LEADERS' SUMMIT 2023

Non-terrestrial networks and space platforms are emerging as powerful tools for providing access to the internet and bridging digital divides in remote and underserved areas. These networks have been used in several ways, including providing high-speed communication for remote and rural communities, providing low-cost, low-power internet access for developing countries, and connecting countries without direct terrestrial infrastructure. Additionally, space platforms are being used to provide communication services to disaster-stricken areas, to monitor and track disaster relief efforts, and to enable access to data and services in areas where traditional networks are unreliable or unavailable. Space platforms are also being used to support satellite-based banking and mobile phone services in remote areas, as well as to enable remote sensing, monitoring, and surveillance capabilities. Additionally, space platforms are being used to enable access to educational services, medical telehealth, and satellite television services. As technology continues to evolve, non-terrestrial networks and space platforms will become even more important in bridging digital divides and achieving digital inclusion.

This session will be organized in two segments, with first half dedicated to space sustainability and related topics, followed by common areas of interest to Terrestrial and Non-Terrestrial/Satellite players, including resources such as spectrum. The overarching agenda of the cluster is to discuss the potential of non-terrestrial networks and space platforms in fostering synergies to overcome digital divides and achieve availability of broadband and digital inclusion and bring a variety of digital services to the globe. We will explore the possibilities of leveraging new technologies such as satellite communications, space-based networks, and other non-terrestrial networks to connect the unconnected, including rural, remote, and underserved populations. We will look at the impact of these technologies on economic and social development, and explore strategies that can be used to facilitate the implementation of such networks on a larger scale, and for which various resources and new approaches in cooperation-building are required.

Interveners of the discussion will constitute a diverse group of cross-industry leaders and professionals.

The following questions will be under consideration:

• What impact could the use of non-terrestrial networks and space platforms have on global development goals?
• What are the technical and economic challenges to integrating non-terrestrial networks and terrestrial ones? What are the regulatory challenges? What progress has been made in terms of partnerships?
• What are the regulatory and legal considerations for using non-terrestrial networks and space platforms?
• How can stakeholders work together to promote the use of non-terrestrial networks and space platforms for digital inclusion?
• What challenges remain in the deployment of non-terrestrial networks and space platforms?
• What are key considerations and opportunities for IMT in special frequency bands, to help meet universal connectivity needs and new data demands?

The digital services landscape is rapidly evolving, with new digital enablers emerging every day, the latest being powerful self-learning large language models such as ChatGPT. These enablers include artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, cloud computing, Internet of Things (IoT), blockchain, augmented reality (AR), and virtual reality (VR). All these enablers are driving innovation, enabling companies to create new digital services and products that are transforming the way we live and work. At the same time, many digital value-chain stakeholders are being challenged to think beyond traditional business models and ways of doing things in order to remain competitive. This also applies to the governance side.

The session will explore how new digital enablers can be leveraged by different value-chain stakeholders to create value and remain at the forefront of the digital revolution. We'll look at digital competencies and digital innovations, the Metaverse, search and e-commerce, immersive digital experiences, and value creation. Through interactive discussions and expert perspectives, this session will spark and challenge attendees to think differently about the digital services landscape and the potential opportunities and challenges we all face.

This cluster discussion will explore the following questions:

• What are the key trends in the digital services landscape?
• What are the implications of platform-based services, artificial intelligence, virtual and augmented reality, and blockchain technology on the future of business and the future of governance?
• How can different stakeholders leverage digital enablers to create competitive advantage?
• What are the opportunities and challenges associated with immersive digital experiences?
• How can different stakeholders create value along the digital value chain?
• Search engine competition: How do businesses and end-users win from this?
• AI & ChatGPT: Who is working on similar technologies?
• Search Ads: Are they a driver of digital transformation?
• The new search and ecommerce ecosystem: Why is it a phenomenon?

The rise of 5G digital technologies has sparked a new era of innovation, bringing with it new opportunities and challenges for the ICT industry. One key challenge for the ICT industry is sustainability. In order to meet sustainability requirements, 5G digital technologies must be able to support the growth of sustainable energy sources, such as solar and wind. To this end, 5G will enable the use of energy-efficient networks and devices, as well as the development of smart energy management systems. 5G will also enable the deployment of distributed networks, allowing for energy-efficient data transmission and the integration of renewable energy sources into the network. In addition, 5G will enable the development of grid-edge technologies, such as edge computing and distributed networking, which will allow for more efficient utilization of resources and a reduction in energy consumption. 5G will also enable the deployment of low-power wide-area networks (LPWANs), which will help to reduce the energy footprint of communication networks. Finally, 5G will enable the deployment of virtual networks, allowing for the integration of multiple networks into a single, seamless network. This will help to reduce communication costs and energy consumption, as well as provide users with more reliable, secure and efficient services.

This session will bring mobile technology industry leaders to focus on the evolution of 5G/5.5G technologies through the lens of ICT sustainability, with a focus on the implications for the 5G/5.5G ecosystem, the enterprise and government sectors.

The following thematic questions will be discussed:

• What are the current trends in 5G/5.5G digital technologies, and how are they impacting ICT sustainability?
• How is the 5G/5.5G ecosystem responding to the need for sustainability?
• How is the 5G/5.5G ecosystem responding to the need for sustainability?
• What is the role of the enterprise and government sectors in the 5G/5.5G ecosystem?
• What are the potential opportunities and challenges for ICT sustainability in the 5G/5.5G ecosystem?
• What capabilities will 5G/5.5G networks bring to ICT sustainability?
• What opportunities can we leverage to build a more sustainable ICT ecosystem?

Internet-based digital value creation is a process by which companies, organizations, and individuals can create, capture, and deliver value through the internet. Digital value creation is achieved through activities such as the development of digital products and services, the design of digital experiences, the monetization of digital assets, and the leveraging of digital platforms. To ensure equitable benefits accrue to all, digital value creation should be accompanied by policies and processes that promote a fair and equitable distribution of resources. Examples of such policies and processes include the adoption of digital inclusion initiatives, the development of digital access and education programs, and the implementation of data privacy and security protocols. Additionally, digital value creators should strive to promote an equitable and sustainable digital economy by championing digital literacy and digital rights, embracing diversity and inclusion, and creating shared value models that benefit all stakeholders.

The session will explore the implications of digital value creation and the evolving Internet for enterprises, end-users, system integrators, and network operators. We will discuss the key aspects of digital innovation and economics, policy, business, network, and IMT spectrum requirements.

The following questions will be discussed:

• How can digital value-creation be optimized and leveraged by different stakeholders?
• How can value creation and value capture be equitable to ensure that all benefit from the digital revolution?
• What role do end-users play in shaping digital value creation?
• What are the key challenges for system integrators?
• How can network operators best leverage the Internet of Things (IoT) in creating value?
• What strategies can be employed to ensure appropriate spectrum usage and efficient IMT services?

The challenges of securing cyberspace are growing rapidly in a world of multi-polarity, increasing technological complexity and global connectivity. As more countries, businesses and individuals rely on technology to drive their businesses, they are increasingly vulnerable to attack. Cyber threats can come from anywhere, including nation states, criminal organizations, and even individuals. Enterprises must invest in the appropriate technologies and processes to protect their networks and systems, while end-users must understand the risks and take the necessary steps to protect themselves from cyber-threats. Governments must also update their laws and regulations to ensure they are up-to-date with the latest cyber-security trends and technologies. As the cyber-security landscape continues to evolve, the challenge of protecting cyberspace will remain a priority for all stakeholders.

This session focuses on discussing the need for a multi-dimensional approach to cybersecurity, and how it can be used to enable a secure cyberspace.

The following key issues will be delved into in this cluster:

• Issue 1: Addressing the global Talent shortage in Cybersecurity
• Talent gap at national level.
• Talent Gap at international level and CB in developing countries.
• Competition on talents between sectors and ways to ensure retention
• Issue 2: Building a thriving ecosystem
• Role of policy and regulation in sustaining demand
• Incentives for R&D and innovation
• Cross-border partnership and technology transfer
• Issue 3: Information Sharing as an imperative
• Public private partnerships
• Cross border information sharing
technology transfer


• Some relevant questions may also include:
• What are the key components of a multi-dimensional approach to cybersecurity?
• What are the benefits and challenges of such an approach?
• How can organizations implement a multi-dimensional approach effectively?
• What are the best practices for securing the digital infrastructure?
• How can governments, regulators and policy makers create the right enabling environment to accelerate a culture of cyber hygiene?
• Cross border information sharing
• What are the implications of a multi-dimensional approach to cybersecurity?