The Consumer Technology Association (CTA) has announced technology as a new eighth pillar of the Human Security for All (HS4A) campaign, a global initiative to promote human security in all its dimensions. The announcement was made at an event co-hosted by CTA, World Academy of Art and Science (WAAS) and the UN Trust Fund for Human Security during the 78th session of the UN General Assembly in New York.
Technology as a Tool to Advance Human Security
The HS4A campaign aims to raise awareness and mobilize action on the concept of human security, which focuses on the protection and empowerment of people in the face of various threats, such as poverty, violence, disease, climate change and inequality. The campaign identifies seven pillars of human security: economic, environmental, food, health, political, personal and community security.
The addition of technology as an eighth pillar reflects the power of technology as a tool to advance human security in all its dimensions. Access to technology enhances the human experience. It is essential to development, enabling us to do more with less, tackle the world’s most pressing challenges and close the sustainable development goals (SDG) investment gap.
“Technology is making our world a better place to live for literally billions of people, and we are only just scratching the surface of what’s possible,” said Gary Shapiro, president and CEO of CTA. “I’m thrilled to continue work with the UN Trust Fund for Human Security and World Academy of Art and Science to advance the HS4A global campaign and showcase the innovations that transform our world – at CES 2024 and beyond.”
Technology’s Power to Address Global Challenges
The event at the UN featured remarks by the UN Secretary General’s Envoy on Technology Amandeep Singh Gill, who highlighted the role of technology in achieving the SDGs and addressing the COVID-19 pandemic. He also stressed the need for inclusive and responsible innovation that respects human rights and values.
The event also included a panel discussion on technology’s power to address global challenges with Kinsey Fabrizio, SVP of CES and Membership at CTA; Garry Jacobs, President and CEO of WAAS; and Megan Lee, Chairwoman and CEO of Panasonic. The panel was moderated by CNN Business Senior Writer Samantha Kelly.
The panelists shared their insights on how technology can help solve problems such as hunger, health care, education, energy, climate change and social justice. They also discussed the opportunities and challenges of digital transformation, such as ensuring access, affordability, quality, security and ethics of technology.
The panelists also showcased some examples of innovative technologies that are making a positive impact on human security, such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, blockchain, robotics, drones, 5G, smart cities and renewable energy.
Technology and Human Security at CES 2024
The connection between technology and human security will be pervasive throughout CES 2024, which will showcase technology that is addressing the world’s biggest challenges through its show floor exhibits, conference programing and Innovations Awards program.
CES 2024 will also feature a special pavilion dedicated to the HS4A campaign, where visitors can learn more about the concept of human security and how technology can contribute to it. The pavilion will also host interactive sessions with experts and leaders from various sectors and regions.
CES 2024 will take place from January 9 to 12 in Las Vegas. It is expected to attract more than 180,000 attendees from over 160 countries. It is the most powerful tech event in the world – the proving ground for breakthrough technologies and global innovators.
