International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin has emphasized the urgent need for global collaboration to tackle digital inequality, AI governance, and sustainability. Speaking in an interview with Mobile World Live, she highlighted the importance of industry and government partnerships in bridging the world’s digital divide.
Despite ongoing efforts, 2.6 billion people worldwide remain disconnected from the internet, a reality Bogdan-Martin described as “digital darkness.” The ITU estimates that addressing this gap will require a massive $1.6 trillion investment to build infrastructure, ensure affordability, and equip people with digital skills.
“Everyone—whether in industry or government—believes in the power of connectivity. So, we’re focused on that goal to connect the unconnected,” she stated.
Bogdan-Martin also discussed AI’s environmental impact, noting that while AI can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, it is also an energy-intensive and water-demanding technology. To promote responsible AI deployment, she pointed to the Green Digital Action Coalition, an ITU-led initiative launched at COP29, which has already secured 1,000 signatories committed to sustainable digital solutions.
Another key issue she raised was gender disparity in digital and AI fields. With fewer women working in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) careers, she stressed the need to encourage young girls to enter the tech sector.
“We’re pushing to get girls excited about careers in STEM,” she said, underscoring the role of digital inclusion in economic empowerment.
Bogdan-Martin highlighted the ITU’s Partner2Connect initiative, which has already secured $73 billion in commitments to improve global connectivity. The ITU aims to raise $100 billion by next year to accelerate digital access and inclusion worldwide.
Despite the challenges, she remains hopeful, citing the increasing number of financial commitments and policy initiatives aimed at closing the digital divide.
“I am optimistic because we see commitments being made.”
