The Pact, along with its annexes—the Global Digital Compact and the Declaration on Future Generations—was adopted by consensus. This decision came despite a last-minute amendment proposal from several countries, including Russia, Iran, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), and Syria.
Rejection of the Amendment Proposal
The proposed amendment sought to include a text advocating for non-intervention in matters of national sovereignty and emphasizing the primacy of intergovernmental deliberation. This would have effectively diminished the roles of civil society and private sector interests. However, the 193-member Assembly ultimately rejected the proposal and decided not to take action on it.
Key Focus Areas of the Pact
The Pact outlines five broad focus areas:
- Sustainable Development
- International Peace and Security
- Science and Technology
- Youth and Future Generations
- Transforming Global Governance
This focus has become increasingly urgent as multilateral financial institutions and the United Nations face challenges in addressing 21st-century problems.
Commitments by UN Member States
By endorsing the Pact, UN Member States made several pledges, including:
- Accelerating the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Paris Agreement on climate change, both established in 2015, which have faced slow progress.
- Engaging young people in decision-making processes at both national and global levels.
- Strengthening partnerships with civil society, the private sector, and local and regional authorities.
- Redoubling efforts to create and maintain peaceful, inclusive, and just societies while addressing the root causes of conflicts.
- Protecting civilians in armed conflicts.
- Implementing commitments related to women, peace, and security.
Global Digital Compact
The Global Digital Compact represents the first global agreement on the international regulation of artificial intelligence (AI). It is based on the principle that technology should benefit all.
Key Objectives of the Global Digital Compact
- Ensure that digital technologies promote sustainable development and human rights.
- Address risks associated with digital divides, cybersecurity, and technology misuse.
- Foster global cooperation on AI capabilities and security threats.
- Establish an impartial worldwide Scientific Panel on AI.
- Initiate international discussions on AI governance within the UN framework.
Declaration on Future Generations
The Declaration emphasizes the importance of securing the well-being of future generations. It focuses on:
- Including the interests of future generations in decision-making processes.
- Protecting the environment and promoting intergenerational equity.
- Considering the long-term consequences of today’s actions.
Statements from UN Leaders
Following the adoption, UN Secretary-General António Guterres stated that the Pact and its annexes “open pathways to new possibilities and opportunities.” He noted that people globally seek a future of peace, dignity, and prosperity, and look to the UN for solutions to pressing challenges like the climate crisis and inequality.
Philémon Yang, President of the 79th session of the General Assembly, called for nations to move forward together, emphasizing the need for solidarity and multilateral cooperation to respect human dignity and uphold human rights.
Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs):
- What was the main purpose of the proposed amendment by some countries regarding the Pact?
- A) To promote global cooperation
- B) To emphasize non-intervention in national sovereignty
- C) To support civil society interests
- D) To accelerate sustainable development
- Answer: B) To emphasize non-intervention in national sovereignty
- Which of the following is NOT one of the five focus areas of the Pact?
- A) International peace and security
- B) Environmental protection
- C) Youth and future generations
- D) Science and technology
- Answer: B) Environmental protection
- What commitment did UN Member States make regarding young people?
- A) To exclude them from decision-making
- B) To involve them in decision-making processes
- C) To focus solely on their education
- D) To provide financial aid to them
- Answer: B) To involve them in decision-making processes
- What is a key objective of the Global Digital Compact?
- A) To reduce AI capabilities globally
- B) To ensure technology benefits everyone
- C) To restrict digital technologies
- D) To eliminate cybersecurity risks
- Answer: B) To ensure technology benefits everyone
- What did Secretary-General António Guterres highlight as crucial for the future?
- A) National sovereignty
- B) Local governance
- C) Global action to solve pressing challenges
- D) Financial partnerships
- Answer: C) Global action to solve pressing challenges