Mastercard launches the Digital Ambassadors Forum to unite public and private leaders in shaping global digital governance and AI policy.
During U.N. Week in New York City, Mastercard, in collaboration with AT&T, Oracle, and GSMA, launched the inaugural Digital Ambassadors Forum (DAF) to address the future of digital cooperation.
The event, held at Mastercard’s New York Tech Hub on September 23, brought together leaders from both public and private sectors amid the 80th United Nations General Assembly.
Participants explored how technology can help solve global challenges such as climate change, economic uncertainty, and international security, while also considering the risks it may pose.
The forum aims to bridge geopolitical divides and create a cohesive framework for digital governance, highlighting the importance of collaboration between governments and private enterprises.
“The goal is to build bridges across fault lines and seize this critical moment,”
said Richard Verma, Mastercard Chief Administrative Officer and former U.S. deputy secretary of state.
A central focus of discussions was the role of artificial intelligence. Experts emphasized that AI has the potential to transform societies at unprecedented speed, and that responsible implementation requires cooperation between private companies and governments.
With nations accountable for citizens’ welfare and companies answerable to shareholders and global customers, aligning objectives can be complex. However, leaders agreed that both sectors share core priorities, including data security, seamless cross-border commerce, and fostering public trust.
Nader Mousavizadeh, founding partner and CEO of Macro Advisory Partners, noted that global digital governance is increasingly critical in a fragmented world, where collaboration across countries is more difficult than in previous decades.
The forum offered a platform for frank discussions on emerging challenges and strategies to harmonize digital policy.
By creating a space for these high-level conversations, the Digital Ambassadors Forum seeks to ensure that technological advancements, particularly in AI, serve the public good while strengthening international cooperation.
Participants highlighted that private-sector expertise will be vital in helping governments navigate rapid technological change, shaping policies that protect citizens while enabling innovation.
The DAF represents a significant step toward uniting policymakers and industry leaders around shared goals for digital governance, setting the stage for continued dialogue and action in the evolving global technology landscape.
