Representatives from 194 United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) member states will convene for the Global Forum on Artificial Intelligence (AI). This gathering aims to evaluate global AI governance progress and discuss national regulations crafted to ensure responsible AI use.
Scheduled for February 5–6, under the initiative of Director-General Audrey Azoulay and Slovenian Prime Minister Robert Golob, the forum gains significance from the UNESCO Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence, unanimously approved by Member States in November 2021.
Forming the world’s inaugural global framework for AI ethics, this recommendation established a global governance structure anchored in human values, filling a notable void in this sector. UNESCO’s methodological tools have since been embraced by over 50 states, enhancing their AI readiness and improving national laws.
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The 2nd edition of the Global Forum on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence will showcase member states’ progress and ongoing projects. With a primary objective to bolster collaboration and share best regulatory practices, this forum aims to prevent an “AI Wild West” scenario, ensuring technology serves the common good.
On the inaugural day of the forum, approximately ten global private entities are set to publicly endorse UNESCO’s recommendation. This marks a pivotal move in UNESCO’s strategy to engage the private sector in adopting ethical practices and constructing trustworthy technologies.
UNESCO is also slated to unveil key initiatives during the event. This includes the AI Ethics Experts without Borders Network—a global network of experts poised to aid states and policymakers—and the Global AI Ethics Observatory. Furthermore, the Women4Ethical AI platform will be introduced, underlining UNESCO’s commitment to gender-inclusive ethical AI practices.
