Cisco Partners With OECD

Cisco Partners With OECD

The partnership between Cisco and the OECD builds on existing research into digital well-being, promoting responsible use of technology in a global digital economy.

Cisco, a global technology provider that is committed to fostering an inclusive future for all, continues its efforts to address the digital divide through a new research collaboration with the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). This collaboration aims to help promote a responsible use of technology as well as fairness, inclusion and equitable access in a global digital economy.

Guy Diedrich, Senior Vice President & Global Innovation Officer of Cisco, said, “We cannot close the digital divide on our own. Governments, industry, educational institutions, non-profits and community leaders must work together in new ways to prioritise our collective well-being for a healthy, prosperous and safe digital life. It’s no coincidence that the priorities and the OECD’s Well-being Framework resonate so profoundly. This partnership taps into Cisco and OECD’s collective expertise in understanding the risks and unlocking the value of digitisation across verticals and industries to ultimately power safe and inclusive communities and resilient economies.”

The partnership between Cisco and the OECD builds on existing research into digital well-being. It acknowledges that while digital technologies offer benefits like improved access to education and health information, they also pose risks. Notably, the digital divide, where those lacking digital literacy—a blend of technical, emotional, and social skills—fall behind, becoming vulnerable to mental health risks and safety concerns. Recognising that broad internet access isn’t enough to participate in digital life, the new partnership seeks to rally citizens, businesses, policymakers and workers to develop a balanced approach that ensures technology improves well-being and mitigates potential risks.