In a unanimous decision on September 22, 2024, the United Nations General Assembly greenlit the "Pact for the Future" a far-reaching agreement aimed at fostering a safer, more peaceful, and inclusive world. At its core, the pact places a strong emphasis on digital equity and collaboration, with open source technologies taking centre stage.
The Global Digital Compact (GDC), a key component of the pact, sets out to harness digital tech for sustainable development and human rights. It tackles pressing issues like narrowing digital gaps, bolstering cybersecurity, and curbing tech misuse. Notably, the GDC puts open source front and centre in driving digital cooperation among UN member states.
Open Source Takes the Spotlight
The GDC's recognition of open source marks a significant shift in global tech policy. It acknowledges that digital public goods — including open-source software, data, AI models, standards, and content — are vital tools for countries to tailor digital solutions to their specific needs.
The compact lays out concrete steps to boost open source initiatives:
- Member states are tasked with developing and maintaining "safe and secure open-source software, open data, open AI models, and open standards" through collaborative efforts.
- There's a push for adopting open standards and ensuring interoperability, making it easier to use digital public goods across different platforms.
These commitments aim to level the playing field, ensuring that digital tools and infrastructure are within reach for all nations, especially those with limited resources.
A Call to Action
The UN is casting a wide net, inviting organizations from all sectors — international bodies, businesses, academia, tech experts, and civil society — to endorse the Compact and play an active role in making it a reality. This broad coalition is seen as crucial for turning the Compact's lofty goals into tangible outcomes.
With the first round of endorsements set to be announced in December 2024, open source advocates are optimistic that this framework will spark deeper collaboration and innovation in the global digital community.
Shaping a Digital Future for All
The adoption of the Pact for the Future signals a pivotal moment in how digital tech is viewed in global development. By putting open source and digital public goods at the forefront, the UN is paving the way for a more equitable digital landscape. This shift is expected to unlock new avenues for teamwork and innovation, ensuring that advances in tech benefit everyone and contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
For those interested in digging deeper, the full text of the Global Digital Compact and information on how to get involved are available on the UN's official website.
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