AI becomes a 'lifeline' of global digital infrastructure

Artificial intelligence (AI) is playing an ever more important role in operating, securing and stabilizing the global digital ecosystem.

Digital infrastructure faces new challenges

On the World Telecommunication and Information Society Day 2026, the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) delivered the message "Digital Lifelines: Strengthening resilience in a connected world."

As the world repeatedly faces impacts from climate change, supply chain disruptions, geopolitical conflicts and large-scale cyberattacks, maintaining information flows is no longer merely a technical issue but has become a critical condition for the functioning of modern economies and societies. According to ITU, AI is increasingly becoming a “lifeline’ that coordinates the entire global digital ecosystem.

The ITU says the concept of ‘digital lifeline’ today extends beyond undersea fiber-optic cables or 5G and 6G networks to include the entire network of data, computing centers, digital platforms and information connections that sustain many sectors such as healthcare, education, transport, finance, global trade and e-government.

Vietnam promotes AI adoption in digital transformation

Following global trends, Vietnam is also accelerating AI adoption for digital infrastructure development and national digital transformation. With the National Digital Transformation Program and the National AI Strategy, major technology companies are shifting from traditional telecom service models toward providing digital platforms and intelligent technologies.

Companies such as Viettel, VNPT, FPT and MobiFone have applied AI to optimize network operations, analyze big data and improve service quality.

However, alongside major benefits, the increasing penetration of AI into digital infrastructure also raises many new challenges. One notable issue is privacy and data security. As AI continuously collects and analyzes massive volumes of data, the line between service optimization and intrusion into personal life becomes increasingly fragile.

In the World Telecommunication and Information Society Day message this year, ITU Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin stressed that digital connectivity now plays a role as an electricity or transport in modern life. Experts say that for digital lifelines to be truly sustainable and highly resilient, AI must continue to be developed with a human-centered approach, coupled with international cooperation, common governance standards and social responsibility.

Hai Phong News