thank the distinguished representative of Columbia. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Brazil, Brazil [54:16]: Madam President, distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen. We believe in dialogue, we believe in diplomacy, we believe in the UN. We are about to conclude the Wisdom 20 review process. These are the final moments of a long journey, and not an easy one, trying to strengthen, make it more effective and update the governance of the global digital ecosystem. The results of this collective endeavor may not be the ideal outcome for many delegations. It was, however, the compromise that we Member States and other stakeholders were able to achieve given the circumstances we had to face along the way. As a developing country, Brazil shares many concerns with countries in the Global South. We seek, as a matter of priority a development centered approach to close the digital divides, promote digital inclusion and reduce asymmetries. For this to happen, we need a multilateral system that is responsive to the demands of the global majority to ensure respect for international law, human rights, environmental sustainability and digital sovereignty. We believe the UN can play a key role in this regard. We believe emerging technologies should not become new drivers of exclusion or inequality. Digital tools should be harnessed to deliver tangible improvements in the quality of life of people worldwide. Our goal here was to avoid duplication and strike a balance between new initiatives such as the Global Digital Compact and the WIS architecture, making the most of positive results already achieved over the years. We had to go the extra mile to advocating for human rights, the empowerment of women and Girls and the 2030 Agenda, the SDGs, just to mention a few, to prevent pushbacks in these crucial topics, and there is more. We attach great importance to the paragraphs related to artificial intelligence, a general purpose technology that is at the center of the technological revolution. The UN should not shy away from the challenges presented by AI systems which bring great potential, but also present new risks that need to be addressed. Despite efforts by the G77, the draft resolution on the table remains silent on the growing fragilization of the labor rights driven by the widespread adoption of AI. This omission is particularly striking, giving the centrality of decent work and social inclusion to the information Society agenda. It risks disconnecting our efforts from the harsh realities of workers facing job displacement. Also, information integrity remains a top priority for Brazil. Clearly, very large online platforms have have a systemic impact on the erosion of trustworthy information and the polarization of public discourse. We believe states have the legitimate authority to regulate and enforce rules in the digital domain to protect our citizens. In a nutshell, what is illegal offline must be illegal online. We welcome the reference to the net Mondial 10 conference held last year in Brazil. The Sao Paulo Multistakeholder Guidelines were adopted in a spirit of balanced representation and openness for the participation of all stakeholders in Internet governance and digital policy processes. We fully support the Internet Governance Forum as an inclusive venture venue for dialogue on global digital issues. The IGF should not only become permanent, but have a secretariat with predictable resources to ensure its effective functioning and continuity. We encourage governments to have a more active role in the discussions with other stakeholders within the IGF and beyond. In the end, it's a matter of better coordination among all interested parties. Our national delegation here today has members from all sectors of Brazilian society engaged in Internet and digital governance. That's the Brasilia effect. Embracing diversity, building bridges, coming together as one. Why? Because we believe in dialogue, we believe in diplomacy, we believe in the un. Thank you. GA · PGA [59:55]: I thank the distinguished representative of Brazil. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Italy. Delegates are reminded that statements are limited to three minutes for individual delegations. Italy [1:00:12]: Thank you, Madam President, distinguished delegates, dear friends. Italy fully aligns itself with the statement delivered by the European delegation, European Union delegations and wishes to head what follows. From the national perspective, the World Summit on Information Society stands stands at the heart of global efforts to harness the power of information and communication technologies for social and economic development. Since its inception in 2003, WSIS has provided a vital platform for governments, private sector, civil society and technical communities to work together in shaping the future of the digital world. The challenges and opportunities presented by the digital revolution are profound. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the need for policies that promote inclusive development, universal access to digital technologies and the respect of human rights online is greater than ever. Italy has been a firm advocate of this vision. We believe that technology must serve as a tool for empowerment, equality and sustainability. For this reason, Italy remains deeply committed to fostering a digital ecosystem that is inclusive, accessible, ethical and designed to benefit the all people. In line with the achievement of the SDGs. Central to the success of WSIS is the multi stakeholder approach. The latter recognize that no single group or sector can shape the future of the digital space alone. Governments Business, civil society and technical communities must all come together to collaborate, share knowledge and find solutions that are both effective and equitable. Italy is an active supporter of this approach to ensure that digital policies are reflect the diverse needs and priorities of all stakeholders. Furthermore, we recognize the crucial role of the Internet Governance Forum in supporting this inclusive model. The IGF was established to provide a platform for open and transparent discussion on the governance of the Internet that are not limited to governments. The IGF ensures that all voices, from governments to civil society are heard in shaping the rules and norms that guide the global digital landscape. Bearing in mind the importance of this approach, in 2023 Italy established a National IGF Committee which offers an opportunity for exchange of views to all relevant stakeholders. Being the IGF a very precious tool for the benefit of society, Italy welcomes the establishment of its permanent mandate through this outcome document. In closing, Italy will continue to support the advancement of wsis. We are committed to ensuring that by upholding fundamental principles, identifying appropriate resources and building capacity together we can shape a secure and prosperous digital future for all people and communities. Where no wine is left behind I thank you. GA · PGA [1:03:01]: I thank the distinguished representative of Italy. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Namibia. Namibia [1:03:27]: Madam President, Namibia aligns itself with a statement delivered by the representative of Iraq on behalf of the group of 77 and China. We reaffirm our collective commitment to building a people centered, inclusive and development oriented information society. Information and communication technologies play a central role in advancing education, improving healthcare delivery, strengthening public administration and expanding economic opportunities, particularly for youth, women and and those in rural communities. In this regard, Namibia emphasizes that universal, affordable and meaningful connectivity must remain a global priority. This includes investments in resilient digital infrastructure, particularly in underserved and remote areas, as well as policies that promote competition, innovation and affordability. At the same time, access must be accompanied by digital literacy and capacity building to ensure that all citizens can participate safely and productively in the digital economy. While progress has been made regarding access, significant challenges remain. Persistent digital divides continue to limit equitable access to connectivity, digital skills and affordable technologies in developing countries. These challenges are compounded by constrained physical space, high cost of digital infrastructure, and limited access to concessional financing for digital development. Cybercrime remains a serious concern that requires concerted collective solutions. Furthermore, there's a need to establish a global governance framework on artificial intelligence in order to mitigate associated risks. Madam President In 2023, Namibia became the first country in Southern Africa to launch the National Internet Universality Indicators Assessment as part of its commitment to building an inclusive People Centered Information Society in line with the WIS 20 action lines and the objectives of the Pact for the future Annex 1, namely the Global Digital Compact. The assessment provides an evidence based framework to evaluate access, affordability, digital skills and digital governance guided by the principles of human rights, openness, accessibility and multi stakeholder engagement. In addition, Namibia has integrated WIS's principles into its National Vision, Vision 2030 and policies for quality living, education and health leveraging ICTs. Namibia further highlights the critical role of international cooperation and multi stakeholder partnerships in advancing the wisdom plus 20 action. Governments, the private sector, civil society, academia, international organization organizations must work together to mobilize resources, share knowledge, transfer technology and support nationally driven digital strategies aligned with development priorities. In conclusion, Namibia reaffirms her commitment to the WiS's vision and looks forward to continued collaboration to ensure that digital technologies serve as a force for inclusion, resilience and sustainable development for all. GA · PGA [1:06:44]: I thank the distinguished representative of Namibia. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Costa Rica. Costa Rica [1:07:10]: Much thank you very much, Madam President. The Geneva and Tunis architecture requires an update in light of the extreme concentration of digital power and the risks posed by increasingly complex artificial intelligence systems. This is the challenge facing with CIS20. Allow me to share three reflections. First, we must ensure identical protection of human rights in both digital and physical spaces. This requires robust legal frameworks with binding force. Costa Rica has developed legislation on personal data protection and digital identity that meet international standards. Enhanced protection for children, youth and women constitutes an obligation under international law. The digital ecosystem must be built on transparency, informed consent and interoperability that respects national sovereignty. Second, we must strengthen multilateral governance with the effective participation of all stakeholders. As co facilitators of the International Scientific Panel on Artificial Intelligence and the Global Dialogue on AI Governance, we know that legitimacy requires genuine collaboration among states, civil society, academia and the private sector. The governance of emerging technologies requires clear and transparent accountability mechanisms. Third, we must close digital divides through international cooperation and sustainable financing. Our OGARES Conectados program has connected hundreds of thousands of vulnerable families through targeted subsidies as well as collective procurement. This model works, but it requires international solidarity, effective technology transfer and south south cooperation to be replicated at scale. Madam President, WISD20 must deliver measurable commitments with verifiable indicators and align the summit with the Global Digital Compact. Digital transformation must reduce structural inequalities and not deepen them. Only through effective multilateralism will we ensure that every person has access to the digital future. Thank you. GA · PGA [1:10:06]: I thank the distinguished representative of Costa Rica. I now Give the floor to the distinguished representative of Ethiopia. Ethiopia [1:10:34]: Thank you, Madam President, distinguished delegates, ladies and gentlemen, Ethiopia aligns itself with the statement made by Iraq on behalf of G77 in China. Allow me first to thank the co facilitators, Kenya and Albania and the UN Secretariat for their excellent work on the facilitation of the WISIS outcome document. At a time some key goals of the SDGs are in reversal. ICT the major accelerator of the 2030 Agenda Ethiopia has integrated the transformative role of the digital technologies into our economic transformation strategy that advances a people centered, inclusive and sustainable development. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, investment in people innovation and digital transformation is at the front and center of a digital Ethiopia that is strong, sovereign and ready to seize future opportunities. Our recently released Digital Ethiopia 2030 vision builds on past progresses while recognizing the major challenges facing the country. Ethiopia is already leveraging digital technologies across various sectors such as agriculture, energy, manufacturing, services and tourism. With scale and speed, digital platforms are transforming public service delivery. Over 800 services have been digitized under the MESOP One Stop Service Centers. Public administration is going digital as taxpayers now use E filing systems and electronic single window process. Ethiopia is also driving a digital marketplace as we open our digital economy to global and regional investors. Our digital payments ecosystem processed close to 4 billion transactions last year was about US$100 million. Ethiopia's National Digital ID Program is a cornerstone of our digital transformation strategy. With rapid enrollment anchored in inclusivity, rights, protection and integrity, the Digital Identity Program is a key driver of our economic growth agenda. Crucially, it is closing the gender gap, empowering women to access social protection payments and finance, ensuring full protection in the economy while expanding. The program now service more than 25 million people, laying the groundwork for trust and efficiency in both government and business. However, several challenges persist in key areas. This include limited digital literacy, infrastructure and usage gaps, high logistics cost, cyber threats and a digital economy contributing just a modest portion of gross domestic product. The government is aligning resources, partnerships and national efforts in its commitment to drive meaningful, lasting and human centered progress. Excellencies, as we look forward to the next two decades, global cooperation and governance must be focused on addressing the significant and persistent digital divides between and within countries and regions. Ethiopia stands ready to work with all partners in fully utilizing the unprecedented potential of ICTs to contribute to prosperity and sustainable development. I thank you. GA · PGA [1:14:10]: I thank the distinguished representative of Ethiopia. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Ukraine. Ukraine [1:14:33]: Madam President, Ukraine aligns itself with the statement delivered by the European Union. Allow me to make a few additional remarks in our national capacity. Ukraine thanks the President of the assembly for convening this high level meeting. I also express my appreciation to Kenya and Albania as co facilitators and their teams for delivering the outcome document. Ukraine is proud of its digital transformation and a little self aware too. After all, we are a country where Russian missiles and drones make headlines every night, but our wi fi still works. Proving that digital progress requires resilience, creativity and very often a sense of humor. Digitalization is a powerful enabler of sustainable development, innovation and inclusive growth. Despite the grave consequences of Russia's ongoing war of aggression, Ukraine continues to advance its digital transformation. We are proud that Ukraine has moved from 102nd to the 5th place in the Online Service Index of the UN E Government Development Index. Our national digital platform DIA in English Action, provides more than 100 public services to over 22 million users, ensuring access to documents, social support and business services fully online. We have learned that even under pressure of deadly Russian bombs and power cuts, Ukrainians can click, tap and log in, often much faster than the hackers trying to disrupt us. This is digital resilience at its finest. To ensure uninterrupted education during wartime, Ukraine created Mriya in English, the Dream, an online learning platform that allows millions of our children to to study remotely despite Russia's deliberate attacks on schools and the energy grid. Let me tell you frankly, teaching remotely during permanent blackouts and air raid alarms requires more courage than any math test for both students and teachers. Another important initiative, Strika in English, the ribbon or the band is especially for those who created this platform, also enables to proceed Ladies and gentlemen, let me stress that at the same time, Russian troops deliberately target civilian digital and energy infrastructure, including communication towers and data centers, while large scale cyber operations and manipulations campaigns undermine trust in cyberspace. But Ukrainian IT teams are relentless. If countering counter cyber attacks were an Olympic sport, our teams would surely be taking gold and still be polite enough to send you a smiling status update afterward. In fact, all these challenges have taught us Ukrainians that resilience is not just about technology, it's about teamwork and occasional humor to get through the long nights. Madam President, despite all the challenges, Ukraine remains determined to use digital technologies for resilience, recovery and sustainable growth, and to share its experience with partners pursuing inclusive and secure digital transformation. We are committed to working closely with all partners to ensure the effective implementation of the YSIS20 outcomes. Despite Russian deadly attacks, power outages and struggles with understanding every new app update, Ukraine continues to Innovate digitally and perhaps one day an Ivy League university will offer a special course on how Ukraine mastered E government and remote learning, all while dodging both missiles and pop up alerts. I thank you, Madam President. GA · PGA [1:19:03]: Sorry, I thank the distinguished representative of Ukraine. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of course, Kuwait. Kuwait [1:19:31]: Thank you, Madam President. At the outset, the State of Kuwait wishes to thank you for convening this meeting and we thank Member States and Kenya and Albania in particular as the co facilitators. We deeply appreciate the efforts undertaken to arrive at this whistas20 outcome document. Madam President, My country finds the West's division particularly important. The vision for an inclusive information society that is people centered also aligns with our national commitment to the SDGs and achieving them by 2030 as set out in the outcome document. For inclusive connectivity, for reducing the digital divide and for building a safe digital ecosystem. Development is accelerating and technologies are revealing challenges that require our cooperation. Given the deepening digital divides both within and between countries, we must protect private personal data and we must allow an opportunity for prosperity and at the same time we must ensure that no one is left behind. In this regard, my country reiterates our attachment and the importance of international efforts to achieve digital cooperation in relation to digital government as set out in the outcome document. Madam President, my country is convinced that the digital transformation is a crucial goal for socio economic development. This again is in line with our national development plan through 2035 which is based on knowledge, economy and creativity for development. This vision calls for resilient infrastructure for a better life and for sustainable development nationally. My country believes that strengthening digital skills skills is particularly important, especially in the area of AI and also for the empowerment of women and young people. We believe that we must invest in skills. These are the main efforts we must undertake to close the digital divide. Thanks to fund, we have been able to mobilize resources for the sake of infrastructure in more than 100 countries and we do so because we believe that this kind of investment in the digital sphere is an investment in the future and in our populations. Madam President, we hail a strengthened role for the UN under wis's and the Global Digital Compact. AI Governance to put AI at the service of humanity is necessary and we must also ensure that human rights are respected. In conclusion, my country reiterates its commitment to work with all friendly and brotherly countries to ensure a sustainable transformation that will allow all countries of the world to make progress and to see prosperity for the future. I thank you. Speaker 25 [1:23:50]: I thank the distinguished representative of Kuwait. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Eritrea, Eritrea [1:24:21]: Madam President, Excellencies, distinguished delegates. Eritrea aligns itself with the statements made by the distinguished delegates of Iraq on behalf of Group 77 in China and the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela on behalf of the Group of Friends in defense of the UN Charter. We thank the Secretary General for his comprehensive report and welcome this review process. It's crucial in assessing our collective journey towards an inclusive information solution Society the review process is a strategic opportunity to strengthen and redefine global digital cooperation. Eritrea appreciates our collective commitment to the vision of the World Summit on the Information Society to build a people centered, inclusive and development oriented information society. We believe that digital technology are key for achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and welcome the nexus made with the Pact for the Future and the Global Digital Compact. Eritrea remains deeply concerned about the ongoing and growing digital divides. This gap, exacerbated by financial, technical and infrastructural constraints, severely limits the effective participation of developing countries, especially the LDCs, in the global digital digital economy and digital governance. Unilateral coercive measures which impede economic and social development also impede progress in digital transformation in countries affected by these harsh measures. For Eritrea, national ownership and context specific strategies are essential in this regard. Our approach prioritizes leveraging ICTs to achieve tangible development outcomes. This approach aims to promote digital culture, expand government services, improve public administration and exploit technology in vital sectors such as education, health care and agriculture. We share the concern in the report about the speed of emerging technologies such as AI. This may exceed the adaptive capabilities of the countries like ours. International cooperation should prioritize capacity building, dedicated technology transfer and financing of public digital infrastructure. The establishment of a working group to study future financial mechanisms for digital development, as proposed in the outcome document, is a step in the right direction, provided that it focuses on the concrete needs of developing countries. Eritrea emphasizes that an open, safe and stable digital space must respect international law and the principles of the Charter of the United Nations. We must all commit to combating the misuse and exploitation of technology to spread violence, hate speech and disinformation. We emphasize that the right to legitimate use of technology and the Internet must take into account the responsibilities associated with it and respect morality, social and cultural values, public order and the general well being of the people. In conclusion, we hope that the WSIS 20 review will rekindle our collective resolve to bridge the digital, technological and economic divide and ensure that global digital governance is inclusive and share its benefits equitably Eritrea is ready to engage in genuine multilateral cooperation to build a digital future that leaves no one behind, promotes sustainable development and respects the ownership, sovereignty, diverse interests and priorities of all nations, regardless of their size or wealth. I thank you. GA · PGA [1:28:03]: I thank the distinguished representative of Eritrea. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Fiji. Fiji [1:28:29]: Madam President, Excellencies. Fiji stands firmly with the Collective Voice of Fiji. 77 In China, as delivered by Iraq and the Pacific Islands Forum members in New York, as delivered by Tonga. We wish to add few comments in our national capacity. We extend our appreciation to Ambassador Janina Valbenya and Ambassador Kukaile of Kenya, their teams and the Secretariat for their excellent facilitation. As an archipelago of more than 300 islands, the digital divide remains a lived reality. It shapes our ability to respond to climate change, climate change, deliver education and health services, and diversify our economies. ICTs are lifelines. They power early warning systems, disaster preparedness, climate adaptation, and safeguard our people's everyday lives. Digital transformation is no longer an option. It's a necessity. It is the engine that will propel future Fiji to a new era of prosperity, sustainability and global competitiveness. Fiji's digital economy shows remarkable progress according to the ITU's ICT Development Index. But for Fiji to develop far all islands in the Pacific and beyond, ICT should prosper together. In Fiji, over 85% of our people use the Internet, well above the global average of 67.4%. 3G coverage reaches 96% of our population and 4G coverage reaches around 92%. Yet our commitment remains clear. No community will be left behind. Guided by Fiji's own National Digital Strategy Framework 2025-2030, we are connecting our nation from fiber and 5G to remote satellite access. We're investing in digital literacy for vulnerable groups. We are fostering cyber hygiene. We're embedding resilience in green infrastructure. We are harnessing AI responsibly and we're empowering women and girls through ict. Madam President, going forward, and as I conclude, WSIS must strengthen partnerships across all sectors. It must translate commitments under the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for Seeds and the Pacific's Langatory Declaration into tangible action through tailored financing, capacity building and technology transfer. And governments cannot do this alone, but partnerships can. WSIS is our opportunity to reaffirm solidarity, strengthen cooperation and secure a digital future that is inclusive, safe and sustainable for all. I thank you. GA · PGA [1:31:36]: I thank the distinguished representative of Fiji. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Malaysia. Malaysia [1:31:57]: Thank you, Chair. Malaysia aligns itself with the statement delivered by Iraq on behalf of the group of 77 and China and wishes to deliver this statement in its national capacity. Malaysia welcomes the convening of the WUSIS 20 high level meeting and expresses its appreciation to Kenya and Albania for their able leadership as co facilitators in guiding the negotiations on the outcome. Document Excellencies distinguished delegates 20 years after the Tunis phase, the World Summit on the Information Society continues to provide a vital framework for building an inclusive and development oriented information society. This moment is not only an opportunity to reflect on the progress achieved, but also to consider how WSYS should guide global digital cooperation in the years ahead. In Malaysia, this progress is reflected through our National Digital Network Plan Jindela, which has extended high speed Internet connectivity to over 9.6 million premises and achieved near universal coverage in populated areas. VASYS has consistently emphasize that digital transformation must remain people centered. Malaysia's National Information Dissemination Centers, which was recognized as the WUSI Prize winner in 2025, demonstrates how community based digital literacy skills development and entrepreneurship programs can uplift rural communities, women entrepreneurs as well as vulnerable groups. We have also launched initiatives such as the National Scam Response Center, a fact checking web platform, and national online safety campaigns which aim to protect users from misinformation, disinformation, online fraud and harmful content while strengthening public awareness. Chair from these experiences, several key lessons emerge. First, connectivity alone is not sufficient. Meaningful participation in the digital economy requires skills, awareness and confidence. Second, trust and safety must be embedded across the digital ecosystem through regulation, accountability and sustained public education. Third, digital challenges transcend borders. Effective responses to issues such as artificial intelligence, governance, cybersecurity, online scams and disinformation require continuous global cooperation. Chair as we move forward, Malaysia believes global digital cooperation should prioritize four key first, expanding universal, affordable and meaningful connectivity second, advancing human centered governance third, strengthening inclusive digital capacity building and fourth, developing resilient and trusted digital infrastructure to support sustainable growth. Malaysia supports the continuation of the WUESTIS process as an inclusive, rights based and technological neutral, multi stakeholder platform that aligns digital development with the Sustainable development Goals. We also reaffirm our support to the ITU in continuing to play a leading role in steering the WSI's process. As digital technologies continue to reshape our societies, the WSYS vision remains de deeply relevant. Malaysia stands ready to work with all partners in ensuring that no one is left behind. Thank you. GA · PGA [1:35:23]: I thank the distinguished Representative of Malaysia. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Trinidad and Tobago. Trinidad and Tobago [1:35:45]: Madam President Excellencies Distinguished Delegates Trinidad and Tobago aligns itself with the statement delivered on behalf of the G77 China and welcomes the convening of this high level meeting and commends all stakeholders for sustaining a vision of an inclusive, people centered and development oriented information society. For small island developing States, digital transformation is central to economic diversification, resilience building and improve access to public services. In this regard, Trinidad and Tobago has been advancing a national digital transformation agenda that places innovation, inclusion and trust at its core. At the national level, Trinidad and Tobago has expanded E government platforms to enhance service delivery and transparency, including online business registration, customs and tax administration and digital public procurement systems. We continue to invest in in broadband expansion, secure government networks and the development of local data centers to strengthen digital sovereignty, improve service reliability and support the growth of the digital economy. We are exploring interoperable, secure and scalable digital systems that can support the development and use of of digital identity management and verification mechanism systems, payments and data exchange while respecting privacy and national contexts. We see strong value in global initiatives such as the 50 in 5 campaign which seeks to accelerate the adoption of digital public infrastructure as pathways to inclusive growth, particularly for developing countries and the sids. Complementing this effort this effort our efforts to build digital skills through coding and ICT training programs, particularly for youth and public officers, to ensure our workforce is prepared for a rapidly evolving digital economy. Additionally, Madam Chair, we have initiated work toward a national framework for artificial intelligence, having recently launched a National Artificial Intelligence Assessment Initiative in collaboration with the UNDP and UNESCO. This AI assessment serves to evaluate our readiness to adopt AI in six core governance, digital infrastructure, policy, ethics, institutional capacity and inclusion. A True AI Sphere in its figurative sense, this meeting provides a timely opportunity to reaffirm multilateral cooperation, strengthen capacity building for developing countries and ensure that the digital and AI governance frameworks reflect the realities and priorities of sids. Trinidad and Tobago stands ready to work with partners to ensure that digital transformation leaves no one behind and serves as a true enabler of sustainable development. I thank you, Madam Chair. GA · PGA [1:39:29]: I thank the distinguished representative of Trinidad and Tobago. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the observer of the Observer State of the Holy See. Holy See · Observer [1:39:51]: Madam President, the OLEC delegation welcomes the opportunity to address this high level meeting which marked the 10 years since the first review of the implementation of the outcomes of the World Summit on the Information Society. Advances in information technology, particularly in the digital sphere, offer opportunities for poverty eradication, economic growth, social development and sustainability. Nevertheless, it must be acknowledged that such advances are not without significant risks which are contingent upon the choices that are made in their development. This is particularly evident in the field of AI, where ethical reflection and safeguards are essential. As Pope Leo said, artificial intelligence has certainly opened up new horizons for creativity, but it also raises serious concerns about its possible repercussions on humanity's openness to truth and beauty and capacity for wonder and contemplation. Madam President, the OLEC appreciate the section of the outcome document that pertains to human rights and ethical dimensions of the information society. This section emphasizes the necessity of effective ethical management and regulatory frameworks to ensure the protection of all users, particularly children, from the potential harms associated with the misuse of ICTs. It is also important that the benefits of the information society are accessible to all, particularly in developing countries. Enhanced international cooperation conditions and policies that foster economic growth and development by facilitating investment, innovation and effective governance, and both financial and technological resources are therefore needed to address current digital divides. Madam President in conclusion, the Olse hopes that 10 years from now the impact of these technological developments will have served the interests of humanity as a whole. To achieve this, Poplaios said, it is essential to remain oriented toward the dignity of the human person and the common good and to develop systems that reflect justice, solidarity and the genuine reverence for life. Thank you. GA · PGA [1:42:44]: I thank the distinguished representative of the observer of the Observer State of the Holy See. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the observer of the International Committee of the Red Cross. ICRC · Observer [1:43:11]: Thank you. Madam President, Excellencies, distinguished delegates, the International Committee of the Red Cross is pleased to participate in this high level meeting of the General assembly for the WSIS 20 review. The mandate of the ICRC as set out in the chaos Geneva Conventions and in the statutes of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, is to provide humanitarian assistance to people affected by armed conflict and other situations of violence and to promote laws that protect victims of war. In today's digital age, the ICRC's mandate increasingly intersects with the evolution of global information and communication technologies. Twenty years after the the original wis' vis vision, digital technologies have become deeply embedded in the functioning of societies. War and conflict are no exception. Digital technologies are increasingly used in the conduct of hostilities between warring parties, including the use of ICT infrastructure. As a result, the protection challenges we confront today in armed conflict are not only physical but digital. Medical services and impartial humanitarian operations are enabled by digital technologies. They boost efficiency and extend reach. They now depend on data networks, cloud services, digital logistics, and remote diagnostic capabilities. When these systems are disrupted, whether intentionally or not, the humanitarian consequences can be immediate and severe. I highlight for you today one specific project aimed at ensuring that the protections afforded under international humanitarian law remain effective. When ICTs are used by parties to armed conflict. The Digital Emblem Project does not create new legal protections. Rather, just as an emblem on a building or vehicle in the physical world, the digital emblem is to provide a technical means of identification and authenticity in the digital sphere, enabling parties to armed conflict to recognize digital assets that belong to protected medical or humanitarian actors. In other words, it is one measure to ensure the protection in the physical world is not lost in the digital sphere. In addition to technical work at both the Internet Engineering Task Force and the International Telecommission Union, the ICRC appreciates that the WSIS 20 process has offered opportunities for States and technical communities to engage on this topic, including at the High Level Wisdom event in Geneva last July. These discussions have underscored the importance of cooperation between diplomats, engineers and humanitarian actors. The ICRC looks forward to continued collaboration with States, the private sector and standard setting bodies which are essential to ensuring that any future digital emblem is technically robust and globally implementable. Excellencies as the international community charts the path forward for inclusive, secure, development oriented and resilient information societies, the ICRC stands ready to contribute its humanitarian expertise and to continue working with all stakeholders to prevent and mitigate harm to those most at risk during armed conflict. Thank you, Madam President. GA · PGA [1:46:33]: I thank the observer of the International Committee of the Red Cross. I now give the floor to the observer of the International Chamber of Commerce. ICC · Observer [1:46:54]: Excellencies, distinguished Delegates, ladies and Gentlemen, I have the honor to speak on behalf of the International Chamber of Commerce, a global business organization that brings together companies of all sizes from across all regions and sectors of the world economy. We express our sincere appreciation to the co facilitators of the Wises 20 review for their leadership on openness and tireless efforts in guiding this inclusive and constructive review process. We also thank all Member States for their engagement through the process and their shared commitment to a consensus based advancing a common vision for the digital future. The wishes 20 review process placed the emphasis on the right foundation. It recognized that expanding meaningful connectivity is the base upon which all can benefit from the promise of the Internet and digital technologies. Connectivity enables participation in modern economies and societies, supports innovation and allows digital solutions to scale across borders and communities. Without it, digital transformation cannot deliver on its potential to advance the development and opportunity. From this foundation flows the need of trust. This review process rightly recognized that digital development must be grounded in respect for human rights. States have the obligation to protect human rights also in the digital environment, while businesses have the responsibility to protect those rights in the design, development, deployment and use of technologies. When these roles are clearly understood and aligned, they reinforce confidence in digital ecosystems and help ensure that innovation delivers long term social economic value. Furthermore, the review process raised important questions about how global digital cooperation should be organized. By entrusting the Internet Governance Forum with a permanent mandate, Member States can reaffirm their confidence in the multi stakeholder model. Over the years, the IGF has demonstrated that it's fit to discuss all public policy in matters that are related to the Internet, providing a unique space for dialogue, learning and cooperation among governments, business, civil society, the technical community and international organizations. This inclusive approach is essential in a digital environment that is evolving faster than any single actor can manage alone. Looking ahead the success of the wishes 20 review will ultimately be measured by implementation. So to translate our shared commitments into tangible outcomes, the most important task is to create enabling policy environments. Such environments encourage investment, innovation and responsible use of digital technologies. They are built on openness and coherence. They include policies that support the free flow of information across borders, avoid unnecessary fragmentation and provide regulatory clarity and predictability. They promote interoperability, foster competition and innovation, and enable digital solutions to scale globally. Crucially, they are developed through dialogue with stakeholders who design, build and operate digital networks and services, ensuring that policies are practical, future oriented and grounded in real world experience. Business has a central role to play in this companies invest in digital infrastructure, deliver services that connect people, enterprises and governments and develop the skills that allow individuals and workforce to participate meaningful in digital economy. These contributions are not made in isolation. They depend on partnership, trust and policies that recognize the value of private sector expertise and investment. Let me conclude by emphasizing that the WISDOS vision has always been rooted in collaboration. The outcome of the 20 year review must also reaffirm that no single stakeholder stakeholder can deliver digital development alone. Business takes its role in multi stakeholder partnerships seriously and we want stand ready to work with governments and all stakeholders to ensure that the Internet and the digital technologies continue to serve as an engine of inclusive growth, innovation and sustainable development for all. Thank you. GA · PGA [1:52:01]: I thank the observer of the International Chamber of Commerce. I now give the floor to the observer of the International Institute of Democracy and Electoral Assistance. International IDEA · Observer [1:52:27]: Thank you Madam President Excellencies. International IDEA thanks the General assembly for convening this high level meeting on implementation of the outcomes of the World Summit on Information Society. We would also like to commend the co facilitators Albania and Kenya for the continual open engagements throughout the review process. As an intergovernmental organization mandated to support supports democracy worldwide, International IDEA looks at technology and Internet governance from a Human Rights center perspective premise on the principles of the UN Charter and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. We believe that protecting the multi stakeholder model, ensuring a human rights centered approach and closing the gender digital divide are critical for the implementation and success success of this process. Safeguarding the multi stakeholder model anchored in principles of dialogue, transparency, inclusivity and accountability will help ensure a resilient and open digital ecosystem to maximize impact and avoid duplication. It's crucial to integrate this approach across existing processes such as the Internet Governance Forum, the Global Digital Compact and Net Moon Jiao Plus 10 and we welcome the recognition of the working modalities of the IGF and the decision to make it a permanent forum of the United nations as well as the integration of the WIS vision within the gdc. We call upon this assembly to reaffirm its commitment to the multi stakeholder model as the cornerstone of global international governance. We also take this opportunity to express our concern that the open Internet model is drifting towards a more fragmented and state centric system. This trend poses serious risks to the human rights system in the digital age, including the right to privacy and the right to freedom of expression. In an era where Internet fractures, fragmentation and surveillance based Internet governance have gained traction, advancing a Human Rights center approach and anchoring the Summit in international human rights law are key to ensuring the Internet remains an open, free, interoperable, reliable and secure space. A space that advances broad empowerment, not narrow control. In such a In some, the same rights that people have offline must also be protected online. Finally, closing the digital divide, including terms of gender, is necessary to ensure meaningful and affordable access to the Internet and digital services for all. We remain deeply concerned about the substantial and persistent digital divides between and within regions, countries and local communities. True global connectivity requires equity, inclusion and safety for all, especially women. We urge Member States to counter and address all forms of online violence, including technology facilitated gender based violence. Technology not only replicates but also amplifies deep seated gender stereotypes and biases. We therefore stress the need for strengthening a gender sensitive approach to digital policy. This process represents a pivotal moment to align technological progress with democratic resilience for a digital future that upholds democratic principles of transparency, accountability and meaningful inclusion. We must seize this opportunity to make the Internet a common good for all people, people of the world, a world that leaves no one behind. Thank you very much. GA · PGA [1:56:26]: I thank the observer of the International Institute of Democracy and Electoral Assistance. I now give the floor to the observer of the International Organization of La Francophoni. OIF · Observer [1:56:54]: Madam President, Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, delegates, the International Organization of La Francophonie would like to express its most sincere gratitude to the co facilitators, Albania and Kenya for the exemplary, inclusive and rigorous conduct of the process that brought us to the draft decision before the assembly today. Their constant engagement in the service of dialogue and consensus deserves to be applauded and we very much hope that this text can be adopted with the broadest possible support. We also welcome the next step that this renewal of the mandate of the World Summit on the Information Society represents. It is a useful strengthening of the architecture of multilateral digital governance at a time when technological change is accelerating and is profoundly reshaping our societies. In this regard, we would like to commend all of those stakeholders that contributed to this momentum, in particular the United Nations Secretary General, his Envoy for Technology, and the United Nations Office for Digital and Emerging Technologies that the envoy leads for the driving force and the mobilizing capacity that they have demonstrated. We would also like to underscore the remarkable investment shown both by states and also by multi party stakeholders in this process. This collective engagement is essential because digital technologies now permeate all elements of economic, social, cultural and industrial development. They are shaping the way that we produce, learn, create, and the way that citizens participate. However, one thing is still all too broadly underestimated, and that is the aspect of cultural and linguistic diversity in digital development and in particular in the development of artificial intelligence. Today, more than 80% of generative AI training data comes from a single language, and less than 5% of living languages are represented in large language models. And yet, nearly 450 languages around the world, of which nearly 150 in Africa, have more than a million speakers. This massive deficit of diversity and discoverability of multilingual data is a major civilizational issue, and if we don't respond to this, hundreds or even thousands of languages and cultures risk quite simply being erased from the digital environment. Overcoming this challenge will require several concrete commitments. First of all, there must be a greater decentralization of calculating capacity and technical and financial capacities that are devoted to digital development. According to the figures from the United Nations Conference on trade and development, 93% of the financial valuation of digital platforms is currently concentrated in the hands of two countries. This leaves the rest of the world to share a small amount among themselves, and this imbalance is deeply worrying. Next, there must be a determined commitment to digital common goods and to open source solutions, as well as a greater awareness of the need to digitize and to value written, visual and oral resources, including those that constitute intangible heritage, both at the national as well as regional and international levels. There must also be a significant effort to implement an ambitious strategy to finance digital development and artificial intelligence, building upon the proposals recently made by the Secretary General of the United Nations. And lastly, there needs to be an inclusive expansion and enlargement of governance, digital governance bodies and structures to include knowledge actors, university libraries, archives, cultural figures and public media. Because we are no longer just talking about telecommunications or infrastructure, we are really talking about the status of knowledge in our societies. To conclude, allow me to underscore the unique contribution of the United nations to digital governance and artificial intelligence through the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. More than ever, it is an essential roadmap for us to be able to reconcile the universality of rights and respect for the diversity of cultures, languages and peoples. Thank you. GA · PGA [2:02:49]: I thank the observer of the International Organization of La Franco. Distinguished Delegates, in accordance with its resolution 79, 277 and decision 8524 taken at the 66th plenary meeting, the assembly will now hear from representatives of the United nations system, entities, stakeholders. I now give the floor to Office of the High Commissioner of Human Rights. OHCHR [2:03:46]: Madam Chair, Excellencies, distinguished delegates, colleagues, thank you for the opportunity to address you at this historic moment, 20 years after the Geneva and Tunis summit. Digital technologies have become integral to our societies and economies. While technologies have empowered people in many positive ways, they also present profound challenges. The increasing concentration of technological capacity and power raises critical questions about accountability and equity. Against the backdrop of algorithmic bias and mass data collection, protecting fundamental rights such as non discrimination, privacy and freedom of expression is more critical than ever. A rights based approach to digital governance ensures that people have a say in how technologies are shaped and regulated that impact our.