Let Us Ensure that ‘Rapidly Evolving Technologies Serve All People, Equally’, Says Secretary-General, in Message for World Internet of Things Conference

Following is UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ message to the World Internet of Things Convention, in Beijing today:

I am pleased to send my greetings to the World Internet of Things Convention.

Digital technology has transformed every aspect of our lives.

It is also an increasingly powerful engine of business and economic growth.  Real-time data sharing, Internet of things applications, information networking and artificial intelligence (AI) are enabling the development of smart grids, smart homes and smart cities.  Across various sectors, including transportation, agriculture, energy, and health care, these technologies are improving quality of life, promoting sustainability and fostering more responsive services.

But not all countries or communities are benefitting equally.  For those without capacity or connectivity, the digital divide is an opportunity divide.  And as your theme reminds us, unleashing the potential of a new digital economy depends on a fully connected world.

Last month, leaders adopted the Global Digital Compact to help close the divide and support efforts to ensure that communities and countries get the financial and technological assistance to expand connectivity to all people.

On AI, we also made an essential breakthrough:  the first truly universal agreement on governance giving every country a seat at the AI table.

Digital technology is about bridging divides.  Let’s ensure that these rapidly evolving technologies serve all people, equally.