The UN Global Digital Compact, a key outcome of the 2024 Summit of the Future, seeks to promote an open, free, secure, and human-centered digital future, underpinned by universal human rights and supporting the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. The trainees of the EU Delegation placed the Compact at the centre of their conversation with Tomas Lamanauskas, sparking a lively debate about the role of international cooperation in shaping digital policies and the critical involvement of young professionals in driving related changes.

This year’s event attracted a diverse group of over 80 trainees and young professionals eager to engage in an interactive session about the Compact’s potential to shape the future of digital technologies and governance. EU Ambassador Lotte Knudsen highlighted the crucial role of young professionals in shaping the future of digital governance and emphasised that young professionals are not merely witnesses to change, but active agents in driving it. Her words resonated with the attendees, underlining that their voices and contributions are crucial in crafting a digital future that reflects their values and aspirations.

Lamanauskas led an in-depth conversation about the Global Digital Compact’s principles, objectives, and the implications for digital governance on a global scale highlighting the indispensability of multilateral cooperation in driving progress. He emphasised that while many refer to the “crisis of multilateralism” this era must become “the golden age of multilateralism”, as unique challenges and opportunities that we, as the humanity, face can only be addressed by nations working together. Responsive and effective multilateral institutions and frameworks are therefore needed more than ever. Similarly, our digital future needs to be shaped collaboratively and grounded in shared values and global standards.

“We need the whole UN family to tackle digital.” Tomas Lamanauskas, Deputy Secretary-General of the ITU

Lamanauskas discussed how young professionals can contribute to the ongoing development of digital policies and frameworks, reinforcing the crucial role of youth in shaping the digital future.

“Connect with people you disagree with.” Tomas Lamanauskas, Deputy Secretary-General of the ITU

Lamanauskas encouraged attendees to embrace diverse perspectives, underlining that building a collaborative and inclusive digital future depends on engaging with differing viewpoints, fostering mutual understanding, and bridging gaps across diverse backgrounds and beliefs. He further provided valuable career advice, shared personal insights from his professional journey, and offered a behind-the-scenes look at the dynamics of multilateral diplomacy.

The session was followed by a networking lunch, providing attendees the opportunity to continue discussions and connect with colleagues from across the UN system in Geneva.

We thank Tomas Lamanauskas for his insightful contributions and the trainees who made this event possible. The discussions held during the session will continue to influence the dialogue on the future of digital governance in Geneva and beyond.