Implementing safe, inclusive, and interoperable digital public infrastructure expands access to essential services, fosters strong economies, and delivers impact. By collaborating to share lessons and open technologies rather than going it alone, countries can radically shorten implementation journeys, avoid duplicative costs, and maximise progress.

To celebrate these achievements, the 50-in-5 campaign hosted the inaugural 50-in-5 Awards during the 81st UN General Assembly week at The Morgan Library & Museum. Organised by the Digital Public Goods Alliance and Co-Develop, the 50-in-5 Awards recognise the countries and individuals turning digital public infrastructure into real-world progress and sustained human impact.

Across the Impact, Collaboration, and Leadership categories, the 50-in-5 Awards highlight practical approaches, from foundational digital IDs reaching entire populations to regional payment networks for small businesses, that other countries can adapt to their own contexts.

Read the full announcement to discover the category winners and runners-up honored at the 50-in-5 Awards ceremony, as well as the 40th country to officially join the campaign.

Michael Wiegand (Gates Foundation), Her Majesty Queen Máxima of the Netherlands (UNSGSA), and Impact Award winner Marc-André Loko (Republic of Benin) speak on stage during the 50-in-5 Awards at The Morgan Library & Museum during 81st UN General Assembly week. Photo: 50-in-5/Anthony Randazzo