Declaration on Digital Public Infrastructure, AI and Data for Governance – Joint Communiqué by the G20 Troika
Context:
India, Brazil and South Africa agree to use digital public infra and AI to bridge the global inequality gap. This declaration, endorsed by several G20 countries, guest nations, and international organisations, underscores the potential of technology to bridge global inequalities and accelerate progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
About the G20 Declaration on DPI:
- The G20 Troika, comprising India, Brazil, and South Africa, unveiled a joint declaration on Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and data governance.
- Endorsed by multiple G20 nations, guest countries, and international organisations, the declaration highlights technology’s potential to bridge global inequalities and accelerate progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
- Recognising the transformative power of DPI and AI, the leaders emphasised fostering inclusive digital transformation.
Purpose of DPI Declaration Acceptance by G20:
The G20 declaration underscores the role of well-designed DPI and AI in leveraging data for development. The purpose is to:
- Create new jobs.
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- Improve health and education outcomes.
- Renew citizens’ trust in democratic governance.
- Facilitate equitable economic development.
The leaders envision DPI as a driver for transformative change, benefiting citizens globally through seamless and inclusive technological integration.
Why G20 Needs to Accept DPI Now:
Global economic growth has stagnated at just over 3%, the lowest rate since the turn of the century. Meanwhile, rapid technological advancements provide a unique opportunity to:
- Boost global growth.
- Reduce economic and digital inequalities.
- Accelerate progress toward the SDGs.
- Timely adoption of DPI and AI ensures nations harness these advancements for development-oriented and equitable solutions.
How DPI and AI Help Bridge the Global Inequality Gap:
DPI and AI have the potential to
- Enable inclusive economic participation by connecting small and large businesses.
- Empower individuals through better access to education, healthcare, and financial services.
- Address disparities in access to resources by using AI for targeted interventions.
- Enhance livelihoods at grassroots levels by creating seamless connections within local ecosystems.
Global Cooperation on DPI and AI for Development:
The declaration welcomed global initiatives like the Global Digital Compact (adopted at the UN Summit of the Future) and the 2024 Global DPI Summit in Cairo. These efforts underline the importance of international collaboration to build inclusive, development-oriented, and secure technological systems. Such cooperation can enable equitable access to technology and stimulate worldwide innovation.
Principles for Digital Systems to Ensure Inclusivity:
- Open, Modular, Interoperable, and Scalable Systems: Systems must follow design principles that ensure adaptability to diverse and evolving national needs, enabling seamless integration across sectors.
- Focus on Citizens: Technological systems should prioritise citizens, empowering them through better services and enhancing their quality of life.
- Technology-Neutral Approach: A level-playing field for market participants is crucial for fostering competition, innovation, and reducing digital economic asymmetries.
- Robust Data Governance: Frameworks must safeguard privacy, intellectual property rights, and security, ensuring fair market practices.
- Transparent and Equitable Data Principles: Transparency, fairness, and ethical management of data are central to fostering trust in technological systems.
- Trust as a Cornerstone: Trust is essential for flourishing democracies and technological adoption. Systems must be transparent, respect citizens’ rights, and ensure fairness in governance.
How DPI Helps Promote SDGs:
- Economic Growth: DPI fosters innovation and job creation, stimulating equitable economic progress.
- Health and Education: AI-driven solutions improve service delivery and accessibility in underserved areas.
- Reduced Inequalities: Technology bridges gaps in access to essential resources, levelling opportunities.
Sustainable Communities: DPI enables smart, sustainable solutions for urban and rural development.
