International Digital Dialogues

Context

Digitalisation is changing the global economy and opening up potential for social and climate-friendly economic development. To strengthen legal certainty and fair competition on the internet, rules are important. However, the way in which digital technologies are regulated and data are handled varies greatly from country to country. Governments will only be able to make the most of the opportunities provided by digitalisation through global cooperation and shaping the rules in collaboration with the business community, civil society and academia.

Objective

The German Federal Ministry for Digital Transformation and Government Modernisation (BMDS) is working with partner ministries and stakeholders across the world to create better framework conditions for the digital transformation.

Approach

Germany conducts Digital Dialogues with important partner countries such as Brazil, Ghana, India, Indonesia, Kenya and Mexico. BMDS and its partner ministries exchange information and experiences regarding digital policy and develop joint positions for international fora. In Brazil and India, Digital Dialogues are co-financed by the European Union.

The International Digital Dialogues are also a platform for direct exchange between politics, the business community, academia and civil society. Together, the stakeholders discuss topics such as internet governance, data policy, emerging technologies and digital business models.

The Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH supports the International Digital Dialogues through a secretariat which coordinates meetings and the exchange of expert knowledge, advises on technological, political and economic developments, and provides cross-border networking for stakeholders from all areas of society. Finally, it provides a focal point for anyone who wants to get involved in the dialogues.

Last update: June 2025