CSTD concludes with two draft resolutions for ECOSOC

The Resolution on “Science and Technology for Development” called for action by Governments in several key areas, including supporting efforts of learning and capacity development at the firm and industry levels through an enabling environment; promoting the development of ICT platforms in order to tap into international research networks and benefit from opportunities for collaborative learning;  exploring ways of increasing online scientific publications and accessibility of content in local languages; better integrating GIS and spatial thinking in national education programmes through the strengthening of curricula and teacher training.

 

Taking note of  UNCTAD’s report on Applying a Gender Lens to Science, Technology and Innovation, the Resolution stressed the need to integrate a gender perspective into all STI policies and programmes. 

 

The Resolution called on UNCTAD and the CSTD to provide a forum for the sharing of best practices and experiences to promote innovation, research and development, new knowledge creation, technology transfer, as well as ICTs for capacity-building for the benefit of developing countries.   It also encouraged the development of  metrics to assess progress made by countries to implement STIP review recommendations.

 

The Resolution on “Assessment of the progress made in the implementation of and follow-up to the outcomes of the World Summit on the Information Society” urged all stakeholders to adopt appropriate actions to bridge the digital divide, and prioritize the development of innovative approaches that would stimulate the provision of universal access to affordable broadband infrastructure for developing countries. 

 

The Resolution reaffirmed the role of the General Assembly in the overall review WSIS implementation.  It recommends that, subject to the decision by the United Nations General Assembly at its 67th session, the preparatory process should draw from the experience of the two phases of the WSIS summit.

 

With respect to the issue of enhanced cooperation on public policy issues pertaining to the Internet, the Resolution took note of the open consultation convened by the Chair of the CSTD held in Geneva on 18 May 2012 and decided to forward the report by the Chair to the 67th session of the UN General Assembly, for information purposes.

 

CSTD delegates decided on two themes for its next session -- “Science, Technology and Innovation for Sustainable Cities and Peri-Urban Communities”, and  “Internet Broadband for an Inclusive Digital Society”.

 

The Commission also elected the Bureau for its 16th session:

 

 

UNCTAD serves as the Secretariat for the CSTD.