US State Department Launches Global Connect Initiatives at UN General Assembly

The US Department of State unveiled a new initiative called “Global Connect,” which seeks to bring 1.5 billion people who lack Internet access, online by 2020. On behalf of the Secretary of State, Under Secretary for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment Catherine Novelli delivered a key-note address at UN Headquarters on “Development in the Digital Age” to announce this new diplomatic initiative.

In her remarks, the Under Secretary highlighted how, through Global Connect, major US development agencies will begin to make Internet access a top priority in their work around the world. To accomplish this, the Dept of State lead by example. Major U.S. development agencies will begin to make Internet access a top priority in their work around the world. The Dept of State will also urge international development banks to recognize the Internet as an essential element of every country’s infrastructure – as the World Bank has already done. It will also partner with other governments from highly connected countries and enlist their expertise. The Dept of State will work with private industry which has created innovative solutions to connect people in remote areas. In short, we will pursue an “all of the above” approach.

Early in 2016, the Dept of State will bring together governments and stakeholders to further advance our “Global Connect” initiative and help bridge the digital divide.