The WSA Grand Jury is where the winners who's projects will be celebrated in the next Global Congress in Hyderabad, were chosen. During the Jury, a carefully selected group of international experts congregated to evaluate and select the top digital innovations addressing societal challenges, and helping achieve the UN SDGs. The WSA Grand Jury Meeting convened with 30 renowned experts from 24 countries to review nominations from 182 UN member states and determine the 40 WSA Winners.
The Grand Jury was part of Digital Impact Days, and was held in Vienna, Austria. It took place from January 16 to 19. 

Jury Schedule

Thursday, January 16

09:00 - 18:00: WSA Grand Jury Meeting
Location: Hotel Schani

Friday, January 17

13:00 - 20:00: WSA Grand Jury Meeting
Location: Hotel Schani

Saturday, January 18

09:00 - 19:00: WSA Grand Jury Meeting
Location: Hotel Schani
Evening: Connect4Impact | WSA Networking Dinner for Jury Members & Partners

Sunday, January 19

10:00: WSA Grand Jury Closing Plenary

Meet WSA’s Decision Makers

The jury was composed of a diverse group of 30 international experts whose knowledge, commitment, and vast experience shaped the final selection of the 40 WSA Winners. These winners will proceed to present their innovative solutions at the Global Congress in Hyderabad, India.

ArtificalXHuman: Boosting Innovation with Ethics

The European Young Innovators Festival 2024: A Celebration of Innovation and Collaboration

From November 27-29, 2024, Graz, Austria, once again became the hub of innovation, impact, and European cooperation as the European Young Innovators Festival 2024 brought together young changemakers, thought leaders, and organizations from across Europe. With over a decade of history, this year's festival continued its tradition of fostering meaningful exchange, mutual learning, and purposeful collaboration.

Participants boldly tackled societal challenges alongside their European peers, engaging in deep discussions on Ethical AI, impact entrepreneurship, and the transformative power of social tech—especially innovations led by women. Workshops, keynotes, and panel discussions highlighted cutting-edge digital impact innovations that are making a real difference, all with a strong commitment to responsible innovation for society and the planet.

The inclusive and purpose-driven environment fostered lasting professional friendships, inspiring conversations, and a vibrant sense of community. Local Styrian organizations partnered with international guests, further enriching the exchange of ideas and showcasing the potential of regional and European collaboration.

This year’s event was more than just a gathering—it was a celebration of shared purpose and a testament to the power of innovation to drive meaningful societal change. We look forward to continuing the conversation and building on this momentum in the years to come!

Stay tuned for updates on future editions of the European Young Innovators Festival and join us in shaping a better, more connected Europe.
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Key Participants

Topics

• Ethical AI by Young Innovators
  AI offers immense potential across all fields, potentially rivaling the impact of electricity. But what about the ethics? Who controls it? Join us to explore solutions from young entrepreneurs and hear insights from international experts on integrating AI to improve society and the environment.
• Social Tech by Women
  In social tech, women are catalysts for transformative change. They identify challenges, confront pain points, and take decisive action, using technology to deliver meaningful solutions. But are ventures founded by women inherently more sustainable and ethical? What implications does this hold for the future of startups and society? Meet young women who have launched social tech ventures and learn about their entrepreneurial journey.
• European Cooperation through the WSA community
  Europe confronts urgent challenges such as the rise of populist and Eurosceptic parties, inflation, and the conflict in Ukraine. Connect with peers from across Europe, exchange ideas, and build lasting professional friendships to shape a united and resilient Europe together!

A Recap of the European Young Innovators Festival 2024

The European Young Innovators Festival 2024 in Graz was an unforgettable three-day journey of connection, innovation, and collaboration. Here’s a look back at the highlights:

Nov 27 - Connect4Impact

Murinsel, Burg Graz

The festival began with a warm welcome to international attendees as they arrived in Graz, setting the tone for three days of impactful exchange. The Connect4Impact networking sessions provided participants with the chance to meet their peers, share ideas, and dive into the Styrian innovation ecosystem. These initial connections laid the foundation for meaningful collaborations throughout the festival.

Nov 28 - Artificial X Human

Helmut List Halle, Cityhall

Day two brought a deep dive into the intersection of technology and humanity. With thought-provoking keynotes and interactive discussion formats, participants explored the role of Ethical AI, social tech, and responsible innovation. Young entrepreneurs showcased their ideas through inspiring innovation pitches, supported by mentoring sessions designed to elevate their initiatives. The energy and creativity in the room were palpable, making it a day to remember.

Nov 29 - Skills & Knowledge

UniCorn, Lendhafen, Dom im Berg

The final day of the festival focused on building skills and expanding knowledge. Roundtable discussions fostered in-depth dialogue on critical topics, while skills workshops equipped participants with practical tools for their journeys as changemakers. The UniVation Student Poster Presentation spotlighted groundbreaking projects from young academics, and the day concluded with a celebratory Award Ceremony & After Party at the iconic Dom im Berg—leaving attendees inspired and energized for the future.

This year’s festival was a resounding success, uniting diverse perspectives and fostering a strong sense of community among young innovators and seasoned experts alike. Graz once again proved to be the perfect setting for this unique European platform.

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By attending the EYI Festival, participants agree to the production of photo-, audio- and film material as well as to its publication. Images can be viewed and downloaded for free from https://www.flickr.com/photos/worldsummitaward/.

Winners

Have a look at the festival 2023

Champions

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WSA World Summit Awards: Inclusive and Fair Selection of Global Digital Solutions

The World Summit Awards (WSA) promotes an inclusive and transparent selection process for the most innovative and impactful global digital solutions. These solutions aim to address pressing societal challenges using digital technologies. After WSA National Experts nominate each digital solution, it undergoes a comprehensive, multi-phase evaluation, ensuring fairness and objectivity throughout. This rigorous process offers participants a unique opportunity to become recognized as WSA Winners or even WSA Global Champions, providing them with global exposure and networking opportunities.

The WSA Jury Process Explained

1. Nomination and Application:

WSA National Experts from 182 UN member states nominate up to eight cutting-edge digital solutions across eight distinct categories, including government and citizen engagement, health, education, and more. Additionally, participants in the youth category have the chance to submit direct applications. Once nominees successfully complete their applications on the official WSA online platform, they officially enter the WSA Jury process, starting the evaluation journey.

2. The Online Jury:

A highly skilled international panel of digital experts meticulously reviews each eligible application. This stage, known as the Online Jury, is critical, as it narrows down the entries to the top 15 to 18 solutions in each category, thereby creating the Shortlist for the next phase of evaluation. This year's online jury took place from December 19 to January 13.

3. The Grand Jury:

The shortlisted entries then advance to the second phase, where an in-person Grand Jury convenes. This year, the WSA Grand Jury will gather in Vienna, Austria. Here, expert panels will re-evaluate the entries and select the five best solutions in each category, which are recognized as WSA Winners.

4. Announcement and WSA Global Congress:

After the jury process concludes, the WSA team publicly announces the winners and personally notifies them. The winners are invited to the WSA Global Congress, where they present their digital solutions to a prestigious international jury. This presentation determines the ultimate Global Champion for each category. The WSA will reveal the champions during the WSA Award Ceremony and Gala, held this year in Hyderabad, India.

Stay Updated on WSA:

• Learn more about WSA's Jury Process
• Meet the experts behind the WSA shortlist

Get to know WSA's Decision Makers

Ranking amongst the top gig platforms in Ethiopia, GoodayOn is an on-demand service connecting blue and pink-collar workers with customers seeking domestic help and home repairs in Ethiopia. It's become a lifeline for many households, providing skilled workers who cook, clean, babysit, and fix household issues, all at the touch of a button or a simple call to short code and also using a mobile app.

GoodayOn’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges. They faced the complexities of building a reliable infrastructure while ensuring seamless service delivery. Unemployment remains a significant issue, driving GoodayOn to seek innovative solutions to bridge the gap between job seekers and employers. This quest for solutions led GoodayOn to an invaluable milestone: winning the World Summit Awards (WSA) Global in 2022.

The WSA recognition was a game-changer for GoodayOn. Winning in the Smart Settlements & Urbanization category highlighted their innovative approach to solving community problems. WSA’s support did more than just put a spotlight on GoodayOn’s achievements; it validated their mission and provided a platform to amplify their impact.

GoodayOn’s platform isn’t just about numbers; it’s about creating meaningful connections and opportunities. Since its launch in September 2020, GoodayOn has experienced remarkable growth, with over 120,000 app downloads, 35,000 registered gig workers, and 5,500 employer accounts. This growth is attributed to the platform's ability to match workers with customers efficiently based on location, skills, and customer ratings.

By leveraging technology for high-precision matching based on location, qualifications, and ratings, GoodayOn ensures convenience, affordability, and quality for its customers. For GoodayOn, WSA’s recognition is not just an accolade; it’s a testament to their impact on the community and a catalyst for further growth. The WSA award provided GoodayOn with a strategic asset, elevating its visibility and credibility. This recognition has been instrumental in helping GoodayOn fulfill its role in reducing unemployment and supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Ethiopia and beyond.

Recognition platforms like WSA play a crucial role in nurturing innovation. By showcasing successful startups, these platforms inspire others to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams and contribute to positive change. The WSA's global reach and focus on social impact make it a powerful catalyst for driving innovation on a worldwide scale.

GoodayOn's journey exemplifies the transformative power of recognition and the potential of technology to create positive social impact. The WSA award was instrumental in propelling the platform to new heights and inspiring a wave of innovation. As the on-demand service sector continues to evolve, GoodayOn's success story serves as a beacon for aspiring entrepreneurs seeking to make a difference.

By Bisrat Hagos, WSA Youth Ambassador in Ethiopia.

Across the world, especially over the last year, we have heard so much about the rise of artificial intelligence. Together, we are working to understand what this technology is all about, how to use it in our daily lives, and discovering how it will evolve over time. Personally, in my own life, I have begun to use simple AI tools like ChatGPT or automated website assistants, not to complete my work for me, but to be more efficient, and expand what is possible for one person to achieve. Admittedly, using technology like this, I’ve thought a lot about how AI will impact the future of work, and how many single-oriented task jobs might be replaced by a robot. I’m a strong proponent of efficiency and creating a better future through the use of technology, however, I worry greatly about how a competitive job market may become even more tricky to navigate, especially for emerging youth.

As such, in order to better understand how this technology would impact key industries, and ultimately, our future, I embarked on a research tour in my community of Tampa Bay, FL to meet with key industry leaders, learn about their plans to use this technology, and understand how this may impact their workforce into the future. Although this research was conducted during the last year, I believe the findings are still very relevant today, and showcase what the future of work might look like as we move forward. In order to gain a thorough understanding of key industry plans, I chose to meet with leaders in the marine aquarium, finance, hospitality, service, and entertainment sectors.

For example, in the entertainment sector, visiting the Tampa Theatre, there was a key focus on efficiency, and how to further enhance their work in providing incredible shows for guests, while exploring how AI could aid in their work. Specifically, they have ideas to implement an AI-based chatbot on their website that could answer questions of guests like upcoming showtimes, or how to buy tickets. They believe this would help to provide answers to customers key questions, while ensuring this service is readily available at all times.

Another interesting observation when visiting the Hotel Flor was their planning to integrate AI technology in areas like the taking/placing of customer orders within their onsite restaurant, and assisting in general inventory management activities where needed. Although this hotel has a very talented staff that places a strong emphasis on customer satisfaction, integrating this technology could allow for rapid order processing and fulfillment, while ensuring that onsite inventory can be easily tracked, and new materials can be ordered as necessary.

Within the service industry, I enjoyed the chance to learn more about plans of the Tampa Laundry Company to use AI technology in content creation relating to marketing, and how this technology could be used to fold garments in the future. Exploring fully-automated garment folding was interesting, as it provides the opportunity to further expand the customer base of the organization, while ensuring the same quality of service can be delivered. Utilizing AI for marketing materials is a very innovative approach, and one that I think is being used by many as this technology continues to evolve.

On the whole, I greatly enjoyed the chance to get an up-close look at the work of key industries in integrating AI into their work, and planning for how it would impact the future of their organization. Although there was a great focus on innovation, a notable discussion point in every group that I met with was understanding that they plan to use AI not as a job-replacer, but as a job-enhancer. These organizations believe that repetitive tasks can be completed with the help of AI, allowing employees to expand their work, and continually enhance their service to customers.

The future of AI is very uncertain, and as this technology continues to rapidly change, so will the opportunities for utilization in our daily life. However, it’s exciting to think about how this technology will be an additive in the workplace, and not a job reducer.

By Sean Schrader, WSA Youth Ambassador in USA.

Discover how Young Innovators are addressing European challenges around climate change, health, education, citizen engagement and more. The European Young Innovators Festival (EYIF) highlights entrepreneurs who are leveraging Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) to achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

To select the festival’s Young Innovators, an Online Jury reviews all nominated projects to shortlist those showing exceptional ingenuity. Afterwards, the final winners are selected during the European Young Innovators Jury by an international panel of experts. This year, the jury took place in Vilnius, Lithuania, from September 22-25.

WSA is proud to welcome these outstanding projects to its network of Winners, where they will present their pitches at the European Young Innovators Festival - Artificial x Human.

Learn more

WSA European Young Innovators

WSA is pleased to add these exceptional projects to the network of winners.

Get to know more WSA winners in the link below!
More winners

The World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) is a key United Nations (UN) platform for global dialogue on digital governance, cooperation, and inclusive knowledge societies. As a champion of digital innovation for social impact, WSA will actively participate in the WSIS+20 High-Level Event 2025, contributing to discussions on sustainable digital transformation and the role of technology in achieving the UN's development goals.

Taking place from July 7–11, 2025, at Palexpo in Geneva, Switzerland, this milestone event is hosted by ITU and co-organized by UNESCO, UNDP, and UNCTAD, with support from other UN entities committed to implementing the WSIS Action Lines.

WSA will run a workshop at the WSIS Forum at 10AM Tuesday, July 8 in Room L.

WSA looks forward to engaging with global stakeholders, sharing best practices, and reinforcing its mission of fostering inclusive and people-centered digital societies.

Learn more

In this video statement for the JustAI Awards, Dr. Peter A. Bruck, Chairperson of the World Summit Awards (WSA), delivers a message on the importance of ethical AI. Speaking from Austria, Peter highlights the transformative potential of AI and stresses the need to align it with justice-focused purposes—tackling gender inequality, climate justice, and social fairness. He commends the leadership of the Telangana State government and the Digital Empowerment Foundation for their commitment to ensuring AI serves the greater good.

The European Young Innovators Festival 2025 will be held in Graz on November 26 - 28.

Mark your calendars! The European Young Innovators Festival returns to Graz, Austria, from November 26–28, 2025, promising another inspiring gathering of changemakers, innovators, and thought leaders across Europe. This annual event celebrates the transformative power of digital innovation, uniting young entrepreneurs, national experts, and organisations dedicated to using technology for societal good.

Building on over a decade of tradition, the festival offers a dynamic mix of keynotes, workshops, panel discussions, and networking opportunities. Fostering cross-border European collaboration, participants engage in thought-provoking discussions and hands-on activities to tackle pressing global challenges. Join us in Graz to connect with like-minded innovators, expand your horizons, and shape a more inclusive, sustainable, and innovative future for Europe. Don’t miss this chance to make an impact!

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Currently, democracy and international stability face extreme challenges, from Venezuela to Bangladesh, to the upcoming elections in the USA divisions are clear yet many people globally continue to express strong support for democratic principles such as free and fair elections, freedom of speech, and the rule of law.

2024 marks a significant milestone for global democracy with at least 97 countries, home to nearly half of the world's population, having and will be voting, including several major democracies and emerging nations.

There is a widespread desire for more transparency and accountability from governance with citizens demanding greater democratic processes and institutions to push for reforms.

In many regions, there is an increase in political participation, especially among younger generations who are more engaged through digital platforms. This indicates a robust interest in shaping democratic processes and outcomes.

On the other hand There is growing disillusionment and distrust in political institutions and leaders. In some countries, citizens feel that democracy is not delivering on its promises, such as economic stability, social justice, and corruption-free governance.

The rise of populist leaders and authoritarian regimes in various parts of the world reflects a dissatisfaction with traditional democratic institutions. Populist rhetoric often capitalizes on people's frustrations with the status quo, promising swift solutions outside the usual democratic processes.

In some established democracies, there has been an erosion of democratic norms, with increasing polarization, attacks on the media, and undermining of judicial independence. This trend has raised concerns about the resilience of democratic systems in facing internal challenges.

As we move further into this critical period for global democracy, it is clear that the future of democratic governance will depend on how these challenges are addressed. The growing engagement of younger generations, coupled with the demand for transparency and accountability, provides hope for revitalizing democratic institutions. However, the rise of populism and authoritarianism signals a need for vigilance and proactive efforts to strengthen democratic norms. The resilience of democracy will be tested, but with concerted effort from citizens, leaders, and international communities, the core values of democracy can be preserved and even strengthened in the face of adversity.

Learning more about voting for democracy at iX3

IX3 is a recurring webinar hosted by WSA featuring prominent winners, entrepreneurs and thought leaders from the WSA community. Join iX3 on the 29th of August and hear from WSA-awarded technology pioneers who are using digital tools to empower citizens, protect democracy & bridge divides.
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Our Winners who are helping vote for democracy

Protecting the Isolated: Celebrating Indigenous Peoples' Rights on August 9th

On August 9th, the world celebrates the International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples. This date marks the inaugural session of the Working Group on Indigenous Populations in 1982. This year, the theme is "Protecting the Rights of Indigenous Peoples in Voluntary Isolation and Initial Contact." The Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA) will host a virtual event inviting Indigenous Peoples, Member States, UN entities, civil society, and the public to participate.

Safeguarding the Isolated: Rights of Indigenous Peoples in Remote Forests the World

There are around 200 groups of Indigenous Peoples living in voluntary isolation and initial contact, mainly in remote forests across countries like Bolivia, Brazil, and India. These groups choose to live detached from the rest of the world, relying on their natural environment for survival through hunting and gathering. Protecting their rights is vital, as any changes to their habitat can threaten their way of life and even their existence.

The United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) supports their right to self-determination and protects them from forced assimilation and destruction of their culture. This year's virtual commemoration will feature a traditional ceremony, statements from Indigenous leaders, and discussions on protecting these unique communities. Interpretation will be available in English, Spanish, and Portuguese to ensure broad participation.

WSA Grand Jury Meeting & Digital Impact Days in Vienna: Shaping the Future of Digital Innovation

A unique gathering took place where top digital innovators, entrepreneurs, and sustainability experts from around the globe united to drive change and collaborate on solutions for a better future. The WSA Grand Jury Meeting featured 25 renowned experts who evaluated and selected 40 WSA Winners from nominations across 182 UN member states. The WSA winners were selected through a three-stage process: The Online Jury, which created the shortlist from all the nominees, the Grand Jury, and finally, the Global Congress, where the Global Champions were chosen from among the winners. These winning solutions set new benchmarks for innovation, addressing pressing societal challenges.

In addition, in conjunction with the jury meeting, the Digital Impact Days provided a dynamic platform for connection and collaboration, allowing participants to engage in critical conversations and learn from some of the world’s most forward-thinking minds.

Key Highlights of the Digital Impact Days:

• The Future of Democracy in the Digital Age – Crisis of Truth: Attendees engaged in discussions about safeguarding democratic integrity in an era of misinformation and digital manipulation. This event featured keynotes, workshops, and interactive sessions with global stakeholders.
• Digital Impact Innovation Austria Showcase: Participants met Austria’s leading digital impact entrepreneurs and learned from their insights. International experts shared valuable recommendations from the innovation landscape.
• Digital Innovation & the UN SDGs at the UN HQ Vienna: A global dialogue was hosted on how digital solutions were advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals, in partnership with UNIDO at the United Nations HQ.

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Schedule

Wednesday, January 15

• Throughout the day: Arrival of international delegates to Vienna
• 15:00 - 18:00: Digital Impact Days: Democracy in the Digital Age | Crisis of Truth
• A multi-stakeholder event focused on the challenges of maintaining democratic integrity in an era of digital disruption.
• Shot Talks, Roundtables, Interactive Discussions
• In partnership with ProEuropeanValues.AT

Thursday, January 16

• 09:00 - 18:00: WSA Grand Jury Meeting (Closed meeting for jury members, selecting the 40 WSA Winners 2024)
• Location: Hotel Schani
• 19:30 - 22:00: Austrian Digital Impact Innovation Austria Showcase
• WSA Austria 2024 Award Ceremony and Impact Austria Ecosystem MeetUp
• In partnership with WSA Austria, Erste Bank Group, Impact Hub Vienna, Vienna Business Agency
• Location: Social Hub

Friday, January 17

• 09:00 - 11:00: futurizing_digital - Innovation & the Agenda2030
• Discussion on how digital innovation supports the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
• In partnership with UNIDO
• Location: Vienna Int. Center
• 13:00 - 20:00: WSA Grand Jury Meeting (Closed meeting for jury members, selecting the 40 WSA Winners 2024)
• Location: Hotel Schani

Saturday, January 18

• 09:00 - 19:00: WSA Grand Jury Meeting (Closed meeting for jury members, selecting the 40 WSA Winners 2024)
• Location: Hotel Schani
• Evening: Connect4Impact | WSA Networking Dinner for Jury Members & Partners

Sunday, January 19

• 10:00: WSA Grand Jury Closing Plenary
• Throughout the day: Discover Vienna: Culture, Innovation, Sustainability
• After 15:00: Departure of International Delegates

Meet WSA’s Decision Makers

The jurors who selected the final winners included a diverse group of 30 international experts from 24 different countries. Their expertise, dedication, and extensive experience determined the final 40 WSA Winners, who later had the opportunity to pitch their innovative solutions at the Global Congress in Hyderabad, India.

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On Tuesday, the 23rd of July, WSA hosted the Winners' Live Pitch Event on Zoom.

The WSA Winners' Live Pitch Event provided an opportunity for the winners, who couldn't attend the Congress in person to present their innovative projects via a live stream to the global WSA community. The event was designed to showcase groundbreaking solutions, foster interactions between winners and the audience, and facilitate learning and networking.

The session was moderated by Jason Muloongo and Michaela Ternasky-Holland. The event began with opening remarks by WSA Chairperson Peter A. Bruck, setting the stage for an inspiring afternoon. Each winning team had three minutes to pitch their project to a panel of jurors. The pitch followed by a three-minute Q&A session, allowing for insightful exchanges with the jurors.

The event concluded with networking, insights, and knowledge-sharing sessions in breakout rooms, where participants could engage more deeply with the presenters, jurors and fellow attendees. At the end, the jurors picked the Global Champions of the Live Pitch Event.

Live Pitch Event Global Champions

Watch the Winners' Live Pitch Event:

"Digital Ecosystems and Social Impact" by Peter A. Bruck and Osama Manzar (with outstanding illustrations by Sharada Kerkar) is now available.
Please input your information to gain access to the preliminary PDF. If you would like to purchase a hard copy you can do so at inomy.com.

Digital inclusion is increasingly recognized as a critical factor for social and economic development. In Brazil, a country marked by significant social and economic disparities, achieving comprehensive digital inclusion presents unique challenges.

The Current Landscape

Brazil has made notable strides in expanding internet access over the past decade. According to the Brazilian Internet Steering Committee, as of 2022, approximately 83% of the Brazilian population had internet access. This figure represents a substantial improvement from previous years, indicating a positive trend towards greater digital connectivity. Despite this progress, stark inequalities persist. Rural areas, particularly in the North and Northeast regions, lag significantly behind urban centers in terms of internet penetration and quality. A study by the Regional Center for Studies on the Development of the Information Society (CETIC) found that only 41% of households in rural areas have internet access, compared to 89% in urban areas.

Key Challenges

The lack of robust digital infrastructure in rural and remote areas poses a significant barrier to digital inclusion in Brazil. High costs of deployment and maintenance deter private investments, leaving many communities disconnected or reliant on inadequate and unreliable internet services. Economic disparities further exacerbate this issue, as lower-income households often struggle to afford both internet services and digital devices. According to the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE), about 20% of the population cannot afford regular internet access, underscoring the need for affordable connectivity solutions.

Digital literacy also remains a critical challenge. Many Brazilians, particularly in underserved communities, lack the necessary skills to effectively use digital technologies. UNESCO highlights that improving digital literacy is essential for enabling individuals to fully participate in the digital economy and society. Although there are government initiatives, such as the National Broadband Plan (PNBL), aimed at promoting digital inclusion, their implementation has often been inconsistent. A comprehensive and well-coordinated policy framework is essential to address the multifaceted nature of digital exclusion effectively.

Initiatives across the country

To combat these challenges, several initiatives were launched in Brazil to promote digital inclusion. One such initiative was the Programa Internet Para Todos, a government effort aimed at bringing high-speed internet access to remote and underserved regions. By partnering with local municipalities, this program used satellites to provide connectivity to communities that traditionally lacked internet access. Another key initiative was the Projeto Telecentros.BR, launched by the Ministry of Communications in collaboration with states and municipalities. This project established community telecenters in underserved urban and rural areas, offering free internet access and computer training programs. Additionally, the Conecta Biblioteca project, led by the NGO Recode in partnership with Caravan Studios, sought to transform public libraries into centers of digital and social inclusion. By training librarians and offering digital education programs for youth and adults in low-income communities, Conecta Biblioteca aimed to enhance digital literacy and access.

The Programa Banda Larga nas Escolas, a collaboration between the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Communications, aimed to ensure that all public schools, both urban and rural, had access to broadband internet. This initiative sought to enhance the quality of education and promote digital inclusion among students. The Ação Cidadania Digital, organized by the NGO Ação Cidadania, promoted internet access and digital education in underserved communities by offering digital literacy courses and technical support. The Projeto Computadores para Inclusão, also known as "MetaReciclagem," was an initiative by the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovations (MCTI) that collected, refurbished, and distributed used computers to public schools and social organizations, providing access to technology and promoting digital inclusion. The Casa Hacker, located in Campinas, São Paulo, is a nonprofit organization that offered programming, robotics, and digital entrepreneurship courses to young people from disadvantaged communities. This project aimed to equip these young individuals with technological skills that could open doors to future professional opportunities. The Governo Eletrônico – Serviço de Atendimento ao Cidadão (GESAC) program provided internet access to remote areas, indigenous communities, rural schools, health posts, and other public institutions. GESAC aimed to promote digital inclusion and improve public service delivery through connectivity.

Opportunities for Progress

These initiatives underscore the concerted efforts to bridge the digital divide in Brazil. Public-private partnerships play a crucial role in expanding digital infrastructure, as collaborations between the government and private sector can help mitigate the high costs associated with deploying internet services in remote areas. Grassroots organizations and local initiatives also serve as powerful drivers of digital inclusion. Community networks, which are locally built and managed, have proven effective in providing internet access to underserved areas, and supporting these initiatives through funding and training can enhance their impact.

Otherwise, investing in digital literacy programs is vital. Schools and community centers can serve as hubs for digital education, offering courses that teach basic to advanced digital skills. Partnerships with tech companies can also provide resources and training for educators and students. Additionally, developing affordable internet access solutions is essential. Subsidies for low-income households, alongside initiatives to lower the cost of digital devices, can make digital connectivity more accessible to all.

Conclusion

While Brazil faces significant challenges in achieving comprehensive digital inclusion, there are also numerous opportunities for progress. By addressing infrastructure deficiencies, socioeconomic barriers, and educational gaps through coordinated efforts and innovative solutions, Brazil can move closer to ensuring that all its citizens benefit from the digital age. Ensuring digital inclusion is not just a technological challenge, but a socio-economic imperative that holds the key to a more equitable and prosperous future for all Brazilians.

By Gustavo Alves, WSA Youth Ambassador in Brazil.

World Youth Skills Day 2024 will highlight the theme "Youth Skills for Peace and Development," emphasizing the pivotal role young people play in fostering peace and resolving conflicts. Established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2014, this day underscores the importance of equipping young individuals with skills for employment, decent work, and entrepreneurship. As global challenges such as violent conflicts, online polarization, and economic inequality continue to impact youth, the theme for 2024 stresses the need for skills that promote a culture of peace, responsible global citizenship, and sustainable development.

Global Leaders and Young Innovators Unite at UN for World Youth Skills Day 2024: Focus on AI Skills for the Future of Work
To commemorate this significant day, the Permanent Missions of Portugal and Sri Lanka to the United Nations, alongside UNESCO, the ILO, and the United Nations Youth Office, will host a panel discussion at the UN Headquarters in New York. This event will bring together Member States, young experts, social partners, and other stakeholders to explore how youth can be empowered as agents of peace. Additionally, the Global Skills Academy will conduct a session on "AI Skills for the Future of Work," recognizing the transformative impact of AI technologies and the necessity of preparing young people for the evolving job market.

Addressing the Youth Skills Crisis: Investing in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET)

World Youth Skills Day serves as a call to action to address the urgent skills crisis facing youth. With only a quarter of young people globally on track to acquire essential skills for employment and decent livelihoods, there is a pressing need to invest in education and training systems. Equitable access to technical and vocational education and training (TVET) can provide pathways to employment and entrepreneurship, thereby fostering inclusive and sustainable economic growth. By uniting efforts to empower youth with the necessary skills, we can build a more just, inclusive, and sustainable future for all.

Clip, the premier payment platform providing both digital transaction solutions and point-of-sale devices, has secured a $100 million investment from Morgan Stanley Tactical Value and a West Coast investor. This latest funding round maintains the company’s $2 billion valuation, consistent with its Series D round.

Founded in 2012 by Adolfo Babatz and Vilash Poovala in Mexico City, Clip has made significant strides in payment technology, leveraging artificial intelligence and machine learning to enhance its offerings. Clip was recognized for its innovative contributions in 2014, winning the WSA (World Summit Award) in the Business & Commerce category.

Adolfo Babatz, co-founder of Clip, highlighted the strong interest from investors: “There’s a lot of money waiting to be invested in high-quality companies that are delivering results. We’re happy to share this news with the broader tech community both in Mexico and in Latin America, which I think is in need of some really good news.” Clip is expanding its footprint, aiming to bring its solutions to more businesses across Latin America.

The traditional process of obtaining a credit card terminal in Mexico is notoriously cumbersome, taking anywhere from four to nine months, along with costly monthly rents and commission fees. Small businesses, artists, and market vendors often find it impractical to navigate this complex system. However, Clip offers a streamlined alternative, revolutionizing m-commerce for small enterprises.

With Clip, businesses can receive a device within four days, compatible with any Android or iOS smartphone connected to the internet. Clip charges a single commission rate, regardless of the credit card used, simplifying the process significantly. Its ease of use is evident, having been successfully tested by users ranging from a nine-year-old child to a 70-year-old grandmother. This plug-and-play solution is risk-free and incredibly user-friendly, empowering small, medium, and large businesses to accept all credit cards effortlessly.

Clip's journey, marked by its WSA award in 2014, underscores its commitment to innovation and its impact on the business and commerce landscape.

When: September 22 - 25

Where: Vilnus, Lithuania

On September 23-24, the WSA European Young Innovators Jury meeting was hosted in Vilnius by the State Digital Solutions Agency (SDSA). 12 Grand Jury members, came together to review, compare, and discuss an impressive array of projects, ultimately selecting 15 winning solutions that showcased innovation and impact across Europe.
The jury meeting was opened by Erika Kurockina (Vice-Minister for Economic Affairs and Innovation of Lithuania) and Ieva Žilionienė, WSA National Expert Lithuania, providing valuable context and insights about Digital Lithuania, trends, recent developments and strategies, from providing digital services to narrowing the digital divide.

The jury’s presence in Lithuania also provided a valuable opportunity for engagement with local impact entrepreneurs. Representatives from WSA alumni, including Citify, Teachers Lead Tech, ManoSeimas, and Every Tree Matters, shared how their projects have evolved since winning the WSA award. These entrepreneurs presented their remarkable growth journeys and highlighted how their solutions continue to contribute to social and digital change both locally and globally.

In addition to the Jury deliberations, the event featured participation in the GovTech Leaders Conference, where the jurors delved into emerging trends around artificial intelligence (AI) in the public sector. The conference offered a platform for multi-stakeholder discussions, with best practices from the region providing insights into how AI is shaping government innovation and digital transformation across Europe.

WSA jury member Connor Sattely shared insights about Impact Measurement in the Public Sector. He encouraged the audience to have the courage to put impact measurement at the beginning of each project, measuring a baseline, introducing the intervention and measuring again.
WSA chairperson Dr. Peter A. Bruck talked about AI in the public sector, calling for value based engineering and integrating ethical standards when introducing AI solutions. 

The WSA European Young Innovators Jury meeting in Vilnius was not just an occasion to celebrate young talent, but also a hub of collaboration, learning, and inspiration, paving the way for future innovation in Europe.

A citytour by @Guide in Vilnius and Lithuania (Facebook) provided the opportunity to discover the beauty, history and culture of Vilnius.
Our hosting partners spoiled the jury during two networking dinners at Eritlo Namas (Michelin recommended) and Nineteen18, which was awarded a Michelin star in June 2023, marking the debut of the Michelin Guide in Lithuania.

Meet the winners

Meet The Decision Makers:

Hosting & Organizing Partners

Importance of Voting in European Elections 2024

From June 6 to 9, 2024, millions of Europeans will vote in the European elections, a critical event shaping the EU's future. Voting allows citizens to influence laws on environmental policies, security, migration, social policies, and the economy, impacting everyone from large nations to small communities. The elections will drive digital innovation, aligned with the UN SDGs, fostering sustainable growth and justice. They address global challenges like climate change and equality, empowering citizens to ensure the EU leads in sustainability and digital inclusion. High voter turnout strengthens democratic institutions, reflecting diverse views and protecting European interests.

Key topics

Economic Policies and Recovery

• Post-Pandemic Recovery: Strategies for economic recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic, including the allocation of EU Recovery Plan funds.
• Fiscal Policies: Debates over fiscal rules, budget deficits, and public debt management.

Climate Change and Environmental Policies

• Green Deal: Implementing the European Green Deal to achieve climate neutrality by 2050.
• Climate Legislation: Regulations on carbon emissions and the transition to a green economy.

Migration and Asylum Policies

• Border Security: Strengthening external borders and managing migration flows.
• Asylum Procedures: Reforming the Common European Asylum System (CEAS) and ensuring fair distribution of asylum seekers among member states.

Rule of Law and Democratic Values

• Judicial Independence: Ensuring the independence of the judiciary and combating corruption.
• Media Freedom: Protecting freedom of the press and combating misinformation.

Digital Transformation

• Data Protection: Ensuring robust data privacy and security regulations.
• Cybersecurity: Enhancing measures to protect against digital threats.

Foreign Policy and Defense

• EU’s Global Role: Strengthening the EU's role in global affairs, including relations with major powers like the US, China, and Russia.
• Defense Cooperation: Advancing the EU's defense capabilities and cooperation through initiatives like PESCO (Permanent Structured Cooperation).

Public Health

• Health Systems: Strengthening healthcare systems and coordination among member states.
• Pandemic Preparedness: Improving readiness for future health crises.

Education and Youth

• Erasmus+: Expanding opportunities for education, training, and youth exchange programs.
• Youth Employment: Addressing youth unemployment and promoting skills development.

Who should I vote for?

WSA isn't here to tell you who to vote for, but to stress the importance of participation. Your vote should reflect your values and country of residence. To understand more about your country's representatives and how they align with your values, Euandi offers a helpful quiz.

Take the quiz

How do I vote?

For detailed information on how to participate in the EU elections based on your country of residence, click the link below.

Learn how to vote

Tune in for the WSA Winners' Live Pitch Event

Attendees of the WSA Global Congress in Chile had the chance to hear the pitches of this years' WSA's winners. However, some of the winners didn't get the chance to attend the Global Congress. These winners were able to pitches on a live stream to the global WSA community. This event offered atendees a chance to hear from some of WSA's winners pitch their projects, and gave viewers the chance to interact with the winners, learn from them, and connect with them.

The session was moderated by Jason Muloongo and Michaela Ternasky-Holland

Date & Time

Tuesday, July 23, 14:00 CET

Event Highlights

14:00: Opening Words by WSA Chairperson Peter A. Bruck
14:04-15:00: Pitching Session (3 min pitch & 3 min Q&A per Winning Team)
15:00-15:30: Networking, Insights, Knowledge Sharing in Break Out Rooms

Pitching Teams

Upon careful deliberation, the jurors selected 5 Global Champions from among the winners.

You can find out who they are in the link below:

You can also watch the session in the iframe below:

Learn more