Agenda | WSIS+20 High-Level Event 2025

Agenda and Programme

The WSIS+20 High-Level Event 2025 will take place from 7 to 11 July 2025 in Geneva, Switzerland, hosted by ITU and co-organized by ITU, UNESCO, UNDP, and UNCTAD. The Agenda and Programme for the Event are built based on official submissions received during the Open Consultation Process (OCP).

Webcast

Interactive Sessions

Monday 7 July

500

Public-Private Partnerships for AI-Enabled Transformation of Public Sector Delivery in the Arab region

UNDP Egypt and the Applied Innovation Center

13:00 – 13:45 (UTC+02:00) Room G

This session will explore how Artificial Intelligence (AI) can be responsibly and effectively integrated into public sector strategies through public-private partnerships (PPPs). Organized by UNDP Egypt, in coordination with Egypt’s Ministry of…

Interactive Session

361

WSIS+20 Celebration: Getting to Know WSIS: What It Is and Why It Matters

WSIS

13:00 – 13:45 (UTC+02:00) WSIS+20 Open Space

Kick off of the WSIS+20 Celebration! Join us for a fun, fast-peaced and creative session where we will dive into what WSIS really stands for - through interactive games and inspiring prompts in a celebratory atmosphere! Connect with others, share…

WSIS+20 Interactive Session

153

Global Classrooms, Local Action: Empowering Youth with Digital Tools to Address Real-World Challenges

Shanghai Green Light-Year

13:00 – 13:45 (UTC+02:00) Room F

Our youth speakers, representing different corners of the world, have harnessed digital tools in remarkable ways. In the realm of Education for sustainable development, they utilized AI to collect and analyze vast amounts of Climate Change Education…

Youth Interactive Session

374

Roundtable: Young Professionals-- Enhancing Your Career Skills in the Internet Governance Space

USCIB / ICANN

13:00 – 13:45 (UTC+02:00) Room E

As the digital landscape evolves, the demand for skilled, informed, and agile professionals in Internet governance is greater than ever. This interactive roundtable brings together young and seasoned professionals, mentors, and stakeholders from…

Youth Interactive Session

160

Mission: AI + Women , Art & Nature

Swiss Association of Women and Empowerment

14:00 – 14:45 (UTC+02:00) WSIS+20 Open Space

The Swiss Association of Women and Empowerment (SAWE) will introduce MISSION: AI+ ART, a unique program aimed at empowering women and girls across the world through the power of art, knowledge, digital innovation, and artificial intelligence. In line…

Women and Girls in Digital Interactive Session

155

AI (and) education: Convergences between Chinese and European pedagogical practices

Beijing Institute of Technology; DiploFoundation / Geneva Internet Platform

14:00 – 14:45 (UTC+02:00) Room L

As artificial intelligence (AI) becomes more and more integrated into our economies and societies, there is an urgent need to develop effective pedagogical frameworks that prepare learners for the AI era. This session, co-organised by institutions…

Interactive Session

158

Disinformation and Misinformation in Online Content and its Impact on Digital Trust

INTA - International Trademark Association

14:00 – 14:45 (UTC+02:00) Room F

This interactive workshop will explore disinformation and misinformation in online content and its critical impact on digital trust. We'll delve into the mechanisms by which false information erodes public trust in the media, organizations, and…

Media Interactive Session

166

Offline, underserved and left behind? - The overlooked intermediaries that are mitigating digital exclusion

International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions & Universal Postal Union

15:00 – 15:45 (UTC+02:00) Room L

Despite decades of progress, 2.6 billion people remain offline, and billions more lack meaningful connectivity. This digital divide is not only about access—it reflects deep inequalities in digital skills, device affordability, infrastructure…

Interactive Session

273

Intergenerational Dialogue: Technology for Innovation and Global Resilience

IEEE

15:00 – 15:45 (UTC+02:00) Room F

This session will facilitate an intergenerational dialogue on leveraging technology for innovation and global resilience, focusing on ethical Artificial Intelligence (AI), digital inclusion, and climate action. It will explore regulatory challenges…

Contributing Partner Youth Interactive Session

258

International Gender Champions (IGC) Digital and New Emerging Technologies Impact Group: Advancing Equity in the Digital Era

IGC, ITU

15:00 – 15:45 (UTC+02:00) WSIS+20 Open Space

The internet, digital platforms, information and communications technology (ICT) and artificial intelligence (AI) offer unprecedented pathways to increase women’s participation across all spheres of life, enhance gender disaggregated data collection,…

Interactive Session

199

Data and Trust For Health and Wellness SDG3 with a reference to Climate Change

IGF Dynamic Coalition on Data Driven Health Technologies

15:00 – 15:45 (UTC+02:00) Room G

It is critical that the quality of data entering AI and other data based systems is clear; relevant; accurate; readable; meaningful; fit for purpose; translatable; free of bias; creditable; honest; free of error and bias; culturally aware; aware of…

Interactive Session

290

Are we forgetting something? The role of the individual as a driver of change between data psychology and computational thinking

FIT Academy

16:00 – 16:45 (UTC+02:00) WSIS+20 Open Space

In an age dominated by data flows, algorithmic systems, and artificial intelligence, we risk overlooking one essential element: the role of the individual. This session explores how individuals—equipped with the right cognitive frameworks and ethical…

Interactive Session

345

Empowering Women and Girls through Digital Technology

ITU Gender and Youth Office

16:00 – 16:45 (UTC+02:00) Room G

Empowering Women and Girls through Digital Technology is an interactive workshop session co-created by the 10 ITU160 Gender Champions as part of the 2025 WSIS+20 High-Level Event in Geneva. It celebrates ITU’s 160th anniversary and the…

Women and Girls in Digital Interactive Session

403

Promoting Education and Youth Development through Information Technology

International Competence Development Committee (ICDC), The Chinese Society of Educational Development Strategy (CSEDS)

16:00 – 16:45 (UTC+02:00) Room F

Currently, the rapid development of information technology, particularly artificial intelligence and digital technologies, is reshaping the landscape of education and the pathways for youth development with unprecedented depth and breadth. This…

Youth Interactive Session

277

Between free market and public digital infrastructure: intersections of media viability and public interest journalism

Global Forum for Media Development

16:00 – 16:45 (UTC+02:00) Room E

Media and journalism have always navigated the tension between free market forces and the public interest. Over the past two decades, the WSIS and the Internet Governance Process have played a pivotal role in strengthening media and journalism as…

Media Interactive Session

223

Innovation and A.I. for a better information to citizens and more accurate EWS

Eurovisioni and WBU

16:00 – 16:45 (UTC+02:00) Room L

Disasters provoked by climate change will be more numerous, bigger in intensity and in their impact. In order to save lives, will be crucial to improve the quality and the accuracy of Early Warning systems on one side, and the capacity to convey…

Emerging Technologies Interactive Session

298

Monitoring and controlling sand movement in urban areas, agricultural lands and roads using artificial intelligence for a sustainable environmental future

King Faisal University

17:00 – 17:45 (UTC+02:00) WSIS+20 Open Space

Environment Interactive Session

292

Youth contributing to digital and outcomes of the special track

WSIS

17:00 – 17:45 (UTC+02:00) Room L

This session will bring together moderators from the day’s youth sessions to share key insights, audience contributions, and actionable recommendations. It will serve as a synthesis of the WSIS+20 Youth Special Track, highlighting how youth are…

Youth Interactive Session

229

Media and Education for All: Bridging Female Academic Leaders and Society towards Impactful Results

Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona

17:00 – 17:45 (UTC+02:00) Room F

This session will explore some recent research projects related to media and education which contribute to the WSIS vision to build people-centric, inclusive and development-oriented information and knowledge societies. The session will feature…

Media Interactive Session

192

AI Use Cases to Increase Healthy Life Longevity for Children & Elderlies

HiNounou - WSIS Healthy Ageing Innovation Prize 2022 / Technology Pioneers of the World Economic Forum

17:00 – 17:45 (UTC+02:00) Room G

HiNounou is honored to host a discussion under the theme: "AI Use Cases to Increase Healthy Life Longevity for Children & Elderlies." This session brings together an exceptional panel of public and private sector leaders who are pioneering the…

Emerging Technologies Interactive Session

Tuesday 8 July

512

Building on the Success of the ITU Global Cyber Drill at GISEC 2025

UAE Cybersecurity Council, International Telecommunication Union (ITU)

09:00 – 10:00 (UTC+02:00) Plenary Room C

This high-level session will explore innovative and collaborative cybersecurity practices through the lens of the Global CyberDrill (GISEC 2025). It will highlight lessons learned, best practices, and stakeholder engagement across sectors and…

Interactive Session

172

Underserved to Unstoppable: Revolutionizing STEM with Inclusive Design, Assistive Tech | The Accessible Game-Based Learning for the Global Agenda

STREAM Technologies

09:00 – 09:45 (UTC+02:00) Room G

This session explores how inclusive design, human centered technology, and game-based learning are transforming global STEM education particularly for neurodiverse, disabled, gifted and underserved learners. Hosted by STREAM Technologies, a bilingual…

Accessibility Interactive Session

306

Digital tech and the most marginalised: what still needs to be done?

ICT4D Collective and Microsoft (UN and International Organisations UNIO) (supported by Bangladesh NGOs Network for Radio and Communication ,…

09:00 – 09:45 (UTC+02:00) Room L

The multistakeholder digital tech communities associated with the UN system seem unlikely to deliver on the SDGs by 2030, despite the efforts of those involved in developing and implementing the Global Digital Compact (2024). In particular, SDG10 on…

Interactive Session

309

Defending Our Voice: Global South Participation in Digital Governance

Derechos Digitales

09:00 – 09:45 (UTC+02:00) Room F

NetMundial+10 reaffirmed the importance of ensuring effective and meaningful multistakeholder participation in global internet governance spaces, building on the pioneer advances made within the WSIS processes since 2005. This session will focus on…

Interactive Session

370

Centering People and Planet in the WSIS+20 and beyond

Global Digital Justice Forum, IT for Change and Association for Progressive Communications

09:00 – 10:00 (UTC+02:00) Room K

Twenty years after the WSIS, the dream of a people-centric, inclusive, and development-oriented digital economy and society has never seemed more elusive, yet so urgent, to claim. Though more people than ever have access to the Internet today, the…

WSIS+20 Interactive Session

246

The next decade of urban digitalisation: the paths to people-centred smart cities and the role of the mobile industry

GSMA

10:00 – 10:45 (UTC+02:00) Room E

The future of urban growth is in African and Asian cities, to 2050 2.2 billion of the additional 2.5 billion urban residents will be in those regions. This session will explore the trends underpinning smart city adoption in MENA, Sub-Saharan Africa,…

Smart Sustainable Cities Interactive Session

204

Futurizing Democracy. Threats and Opportunities in the Digital Age

World Summit Awards

10:00 – 10:45 (UTC+02:00) Room L

Our democracies are facing unprecedented digital pressure. As AI evolves rapidly and the digital public sphere becomes increasingly weaponized, core democratic principles such as trust, participation, and the rule of law are being tested. From…

Supporting Partner Interactive Session

176

Human Rights-Centered Global Governance of Quantum Technologies: Implications for AI, Digital Rights, and the Digital Divide

United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) , European University Institute (EUI), Delft University of Technology…

10:00 – 10:45 (UTC+02:00) Room F

The potential of quantum technologies promise transformative advancements in encryption, privacy, security, and computational power, which has fueled significant investments in quantum technologies. As with artificial intelligence (AI), quantum…

Emerging Technologies Interactive Session

173

AI for All? Inclusion, bias, and opportunity for persons with disabilities

Equitable AI Alliance

10:00 – 10:45 (UTC+02:00) Room G

As AI systems increasingly influence hiring, banking, and access to services, we must ask: Are these technologies promoting inclusion, or perpetuating bias and exclusion? This session goes beyond theory to focus on concrete and practical examples of…

Accessibility Interactive Session

296

FAIR Cities

United Nations University Operating Unit on Policy-Driven Electronic Governance - United for Smart sustainable cities

10:15 – 11:15 (UTC+02:00) Plenary Room C

The rapid advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AI) presents both opportunities and challenges for cities striving to improve quality of life. While AI can optimize urban services, enhance decision-making, and drive economic growth, its adoption…

Smart Sustainable Cities Interactive Session

187

Back to the Future: Putting the “I” (individual) back into A.I

Institute for Digital Culture, University of Leicester

11:00 – 11:45 (UTC+02:00) WSIS+20 Open Space

NOTE: THIS IS AN INTERACTIVE SESSION WITH HIGH LEVEL OF AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION BEING SOUGHT AND WELCOMED Have your voice heard in this session........ which will be by way of an open/roving microphone method ..... The session is Chaired/facilitated…

Emerging Technologies Interactive Session

331

Governments and Technical Community: A Successful Model of Multistakeholder Collaboration for Achieving the SDGs

The Réseaux IP Européens Network Coordination Centre (RIPE NCC) and the Telecommunication Regulatory Authority in Jordan (TRC)

11:00 – 11:45 (UTC+02:00) Room L

In the true spirit of WSIS multistakeholder collaboration, this high-level session highlights how partnerships between the technical community and governments are translating shared digital development goals into measurable impact. Through concrete…

Interactive Session

240

Indigenous Digital Infrastructures and Emerging Technologies: Challenges, Capacities and Commons

Redes AC, Rhizomatica and APC

12:00 – 12:45 (UTC+02:00) Room F

In recent years, the rapid advancement of emerging technologies—such as artificial intelligence, sensors, and the Internet of Things (IoT)—has introduced new challenges and widened existing digital divides, especially for Indigenous Peoples and rural…

Interactive Session

317

La régulation du numérique et de l’IA dans l’espace francophone comme inspiration et bonne pratique internationale

Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie

13:00 – 13:45 (UTC+02:00) Room K

International digital and AI governance is now at a crossroads. The institutional calendar makes 2025 a crucial year, that of the implementation of the recommendations of the Global Digital Compact (GDC) and the ongoing reconfiguration of the global…

Emerging Technologies Interactive Session

363

WSIS+20 Celebration | Inside the WSIS Process: Objectives, Mechanisms, and Action Lines

WSIS and UNITAR

13:00 – 13:45 (UTC+02:00) WSIS+20 Open Space

This 45-minute interactive workshop, organized jointly by UNITAR and WSIS, as part of the WSIS+20 High-Level Event 2025, is designed to introduce participants to the World Summit on the Information Society process. The session will cover the creation…

WSIS+20 Interactive Session

315

Joining forces against disinformation: humanitarian, peace and media actors' perspectives

Fondation Hirondelle

13:00 – 13:45 (UTC+02:00) Room F

The panel will look at the the epistemic gap and discuss how can the media sector join forces with the humanitarian and peace actors to prevent information disorder and disinformation to fragment further societies. This session will bring together:…

Media Interactive Session

349

Building Digital Governance Together – IGF 2025 Outcomes

IGF Secretariat

14:00 – 14:45 (UTC+02:00) WSIS+20 Open Space

The session will allow participants to look into the innovative ideas, trends and highlights of the 20th Internet Governance Forum (IGF), which was held in Lillestrøm, Norway on 23-27 June 2025, under the overarching theme: “Building Digital…

Interactive Session

404

Harnessing digital public goods and fostering digital cooperation: a multi-disciplinary contribution to WSIS+20 review

UNESCO Information for All Programme

14:00 – 14:45 (UTC+02:00) Room F

The UNESCO Information for All Programme (IFAP) IFAP Strategic Plan 2023-2029 aligns with the United Nations' Global Digital Compact (GDC) endorsed by world’s leaders in 2024. The GDC aims to create an open, free, and secure digital future for all…

WSIS+20 Interactive Session

178

fAInance for Good: Harnessing AI to AImprove the Global Financial Systems

ainitiative – to aimprove (y)our future

14:00 – 14:45 (UTC+02:00) Room L

In an era where 1.4 billion adult people remain unbanked* and financial inequality widens, AI offers unprecedented opportunities to re-imagine our financial systems. This high-impact session explores how intelligent technologies can create more…

Emerging Technologies Interactive Session

412

Digital solutions for sustainability: ICT’s role in GHG reduction and biodiversity protection

International Telecommunication Union (ITU), One Planet network (OPN)/United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), and United Nations Conference…

15:00 – 15:45 (UTC+02:00) Room F

Session Description This session will explore both the environmental footprint of the ICT sector—responsible for an estimated 2% to 4% of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions—and its critical role in enabling climate solutions. It will begin by…

Environment Interactive Session

209

Strengthening Multistakeholder Internet Governance: How The Technical Community Can Help

Canadian Internet Registration Authority

15:00 – 15:45 (UTC+02:00) Room L

At a time when the multistakeholder model of Internet governance is facing renewed scrutiny and pressure, this session reaffirms the importance of this model as the most inclusive and effective approach for governing the Internet. Bringing together…

Interactive Session

339

The Power of Satellites in Emergency Alerting and Protecting Lives

Global Satellite Operator's Association and International Telecommunication Union

15:00 – 15:45 (UTC+02:00) Room G

Satellites have always been a critical part of disaster management by ensuring communication continuity when terrestrial networks are disrupted. In the age of rapid technological advances, new innovations, such as Direct-to-Device (D2D) communication…

Interactive Session

217

Cibervoluntarios Network: Global Alliance for Inclusive Digital Adoption

Fundacion Cibervoluntarios

16:00 – 16:45 (UTC+02:00) WSIS+20 Open Space

Would you like to join an international network dedicated to bridging the digital divide locally? We invite you to discover the Cibervoluntarios Network, a Fundación Cibervoluntarios initiative that connects social organizations worldwide to promote…

Interactive Session

284

Leaving No One Behind in the Citiverse

International Telecommunication Union and Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona

16:00 – 16:45 (UTC+02:00) Room E

The Global Initiative on Virtual Worlds and AI – Discovering the Citiverse, launched by ITU, Digital Dubai, and UNICC, is a global platform shaping policy innovation for safe, open, and interoperable AI-powered virtual worlds. It is also the avenue…

Smart Sustainable Cities Interactive Session

341

From data to impact: Digital Product Information Systems and the importance of traceability for global environmental governance

International Telecommunication Union (ITU), One Planet network (OPN)/United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), and United Nations Conference…

16:00 – 16:45 (UTC+02:00) Room F

Session Description Establishing a collective vision and framework to govern the digital landscape was the goal of the Global Digital Compact (GDC). Environmental sustainability is included within one key guiding principle and specific action…

Interactive Session

267

Resilient infrastructure for a sustainable world

International Electrotechnical Commission

16:00 – 16:45 (UTC+02:00) Room L

In an era of escalating climate risks and cyber-attacks, ensuring the resilience of critical infrastructure is crucial for sustainable development and global progress. Today, the majority of the world’s socio-economic goals rely on robust information…

Interactive Session

517

Powering Digital Futures: Data Governance - Navigating Data in the Digital Age

UNESCO, UNDP, ITU

16:30 – 17:30 (UTC+02:00) Plenary Room C

As the digital era continues to evolve at a rapid pace, the governance of data has emerged as a critical policy priority. From managing cross-border data flows to enabling responsible AI development, countries and stakeholders navigate increasingly…

Interactive Session

422

Multigenerational Collaboration: Rethinking Work, Learning and Inclusion in the Digital Age

Centre for Socio-Eco-Nomic Development

17:00 – 17:45 (UTC+02:00) Room E

Creating meaningful multigenerational partnerships remains a complex challenge. As explored in the recent special issue of Public Administration and Policy on “Ageing, Productivity and Socio-Economic Development: Policy Options,” institutional…

Interactive Session

275

Strengthening Corporate Accountability on Inclusive, Trustworthy, and Rights-based Approach to Ethical Digital Transformation

The World Benchmarking Alliance (WBA)

17:00 – 17:45 (UTC+02:00) Room L

As digital platforms become essential infrastructure for civic participation, economic activity, and information access, it is incumbent upon technology companies to ensure their products and services are grounded in inclusive, trustworthy, and…

Interactive Session

281

Championing A New WSIS Action Line For PeaceTech

SocialTech Lab; Institute of Social Ethics, University of Lucerne

17:00 – 17:45 (UTC+02:00) WSIS+20 Open Space

In a world grappling with rising conflict and division, can entrepreneurship and innovation become tools for peace? How can international organizations like ITU support this process through sustainable policy development and governance strategies?…

Interactive Session

Wednesday 9 July

365

WSIS+20 Celebration

WSIS

13:00 – 13:45 (UTC+02:00) WSIS+20 Open Space

Ready to share your vision and spark new ideas? Join us for a high-energy, interactive session where creativity meets collaboration. Through fast-paced games and group challenges, you´ll connect with other participants, exchange fresh perspectives on…

WSIS+20 Interactive Session

501

Blueprints for building digital skills

International Telecommunication Union

14:00 – 15:00 (UTC+02:00) WSIS+20 Open Space

Are you a practitioner and/or expert involved in digital skills, or simply interested in contributing to advancing ICT skills for all? Dive into an exciting journey of capacity development programmes and engage in discussions with ITU and its…

Digital Skills Interactive Session

519

Empowering Workers in the Age of AI

International Labour Organization

14:00 – 15:00 (UTC+02:00) Room L

This session showcases the ILO´s integrated approach to preparing workers, institutions, and systems for the challenges and opportunities of AI and digital transformation. It highlights how the ILO is addressing critical areas—skills development,…

Digital Skills Interactive Session

455

WSIS+20 Overall Review multistakeholder consultation with co-facilitators

WSIS

16:45 – 17:45 (UTC+02:00) Room K

🎉 Be the first to secure your spot! It's first come, first served for this session. 🎉 🌟 Reserve your seat now by signing up HERE 🌟 ❗️Important Note❗️: Please ensure you complete the event registration first.Without registration, you will not…

WSIS+20 Interactive Session

Thursday 10 July

278

Breaking the Fake in the AI World: Staying Smart in the Age of Misinformation, Disinformation, Hate, and Deepfake

eWorldwide Group

09:00 – 09:45 (UTC+02:00) Room L

In the era where the geopolitical environment is both unpredictable and unstable, understanding how AI-driven technologies and unethical algorithms are reshaping online interactions and narratives through misinformation, disinformation, hate speech,…

Media Interactive Session

195

How .POST powered services build Cyber Resilience within the global Postal and Logistics Sector

Universal Postal Union

09:00 – 10:00 (UTC+02:00) Room K

The global postal network plays a vital role in facilitating trade, communication, and economic development. However, the increasing reliance on digital technologies and interconnectedness has exposed the postal sector to cyber threats that can…

Interactive Session

269

Shaping the Global Digital Future: Bridging Divides, Empowering Communities, and Ensuring Ethical Innovation

Oxford Alumni-Silicon Valley Chapter

09:00 – 09:45 (UTC+02:00) WSIS+20 Open Space

This dynamic session explores how inclusive digital transformation can be a driver for sustainable development and ethical innovation. Bringing together global experts from policy, technology, and civil society, the discussion will highlight…

Interactive Session

329

Shaping Africa’s ICT Future: The Role of Multi-Stakeholder Engagement Beyond WSIS +20

AfICTA - Africa ICT Alliance

09:00 – 09:45 (UTC+02:00) Room F

As the global community reflects on two decades since the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS), Africa stands at a pivotal juncture. The WSIS+20 review offers not just a moment for assessment but a strategic opportunity to redefine the…

WSIS+20 Interactive Session

463

Untangling the Red Tape: WSIS Champions Brainstorm and Offer Solutions

The Document Project

09:00 – 09:50 (UTC+02:00) Plenary Room C

Join this innovative and fascinating session as three 2025 WSIS Prize Champions brainstorm in person to solve the gigantic problems of bureaucratic Red Tape. The synergies of their perspectives and expertise will uncover bold solutions. Access to…

Interactive Session

310

Global Digital Governance & Multistakeholder Cooperation for WSIS+20

Freedom Online Coalition

10:00 – 10:50 (UTC+02:00) Plenary Room C

As the global community approaches the 20-year review of the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS+20), inclusive and ethical digital governance remains critical to upholding human rights and advancing sustainable development. This roundtable…

WSIS+20 Interactive Session

248

Digital Humanism: People first!

EC MEDICI Framework of cooperation

10:00 – 10:45 (UTC+02:00) Room L

The PEOPLE-FIRST session aims to promote the development of digital and industrial technologies that are centred around people and uphold ethical principles. This session aligns with the overarching objective of building a strong, inclusive, and…

Interactive Session

423

Developing capacities for bottom-up AI in the Global South: What role for the international community?

DiploFoundation/Permanent Mission of Kenya/Microsoft/IT for Change

10:00 – 10:45 (UTC+02:00) Room F

Used responsibly, AI has the potential to turbocharge progress in support of the SDGs and drive significant economic growth and opportunities. But a significant AI divide persists, with many underserved communities facing challenges in developing,…

Emerging Technologies Interactive Session

466

WSIS-UN Regional Commissions

UN Regional Commissions

10:15 – 11:15 (UTC+02:00) Room K

Interactive Session

274

Media and ICT Development: Enhancing Digital Inclusion and Infrastructure in Uzbekistan

Center for Progressive Reforms

11:00 – 11:45 (UTC+02:00) WSIS+20 Open Space

As part of Uzbekistan’s ongoing socio-economic modernization, the digital transformation agenda has emerged as both a strategic opportunity and a complex policy undertaking. This session, convened by the independent think tank Center for Progressive…

Media Interactive Session

185

AI for Digital Inclusive Development

Internet Society of China / Estrategia Latino-Americana de Inteligencia Artificial

11:00 – 11:45 (UTC+02:00) Room L

As algorithmic systems mediate ever more dimensions of daily life, interpretative asymmetries have emerged between technology creators and users—an issue that disproportionately affects marginalized and vulnerable populations in the Global South and…

Emerging Technologies Interactive Session

230

Connecting the Unconnected in the field of Education Excellence, Cyber Security & Rural Solutions and Women Empowerment in ICT

CMAI Association of India

11:00 – 11:45 (UTC+02:00) Room G

We are pleased to extend a cordial invitation to you for the 11th International ICT World Communication Summit & Education Excellence Awards, hosted by the CMAI Association of India. Following the resounding success of the past three editions…

Interactive Session

328

Measuring ICT for development: the importance of data and statistics in the implementation of the WSIS and the Global Digital Compact

Partnership on Measuring ICT for Development

11:30 – 12:30 (UTC+02:00) Room K

This session will build on the session at the WSIS+20 Forum High-Level Event in 2024, with a forward-looking discussion linking the work of the Partnership on Measuring ICT for Development to the implementation of WSIS action lines and the outcomes…

Interactive Session

548

Inter-regional Dialogue: AI and Emerging Technologies; Public Policies Issues in Different Regions

ESCWA in collaboration with the UN Regional Commissions

12:00 – 12:45 (UTC+02:00) Room E

As we mark two decades since the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS), artificial intelligence has emerged as a transformative force reshaping economies, governance, public services, and human development. The Global Digital Compact (GDC),…

Interactive Session

367

WSIS+20 Celebration

WSIS

13:00 – 13:45 (UTC+02:00) WSIS+20 Open Space

WSIS+20 Interactive Session

498

Data first in the AI era

UNCTAD

13:00 – 13:45 (UTC+02:00) Room E

Data have become a cornerstone of development and the lifeblood of the digital economy. They fuel algorithms and artificial intelligence, drives international trade in services, informs logistics, and shapes markets, communication, and politics. The…

Interactive Session

311

Global Digital Compact: AI solutions for a digital economy inclusive and beneficial for all

United Nations Industrial Development Organization

14:00 – 14:45 (UTC+02:00) Room F

This side event will spotlight innovative solutions at the intersection of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and industry that advance inclusivity in the digital economy, aligning with Outcome 2 of the Global Digital Compact. Leading experts and…

Interactive Session

358

Generative AI and Collective Memory: Navigating Truth in an Age of Digital Narratives

Prompt Society | World XR

14:00 – 14:45 (UTC+02:00) WSIS+20 Open Space

Proposed by Salar Shahna, president of the World XR Forum, this session explores how generative AI is transforming access to historical storytelling and audiovisual memory on a global scale. Today, the power of generative AI is both unprecedented and…

Interactive Session

215

Approaches Towards Meaningful Connectivity in the Global South

Paradigm Initiative

14:00 – 14:45 (UTC+02:00) Room L

WSIS Action Line C1 calls on the government and relevant stakeholders to promote ICTs for development. However, the extent of digital exclusion in the Global South and access to digital technologies is a major concern, often due to poor digital…

Interactive Session

212

Revamping Decision-Making in Digital Governance and the WSIS Framework

CGI.br - Brazilian Internet Steering Committee

14:00 – 15:00 (UTC+02:00) Plenary Room C

This session aims to address the gaps and opportunities of the global digital governance ecosystem, especially when it comes to the governance architecture and cooperation, with a special focus on the WSIS framework. In the last 20 years, the World…

Interactive Session

197

How to Transition Online Service to Passwordless at No Cost

Passwordless Alliance

14:00 – 14:45 (UTC+02:00) Room G

For the successful development of an information society, innovative ideas and technologies are essential to transform everyday inconveniences into convenient, safe, and economical solutions. This session presents the vision and case studies of…

Interactive Session

263

Digital Transformation for all: An Information Society that respects and protects human rights

African Union, European Union and UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights

14:00 – 14:45 (UTC+02:00) Room E

The international community is increasingly grappling with digital technologies and their impacts on people and planet. The Geneva Declaration of Principles declared the common desire and commitment to building a people-centred, inclusive and…

Interactive Session

207

From Principles to Practice: Operationalizing Multistakeholder Governance

Global Network Initiative (GNI) and Global Partners Digital (GPD)

15:00 – 15:45 (UTC+02:00) Room G

Over the past two decades, the governance of digital technologies has evolved significantly. The increasing ubiquity of these technologies has embedded them in broader policy discussions, from economic development to security. Internet governance has…

Interactive Session

496

GovStack Digital Leaders Forum 2025 & A Celebration of the Women in GovTech Challenge Finalists

DLF & WiGTC 25

15:00 – 15:45 (UTC+02:00) WSIS+20 Open Space

As countries worldwide pursue digital transformation, the development of robust and inclusive Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) is essential to deliver accessible, secure, and citizen-centric services. GovStack supports governments in designing…

Interactive Session

471

ITU's Call for Input on WSIS+20

ITU

15:00 – 15:45 (UTC+02:00) Room F

WSIS+20 Interactive Session

189

Global adoption, global progress: Managing the challenges of AI inclusion

International Chamber of Commerce

15:00 – 15:45 (UTC+02:00) Room E

As AI reshapes economies and societies, there is a growing urgency to ensure its benefits are accessible to all. This session will explore what inclusive AI means in practice, and the actions needed to achieve it, focusing on issues including…

Emerging Technologies Interactive Session

338

Beyond International Aid: Investing in Community Connectivity and Making it Self-Sustainable

Association for Progressive Communications

15:00 – 15:45 (UTC+02:00) Room L

Large and persistent digital divides continue to underscore the difficulties of achieving the goal of universal access. It has increasingly been recognized in many internet governance fora, including the WSIS and UN CSTD, that community connectivity…

Interactive Session

259

EQUALS Research Report 2025: Launch & The Path Forward

EQUALS, KAIST, ITU, Research ICT Africa, NIC.br

15:15 – 16:15 (UTC+02:00) Plenary Room C

EQUALS: From Data to Action, Building a Gender-Inclusive Digital Future” is a high-level session organized under the WSIS+20 framework to mark a new phase in the EQUALS Global Partnership: EQUALS 2.0. Founded by ITU, UN Women, UN University, ITC, and…

Women and Girls in Digital Interactive Session

235

Digital identity solutions: opportunities and challenges in the pursuit of inclusiveness

United Nations Joint Staff Pension Fund, United Nations International Computing Centre

15:15 – 16:15 (UTC+02:00) Room K

The panel will reflect on how emerging technology can be an agent of change to solve real-world problems. It will include an interactive moderated panel discussion, where speakers will showcase their experience with the application of emergency…

Interactive Session

250

Shall governments have access to encrypted messaging apps content?

RealTyme

16:00 – 16:45 (UTC+02:00) WSIS+20 Open Space

As governments balance national security imperatives with privacy obligations, the debate over access to encrypted messaging platforms intensifies—especially in an era of AI-driven threats and looming post-quantum risks. This session will explore the…

Interactive Session

179

Embedding Human Rights in AI Standards: From Principles to Practice

Freedom Online Coalition (FOC) - International Telecommunication Union (ITU) - Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights…

16:00 – 16:45 (UTC+02:00) Room E

Emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) are transforming societies at an unprecedented pace. While they offer vast opportunities, they also pose risks to the enjoyment of human rights. Technical standards, as foundational elements…

Emerging Technologies Interactive Session

224

Communication is Humanitarian Aid

World Association for Christian Communication/Communicating with Disaster Affected Communities Network

16:00 – 16:45 (UTC+02:00) Room L

An exploration of how communication/information integrity is crucial in the context of civil strife and vital to policy-making about rebuilding infrastruture and shaping post-conflict dialogue. There are multiple opportunities for the media to play a…

Interactive Session

261

Driving meaningful participation of women in cyber through policy and practical action

Geneva Centre for Security Sector Governance, Association for Progressive Communication

16:30 – 17:30 (UTC+02:00) Plenary Room C

Women remain significantly underrepresented in cybersecurity, despite growing efforts to expand the workforce. This session will explore meaningful participation, ensuring women are not just present but can thrive in cybersecurity careers and also…

Interactive Session

320

Children & Robots

Ethic Minds Institute

16:30 – 17:30 (UTC+02:00) Room K

What does data provenance, cryptography, quantum computing, and AI-powered robots have to do with children? Come discuss just this. As we move closer to AI-powered humanoid robots becoming part of the societal landscape, it is imperative that we…

Emerging Technologies Interactive Session

227

Key factors and design features - successful national sustained relevant digital inclusive education

International Federation of Information Processing (IFIP)

17:00 – 17:45 (UTC+02:00) Room G

To consider and address Action Line C7, it is important to recognise key factors that enable sustained (i.e., long-term) relevant digital inclusive education for young people. An International Federation for Information Technology (IFIP) Task Force…

Interactive Session

181

International Artificial Intelligence Frameworks for Safeguarding Human Rights and Dignity

Globethics

17:00 – 17:45 (UTC+02:00) Room E

As artificial intelligence (AI) systems continue to advance and permeate key aspects of social, economic, and political life, the urgency to ensure they are developed and deployed in ways that respect human rights and protect human dignity has never…

Emerging Technologies Interactive Session

214

The Trust Dilemma: AI across sectors

Trust Valley

17:00 – 17:45 (UTC+02:00) Room L

As Artificial Intelligence becomes increasingly embedded in public services, private enterprise, and global governance, the urgency to develop and implement responsible AI frameworks has never been greater. This panel will explore how principles can…

Interactive Session

347

Bridging Gender Gaps with AI: Empowering Girls and Women in STEM through Inclusive Digital Innovation

WITIN.ORG

17:00 – 17:45 (UTC+02:00) WSIS+20 Open Space

In alignment with the WSIS+20 vision of building “people-centric, inclusive and development-oriented information societies,” this dynamic session by WITIN explores how Artificial Intelligence (AI) can be purposefully harnessed to close persistent…

Women and Girls in Digital Interactive Session

190

Reshaping the world : Mapping opportunity with AI disruption

Jaipuria Institute of Management noida/Open Health Network/Mykolas Romeris University

17:00 – 17:45 (UTC+02:00) Room F

This session explores how AI tools and digital innovations are transforming education by enhancing intercultural communication, preserving traditions, and fostering social change in the digital era. As globalization accelerates, diverse cultural…

Emerging Technologies Interactive Session

Friday 11 July

530

African Group meeting on WSIS+20

ECA

09:00 – 09:45 (UTC+02:00) Room F

Interactive Session

543

South Africa 20-Year Country Report

South Africa

09:00 – 09:45 (UTC+02:00) Room E

During the session, the Government of the Republic of South Africa will launch South Africa's 20-year country report on the implementation of the WSIS Action Line, highlighting progress and challenges, and sharing best practices to achieve the SDGs…

Interactive Session

206

IO Antitrust

OGI (The OneGoal Initiative for Governance)

09:00 – 09:45 (UTC+02:00) WSIS+20 Open Space

Given today's panoply of technologies and gathering of resources, the aim is to start to understand participants' insights, ideas and opinions about the question: "Under which conditions should a supranational or international organisation (IO) be…

Interactive Session

242

Strengthen Digital Governance and International Cooperation to Build an Inclusive Digital Future

Chinese Academy of Cyberspace Studies

09:00 – 09:45 (UTC+02:00) Room L

At present, a new wave of technological revolution and industrial transformation rapidly evolves, which accelerates the development of the information society. Meanwhile, the swift evolution of technology also introduces a series of risks and…

Interactive Session

222

Information Society in Times of Risk

International Community of Experts on Risk Information Management, Risk Models and Applications (RIMMA CoE), The UN Consultative Committee on…

10:00 – 10:45 (UTC+02:00) Room L

WSIS aims to build a people - centric, inclusive, and development - oriented Information Society. In the context of an ever - changing world filled with various risks, this session focuses on the special demands that the Information Society faces…

Interactive Session

221

Leveraging ICT for ageing populations: addressing Gender disparities & measuring Impact

Womenvai, University of Bari Aldo Moro and their partners

10:00 – 10:45 (UTC+02:00) Room F

At the occasion of WSIS+20, WOMENVAI and its partners — the University of Bari (Italy), ESIF (Cameroon), EPF Engineering School (France), Centro-i (Mexico), Abshore (France-Tunisia), and Swiss Engineering (Geneva, Switzerland) — present an…

Women and Girls in Digital Interactive Session

479

Digital Cooperation for Inclusive Development: Brazil–South Africa Synergies in the G20 and the WSIS Framework

South Africa/Brazil

10:00 – 10:45 (UTC+02:00) Room E

As two leading nations of the Global South and members of the G20, Brazil and South Africa play pivotal roles in shaping inclusive global digital policy agendas. In 2024, Brazil chaired the G20, and in 2025, South Africa is in charge of it. This…

Interactive Session

239

Utilizing Digital Technologies as a Tool to Strengthen Sustainable Development Practices

Global Youth Leadership Development Council (GYLDC) and the Global SDGs and Leadership Development Center

10:00 – 10:45 (UTC+02:00) WSIS+20 Open Space

The United Nations (UN) has recognized the critical intersection between technology and sustainable development through various initiatives, including the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Paris Agreement on climate change. The digital…

Interactive Session

409

Harnessing ICT for Sustainable Development: Bridging Gaps through Local Initiatives

Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State

11:00 – 11:45 (UTC+02:00) WSIS+20 Open Space

Interactive Session

244

Driving the Future: Opportunities and Challenges of Autonomous Vehicles

The Institute for AI International Governance of Tsinghua University, Globethics, Institute for Ethics in Artificial Intelligence (TUM)

11:00 – 11:45 (UTC+02:00) Room L

Autonomous driving technology has not only redefined modes of transportation, but also provided humanity with a brand-new digitalized living experience. As a brilliant fusion of artificial intelligence and the transportation sector, autonomous…

Emerging Technologies Interactive Session

218

Accelerating Structural Transformation and Industrialization in Developing Countries: Navigating the Future with Advanced ICTs and Industry 4.0

Digital Transformation Alliance (DTA) and Alliance for Industry 4.0 and Smart Manufacturing for Africa (AISMA)

11:00 – 11:45 (UTC+02:00) Room F

Context and Rationale:Developing countries are entering a pivotal phase where the convergence of digital technologies and industrial policies can serve as a powerful catalyst for inclusive and sustainable economic growth. Unlike previous industrial…

Interactive Session

413

Bridging the Digital Divide: Inclusive ICT Policies for Sustainable Development

International Standard University/City University Bangladesh

11:00 – 11:45 (UTC+02:00) Room E

This session, titled “Inclusive and Ethical ICT Policies for a Sustainable and Equitable Digital Future,” seeks to foster a critical dialogue on the urgent need to design, implement, and monitor ICT policies that leave no one behind. As we mark 20…

Interactive Session

344

Global Strategies for Child Online Protection and Tackling Tech-Facilitated Gender-Based Violence

SWGfL (South West Grid for Learning)

11:30 – 12:30 (UTC+02:00) Room K

As digital connectivity expands globally, the threats faced by children and women online are intensifying—often faster than policy or platform responses can keep pace. Online child exploitation and tech-facilitated violence against women and girls…

Interactive Session

508

Law, Tech, Humanity, and Trust

International Committee of the Red Cross

11:30 – 12:30 (UTC+02:00) Plenary Room C

As armed conflicts increasingly extend into cyberspace, the imperative to protect medical and humanitarian digital infrastructure has become more urgent than ever. The protection of medical and humanitarian activities are among the oldest rules of…

Interactive Session

313

A fair communication/ Une communication équitable

Universal Esperanto Association

13:00 – 13:45 (UTC+02:00) Room F

What is Esperanto? "L'Espéranto en 20 tableaux". The use of Esperanto in LItterature and science, in meetings and congresses, to reach a fair communication. Esperanto in multicultural families, Esperanto for native speakers.

Emerging Technologies Interactive Session

539

Charting the Path Forward for the WSIS+20 Review: A conversation with the WSIS+20 Co-Facilitators

WSIS

15:00 – 15:30 (UTC+02:00) Plenary Room C

On 23 April 2025, the President of the United Nations General Assembly has appointed H.E. Mr. Ekitela Lokaale, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Kenya to the United Nations, and H.E. Ms. Suela Janina, Permanent Representative of the…

Interactive Session

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