In January, the Office of the Secretary-General’s Envoy on Technology has been restructured into the UN Office for Digital and Emerging Technologies (ODET), the United Nations reported in its press-release.
This shift stems from a 24 December 2024 resolution by the UN General Assembly, building on the adoption of the Global Digital Compact during the Summit of the Future in September 2024.
With an expanded mandate, ODET will play a key role in helping the UN address the challenges and opportunities presented by today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape. A major priority for the office will be supporting the implementation and follow-up of the Global Digital Compact, with a strong emphasis on AI governance.
ODET will focus on five strategic areas to drive digital cooperation and governance within the UN system. First, it will serve as the primary advocate and focal point for digital cooperation, engaging with Member States and stakeholders to ensure a unified approach. The office will also facilitate inclusive, multistakeholder policy dialogues, fostering discussions on emerging technologies and their global impact.
Additionally, ODET will advise senior UN leadership on key technology trends, guiding the organisation’s strategic approach to evolving digital challenges and opportunities. Strengthening coordination across UN agencies will be a core priority, ensuring cohesive efforts on digital and emerging technologies. Finally, ODET will play a critical role in supporting the implementation and follow-up of the Global Digital Compact, driving forward initiatives that promote equitable and responsible technological development.
The Office of the UN Secretary-General’s Envoy on Technology was established in early 2021 in response to recommendations from the High-Level Panel on Digital Cooperation’s 2019 report, ‘The Age of Digital Interdependence.’
Its primary role was to drive the implementation of the Secretary-General’s Roadmap for Digital Cooperation, coordinating efforts across UN entities and fostering dialogue between governments, the private sector, and civil society. The Office advised the Secretary-General on emerging technologies, promoting a strategic and inclusive approach to harnessing digital opportunities while mitigating risks.
Key initiatives included contributing to the development of the Global Digital Compact (GDC), aimed at creating an open, inclusive, secure, and equitable digital future. The Office also supported the Partner2Connect (P2C) initiative with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) to enhance connectivity in underserved regions.