The United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) has elected Saudi Arabia to the Committee on Science and Technology for Development (CSTD) for the term from 2027 to 2030. This election reflects the Kingdom's enhanced international presence and its leadership role in shaping global trends and policies in the fields of science, technology, and innovation.
The Communications, Space, and Technology Authority reported that the election of the Kingdom embodies its active contribution to discussing global issues related to emerging technologies, data governance, artificial intelligence, and supporting sustainable development goals. The authority also indicated that the Kingdom's membership will contribute to following up on the implementation of the outcomes of the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) and the Global Digital Compact (GDC), as well as participating in the development of relevant international recommendations submitted to the United Nations General Assembly for adoption.
Event Details
This achievement comes in coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, enhancing the Kingdom's role as an active international partner in the United Nations system, especially in the fields of communications, technology, and space. This election allows the Kingdom to exchange experiences with member states and international organizations, contributing to the formation of a sustainable digital environment and enhancing the Kingdom's competitiveness and leadership on a global scale.
It is noteworthy that the Kingdom chaired the twenty-fifth session of the committee in 2022, represented by the Communications, Space, and Technology Authority, reflecting its international standing and the trust of the international community in its leadership role in digital fields.
Background & Context
The Committee on Science and Technology for Development (CSTD) was established in 1992 and includes 43 member states. This committee serves as the primary advisory reference for the United Nations General Assembly and the Economic and Social Council in the fields of science and technology and their impact on development. It is responsible for formulating recommendations and guidelines and developing policies to advance developing countries, in addition to its periodic follow-up on the implementation of the outcomes of the World Summit on the Information Society and the Global Digital Compact.
The committee aims to enhance international cooperation in the fields of science and technology, contributing to achieving sustainable development and improving the quality of life in developing countries.
Impact & Consequences
The election of the Kingdom to the committee is a strategic step that reflects its commitment to enhancing innovation and technology as a means to achieve sustainable development. This election strengthens the Kingdom's ability to influence global policies related to technology and innovation, contributing to achieving the goals of Vision 2030.
Moreover, this membership will provide the Kingdom with a greater opportunity to participate in shaping global policies related to emerging technologies, enhancing its position as a regional hub for technology and innovation.
Regional Significance
The election of Saudi Arabia to the Committee on Science and Technology for Development represents an opportunity to enhance Arab cooperation in the fields of science and technology. The Kingdom can play a pivotal role in supporting other Arab countries in achieving sustainable development goals through knowledge and experience exchange.
This achievement also reflects the ability of Arab countries to influence the international arena, enhancing their standing in the fields of science and technology.
In conclusion, the election of the Kingdom to the committee is an important step towards enhancing its role as an active force in the international arena, contributing to achieving sustainable development in the region.