National statement Denmark - Informal Consultations on the Global Digital Compact

Check Against Delivery

Excellences, Co-facilitators,

Denmark welcomes the draft structure for the next phase of developing the Global Digital Compact.

We believe that it reflects the most important key principles for realizing an inclusive, safe, secure and sustainable digital future for all, and importantly points to action-oriented commitments and concrete proposals for monitoring progress.

As we move forward, Denmark would like to propose that we focus on making it a truly Global Digital Compact.

***

For Denmark, it is first and foremost about creating an inclusive digital future for all. One with respect for human rights, free from oppressive misuse of digital technologies, in which all people can benefit from the tremendous opportunities associated with the digital transition and participate in the digital economy.

For the digital future to be inclusive, all people should be able to shape and participate in it. This is crucial in order to make sure that the continued rapid technology development reflects the needs of people and responds to societal challenges.

These are the founding principles of the multistakeholder model. Including stakeholders at all levels of society and across continents will ensure that technology is steered by real needs, human rights, ethical and societal considerations, and principles of accountability and transparency. This goes for the development, deployment, and governance of technology.

***

Realizing the positive vision for a global digital future is a question about realizing the potential for individuals to live freer, better and safer lives. As well as addressing risks and ensuring safety.

This includes addressing the global digital divide, expanding connectivity to allow people everywhere to have unhindered access to a global, free, safe and secure Internet.

Such a positive and inclusive vision for our digital future will have human rights at its core. This includes freedom of expression, thought and opinion, freedom of assembly and association, and to be free from discrimination. 

***

We believe these principal elements should be central to the preamble of the Global Digital Compact, and help steer the principles and their corresponding commitments.

We appreciate the crucial role of the UN in this endeavour. The UN is uniquely placed to marshal momentum, commitments, and resources to ensure that technology delivers on our shared goals.

We look forward to continue to engage constructively with all relevant stakeholders to create an ambitious and truly Global Digital Compact. A Compact that strengthens global digital cooperation with human rights, sustainability, safety and opportunity for all at its very core.

Thank you.

[No text in field]