Excellencies,

Dear Young Leaders,

I am honored to be invited as a part of this panel and to have the privilege of hearing directly from young leaders who are at the forefront of advancing digital transition.

Digital inclusion is vital: Today’s young people have never experienced a world without the internet. Yet, an estimated 2.2 billion children and young people aged 25 or younger, two-thirds of the global population in that age group, do not have internet access at home, placing them at risk of being left behind.

Only if we bridge this divide and overcome digital disparities for young people can we truly benefit from technology.

UNDP advocates for 'intentionally inclusive' digital development that empowers young people and For example,in Asia-Pacific, Youth Co:Lab, co-created by UNDP and Citi Foundation in 2017, benefited over 19,000 young people in 28 countries, and helped launch or improve over 2,600 youth-led social innovation and entrepreneurship teams, strengthening their SDG solutions and investment readiness. The Youth Co:Lab platform actively supports young people in their learning and capacity development to be able to gain digital skills and thrive in the modern labor market.

Crucially, young people must have a say in the shaping of our shared and digital future. UNDP leverages technology to support meaningful youth participation, while also protecting their rights. This so-called ‘super election year’ has highlighted the importance of young people in political processes. UNDP works with countries to foster greater youth inclusion and participation throughout electoral cycles, including by supporting digital platforms and tools that protect their fundamental rights.

Young people are already leading the way. Together, let us seize this Summit of the Future to accelerate sustainable development and truly benefit from technology by supporting meaningful youth participation, leveraging youth-led tech solutions and ensuring digital access and skills for youth of all backgrounds.

Thank you.