News - USA, New York, Permanent Representation of the Republic of Bulgaria to the UN

Ambassador Gergana Karadjova participated in the session of the United Nations Commission on Population and Development.

“It is essential to ensure that technology and innovation contribute to inclusion, resilience, and sustainable development, rather than deepen inequalities and divides. Addressing these challenges requires strengthened international cooperation and inclusive partnerships. Equally important is the empowerment of all women and girls, as well as those at risk of exclusion, so that we can bridge the gender digital divide alongside other inequalities and leave no one behind,” Ambassador Karadjova emphasized.

The Permanent Representative of Bulgaria highlighted research as a tool offering significant opportunities to accelerate progress. “Digital tools can expand access to services, improve the availability and quality of data, and support more effective and forward-looking policymaking. At the same time, technological progress must be accompanied by strong safeguards. Emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, must respect human rights, protect personal data, and address risks such as misinformation, discrimination, and technology-facilitated gender-based violence,” Ambassador Gergana Karadjova further noted.

“Every individual must be empowered to have full control over their sexuality and to make free and responsible decisions regarding their sexual and reproductive health, free from discrimination, coercion, and violence. This is particularly important to ensure that girls and young women can remain in school, acquire knowledge, and develop the skills necessary to become active and responsible members of their communities,” the Permanent Representative of Bulgaria to the United Nations added.

In concluding her remarks, Ambassador Karadjova noted that, at the national level, Bulgaria is addressing demographic challenges through integrated, forward-looking policies. The National Concept for Regional and Spatial Development 2026–2040 provides a strategic framework linking population dynamics with technological development and innovation. The Concept promotes digital transformation as a key driver of territorial cohesion, particularly by improving access to services in rural areas through e-health and digital public services, while also supporting innovation, regional partnerships, and human capital development.