B7 Recommendations on Digital Policy
Introduction Digitalization is one of the strongest growth drivers for modern economies, closely integrated into a global digital ecosystem. Currently, a political and value-based discourse is taking place on how and whether the digital economy should be further regulated, be it for big platforms, for artificial intelligence, or data protection and transfer, while staying competitive and innovative. Particularly in the area of the digital economy, the like-minded democratic governments of G7 and India, Australia and South Korea, for instance, must define their role and lead by example showing how to be successful and competitive in the digital economy while respecting democratic and ethical values, as well as tackling ecological, societal and economic challenges. In a period where our economies and societies are challenged, not only by a pandemic, but also by a climate crisis that forces us to act quickly in order to preserve wellbeing and prosperity for all, B7 sees opportunities for joint action and improving cooperation. Due to its importance for long-term prosperity for all partners, developing a sustainable, future-proof ground for cooperation on international standards and rules based on democratic values and human rights, while achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals 2030 should be the goal for this German G7 presidency.
Key Principles Trustworthy data economy is a strong driver for innovation •
Enhance a data economy that promotes innovation and growth.
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Enable cross-border data sharing with trust.
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Tackle the increasing need for highly skilled professionals, encourage equity and diversity across innovation and digitalization skill profiles through inclusion and female empowerment.
Semiconductors are vital for economic success and stability •
Develop common strategies and strengthen cooperation among the G7 nations with close allies and partners to secure the semiconductor supply chain for all relevant categories of semiconductors, in close coordination with business.
Cyber-resilience is a basis for trust in digitalization •
Promote cyber resilience across organizations.
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Establish cooperation fora with industries in order to enhance the innovation potential and the overall capacities to tackle cyber incidents.
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Strengthen cryptography to promote trust in the digital transformation.
Cooperation and coordination in critical emerging technology standards •
Promote market-driven and consensus-based international standards as a basis to create common ground in innovative key technology areas.
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Ensure due process, robust intellectual property (IP) protections, and transparency in standardization bodies in order to avoid misuse of standardization.
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