New Delhi: The digital divide is a major concern in today’s world. As they increasingly rely on technology for education, employment, and social development, numerous young people around the world are at risk of being left behind, said Marcos Neto, UN Assistant Secretary-General, and Director of UNDP’s Bureau for Policy and Programme Support.
At the Summit of the Future, a session was held on ‘YouthLead: Shaping an Inclusive Digital Future for All’. The panel, led by Marcos Neto, focused on the importance of digital inclusion and the need to bridge the gap between young people who have and have not internet access at home.
According to the UNDP, 2.2 billion children and young people under the age of 25 do not have internet access at home. This lack of internet access places them at risk of being left behind. “The UNDP advocates for ‘intentionally inclusive’ digital development that empowers young people,” Neto said.
“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,” Neto added as he emphaised the importance of young people in political processes citing recent elections across the world.
“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,” he added.
The YouthCo:Lab initiative, co-created by UNDP and Citi Foundation in 2017, has helped over 19,000 young people in 28 countries. The platform provides young people with digital skills and resources and opportunities to participate in social innovation and entrepreneurship projects.