UNCTAD eWeek presents a unique opportunity to SHAPE THE FUTURE OF THE DIGITAL ECONOMY!

The UNCTAD eWeek presents a unique opportunity for constructive and inclusive dialogue to generate insights and actions that can feed into global efforts, and in particular the ongoing work of the UN Global Digital Compact process, leading up to the 2024 Summit of the Future.

Digitalization is one of the most influential mega-trends that will not only affect development outcomes in the short and medium term, but also determine the future we live in. 

E-commerce and the digital economy play an essential part in this context, further accentuated by the COVID-19 pandemic and interrelated economic crises. If well governed, the digital economy and data can enable countries to leapfrog, spur economic growth, enhance inclusivity by reducing geographical and physical barriers, foster innovation and enable a better use of resources to address global development challenges. However, such positive outcomes are far from certain. Digital and data divides are widening, increasing the risk of greater inequalities between and within countries. The growing importance of the digital economy is also raising concerns related to privacy and other human rights, environmental sustainability and cybercrime.

Against this background, the international community needs to find ways to close the digital divides and create frameworks that enable the digital economy to generate inclusive, equitable and sustainable development.

This edition, themed Shaping the future of the digital economy, will offer a unique opportunity for all stakeholders to weigh in and share their perspectives on this challenge.

Within the framework of the UNCTAD eWeek, a convergence of Ministers, high-ranking government representatives, CEOs, prominent business figures, international institutions, developmental financial institutions, academia, and civil society is set to unfold. This collective assembly will come together into the exploration of three key questions:

What does the future we want for the digital economy look like? What is required to make that future come true? How can digital partnerships and enhanced cooperation contribute to more inclusive and sustainable outcomes?

Only through enhanced cooperation and tighter partnerships will it be possible to pave the way for a safe, trusted and inclusive digitalization that helps economies recover any lost ground in the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The UNCTAD eWeek will explore key policy areas that must be addressed to build an inclusive and sustainable digitalization at the national, regional and global levels with the involvement of all relevant stakeholders: eTrade for all partners, member States, the private sector and civil society. 

Throughout the week, the eTrade for all initiative will be leveraged to foster comprehensive, cross-cutting and multistakeholder discussions and debates.

The event will be held in person in Geneva, Switzerland, with remote participation possible. A fully virtual conference center will also be accessible throughout the week for online sessions.

For more info and registeration visit UNCTAD EWEEK 2023: SHAPING THE FUTURE OF THE DIGITAL ECONOMY