International Telecommunication Union

By supporting new broadband connection points and digital skills training, the UN-backed "Connected Communities" initiative is unlocking access to education, public services and economic resilience for women and rural communities in Chile.

A Sri Lankan eyecare entrepreneur learned how to protect her startup's AI system, datasets and brand with support from the World Intellectual Property Organization, positioning her venture to reach even more people with critical health services.

UN agencies collaborated to launch the Tonoas Smart Island Digital Hub with funding from the UN Joint SDG Fund, helping to improve digital inclusion, resilience and economic opportunity. The hub has set an example for sustainability across Micronesia’s islands.

The stakes are clear: digital transformation can either widen divides or bridge them. Through its work with UN agencies and the Resident Coordinators, the Joint SDG Fund has been investing in digital transformation across the world, shaping interlinked policies and channeling investments to country-led initiatives.

In the vast expanses of Mongolia, where nomadic herders roam with their livestock, access to technology can be a game-changer.

In Jordan, young people are taking the lead in the digital world. Through UN-supported initiatives, they're developing essential digital skills, combating misinformation, and becoming agents of change.

Countries worldwide are accelerating progress towards the SDGs by embracing transformative approaches, with RCs and UN teams supporting national governments to drive systemic change.

The Maldives takes bold action to combat climate change, pioneering a comprehensive early warning system. The UN Resident Coordinator's Office plays a crucial role in this effort, championing the 'Early Warnings for All' initiative to protect lives and build resilient communities.

UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed met with the Asia Pacific Regional Collaborative Platform in Thailand earlier this week, and called for accelerated action, innovation, and strategic investments to address multi-pronged challenges in the region.

Our UN teams are on the ground in 162 countries and territories, coordinating joint programmes and tackling a range of priorities and initiatives — from climate action and food security to gender equality and safety of civilians.

Celebrated annually on 8 September, International Literacy Day promotes the importance of literacy as a fundamental human right and aims to advance global efforts towards a more literate, equal, and inclusive society. In recent years, digital literacy has become an increasingly important part of the education and learning process; providing a generation of learners the writing, reading and technical skills to navigate our digital world.

In Kyrgyzstan, 2,061 out of 2,080 schools already got internet access. But connecting the last 1% of schools in the country requires truly innovative technologies and sustainable financing solutions.

UN teams are tirelessly working with authorities and partners to respond to the ongoing pandemic and other multifaceted challenges across the globe. Today, we highlight some of the coordinated efforts.

"Investments in closing the digital gender divide yield huge dividends for all. The United Nations is committed to working with girls so that this generation, whoever they are and whatever their circumstances, can fulfil their potential." - UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres.

UN teams continue to work with national and local authorities worldwide to ensure the safety and dignity of refugees and migrants, indigenous communities and children. Their efforts support the betterment of countries' health and socio-economic conditions, including better living conditions for those most at risk, lifesaving training, supplies and equipment, human rights protection and aid in ensuring no adult or child is left behind.