Page 11 - BDT Year in Review 2019 - On the road to digital transformation through meaningful connectivity

Digital Transformation for the Sustainable

Development Goals (SDGs)

In pursuance of digital transformation, BDT advocates greater emphasis on
resource sharing and a more holistic approach as ICTs are a vital enabler of global sustainable
development.

“Communication In this spirit of “leave no one behind” we will work to reverse rising
technologies can help us on inequality and towards digital transformation that includes and
each and every Sustainable benefits all.
Development Goal”

António Guterres
UN Secretary-General

Partnerships for Impact: Expanding Broadband for Sustainable Development

Launched by ITU and UNESCO, the Commission embraces a range of different perspectives in a multi-
stakeholder approach to promote the roll-out of broadband, as well as providing a fresh approach to United
Nations and business engagement.

The Commission engages in high-level advocacy to advance broadband in developing countries and
underserved communities to promote the roll-out of affordable, accessible and available broadband.

The Commission released a report in October 2019 titled “Child Online Safety: Minimizing the Risk of
Violence, Abuse and Exploitation Online”. The report addresses what a safer online environment looks like,
the state of children online today, opportunities to improve and the threat environment. Broadband
connectivity is a key enabler for children’s future. It helps to fuel the achievement of all the Sustainable
Development Goals and to ensure that all children have an equal opportunity to thrive, so that no child is left
behind.

Unifying Digital Transformation: GSR-19
Global Symposium for Regulators GSR-19 provided a unique platform for ICT regulators and stakeholders to
share experiences, knowledge, collaborate and identify means to bring affordable, safe, secure and trusted
connectivity and online access and use to people everywhere.

The Symposium identified and endorsed a set of regulatory Best Practice Guidelines to fast forward digital
connectivity and allow people everywhere to benefit from digital transformation and participate in today's digital
economy. Furthermore, to unlock the full potential of digital technologies and accelerate progress towards the
SDGs, the Guidelines emphasize the need for a more actionable, collaborative, and innovative outcome-based
approach to regulation. They urge regulators and all stakeholders to be open to new regulatory tools and
solutions and act now. At the heart of the GSR is helping countries leverage the huge opportunities that
connectivity brings.

The next GSR will take place in 2020. Dates to be confirmed.

BDT 2019 Year in Review: On the road to Digital Transformation through Meaningful Connectivity
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