Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg Advocates for Global Internet Access at UN Gathering

In a pivotal year that marks the 70th anniversary of the United Nations (UN), world leaders have congregated at the UN headquarters to engage in discussions about pressing global issues. As part of these conversations, the role of private companies in addressing global challenges — such as poverty and conflict — has emerged as a significant discussion point. Among the esteemed participants in these critical discussions is Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of Facebook.

Zuckerberg, who is also known for his commitment to Internet.org – a platform dedicated to providing affordable internet access to underserved areas of the world, was invited to address the assembly. He delivered two speeches at the gathering, one at the U.N. Sustainable Development Conference and a keynote at the United Nations Private Sector Forum, both of which were attended by the UN Secretary-General.

“Today I’m speaking at the United Nations where I’m going to call for universal internet access to be made a global priority,” declared Zuckerberg. He went on to underscore the necessity and potential of internet access to spark socio-economic growth and alleviate global poverty. After an extensive review of research and data, he concluded, “For every 10 people connected to the internet, about 1 is lifted out of poverty.”

In a bid to bring this vision to life, Zuckerberg announced the launch of a global call to action. This campaign will be implemented in partnership with various reputed organizations and notable personalities—including the ONE campaign, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the Mo Ibrahim Foundation, Save the Children, TED, the United Nations Foundation, Ushahidi, Bono, Richard Branson, Arianna Huffington, Shakira, George Takei, Charlize Theron, and Jimmy Wales, among others.

In his Facebook post dated September 26, 2015, Zuckerberg extended a rallying call to proponents of global internet access: “Those without internet access cannot share their voices online. But you can. Share your support at www.one.org/connecttheworld.” He also shared an ambitious plan to partner with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees to bring internet services to refugee camps worldwide.

Supporting such a massive initiative requires substantial funding, and Zuckerberg revealed that over $25 billion has been pledged to attain goals like the eradication of poverty by 2030 and providing universal internet connectivity. Among the countries generously contributing to the cause are the US, Canada, Germany, and Sweden.

On a personal front, Zuckerberg and his wife have already demonstrated their commitment to global well-being, contributing $25 million to fight Ebola. Other companies, like Google, have also expressed their resolve to counteract global crises, setting a goal to raise $11 million for the current migrant situation.