World summit on the information society 1 WSIS: An Opportunity for the Private Sector Mr. Yoshio...

world summit on the information society 1

WSIS: An Opportunity forWSIS: An Opportunity forthe Private Sectorthe Private Sector

Mr. Yoshio UTSUMI Secretary-General,

International Telecommunication Union October 17, 2003


WSIS: Origins and status WSIS originally proposed by ITU PP in 1998 Formally endorsed by the UN in 2001 Regional meetings, 2002 – 2003 PrepCom process, started in July 2002 First phase, Geneva 10-12 December 2003 Second phase, Tunis, 16-18 November 2005


Why do we need a WSIS? To tackle the injustices of the digital divide ICTs are transforming the economy and

society Tremendous benefits in health, education,

trade, private sector investment and jobs But too many are being being left behind

70% of Internet users live in high income countries that account for only 16% of the world’s population

More than 1.5 million villages remain unconnected


Why do we need a WSIS? To use ICTs to meet the Millennium Development Goals The Millennium Development Goals set

targets in the areas of reducing poverty, halving world hunger, providing universal primary education for all, combating disease and homelessness etc

ICTs will not solve these problems, but they are an important part of the toolbox to do so


Why do we need a WSIS? To build confidence, trust and security in ICTs The Information Society will provide much

of the world’s future employment Demand for ICTs and their use will drive

consumer spending But citizens have legitimate concerns over

fundamental freedoms, security, loss of privacy and protecting their children


Role of the ITU in WSIS ITU is lead UN Agency for Summit

Providing financial and human resources SG chairs HLSOC of Summit

Working Group of ITU Council Inputs to draft declaration and action plan Stock-taking of ITU programmes relavant to WSIS

Summit Events in December Workshops, roundtables and high-level panel ITU stand will showcase projects of ITU and its

membership


Role of the ITU – The Way Forward Possible mechanism for coordination and

follow up ITU membership structure as a possible

basis for global compact ITU’s structure of Member States and Sector

Members is unique in the UN system

Benchmarks and Monitoring Digital Opportunity Index ICT Development Report ICT success stories website


Why Participate?

1. Outcomes will affect your business

2. New business opportunities

3. Audience of world’s decision makers

4. First truly global gathering of leaders from all sectors in the field


Closing Thoughts

Digital divide is fueling greater inequality WSIS is a unique platform for global

action Everyone has a role to play

Private sector has unique experience and expertise to contribute

Impact on political direction of the Summit and specific projects


website: www.itu.int/wsis

contact: [email protected]

Thank you for your attention

World summit on the information society 1 WSIS: An Opportunity for the Private Sector Mr. Yoshio...

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