How can IBSA Nations Lead the Way For Digital Governance?
According to a report published by DiploFoundation, India, Brazil, and South Africa, which have together formed the tripartite IBSA Forum, may play a prominent role in reforming digital governance. The foundation also notes that the first tangible results from IBSA’s digital momentum can be expected during India’s G-20 presidency, which would promote a new gold standard for data.
What is IBSA?
IBSA is a distinct Forum comprising India, Brazil and South Africa, three large democracies and major economies from three different continents, facing similar challenges. All three countries are developing pluralistic, multi-cultural, multi-ethnic, multi-lingual, and multi-religious nations. The grouping was formalized and named the IBSA Dialogue Forum when the three countries’ Foreign Ministers met in Brasilia on 6 June 2003 and issued the Brasilia Declaration. IBSA has no headquarters or a permanent executive Secretariat; rather, it depends on the rotating presidency of member states.
Objectives of IBSA
The Forum seeks to reduce hunger and poverty in the countries in the South, identify the best practices for combating hunger and poverty through facilitating the execution of replicable and sustainable projects in the countries of the global South and build new partnerships for development.
Issues at stake
Current issues in digital governance include the protection of submarine cables and satellites, the production of semiconductors, and the free flow of data. India, Brazil, and South Africa have made significant strides in digital infrastructure and connectivity. However, there are still significant disparities in access to digital technologies and skills, particularly among marginalized communities. Additionally, IBSA has been collaborating on this issue to promote a safe and secure digital environment.
How can IBSA Contribute to Global Digital Governance?
IBSA can immensely contribute to Global Digital Governance through digital inclusion by prioritizing affordable access to citizens, supporting training for digital skills, and creating a legal framework for the growth of small digital enterprises. India leads the way with a vibrant digital economy.
Source: IBSA Forum The Hindu Times