NAIROBI, Kenya- The Annual Meeting of the New Champions (AMNC) in Dalian, China, held last week, brought together global decision-makers to discuss pressing issues, including the digital economy’s rise and AI’s rapid infiltration across industries.
According to “The Annual Meeting of the New Champions (AMNC)” statement, over two-thirds of new value in the next decade is expected to come from digitally enabled platforms.
The conference emphasized the need for multi-stakeholder coordination and governance to harness the benefits and mitigate the risks of these technological advances.
As the digital economy expands, ensuring that no one is left behind remains a critical challenge.
Despite the digital revolution, nearly 2.7 billion people worldwide still lack internet access, posing a significant barrier to realizing the full potential of digital technologies.
This digital divide threatens to exacerbate existing inequalities, concentrating resources and creating instability.
As reported in the AMNC statement, addressing this issue requires a global effort in upskilling and reskilling workforces to keep pace with technological transformation.
Millions of jobs are already being disrupted, and this trend is expected to continue.
By implementing innovative support systems and emphasizing digital literacy, we can help workers adapt to the evolving digital landscape.
The Role of International Standards in a Digital World
International standards are crucial for ensuring a cooperative and inclusive digital transformation.
As technology evolves, these standards help businesses navigate disruption and transition sustainably.
For example, the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) plays a vital role in establishing globally recognized standards that make lives easier, safer, and better.
The responsible development of AI is a prime area where these standards are essential.
AI’s ability to transform industries through automation, intelligence, and rapid data analysis offers enormous potential.
This necessitates careful regulation to ensure ethical use, protect privacy, and eliminate bias.
By working closely with international organizations, regulators, policymakers, and end users, we can create a cohesive ecosystem that fosters trust and widespread adoption of AI.
Ensuring a Future of Inclusive Innovation
One of the AMNC’s primary goals was to ensure emerging technologies benefit everyone, not just a select few.
Engaging with developing countries is crucial for reducing the digital divide and building capacity to harness digital opportunities.
This approach not only aids in global trade participation but also empowers local businesses and communities.
By 2025, tens of billions of smart devices will be collecting, analyzing, and sharing data to create innovative products and services that better meet societal needs.
This envisioned future emphasizes sustainable growth, where digital economies deliver positive outcomes for people, the planet, and overall economic prosperity.
