Youth Delegate at the World Bank Youth Summit 2024

I had the honor of serving as a youth delegate at the World Bank Youth Summit 2024, representing American youth and the In Network National Security Academy. This year’s theme, "Digital Transformation," closely aligned with my specialization in digital equity and combating foreign propaganda, allowing me to contribute insights on pressing global challenges.

At the summit, I advocated for stronger digital security, countering state-sponsored propaganda, and advancing female leadership worldwide. In today’s interconnected world, competing state actors exploit digital platforms to spread propaganda, influencing public perception, destabilizing societies, and undermining trust in institutions. Through discussions with fellow delegates, I explored how different governments address these challenges and collaborated with NGOs to strengthen people-to-people ties, an essential component of maintaining international stability and cooperation.

Countering State-Sponsored Propaganda & Its Global Implications

I also had the opportunity to present a policy recommendation on agriculture and climate change, emphasizing the importance of youth involvement in international development and foreign policy. However, the manipulation of digital information by competing state actors continues to pose a major security threat worldwide. Foreign propaganda is often used to sow division, erode democratic values, and manipulate public discourse, creating instability that can be exploited for geopolitical gain. In some cases, communities may be influenced to resist beneficial policies or align with narratives that do not serve their best interests.

Beyond its domestic impact, state-sponsored propaganda presents serious diplomatic risks. Coordinated disinformation campaigns can escalate tensions between nations, create misunderstandings, and fuel conflicts. To counter this growing threat, it is essential to increase funding for public diplomacy initiatives and independent journalism, ensuring that truthful and transparent information reaches communities worldwide.

Promoting Digital Equity & Women's Leadership

Moreover, women and girls must have equitable access to digital technology, information, and leadership opportunities. Digital equity is a cornerstone for advancing women’s rights and strengthening advocacy efforts globally. During my discussions with international counterparts, I proposed ideas to enhance digital access both in the United States and abroad, reinforcing the need for a more inclusive and secure digital future.

The World Bank Youth Summit 2024 served as a powerful platform for collaborative policymaking and global engagement. It reaffirmed the crucial role of youth in shaping digital transformation, countering foreign propaganda, and fostering gender equality. I look forward to continuing these efforts and working toward a more informed, secure, and equitable world.