The 2024 World Internet Conference (WIC) Wuzhen Summit, taking place from November 19 to 22 in Wuzhen, Zhejiang Province, China, promises to be a groundbreaking event for digital innovation, with a particular focus on artificial intelligence (AI) and building a community-focused, people-centered digital future. At a recent press conference held in Beijing on October 24, the World Internet Conference International Organization shared exciting updates on the summit’s theme, “Embracing a Digital Future That Is People-Centered and Intelligent for Good,” highlighting the event’s dedication to creating a cyberspace community with a shared future.
Key Highlights of the 2024 Wuzhen Summit
Ren Xianliang, Secretary-General of the WIC, noted that this year’s summit would bring together global leaders across fields, with 24 sub-forums diving into digital economy, AI technology innovation, youth engagement in the digital future, and the Global Development Initiative. Here’s a preview of the summit’s major highlights:
- WIC Distinguished Contribution Award – A new award to recognize exceptional individuals and organizations contributing to the global internet landscape, with a grand awards ceremony scheduled during the summit.
- WIC Specialized Committee on Artificial Intelligence – The newly formed committee aims to foster AI cooperation and knowledge sharing internationally, becoming the first permanent branch of WIC.
- Think Tank Cooperation Program – Expected to involve 60 leading think tanks worldwide, this program focuses on collaboration and strategy-building for the future of the internet.
- WIC Digital Academy and Global Elite Training – Designed for global leaders, government officials, and NGOs, the Digital Academy will serve as a hub for international training in digital transformation, with a focus on emerging economies.
Comprehensive Agenda for the Future of Cyberspace
The summit will feature a variety of activities, including the opening ceremony, main forum, and 24 sub-forums covering a broad range of essential topics:
- AI Innovation and Governance – Exploring the role of AI in shaping ethical, efficient, and sustainable digital ecosystems.
- Global Development Initiative and Digital Economy – Addressing new pathways for economic growth driven by digital transformation.
- Youth Engagement and Digital Future – Encouraging younger generations to actively participate in digital innovation and internet governance.
The summit will also showcase the World Internet Conference Leading Science and Technology Award and the “Best Practices in Jointly Building a Cyberspace Community with a Shared Future.” The Light of the Internet Expo will spotlight AI advancements and digital solutions, and the “Straight to Wuzhen” Global Internet Competition will debut a special AI competition for innovative applications.
Fostering Innovation Through Strategic Collaborations
This year, the Wuzhen Summit is dedicated to driving collaborations across sectors. For instance, the Think Tank Cooperation Plan will promote thought leadership and research across countries, while the WIC Digital Academy aims to educate and prepare future leaders for a globally connected digital world. These programs are expected to advance South-South and North-South collaborations and strengthen international partnerships.
Elevating Classic Events at the WIC Wuzhen Summit
Returning events like the World Internet Conference Awards for Pioneering Science and Technology, Outstanding Cases of Cyberspace Community Building, and the popular Light of the Internet Expo will feature new advancements this year, aligning with the summit’s enhanced focus on digital innovation. In addition, Zhejiang province will host unique activities showcasing the area’s commitment to digital transformation and regional culture.
A Global Effort to Build a People-Centered Digital Future
The Wuzhen Summit is organized by the WIC with the People’s Government of Zhejiang Province and is supported by global entities, including the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs, the World Intellectual Property Organization, and the Global System for Mobile Communications Association. This collaborative platform brings together leading minds to foster high-quality development in cyberspace and strengthen global unity in tackling digital challenges.
The 2024 Wuzhen Summit marks a significant step toward a sustainable, inclusive, and AI-driven future, positioning Wuzhen as a global hub for internet governance, innovation, and digital development.