Dr. Sadr Calls for Bridging the Digital Divide at UN Science and Technology Forum in Geneva

According to the Ministry of Communications' Public Relations and Information Center,Head of the Information Technology Organization of Iran address was delivered at the 28th session of the CSTD, held within the framework of the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS).

Dr. Sadr highlighted the WSIS initiative as a crucial platform for tackling challenges arising from information and communication technologies (ICTs). He emphasized that the summit's core objective is to foster a shared vision and collective commitment towards building an inclusive information society where all countries and individuals can benefit from access to information.

The Deputy Minister acknowledged Iran's significant progress in developing its information society, citing advancements in fiber optic network expansion, mobile broadband deployment in both rural and urban areas, and the enhancement of electronic services in healthcare, commerce, education, agriculture, and science.

However, Dr. Sadr also raised concerns about the challenges hindering the realization of a truly inclusive information society. He argued that existing international mechanisms designed to provide financial and technological assistance have not been effectively implemented, contributing to the persistent and growing digital divide.

Furthermore, he criticized the lack of democratic and equitable internet governance, as outlined in the Tunis Agenda. "Despite the Tunis Agenda's emphasis on the equal role of all governments in internet governance, this has not been achieved," he stated.

A key aspect of Dr. Sadr's address was the condemnation of unilateral actions taken by some countries in the ICT sector. He argued that these actions pose a significant obstacle to bridging the digital divide and achieving an inclusive information society. "Unilateral sanctions and restrictions on the supply of hardware and software not only deprive developing countries of access to technology but also weaken the competitive and enabling environment needed for progress," he asserted.

Drawing on paragraph 70 of the Global Digital Compact, Dr. Sadr called for the establishment of practical mechanisms to strengthen international digital cooperation and eliminate unilateral measures. He also emphasized the need for accountability from multinational companies operating in the digital and artificial intelligence sectors. "Respect for cultural diversity, multilingualism, and the national sovereignty of countries must be considered in the implementation of this compact," he said.

Dr. Sadr’s address comes as the global community prepares to review the twenty-year progress of the World Summit on the Information Society and plan for its future. He expressed hope that through collaboration among all countries and international organizations, the challenges ahead will be identified and practical solutions will be developed.

The CSTD session, which aims to review progress on the implementation of WSIS outcomes, brought together representatives from various countries and experts in the field of information and communication technologies.