E​merging Technology for Connectivity: Accelerating Digital Transformation in LDCs, LLDCs and SIDS

Welcome to ITU’s Global event on Emerging Technology for Connectivity 2021 with a focus on the Least Developed Countries(L​DCs), Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs) and Small Island Developing States (SIDS). The event takes place from 5 July to 16 July.

The event’​s overall objective is to promote the wide-scale deployment of emerging technology to contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The Emerging Technology Week 2021 will specifically target SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), SDG11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

Aligned with the objectives of the 5th United Nations Conference on the Least Developed Countries (LDC5), the event will provide a platform to discuss and engage in the use of emerging technology for connectivity to accelerate the digital transformation of LDCs, LLDCs and SIDS and close the digital divide.

The event will touch upon the fundamental features of emerging technology for connectivity, as well as specific application fields for Artificial Intelligence, IoT, Big Data, low earth orbit satellites, 5G, digital government, blockchain among others.

The event will highlight potential challenges and solutions, as countries plan for economic recovery and prepare for the new normal. It will showcase best practices, enlarge the space for participation and support efforts to leverage emerging technology in endeavours to achieve the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

This event will build partnerships and foster reflection on emerging technology through the exchange of experiences and solutions, and by engaging a diverse range of international, regional, and national stakeholders.