Dear Madame President,
Distinguished Delegates,
Italy fully aligns itself with the statement delivered by the EU Delegation and wishes to add what follows from the national perspective.
The World Summit on the Information Society stands at the heart of global efforts to harness the power of information and communication technologies for social and economic development. Since its inception in 2003, WSIS has provided a vital platform for governments, private sector, civil society, and technical communities to work together in shaping the future of the digital world.
The challenges and opportunities presented by the digital revolution are profound. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the need for policies that promote inclusive development, universal access to digital technologies and the respect for human rights online is greater than ever. Italy has been a firm advocate of this vision. We believe that technology must serve as a tool for empowerment, equality and sustainability. For this reason, Italy remains deeply committed to fostering a digital ecosystem that is inclusive, accessible, ethical, and designed to benefit all people, in line with the achievement of the SDGs.
Central to the success of WSIS is the multistakeholder approach. The latter recognizes that no single group or sector can shape the future of the digital space alone. Governments, businesses, civil society, and technical communities must all come together to collaborate, share knowledge, and find solutions that are both effective and equitable. Italy is an active supporter of this approach, to ensure that digital policies reflect the diverse needs and priorities of all stakeholders.
Furthermore, we recognize the crucial role of the Internet Governance Forum in supporting this inclusive model. The IGF was established to provide a platform for open and transparent discussions on the governance of the internet that are not limited to governments. The IGF ensures that all voices, from governments to civil society, are heard in shaping the rules and norms that guide the global digital landscape. Bearing in mind the importance of this approach, in 2023 Italy established a national IGF Committee, which offers an opportunity for exchange of views to all relevant stakeholders.
The IGF is a very precious tool for the benefit of society and, therefore, Italy welcomes the establishment of its permanent mandate through this outcome document.
In closing, Italy will continue to support the advancement of WSIS. We are committed to ensuring that by upholding fundamental principles, identifying appropriate resources and building capacity, together we can shape a secure and prosperous digital future for all people and communities, where no one is left behind.
Thank you.
