The World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) is a global forum aimed at promoting international cooperation in the field of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs). The WSIS is a series of high-level events organized by the United Nations (UN) in order to address issues related to the information society and the digital divide.
The WSIS has two main phases: the first phase took place in Geneva, Switzerland, in 2003, while the second phase occurred in Tunis, Tunisia, in 2005. These events were significant milestones in the global efforts to harness the potential of ICTs for socio-economic development and to bridge the digital divide between developed and developing countries.
The WSIS focuses on various aspects of the information society, including Internet governance, access to technology, e-learning, e-commerce, cybersecurity, and the use of ICTs for sustainable development. It serves as a platform for policymakers, experts, civil society organizations, and stakeholders from both the public and private sectors to engage in dialogue, share best practices, and collaborate on initiatives that promote the development and use of ICTs.
Through the WSIS, participants aim to build an inclusive and equitable information society, where all individuals can access and utilize ICTs to improve their lives and contribute to the overall development of their communities and nations. The WSIS emphasizes the importance of international cooperation, partnership, and the role of ICTs in achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
