Multilateral forum highlights digital inclusion challenges and opportunities

Experts from policy-making agencies, international organizations, social organizations, academia, and businesses gathered to discuss promoting digital inclusion through human development and technology at the Multilateral Forum (MSF) 2024 on October 18.

The MSF 2024, themed "Human Development and Technology Towards an Inclusive Digital Vietnam," focused on identifying challenges and unlocking opportunities to build an inclusive digital society where everyone, especially vulnerable groups, can benefit from technology.

The MSF 2024 aims to promote multilateral cooperation and innovation through technological solutions to expand access, bridge the digital divide, and unleash human potential, particularly for disadvantaged groups.

Mr. Patrick Haverman, Deputy Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Vietnam, emphasized the importance of digital inclusion in the digital age. He highlighted the risk of exclusion for certain groups and questioned how to ensure that everyone can benefit from digital opportunities.

UNDP believes that achieving digital inclusion requires focusing on three key areas: prioritizing the needs of individuals and ensuring that technology serves everyone; recognizing the need for collaboration among different stakeholders to address the digital divide; and building necessary infrastructure and enhancing digital capabilities to ensure everyone can benefit from digital transformation.

Vietnam has made significant strides in digital transformation, with nearly 80% of the population connected to the internet. The country's ranking on the United Nations e-Government Development Index has improved by 15 places since 2022, reaching 71st out of 193 countries.

The MSF 2024 serves as a platform for connecting policy, technology, and social needs, creating momentum for building an inclusive digital future for all Vietnamese citizens.