Digital Resilience Is Essential For Safeguarding Digital Sovereignty, Says DCO Secretary-General Deemah AlYahya

Deemah AlYahya, Secretary-General of the Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO), recently spoke at the Prince Saud Al Faisal Institute for Diplomatic Studies. She highlighted how digital technologies are not just communication tools but also key drivers shaping international policies. These technologies enhance digital resilience and self-sufficiency, crucial for maintaining digital sovereignty and enabling nations to make independent decisions in the global digital economy.

AlYahya discussed the intertwined relationship between technology and diplomacy, noting that this connection offers both opportunities and challenges. While technology can foster cooperation, innovation, and economic growth, it can also intensify conflicts and affect security and peace. She emphasized that digital sovereignty relies on a nation's ability to manage its digital infrastructure independently, safeguard data, and control technologies without external interference.

During her lecture titled "Digital Transformation and Contemporary Diplomacy," AlYahya addressed various aspects of digital diplomacy. She stressed that ensuring control over digital resources is vital for national security and innovation. This control allows nations to adapt to global changes effectively. The event was attended by heads of diplomatic missions and international organizations accredited to Saudi Arabia.

AlYahya pointed out the increasing threats in the digital realm, such as cyberattacks, misinformation, and unexpected disruptions. These pose significant risks to regional and international security. To counter these threats, she proposed strategies like enhancing international digital cooperation, establishing legal frameworks, and encouraging local technological innovations to strengthen digital resilience.

Highlighting Saudi Arabia's efforts in leveraging technology for economic transformation through Vision 2030, AlYahya commended the Kingdom's strategies related to data and artificial intelligence (AI). She cited Saudi Arabia as an example of how technology can boost global leadership. Additionally, she referenced various international case studies that illustrate challenges like cyberattacks in the digital age.

AlYahya urged nations to adopt innovative solutions collaboratively to build a secure digital environment. She emphasized that creating such an environment is a shared responsibility requiring coordinated strategies. Furthermore, she advocated for international treaties recognizing the need for cooperation to strengthen digital resilience and protect nations' sovereignty.

The Role of Diplomacy

Emphasizing diplomacy's crucial role in advancing international digital cooperation, AlYahya highlighted its importance in maintaining global security. Diplomacy enables societies to seize opportunities within the digital economy while mitigating associated risks. The DCO aims to promote digital prosperity by unifying efforts towards advancing digital transformation globally.

The DCO was established in November 2020 as a global multilateral organization comprising 16 member states. Collectively representing over $3.5 trillion in GDP with a population exceeding 800 million—70% under 35—the DCO focuses on promoting common interests through unified efforts in advancing digital transformation.

With inputs from SPA