The United States recently shared its perspectives at the United Nations meeting focused on the Global Digital Compact (GDC) during its second informal consultation. The U.S. delegation emphasized the importance of reaffirming commitments to international law, including human rights obligations, and highlighted the role of multistakeholder cooperation in promoting sustainable development and gender equality.
A notable point from the U.S. remarks was the suggestion to explicitly recognize the technical community as a unique stakeholder group, reflecting a longstanding practice in UN digital discussions.
On advancing an open and secure digital future, the U.S. identified several priorities within this commitment. These include improving digital literacy and skills acquisition, leveraging technology with appropriate safeguards, closing digital divides—particularly gender-based—and accelerating digital transformation. Additionally, strengthening individuals' capacity to safely use the Internet in their own language is seen as crucial for realizing economic and social potential, especially for underserved or vulnerable communities. Addressing challenges posed by online platforms, such as technology-facilitated gender-based violence, was also underscored.
Regarding securing a shared digital future, it was stated that "there can be no shared digital future unless there is a secure digital future." The U.S. expressed firm commitment to creating a trustworthy digital ecosystem that protects all people, particularly those facing multiple forms of discrimination.
In terms of fostering digital solidarity and cross-border data flows, the U.S. advocated for specific and targeted areas of alignment on data governance rather than broad principles. It was noted that any sharing or transfer of technology should be voluntary and mutually agreed upon.
Finally, on follow-up actions post-GDC discussions, the United States opposed establishing new institutions or processes like a proposed Digital Cooperation Forum. Instead, it recommended strengthening existing UN frameworks such as WSIS and IGF while encouraging stakeholders to contribute according to their mandates.
The United States expressed readiness to collaborate with all stakeholders towards achieving successful outcomes from GDC initiatives.