In a resounding commitment to fostering ethical standards and responsible governance in the field of artificial intelligence (AI), China’s Vice Minister of Education, Wang Jiayi, declared the nation’s dedication to worldwide collaboration during the Second Global Forum on the Ethics of AI. The event, hosted by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in Kranj, Slovenia, drew representatives from 67 countries, including government officials, international organizations, academia, NGOs, and businesses.
China, represented by Vice Minister Wang Jiayi, articulated its readiness to engage constructively in global efforts to advance AI ethics and governance. Wang underscored the significance of AI governance plans presented by various countries, viewing them as a foundation for forging a unified global consensus and harmonizing overarching governance strategies.
Moreover, China expressed its readiness to engage in open dialogue and collaboration with all stakeholders, aiming to establish an equitable and effective AI governance framework that will benefit all of humanity.
Global collaboration in AI ethics
UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay emphasized the imperative of international cooperation in the context of the ongoing digital revolution and climate change. Azoulay noted that the global community faces a critical decision: to actively participate in shaping this transformative era or merely observe from the sidelines. The message resounded with a call to harness the revolution for the betterment of all.
Gabriela Ramos, UNESCO’s assistant director general for social and human sciences, commended China’s multifaceted approach. She highlighted China’s legislative measures to regulate AI and its proactive engagement in international initiatives focused on addressing AI’s potential challenges while maximizing its societal benefits.
As a significant outcome of the forum, UNESCO, in collaboration with the Alan Turing Institute and the International Telecommunication Union, inaugurated a global observatory for AI ethics. This observatory is poised to become a hub of knowledge, offering insights into AI ethics and governance. It will provide access to readiness reports on AI and analyses of best practices, enhancing global understanding of AI’s ethical dimensions.
A global gathering for Ethical AI
The Second Global Forum on the Ethics of AI, themed “Changing the Landscape of AI Governance,” assembled over 600 delegates from diverse backgrounds. Participants included representatives from governments, international organizations, academic and research institutions, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and businesses. The diversity of attendees underscored the international significance of ethical AI governance.
Slovenia’s Digital Transformation Minister Emilija Stojmenova Duh conveyed her belief that all participants share the motivation, knowledge, and responsibility necessary to develop AI that benefits humanity. Her sentiment resonated with the overarching theme of the forum: the collective responsibility to ensure that AI is used for the greater good.
Looking ahead: AI governance and ethical integration
The forum, which extended over two days, featured discussions on various facets of AI governance and ethics. Topics included best practices, building blocks for effective AI governance, and integrating ethical AI principles into businesses. These discussions offered a platform for sharing insights and experiences, fostering collaboration, and advancing the ethical application of AI technology.
With the inauguration of the AI ethics observatory and ongoing discussions, the forum exemplified the determination of nations to shape a future where AI advances ethically and responsibly for the betterment of society. As global collaboration continues, the promise of ethical AI governance remains a shared vision for the world.
