E. Confidence Building Measures
The chapter could open by reiterating that there is widespread acknowledgement on the importance
of Confidence Building Measures (CBMs) as a means to defuse tension and prevent unintended
conflicts stemming from the use of information and communication technology.
We support the idea to move from regional to global, starting from certain CBMs, such as the one
establishing National Focal Points of Contact. A network of PoC involving the entire membership of
the UN could indeed better address the global challenges arising from the use of ICTs and should be
considered as a CBM in itself, and not only a prerequisite for the implementation of CBMs.
In most cases, CBMs have yet to be fully operationalized even at regional level. We therefore support
the proposal to share best practices on their implementation, building also on initiatives developed
by regional organisations, such as the OSCE and ASEAN, to assist States in translating CBMs into
practice. At the same time, we would like the report to include a reference to the need for avoiding
duplication and overlapping.
Some of the existing CBMs are based on a multi-stakeholder approach. We see it as an added value,
consistent with our position on the need to foster cooperation with the private sector and academia.
We would therefore like to see this element reflected in the report as well (para. 47 could be expanded
with a reference to CBMs developed by States that require the involvement of the private sector to
be fully operationalized).
F. Capacity building
The chapter on capacity building reflects the importance that most States, including Italy, attach to it,
as well as the richness of discussions and the membership’s expectations on this topic. In fact,
Capacity Building can play a crucial role also for the implementation of the 2030 Sustainable
Development Agenda. Moreover, the report could further highlight that, at different levels, capacity
building is a work in progress for all.
We stress the need to avoid duplication of efforts and, while reckoning it is complicated, we should
also consider monitoring the effectiveness of the programs.
The report makes reference to the proposal of establishing a global mechanism aimed at enhancing
coherence in capacity building efforts in the use of ICTs, suggested by some States. Such a proposal
requires further discussion also on the practical means to realize it. In any case, it should be conceived
as a tool to increase coordination and coherence and to avoid duplication. Regional and sub-regional
capacity building initiatives should be taken into account. The multi-stakeholder approach of current
efforts should also be preserved.
Regarding the principles that should guide any capacity building program, we align to the list
proposed by the EU.
The proposal to develop a global capacity building agenda should be further clarified as its scope and
aims are not entirely clear. The reference to it as it stands now in the text should be either eliminated
or further elaborated upon.
G. Regular institutional dialogue
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