UNIDIR is hosting the launch of its new publication, Unpacking the Open-ended Working Group on ICT in the Context of International Security (2021–2025), held as a side event to the Global Mechanism on developments in the field of information and communications technologies (ICTs) in the context of international security and advancing responsible State behaviour in the use of ICTs.
Between 2021 and 2025, the United Nations Open-ended Working Group (OEWG) on security of and in the use of ICTs operated under an extended mandate and delivered outcomes that will shape how the international community addresses ICT issues in the context of international security. OEWG discussions and negotiations generated a substantial record of how Member States approached, assessed and prioritized a wide range of topics.
UNIDIR is launching a publication that provides a comprehensive account of these substantive exchanges during the years of negotiation. The study traces how negotiations evolved over time, identifies emerging trends and themes, maps which issues were reflected in consensus reports, which were omitted, and draws lessons relevant to the Global Permanent Mechanism on ICT and International Security.
This side event will provide an opportunity for States to learn more about the publication, including the study’s main findings, to ask questions of experts, and to engage in discussions on lessons learned and the legacy of the OEWG.
Speakers
- Julia Rodriguez, Minister Counsellor, Permanent Mission of El Salvador to the United Nations
- Katherine Prizeman, Political Affairs Officer, UNODA
- Dr Samuele Dominioni, Senior Researcher, Security and Technology Programme, Co-editor of the publication, UNIDIR
- Dr Giacomo Persi Paoli, Head of the Security and Technology Programme, Co-editor of the publication, UNIDIR
When and where
Tuesday, 21 July 2026 | 13:15 – 14:30 EST | In person (Conference Room 8, United Nations Headquarters, New York) and online.
Check your local time here.
A light lunch will be provided to the participants attending in person.
RSVP
Please register here by Monday, 20 July. You are kindly requested to specify if you will be attending in person or connecting remotely. Early registrations are encouraged.
For those joining online, the link to access the event will be provided by email to registered participants one day prior to the session.
Participants
We welcome States delegations and cyber experts, as well as members of the multi-stakeholder community including industry, civil society, and intergovernmental organizations (ECOSOC status).
Please kindly note that UNIDIR is not able to grant access to the United Nations Headquarters for those who are not already in possession of the UN accreditation.
Further information
For any questions, please contact UNIDIR’s Security and Technology Programme at sectec-unidir@un.org.