As vividly demonstrated by the COVID-19 pandemic, digital connectivity is essential for the full participation in the economy and society. While governments are prioritizing investments into the digital infrastructure as part of their COVID-19 Response and Recovery Plans, it is clear that the government action alone will not achieve the universal connectivity we urgently need. Private sector funds start flowing into the digital infrastructure, but not everywhere.

ITU has a capacity to bring major players around the table and help create enabling environments to unlock the flow of investments as well as to maximise the use of the connectivity deployed. Tomas believes that ITU should play a major role in building broad impact-oriented partnerships that are key to bringing everyone to the digital world.

The survival of humanity is at stake and all-hands-on-deck approach is needed. Net Zero by 2050 is an absolute minimum. A number of companies in our sector are leading by example by committing to Net Zero by 2030. It is crucial to make it as universal as possible, at the same time helping the industry to adjust. Furthermore, the ICT industry’s role in helping others to reduce emissions needs to be maximised. ITU should also retain its focus on such issues as e-waste.

Therefore, Tomas believes that sustainability should be a key ITU-wide priority with every initiative and activity including a climate change perspective. ITU should work hard to help the ICT industry to get to Zero and help others do that as well, and support industry in ensuring that it plays its rightful role in the broader sustainability agenda. Furthermore, ITU should be a key partner for everyone working on this critical mission.

ITU can leverage its experience, expertise and resources to help the world respond to the most pressing challenges, and to take advantage of the opportunities. However, to achieve this and for the organization to maximize the value it delivers, the Membership and the world need ITU that is ever more results-oriented, accountable and transparent, fast and efficient.

Therefore, Tomas believes that ITU needs to complete the integration of a results-based management approach in all the strategic, operational and financial management processes. ITU’s business processes, operations and work platforms should reflect state-of-the-art management practices, while setting an example for the UN family of leveraging modern digital tools and working methods. Finally, the organization will need to adapt to the ‘new normal’, including the economic environment.

It is also crucial that ITU at all levels works closely with its Members and leverages their rich experience and expertise. The organization should also fully embrace a collaborative approach and work with others to maximize the common good.