When digital systems fail: Understanding the Risk of a Global Digital Pandemic
ITU/UNDRR/SciencesPo
Session 408
Thursday, 9 July 2026
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15:00–15:45 (UTC+02:00)
Physical (on-site) and Virtual (remote) participation
Room K, Palexpo
Interactive Session
This session will draw on the findings of the report “When digital systems fail: The hidden risks of our digital world”, highlighting how increasing reliance on interconnected digital infrastructure creates systemic vulnerabilities. It will examine how non-intentional disruptions can cascade across sectors, affecting essential services such as energy, finance, healthcare, and communications, and potentially escalate into a “digital pandemic”. The discussion will also showcase practical examples and best practices to strengthen digital resilience.
Panellists
H.E. Dr. Bosun Tijani
Minister
Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Nigeria
Ms. Ambassador Jessica Hunter
Ambassador for Cyber Affairs and Critical Technology, Australia
Ms. Kimberly Brown
Head of Mobile for Humanitarian Innovation
GSMA
Topics
Artificial Intelligence
Digital Divide
Digital Transformation
Emerging Technologies
Environment
Infrastructure
WSIS Action Lines
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C1. The role of governments and all stakeholders in the promotion of ICTs for development
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C2. Information and communication infrastructure
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C3. Access to information and knowledge
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C4. Capacity building
Sustainable Development Goals
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Goal 9: Build resilient infrastructure, promote sustainable industrialization and foster innovation
GDC Objectives
- Objective 1: Close all digital divides and accelerate progress across the Sustainable Development Goals
- Objective 2: Expand inclusion in and benefits from the digital economy for all