Launched in September 2023, the Universal DPI Safeguards Initiative brings together governments, civil society, the private sector, and international partners to promote shared principles for secure, inclusive, and rights-based digital public infrastructure (DPI). Through a common universal framework and practical tools, the initiative supports countries in building systems that reflect their unique needs while protecting individuals and strengthening public trust.
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Find quick answers to the most common questions about The Universal DPI Safeguards Initiative.
1. What is Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), and why is it important?
DPI refers to foundational digital systems—such as digital ID, payments, and data exchange—that enable access to public and private services at scale. When designed with care, DPI can expand inclusion, improve service delivery, and accelerate progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). However, without proper safeguards, it can also pose serious risks to safety, privacy, and human rights.
2. What is the Universal DPI Safeguards Initiative?
The Universal DPI Safeguards Initiative is a global, multi-stakeholder effort led by the United Nations Office for Digital and Emerging Technologies and UNDP to support countries in building secure, inclusive, and rights-based DPI. It brings together governments, civil society, the private sector, and development partners to develop practical safeguards that are adaptable across different contexts.
3. What does the Universal DPI Safeguards Framework include?
The Framework is a practical tool featuring:
• 18 guiding principles for risk mitigation.
• Phase-specific recommendations (design, rollout, governance).
• Role-based guidance (governments, regulators, tech providers, etc.).
• An interactive library for context-specific action plans.
4. What risks does the Framework address?
The Framework tackles risks to both individuals and societies. These include privacy violations, digital exclusion, discrimination, lack of access to redress, cybersecurity threats, weak institutions, unsustainable systems, and loss of public trust.
5. Who should use the Framework?
Anyone involved in DPI, including governments, regulators, tech providers, donors, civil society organizations, and advocates. Whether you’re building, funding, regulating, or supporting DPI, the Framework offers actionable guidance tailored to your role.
6. Is this relevant only to governments?
No. While governments play a central role, private sector actors, civil society, and development partners are all key stakeholders. DPI ecosystems require collaborative, whole-of-society approaches, and the Framework reflects that.
7. How can I get involved or learn more?
You can explore the full Framework, and sign up for updates through the DPI Safeguards Digest. For additional support, contact the team at dpi-safeguards@un.org.
