Agenda

This side event will highlight the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) Process and its implementation through the WSIS Action Lines, which are closely aligned with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Over the past two decades, the WSIS Process has played a pivotal role in advancing global efforts to harness digital technologies for development and to foster digital cooperation.

In the lead-up to the WSIS+20 Review in 2025, this event offers a timely opportunity to reflect on the impact of the WSIS Process over the past two decades and to showcase scalable, digital solutions to pressing social development challenges. Framed within the WSIS architecture and its multistakeholder approach, the event will explore how digital tools and partnerships are being leveraged to accelerate social progress.

This session will showcase tangible achievements from WSIS Prizes winners in the Arab region, highlighting innovative and impactful projects that exemplify the transformative potential of digital technologies. It will also feature examples of emerging initiatives and collaborations that demonstrate the continued relevance of the WSIS Action Lines in addressing today’s development priorities, as well as opportunities for cross-sector partnerships and policy alignment in support of inclusive and sustainable outcomes.

Objectives:

• Reflect on the impact of the WSIS Process in advancing digital development and social progress over the past 20 years.
• Showcase successful digital initiatives from WSIS Prizes winners in the Arab region, demonstrating innovation and practical impact.
• Explore how WSIS Action Lines continue to support the achievement of global development goals, particularly within the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
• Encourage dialogue and knowledge-sharing on leveraging digital technologies to address pressing social and economic development challenges.