event

Digital@UNGA Affiliate Event - 23 September 2026

 

  • Time: 11:00–12:30 EDT

  • Venue: World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) New York Office, 2 UN Plaza, New York, NY 10017

  • Format: In person

  • Registration: please register by noon on Tuesday, 22 September: Digital@UNGA UPU - RSVP form

Sep
23

Wednesday, 23 September 2026, 11:00 - 12:30
WIPO New York Office, New York, USA

Background

Co-organized by the Universal Postal Union (UPU) and the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), this session will explore how Universal Service and Access Funds can advance digital inclusion through investments in trusted local institutions.

Meaningful inclusion increasingly requires not only connectivity, but also access to appropriate devices and services, digital and AI literacy, and trusted assistance in navigating AI-enabled information and public-service environments.

Schools, post offices, libraries and hospitals have long been recognized for their role in public and community-based access. Post offices are especially well placed to extend access to digital services through a multi-channel approach including e-commerce, digital financial services and e-government. However, these institutions are not yet consistently recognized, financed or integrated into national connectivity, digital-skills and AI-inclusion strategies.

Objective

Building on existing research and guidance from the UPU and IFLA, this session will explore how Universal Service and Access Funds can promote digital inclusion and meaningful connectivity through investments in anchor institutions with strong presences in under-connected communities, such as libraries, post offices and schools.

Through research findings and two country case studies, the discussion will examine how these funds can support affordable or free Internet access, trusted community spaces and assistance that enables underserved populations to access essential digital services and strengthen their digital skills.

The session will also examine how existing networks of public institutions can be better leveraged and integrated into broader digital inclusion strategies, including through support for connectivity, access to equipment, skills development and trusted assistance.

Moderator
 

  • Ms Radka Sibille, Digital Policies and Trade Coordinator, Universal Postal Union


Speakers
 

  • Ms Claire McGuire, Policy and Advocacy Manager, International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions – Findings from a report on the use of USFs to support digital inclusion through libraries

  • Mr Kevin Hernandez, Digital Inclusion Expert, Universal Postal Union – Preliminary findings from an upcoming report on the use of USFs to support digital inclusion activities through Posts

  • ​Mr Alex Wong, Senior Advisor, Strategic Engagement and Initiatives, Executive Office and Giga Co-Lead, International Telecommunication Union (ITU) – How USFs fit within broader financing mechanisms for school connectivity and other anchor institutions

  • ​American Library Association (ALA) (to be confirmed) – How the U.S. Universal Service Fund’s E-Rate programme supports connectivity and digital inclusion through libraries and schools

  • Invited Member State speakers (to be confirmed)
     

​Expected outcomes

The session aims to produce practical recommendations for integrating the financing of digital inclusion activities through anchor institutions into national and international connectivity strategies. It will also help refine a research and action agenda addressing opportunities and barriers to using Universal Service and Access Funds and related financing mechanisms, while identifying priority evidence gaps, potential partnerships and follow-up activities.

For inquiries

Kevin Hernandez
UPU International Bureau
eservices@upu.int