In our rapidly evolving digital landscape, the pursuit of computational supremacy has become a global race. Quantum computing, artificial intelligence (AI), and other frontier technologies are reshaping human progress. However, as we accelerate toward this digital frontier, we encounter a stark reality: a deepening gap between those who benefit from these innovations and the next billion who remain on the periphery, dreaming of internet access. The Digital Divide Revisited: Unseen Barriers The term “digital divide” traditionally referred to the gap between those with internet access and those without. But today, it encompasses more than mere connectivity. Let’s explore the invisible barriers that exacerbate this divide: High Costs: While efforts focus on connecting everyone, affordability remains a critical issue. Internet prices in many developing countries far exceed the United Nations’ target of less than 2% of the national average monthly income1. Bridging this cost gap is essential. Low Digital Literacy: Access alone is insufficient. Empowering users with digital literacy skills is equally vital. Without the ability to navigate complex interfaces and utilize online tools effectively, connectivity remains underutilized1. Complex User Interfaces: Complicated interfaces hinder adoption. We must design user-friendly experiences that empower even the least tech-savvy individuals to harness the power of computation. Towards Inclusive Computation: A Multistakeholder Dialogue Our proposed Day 0 event aims to foster dialogue among stakeholders governments, tech companies, civil society, and academia around the following key elements: Shared Infrastructure: Imagine a world where shared networking infrastructure built on progressive clean energy enables seamless computation. By pooling resources, we can bridge gaps and democratize access. Quality Data: Access to clean, reliable data is fundamental. Let’s advocate for policies that prioritize data quality and openness, ensuring that everyone benefits from the digital ecosystem. Open Source Collaboration: Frontier technologies thrive when knowledge flows freely. Encouraging open-source collaboration can level the playing field, especially between global south and north regions. Literacy and Norms: Literacy extends beyond reading and writing. Digital literacy understanding algorithms, privacy, and security is essential. Norms around frontier computation should prioritize inclusivity. Social Capital as Human Capital We believe that interconnectedness is the bedrock of progress. When social capital knowledge shared, experiences exchanged is amplified by a robust internet infrastructure, it becomes human capital. Civic action and innovation emerge when barriers dissolve, and equal shaping of frontier tech becomes a reality We shall ensure effective engagement balance of using active chat, online equal slot management in questions, Use of the online mentimeter feature for polls and reflection for a collective and distributed inclusive participation of stakeholders.
Open Zoom
