eCommerce Week 2022 : Call for Session Proposals Now Open

A topical theme at a crucial juncture

To be organized by UNCTAD in collaboration with eTrade for all and other partners simultaneously in Geneva and online from 25 to 29 April 2022, the eCommerce Week will look at ways to strengthen the ability of developing countries, including least developed countries (LDCs), to continue engaging in and benefiting from e-commerce and the digital economy, to build more resilient and inclusive societies, in a dramatically different post-COVID environment.

Under the theme Data and Digitalization for Development, the 2022 edition will put special emphasis on data and cross-border data flows and the crucial role they play in economic and social development. Reflecting on the wide differences that exist between and within countries to harness data, the connectivity-related digital divide is being heightened by what can be called a data divide. Countries with limited capacities to turn data into digital intelligence and business opportunities, and use them for economic and social development, are at a clear disadvantage.

The eCommerce Week2022 will also shine a light on how the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted digital transformations globally.

A not to-be-missed event – now held simultaneously in Geneva and online

To reach out to a wider audience, and to adapt to a new reality and maximize flexibility, the eCommerce Week2022 will take on a hybrid format through a combination of physical and virtual events.

As the leading global forum for decision-makers, experts, leaders and key stakeholders from all backgrounds, including the private sector and civil society the eCommerce Week2022 will offer a unique platform to :

• Discuss ways to reframe and broaden the international policy debate on harnessing cross-border flows of digital data through the development lens
• Hear from leading partners and stakeholders about the critical challenges to harness data for value creation in the digital economy
• Learn more about a whole-of-society approach to the digital transformation.

Throughout the week, special emphasis will be given to concrete and actionable solutions to pressing issues related to the digital transformation of our economies.

How to organize a session

As per usual eCommerce Week practice, UNCTAD welcomes proposals to organize a session during the week-long conference.

APPLICATION PROCESS
All proposals must be submitted online by 10 January 2022 via the form accessible below. Proposals sent via any other means will not be taken into consideration.

SELECTION PROCESS
UNCTAD is responsible for the selection process, which will be based on the following mandatory criteria:

• Relevance: Clear and strong link to the overall theme of the conference: “Data and Digitalization for Development”
• Policy recommendations: Provide practical options for the area under consideration in the session
• Multi-stakeholder approach: Each session must be co-organized by several entities/organizations, as to abide by the inclusive format of the eCommerce Week