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Statement by the Vice-Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Lithuania, Mr. Taurimas Valys, at the High-level Meeting of the General Assembly on the Overall Review of the Implementation of the Outcomes of the World Summit on the Information Society on Tuesday, 16 December 2025.

Excellencies, distinguished delegates, dear colleagues,

Twenty years ago, WSIS set a vision for a people-centered and inclusive society of information. Today, as we mark WSIS+20, Lithuania affirms that this vision remains vital not only for digital transformation, but also for achieving the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals. Digital technologies must boost education, health, climate action and economic growth, but before that they must serve humanity, not damage it.

First, Lithuania strongly supports multistakeholderism as the centerpiece of global digital governance. This approach ensures transparency, innovation, and trust. Attempts to impose centralized, state-controlled approaches create a risk of fragmenting the internet and damaging democratic values. We must resist such trends and keep governance an open and inclusive space for collaboration.

Having such an approach can help countries achieve digital transformation. Lithuania exemplifies this perfectly. We have digitalized public services through platforms such as e-Government Gateway, enabling citizens to access more than 1000 services without leaving their apartments. Our GovTech Lab fosters innovation by connecting startups with public sector challenges. Efforts like these demonstrate how technology can strengthen democracy and efficiency.

However, in turbulent times, when democratic values are at a high risk, security and resilience are of utmost importance. Lithuania invests heavily in cybersecurity, operating a National Cyber Security Centre. We also lead initiatives to counter disinformation to safeguard democratic processes.

Cybersecurity has become extremely important in the age of artificial intelligence. Although AI brings vast opportunities, it also allows significant risks to emerge. Lithuania reminds that the AI governance must be human-centric and human-rights-based, ensuring fairness, transparency, and accountability. Regulation should balance innovation with human rights.

Finally, we must all make great efforts to eliminate any digital divide. Lithuania is making sure that no one is left behind, offering digital skills programs for seniors and other vulnerable groups.

To ensure the execution of all these ideas, it is vital to have a unique platform for dialogue. A perfect example of this is the Internet Governance Forum. Lithuania supports strengthening IGF’s resources to ensure its sustainability and relevance. IGF demonstrates what works for the digital community: openness, diversity and shared responsibility.

Dear colleagues,

This is the moment when we move beyond declarations to concrete action. Lithuania calls for:

• Stronger integration of WSIS Action Lines with SDGs.
• Continued commitment to digital inclusion.
• A reaffirmation that human rights online are non-negotiable.

Lithuania stands ready to work with like-minded partners to ensure that digital transformation strengthens peace, prosperity, and trust.