Ensure technologies not used to mislead public: UN chief

Dhaka, May 17 (UNB) – UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Friday urged everyone to work together to ensure that the digital economy delivers for all.

“We must also recognise our shared responsibility to ensure that these technologies are not used to incite violence, to fuel hatred, or to mislead the public,” he said in a message marking the World Telecommunication and Information Society Day that falls on May 17.

He said that everyone must remain alert to these and other perils while joining efforts to harness technological advances for the common good.

The world is celebrating the 50th anniversary of the World Telecommunication and Information Society Day, highlighting the importance of international technology standards in accelerating innovation worldwide.

“Technological advances such as 5G and the – Internet of Things – have the potential to deliver considerable social and economic benefits and to drive progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals,” said the UN chief.

He said the standards-making process of the International Telecommunication Union is more important than ever.

Guterres commended ITU’s commitment to inclusivity, consensus and bridge-building among governments, companies and universities from all regions of the world.