The United Nations recently organized the OSPOs for Good symposium in New York “for championing OSPOs (Open Source Program Offices) as a global network for good.” While the 2023 event was a one-day informal gathering, this year’s symposium saw an expanded agenda, focusing on how OSPOs are “enabling new forms of global cooperation around open source for good in countries.”

The Linux Foundation was invited to be part of the communications committee at the 2024 event, and Hilary Carter, SVP of Research and Communications at the Linux Foundation, served as the primary liaison on this committee. Several leaders from the Foundation also shared their insights at the event. In this interview, Carter talks about how governments and entities, including the United Nations, are recognizing the pivotal role of open source in fostering sustainable innovation, developing trusted and secure technologies, and building open communities that enhance collaboration across borders and industries.

Carter highlights the growing interest of the United Nations in open source, particularly its potential to drive sustainable innovation and address global challenges such as climate change. Carter also touches on the current trends in the technology sector, emphasizing the need for diversity, inclusion, and equity.

Furthermore, Carter stresses the importance of considering security in job roles beyond just security titles, underscoring the value of diverse perspectives in creating better software and achieving superior outcomes.

UN’s interest in open source, its value for sustainable innovation, and Linux Foundation projects addressing climate challenges

• Carter discusses the UN’s interest in open source, accelerating adoption for policy and government institutions.
• Carter notes that the UN seeks to accelerate sustainable development goals through open source.
• Carter highlights the Linux Foundation projects addressing climate challenges, such as LF Energy and the AgStack Foundation.

Climate resilience and sustainability through open source projects

• The Linux Foundation plays a critical role in addressing global challenges through open source projects.
• Carter discusses Zero Hunger and other sustainability-focused projects at the Linux Foundation, including OS-Climate.
• Carter notes that the Linux Foundation scales climate resilience projects through community engagement.

Open source technologies for sustainability, accessibility, and diversity

• Carter emphasizes the urgency of addressing climate change through open-source technology, with the Linux Foundation serving as a unifying force for industry players.
• The Linux Foundation convenes parties to discuss open source technologies and sustainability, with upcoming events in Brussels and Vienna.
• Carter emphasizes that open source communities must prioritize access and inclusion to scale.

Diversity, inclusion, and security in tech

• Carter highlights the importance of cybersecurity in open source software development.
• Carter also emphasizes diversity and inclusion in tech, citing data-driven benefits.

Guest: Hilary Carter (LinkedIn)
Organization: Linux Foundation (Twitter)