A new chapter in impactful digital cooperation

When the Digital Cooperation Organization was established in 2020 on the sidelines of the G20, with its headquarters in Riyadh, it marked a significant milestone for the region.

It was a bold step by Saudi Arabia, alongside four additional founding members, to anchor a global multilateral platform focusing on the digital economy to enable digital prosperity for all.

Today, the DCO unites 16 member states across the Middle East, Africa, Asia and Europe, collectively representing over 800 million people and a gross domestic product of $3.5 trillion.

The organization was created with a clear purpose — to ensure that no country is left behind in the digital economy.

It exists to help governments design and implement forward-looking digital policies, build foundational infrastructure and align on responsible innovation. It is action-oriented, member-led and impact-focused.

The DCO is already making a difference. Over the past four years we have launched key tools, including the Digital Economy Navigator, which helps member states assess their digital readiness and align policy frameworks.

We have built strategic partnerships with the UN, the International Telecommunication Union and other global institutions. And we have supported digital upskilling, cross-border regulatory collaboration and startup ecosystem development, all tailored to the needs of our members.

Now, we are entering a phase of intensified execution, guided by the Four-Year Agenda, a roadmap co-developed with member states that sets out strategic priorities and measurable goals.

Our focus will be on accelerating inclusion, promoting digital trust and enabling investment in infrastructure, people and innovation.

The DCO Four-Year Agenda is aimed at enhancing cooperation among member states to boost digital economic resilience and foster social prosperity. It is focused on building a modern, integrated digital economy.

Central to this effort is the digital enablers pillar, which aims to establish a unified policy framework, accelerate regulatory harmonization and enhance resilience through resource sharing.

The organization was created with a clear purpose — to ensure that no country is left behind in the digital economy.

Hajar El Haddaoui

 

The agenda also emphasizes digital corridors, integrating the digital economies of member states by strengthening cross-border digital trade and mobility. This includes promoting secure data exchange and cultivating a skilled, mobile workforce.

To support innovation, the digital business and innovation pillar empowers startups and small and medium-sized enterprises by fostering innovation ecosystems and expanding access to capital, driving growth in digital enterprises.

Finally, the digital society pillar champions digital inclusion, accessibility and environmental sustainability, ensuring equitable digital access and minimizing environmental impact.

This comprehensive strategy focuses on advancing digital maturity across the region, recognizing the critical role that digital technologies play in today’s economy.

At a time when digital regulation, artificial intelligence and data governance are reshaping the global landscape, the DCO continues to help member states lead, not just adapt.

Whether it is helping a government harmonize its data policies, supporting the rollout of artificial intelligence frameworks or enabling small enterprises to connect to global markets, we are committed to practical, inclusive solutions.

The reappointment of Secretary-General Deemah Al-Yahya to a second four-year term, announced during a visit to Kuwait — the member state currently holding presidency of the organization — reflects a clear vote of confidence in her leadership.

Over the past four years, the DCO has moved from concept to implementation. Under the secretary-general’s stewardship, we are already delivering real value to member states.

The next chapter will be about delivering more, scaling our work, deepening our impact and turning vision into long-term outcomes that benefit people and economies.

This is also a moment of pride. While Saudi Arabia submitted the nomination for her reappointment, it was endorsed by the DCO council — a powerful reflection of the Kingdom’s growing leadership in multilateral diplomacy and digital policy.

Our member states may span diverse geographies, cultures and economies, but they are united by a shared belief in the power of cooperation. The power of partnership. That belief is the foundation of everything we do.

As director general of DCO, I am honored to work alongside our secretary-general, member states, observers and partners to realize the organization’s full potential. The next four years will be defined by action, alignment and achievement.

Together, we are building a future where the digital economy works for all.

• Hajar El Haddaoui is director general of the Digital Cooperation Organization