The 2024 World Internet Conference (WIC) Wuzhen Summit, scheduled for November 19-22 in Wuzhen, Zhejiang Province, China, is set to be a landmark event for digital innovation, focusing on artificial intelligence (AI) and fostering a people-centered, community-focused digital future. At an October 24 press conference in Beijing, the WIC International Organization shared updates on the summit’s theme, “Embracing a Digital Future That Is People-Centered and Intelligent for Good,” emphasizing the event’s commitment to building a shared future in cyberspace.
Key Highlights of the 2024 Wuzhen Summit
WIC Secretary-General Ren Xianliang announced that this year’s summit would convene global leaders across various sectors, with 24 sub-forums exploring the digital economy, AI technology innovation, youth engagement, and the Global Development Initiative. Key highlights include:
- WIC Distinguished Contribution Award – A new award to honor individuals and organizations making significant contributions to the global internet landscape, with a grand ceremony scheduled during the summit.
- WIC Specialized Committee on Artificial Intelligence – This newly established committee aims to promote international cooperation and knowledge-sharing in AI, marking WIC’s first permanent branch.
- Think Tank Cooperation Program – Featuring 60 leading think tanks worldwide, this program will drive collaboration and strategy-building for the future of the internet.
- WIC Digital Academy and Global Elite Training – Targeted at global leaders, government officials, and NGOs, the Digital Academy will serve as an international hub for training in digital transformation, with a special focus on emerging economies.
Comprehensive Agenda for the Future of Cyberspace
The summit will feature an opening ceremony, main forum, and 24 sub-forums covering a wide range of topics essential to the digital future:
- AI Innovation and Governance – Delving into AI’s role in creating ethical, efficient, and sustainable digital ecosystems.
- Global Development Initiative and Digital Economy – Exploring new pathways for economic growth through digital transformation.
- Youth Engagement and Digital Future – Encouraging youth participation in digital innovation and internet governance.
The WIC will also present the World Internet Conference Leading Science and Technology Award and recognize “Best Practices in Jointly Building a Cyberspace Community with a Shared Future.” The Light of the Internet Expo will showcase advancements in AI and digital solutions, while the “Straight to Wuzhen” Global Internet Competition will introduce a special AI competition to highlight innovative applications.
Fostering Innovation Through Strategic Collaborations
The 2024 Wuzhen Summit emphasizes collaboration across sectors. The Think Tank Cooperation Plan will support thought leadership and cross-border research, and the WIC Digital Academy will prepare future leaders for a globally connected digital world. These initiatives aim to enhance South-South and North-South partnerships and strengthen international cooperation.
Elevating Classic Events at the WIC Wuzhen Summit
The summit will reprise popular events, including the World Internet Conference Awards for Pioneering Science and Technology, Outstanding Cases of Cyberspace Community Building, and the Light of the Internet Expo, with a focus on new digital innovations. Zhejiang Province will also host special activities, underscoring its dedication to digital transformation and cultural heritage.
A Global Effort to Build a People-Centered Digital Future
Organized by the WIC and the People’s Government of Zhejiang Province, with support from global organizations like the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs, the World Intellectual Property Organization, and the Global System for Mobile Communications Association, the Wuzhen Summit provides a collaborative platform to advance high-quality development in cyberspace. This event underscores global unity in addressing digital challenges, positioning Wuzhen as a global hub for internet governance, innovation, and digital development.
The 2024 Wuzhen Summit represents a significant milestone toward a sustainable, inclusive, and AI-driven future, advancing a shared vision of a people-centered digital world.
