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International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin has underscored the critical need for global cooperation in connectivity, AI governance, and sustainability, stressing that industry-wide efforts are essential to addressing the world’s digital challenges.
Speaking to Mobile World Live, Bogdan-Martin acknowledged the growing complexity of digital connectivity but remained hopeful about advancements in the sector.
“Everyone, whether it’s industry or government, believes in the power of connectivity. So, we’re focused on that goal to connect the unconnected,” she stated.
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Despite efforts to expand digital infrastructure, 2.6 billion people remain without internet access, a situation she described as “digital darkness”. According to ITU estimates, closing this connectivity gap will require approximately $1.6 trillion in investment.
The ITU’s focus, she explained, is on building critical infrastructure, ensuring affordability, and equipping people with digital skills to drive inclusivity.
Bogdan-Martin also addressed AI’s dual impact on the environment, describing it as an “energy-hungry and water-thirsty” technology. However, she emphasised that AI can also contribute to sustainability, particularly in reducing greenhouse gas emissions when properly deployed.
To promote environmentally responsible digital advancements, she highlighted ITU-led initiatives, including the Green Digital Action Coalition, launched at COP29, which has already attracted 1,000 signatories.
Another key area of concern for the ITU is gender inequality in the digital and AI sectors. Bogdan-Martin pointed out that fewer women work in these fields and called for efforts to encourage girls to pursue STEM careers.
“We’re pushing to get girls excited about careers in STEM,” she said, adding that digital inclusion is vital in ensuring access to economic opportunities.
Bogdan-Martin stressed that addressing these challenges requires a multi-stakeholder approach, involving governments, telecom operators, satellite providers, and academic institutions. She cited the ITU’s Partner2Connect initiative, which has already secured $73 billion in commitments to boost connectivity worldwide. The goal, she revealed, is to reach $100 billion by next year.
Despite the enormous challenges, she remains optimistic, stating:
“I am optimistic because we see commitments being made.”
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