Remarks by United Nations Resident Coordinator Marc-André Franche at the High-level Launch of the Joint Programme on ‘Transforming Local Administrative Data Collection Systems for SDG Acceleration’

Honorable Prime Minister, Ministers, Esteemed partners, Distinguished guests, and colleagues,

Ayubowan, Wanakam, Good morning!

I’m honored to speak at the launch of this initiative as part of Sri Lanka’s Digital Public Infrastructure Summit

We are in the midst of a global digital transformation — a shift of unprecedented speed and scale, reshaping geopolitics, the economy, governance, service delivery, and much more. At the United Nations, we are dedicated to advancing the integration of digital public goods and infrastructure, while advocating for inclusive and ethical governance frameworks that ensure no one is left behind while also protecting people from the real harms of this digital transformation.

I commend the Government of Sri Lanka for placing digital transformation at the heart of its development strategy. This momentous decision will not only modernize governance by increasing efficiency and reduce corruption and waste but will ensure fairer distribution of benefits.

While these advancements are encouraging, we must also confront the complexities and serious pitfalls inherent in this transition. The digital divide remains a critical issue, exacerbating existing inequalities. To effectively transform public services, we must ensure that every corner of Sri Lanka has access to reliable, high-speed internet. This is essential for equitable digital service delivery and preventing exclusion from the digital revolution.

As we strive to modernize and digitize public services, we are often encumbered by legacy systems that were never designed to meet the needs of a digital-first society. To address this, we must invest in modernizing public service systems to ensure they are interoperable, scalable, and sustainable over time.

Furthermore, as we drive forward digital innovation, we must ensure that we balance progress with the protection of citizens' data and privacy. This remains one of the most pressing contradictions in our digital transformation journey. I am, however, encouraged by Sri Lanka’s steps to strengthen its Personal Data Protection laws, ensuring that privacy and security concerns are addressed alongside technological advancements. But these laws and the institutions created as a result must be functional and effective. This is not the case yet.

As you chart your digital transformation journey, it is vital to address these challenges by balancing the trade-offs between cybersecurity and online safety, supported by robust regulatory frameworks. We must develop a more comprehensive pathway on our digital transformation journey that respects personal privacy, ensures digital safeguards are in place, and promotes inclusive digital infrastructures and governance frameworks.

The One Registry initiative launched today is only one step or component of the broader Digital public infrastructure, but an essential one. By modernizing systems like the Civil

Registration and Vital Statistics framework, we are improving the delivery of essential services, fostering accountability, and rebuilding trust in public institutions.

The ONE Registry initiative is the result of close collaboration between the Ministry of Public Administration, the Registrar-General’s Department, the Ministry of Digitalization, and the Ministry of Health, reflecting Sri Lanka’s steadfast commitment to advancing digital equity. The Joint UN programme mobilizes UNDP and WHO to proudly support and accompany this government led effort.

Digital transformation is not the responsibility of governments alone. It requires a collective effort. The private sector, particularly leading IT companies and technology providers, plays a critical role. Their expertise, innovation, and resources will drive the modernization efforts that will transform lives and foster sustainable, inclusive development.

I would also like to recognize al our partners contributing to the Sri Lanka SDG Fund which supports the One Registry initiative, and specially the European Union for its contribution to global digital transformation. Through its commitment to global digital cooperation, the EU has set a global standard for human-centered innovation, inclusivity, and security.

In closing, I echo the United Nations Secretary-General’s words, emphasizing that with the right policies, digital technology can serve as a powerful engine for sustainable development, especially for marginalized populations. His call for a Global Digital Compact highlights the need for universal connectivity, a human-centered digital ecosystem and safeguarding the responsible use of data—all essential components to empower individuals while upholding their fundamental rights and freedoms.

This partnership is not simply about technology—it is about empowering every Sri Lankan to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital world.

Thank you.