Europe is stepping up efforts to address widening digital disparities across the region, particularly in South-East Europe and the Mediterranean, with the launch of a new initiative by the UNESCO Office in Venice.
The project, titled ‘Digital Futures for a Smart Europe: A Feasibility Study on Digital Transformation and Green Innovation’, is funded by Huawei Technologies and aims to strengthen digital capacities and innovation ecosystems across Member States.
The initiative aligns with UNESCO’s leadership of the International Decade of Sciences for Sustainable Development (2024–2033) and supports the UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. It will contribute in particular to Sustainable Development Goals 9 (Industry, innovation and infrastructure), 10 (Reduced inequalities) and 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). At regional level, it complements the European Union’s Smart Specialisation Strategies (S3), which guide innovation investments based on national and regional strengths in digitalisation, green innovation and Industry 4.0.
UNESCO said digital technologies and green innovation are increasingly recognised as critical enablers of sustainable development, offering integrated responses to challenges such as climate change, economic resilience and social inclusion. The partnership combines UNESCO’s role in science-policy coordination with private-sector technological expertise.
Scheduled for implementation in 2026 and 2027, the project will support Member States in assessing and establishing a baseline for their digital transformation and green innovation ecosystems. The work will begin with a regional feasibility study, including country-level assessments, policy analysis, data collection and stakeholder consultations.
The analytical phase will be followed by targeted capacity-building activities, including training, knowledge exchange and partnerships with universities, innovation hubs, and UNESCO Chairs and Centres.
Universities, science agencies, policymakers, public institutions, youth organisations, non-governmental groups and local communities are expected to benefit from the initiative. The project aims to strengthen innovation ecosystems and enhance capabilities in emerging technologies, laying the groundwork for a more resilient, inclusive and sustainable digital future across Europe.
