Australian Comments on Zero draft 22 February 2021 United Nations A/AC.290/[DATE] General Assembly Distr.: Limited [DATE] Original: English Open-ended working group on developments in the field of information and telecommunications in the context of international security Draft Substantive Report [Zero Draft] A. Introduction 1. Despite the radical transformations the world has experienced since the United Nations was founded 75 years ago, its purpose and timeless ideals retain foundational relevance. Alongside the commitment to promote respect forreaffirmation of faith in fundamental human rights and fundamental freedoms, a n d t h e c o m m i t m e n t t o promote the economic and social advancement of all peoples, and establish conditions for the maintenance of respect for international law, States resolved to unite their strength to ensure maintain international peace and security. 2. Developments in information and communications technologies (ICTs) have implications for all three pillars of the United Nations’ work: peace and security, human rights and sustainable development. ICTs and global connectivity have been a catalyst for human progress and development, transforming societies and economies, and expanding opportunities for cooperation for the common good of humankind. 3. The imperative of building and maintaining trust and security in the digital environment has never been so clear. Negative trends in the digital domain could undermine international security and stability, place strains on economic growth and sustainable development, and hinder the full enjoyment of human rights and fundamental freedoms. These trends include the growing exploitation of ICTs for malicious purposes. 4. The current global health crisis has underscored the fundamental benefits of ICTs and our reliance upon them, including for provision of vital government services, communicating essential public safety messages, developing innovative solutions to ensure business continuity, accelerating research, and helping to maintain social cohesion through virtual means. In this time of uncertainty, States, as well as the private sector, scientists and other actors, have leveraged digital technology to keep individuals and societies connected and healthy. At the same time, the COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated the risks and consequences of malicious activities that seek to exploit vulnerabilities in times when societies are under enormous strain. It has also highlighted the necessity of ensuring states act consistent with existing international law and agreed norms of responsible state behaviour, bridging digital divides, building resilience in every society and sector, and maintaining a humancentric approach. 1 Commented [A1]: Suggest to more accurately reflect the wording in the Preamble of the UN Charter: States ‘reaffirm faith in fundamental human rights’ Commented [A2]: Suggest to more accurately reflect the wording in the Preamble of the UN Charter: ‘We the peoples of the United Nations determined […] and for these ends […] to unite our strength to maintain international peace and security.’