The United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), in collaboration with the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Economy and Information Technology and the Global Digital Economy Cities Alliance (DEC40), is pleased to announce the launch of the International Digital Economy Governance and Leadership Capacity-Building Programme, to be held in Beijing from 30 June to 6 July 2026 in conjunction with the World Digital Economy Conference 2026.

The programme forms part of a broader effort to strengthen international cooperation, enhance digital governance capacities, and support inclusive and sustainable digital transformation in line with the United Nations Global Digital Compact and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Bringing together ministers, mayors, senior government officials and institutional leaders from around the world, the programme will provide an intensive platform for knowledge exchange, policy dialogue and practical learning on emerging digital economy trends and governance approaches.

The programme aims to equip decision-makers and public sector leaders with the knowledge, strategic perspectives and leadership capacities needed to navigate the rapidly evolving digital landscape and foster people-centered digital development.

Through high-level dialogue, expert-led sessions and practical exposure to innovative digital economy practices, participants will explore approaches to strengthening digital governance frameworks, promoting innovation ecosystems, addressing digital divides, and advancing international cooperation on emerging technologies.

Seven days of onsite study in Beijing, including case studies, policy dialogues, and field visits to leading enterprises

Participants will engage with a broad set of thematic areas, including:

• Digital governance and policy innovation
• Smart cities and urban digital transformation
• Artificial intelligence for development
• Industrial internet and smart manufacturing
• Digital infrastructure, connectivity, and cybersecurity
• E-commerce, FinTech, and cross-border trade
• Public–private partnerships for digital development
• South–South cooperation and knowledge sharing

Nominations are welcome from:

Government officials:
Mayors, deputy mayors, directors-general, and senior experts working in the digital economy, ICT, industry, trade, science and technology, or related fields.

Corporate leaders:
CEOs, CTOs, COOs, and heads of digital transformation departments from enterprises operating in digital infrastructure, intelligent manufacturing, e-commerce, and innovation-driven sectors.

Applicants are encouraged to demonstrate relevant experience and outline their motivations and expected outcomes in the application form.

The programme’s donor will fully cover:

• hotel accommodation
• meals and local transportation during the onsite training

The onsite programme will include simultaneous and consecutive interpretation between Chinese and English.
Online modules will be conducted primarily in English.

Applicants must submit:

• a completed Application Form
• a Letter of Recommendation from their institution (if applicable)

Application deadline: 14 June 2026
For application submissions and any further information, please contact: Jiadan.yu@unitar.org