Last week in New York, UNU-EGOV participated in a forward-thinking discussion on the intersection of digital technology and climate justice, held as part of the UN Summit of the Future’s Action Days. Bushra Ebadi, representing UNU-EGOV, participated in an event co-hosted by Columbia University and UNU, focusing on the impact of intergenerational partnerships in shaping both digital and environmental futures.
The interactive workshop gathered youth leaders and experts to brainstorm solutions for tackling climate justice while promoting ethical and equitable advancements in digital technology. Ebadi’s involvement highlighted the essential role of inclusivity, accountability, and ethics in tech development.
The communities most affected by surveillance technologies and digital weaponry are often those who have the least access to safe and meaningful digital tools and spaces
The event also spotlighted key lessons on creating responsible and equitable technology, emphasizing human connections, community-driven solutions, and ensuring that technology serves the greater good. These discussions culminated in the creation of an Action Plan aimed at bolstering youth involvement in governance, addressing both climate and digital justice.
We cannot build just futures by simply replacing one harmful, oppressive system with another; through collective action and co-design with communities, we can create multiple just futures that honour our relationship with the environment and uphold intergenerational accountability
Looking ahead, our Research Associate called for a shift in power from the private sector to the public.
This event marked a significant step forward in using intergenerational dialogue to tackle global challenges, offering hope for a future where digital progress is inclusive, ethical, and fair.