Original source: The Guardian

Ahead of the Activate London Summit 2013, Helen Clark, the administrator of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), spoke to us about the role of technology in shaping the next global development agenda and generating innovative development solutions.

Can you tell us a little bit about the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and your role as administrator?

UNDP is the lead UN development organisation, operating in 177 countries and territories. We work to eradicate poverty, reduce inequalities, and protect the planet we all share. My role as administrator is a leadership one, working to ensure that this large global organisation delivers results and is a thought leader on development.

How can we increase the involvement of people in developing the post-2015 development agenda?

To increase people's involvement in the debate, UNDP and sister UN organisations launched a global conversation via social media, other websites and face-to-face meetings. So far, more than 750,000 people from 194 countries have participated. The feedback suggests that people want the unfinished business of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) attended to; inequality tackled, women empowered and the environment protected. They are saying that it's not only access to services like education which matters, but also their quality. They want open, honest and responsive government too. Technology has a role to play in achieving that.

What role does technology play in shaping the next global development agenda?

Information and communications technology (ICT) has enabled much wider consultation on the shaping of the agenda, just as it has wide applications for development in general. But we must also bear in mind that ICTs do not yet reach many of the world's poorest and most marginalised people; it's important that they and their advocates are heard in developing the new agenda.

How can technology and media increase the speed, reliability and reach of data on the progress being made on the development agenda to maintain momentum?

It could be said that technology is taking us towards high-definition development – because the extent of communication we have with people paints a picture closer to that of a flat screen. Technology also spawns innovative development solutions, like the use of text messaging for disaster preparedness and early warning systems. Analysing key development themes in social media enables better responses to the needs of people. Technology can also support greater transparency, as the new platform released by the Department for International Development, which tracks how British aid is spent, does.

What's your vision for the post-MDG agenda and how can technology help achieve it?

Since 2000, the MDGs have helped to mobilise action around specific goals. From the 1990 baseline, some 800 million people have moved out of extreme poverty, two billion have gained access to drinking water, and parity in boys' and girls' school enrolment is close to being achieved. New technologies will play a part in further poverty reduction, better health and education services, and increasing interaction between citizens and state.

Finally, what will be your message to the industry at the Guardian Activate Summit?

I support participatory approaches to development which drive inclusive growth, equity and environmental sustainability. The role of technology is central in getting broad engagement in development and in driving development itself.