WSIS Forum 2023: High-Level Dialogue

Digital transformations are continuously changing how people live, work and function in their societies. The development and use of digital technologies is also impacting how governments operate and function. Digital transformation, including artificial intelligence (AI) adoption, has become one of the highest priorities for public organisations. For instance, governments are increasingly trying to digitize their services through technology because of growing public expectations. But today, many governments are asked to do more: to create an enabling environment in which green, inclusive, equitable digital transformation strengthens democratic societies and economies.

For digital transformation to succeed, governments need to change the way they function, take a whole-of-society, inclusive approach – their governance models, structures and organisations need to adapt to the new challenges and opportunities posed by the development and use of digital technologies.

However, in order to succeed, leaders in the public sector need to develop new competencies that equip them to address the complex challenges of digital era governance. There is growing evidence that the success of digital transformation projects in countries and in government rely heavily on the competencies of public sector officials – their capacity to develop enabling frameworks, to anticipate technology trends, to mitigate the ethical- and human rights–related risks, to understand the development of digital platforms, and to work effectively with chief technology officers (CTOs) and third-party vendors.  

Objectives

Facilitate exchange of views among High-level Speakers on the key policy areas related to digital governance that are important for their countries and the capacity building needs within the government associated with the development of policies for digital governance and digital transformation.  
High-Level Speakers to outline national, regional and international commitments with respect to digital governance and digital capacity building