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Digital Inclusion

UN Chief urges Asia’s media to bridge digital divide

By Pia Rufino | 30 May 2011

UN Secretary-General Ban Ki- moon has called on delegates of Asian Media Summit to promote multiple languages in new media and ensure free access to the internet and social media to bridge the digital divide.

“Freedom of expression, information and association are not abstract principles; they are bedrock rights that states have an obligation to fulfil,” he said. “All of this is essential to make the most of the power of digital media to transform lives and societies for good.”

The UN Secretary General’s has urged policymakers during World Telecommunication and Information Society Day to do more efforts to ensure rural communities are able to take advantage of the latest technologies and not fall victim to the digital divide.

“As we bridge the digital divide, we narrow the chasm that separates those with and without access to information and knowledge, thereby broadening opportunities for a better life,” he said.

The 8th Asian Media Summit held in Hanoi, Vietnam attracted about 600 delegates composed of participants—Ministers, General Directors, policymakers, broadcasters—from more than 50 countries in the region and other parts of the World.

The annual meeting, organized by the Asia-Pacific Institute for Broadcasting Development, provides a forum for media agencies in the region to share their experiences and ideas on radio and television broadcasting and technology.

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