When Joe Biden took over from Donald Trump, many predicted that Trump’s foreign policy would soon follow him out the door. A few months down the line, it’s become clear that they agreed more frequently than expected even if their styles are very different. One example is their shared hostility towards Chinese technology companies. Trump’s campaign against Chinese companies’ work in third countries has essentially continued unchanged. Only it has now been pulled into a very un-Trumpian alliance with the G7, in the form of Build Back Better World (B3W).

Which of the Global South’s many digital needs the B3W will fulfill remains unclear. Instead of addressing recipient demand, the B3W’s focus is firmly on the supply side. We’re assured that whatever is provided will be values-driven, climate-friendly, and build strategic partnerships. But what that will be, remains TBC.