High-Level Dialogue: The role of parliaments in shaping our digital future


ITU and IPU

Session 476

Friday, 11 July 2025 10:15–11:15 (UTC+02:00) Physical (on-site) and Virtual (remote) participation Plenary Room C, Palexpo Interpretation: EN/FR/AR/ZH/ES/RU High-Level Dialogue
Register »

Physical (on-site) and Virtual (remote) participation


The digital transformation has fundamentally reshaped societies worldwide, creating unprecedented opportunities while exposing persistent inequalities. As technology companies achieve unprecedented global influence and artificial intelligence emerges as a transformative force, questions of democratic governance and accountability have become more pressing than ever. 

Parliaments worldwide face the complex task of governing technologies that evolve faster than traditional legislative processes. The governance challenges surrounding the internet and social media over recent decades offer crucial lessons as lawmakers now grapple with artificial intelligence, algorithmic decision-making, and emerging technologies that will define the next phase of human development. 

This high-level dialogue seeks to highlight how parliaments can effectively contribute to shaping digital governance frameworks that promote innovation while protecting fundamental rights and democratic values. The session will explore strategies for bridging digital divides, ensuring equitable access to digital opportunities, and establishing robust accountability mechanisms for technology platforms and AI systems.

 

Panellists
Ms. Doreen Bogdan-Martin
Ms. Doreen Bogdan-Martin Secretary-General International Telecommunication Union

Mr. Martin Chungong
Mr. Martin Chungong IPU Secretary-General Inter-Parliamentary Union

Ms. Khusela Diko
Ms. Khusela Diko Member of the National Assembly, Chairperson of Portfolio Committee on Communications and Digital Technologies South Africa

Ms. Amira Saber
Ms. Amira Saber Member of the People’s Assembly Egypt

Mr. Kenneth Pugh
Mr. Kenneth Pugh Senator Parliament of Chile

Mr. Rodrigo Goñi
Mr. Rodrigo Goñi Member of the House of Representatives Uruguay

Sustainable Development Goals
  • Goal 16 logo Goal 16: Promote just, peaceful and inclusive societies