EU Statement – UN General Assembly 3rd Committee: Interactive Dialogue with UN DESA

Thank you Chair!

I have the honor to speak on behalf of the European Union and its Member States.

Mr. Katoanga, we would like to thank UN DESA for its report on the opportunities and challenges of information and digital technologies for improving social policies.

Digital technology is changing people's lives. The EU wants to enable people to fully and equally enjoy the opportunities that the digital transition offers. However, this requires bridging the digital divides. We are committed to building a world where everyone has access to inclusive digital technology, notably through our EU Digital Strategy. For instance, we have invested in the AfricaConnect project, which established a high-capacity internet network for research and education in Southern and Eastern Africa, providing the region with a gateway to global research collaboration. In order to bridge the digital divides, we also need to ensure that women and girls are fully represented in the conceptualization, development, and use of digital technologies.

Furthermore, we recognize the transformative potential of digital technology to improve the efficiency and inclusiveness of social services. By leveraging digital technologies, we also empower entrepreneurial development, fostering a more inclusive economy where innovation and social development drive sustainable growth for all. As the report highlights, these technologies can facilitate the inclusion of persons with disabilities, particularly in education and healthcare. However, as it also rightly points out, this entails significant risks, including digital exclusion and discrimination, in particular for women and girls, and violation of the right of privacy. Addressing this key issue is a commitment of the Global Digital Compact. Therefore, comprehensive legal frameworks should be adopted to allow us to fully exploit the potential of digitalization, while making sure that the human rights and fundamental freedoms of each individual, are protected, both online and offline.

The EU firmly believes that digital technology should first and foremost protect and promote human rights, the rule of law, support democracy, and ensure that all digital players act responsibly and safely. We are committed to the promotion of these values across the world.

Mr. Katoanga,

There remains a gender digital divide. What concrete steps can States take to address this issue?

We would also like to know what kind of legislation would need to be enacted, beyond acts upholding the right to privacy and data protection, in order to ensure a fair and safe online environment for all.

Thank you.