Global Digital Compact
A UN framework for international digital cooperation.
How the laws define this
Both instruments establish that the Global Digital Compact is a United Nations effort aimed at outlining shared principles for an open, free, and secure digital future for everyone. They agree on this core purpose of establishing shared norms for digital cooperation. However, the instruments diverge in how they define its structure and execution. In Governing AI for Humanity: Final Report of the High-Level Advisory Body on Artificial Intelligence, it is characterized as an intergovernmental agreement adopted by the UN General Assembly. Conversely, Resolution A/RES/79/325 — Terms of reference and modalities for the establishment and functioning of the Independent International Scientific Panel on Artificial Intelligence and the Global Dialogue on Artificial Intelligence Governance describes it as a foundational framework whose objectives are directly supported by an AI Panel and Global Dialogue to inform global AI norms within the broader digital agenda.
Synthesised from the 2 statutory definitions below. Each one is quoted in full, with its source.
Definitions (2)
An intergovernmental agreement adopted by the UN General Assembly to establish shared principles for an open, free, and secure digital future for all.
The Global Digital Compact is a United Nations initiative that seeks to outline shared principles for an open, free, and secure digital future for everyone. It serves as a foundational framework for digital cooperation, and the AI Panel and Global Dialogue are intended to contribute directly to its objectives by informing global norms and principles for AI within this broader digital agenda.