Dame Wendy Hall, a distinguished figure in the field of computer science and the Director of the Web Science Institute at the University of Southampton, has been appointed to the United Nations’ high-level advisory body on artificial intelligence (AI). This selection comes as a recognition of her outstanding contributions to the field and her role as a leading advocate for responsible AI development. She joins a panel of 31 experts from across the globe tasked with advancing recommendations for the international governance of AI.
Dame Wendy Hall’s appointment to the UN advisory body is a testament to her extensive expertise and dedication to the responsible advancement of AI technologies. She was chosen from a pool of more than 1,800 nominees spanning 128 countries, highlighting the international significance of her role in shaping the future of AI.
As the first UK artificial intelligence skills champion, appointed in 2018, Dame Wendy Hall has consistently advocated for harnessing AI’s potential for societal benefit while ensuring it evolves in a manner that safeguards against harm. Her wealth of knowledge and experience will undoubtedly be valuable in the global discussions surrounding AI governance.
A privileged role in global AI governance
Expressing her gratitude for the appointment, Dame Wendy Hall stated, “I feel very privileged to have been appointed by the United Nations to be on this new AI advisory body.” Her role within the UN advisory body will entail collaborating with experts from various sectors, including government, private industry, and civil society. This collaboration will allow her to provide insights derived from her extensive research at the University of Southampton.
One of the notable initiatives under her purview is the £31 million Responsible AI UK program (RAI UK). This initiative aligns with Britain’s aspirations to solidify its position as a science and technology superpower, emphasizing the importance of ethical and responsible AI development as a cornerstone of the nation’s technological advancements.
The newly established UN advisory body is set to commence its work this month, embarking on a year-long journey dedicated to in-depth analysis and discussions. The primary goal of this esteemed panel is to craft comprehensive recommendations for the international governance of AI. These recommendations will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of AI technologies, ensuring that they serve humanity’s best interests and adhere to ethical standards.
Dame Wendy Hall’s involvement in this advisory body underscores the critical importance of ethical considerations in the development and deployment of AI. Her experience in leading research and innovation in the AI field will contribute significantly to the panel’s efforts to strike the right balance between progress and responsibility.
A forward-looking vision
As the world grapples with the ever-evolving landscape of artificial intelligence, Dame Wendy Hall’s appointment to the UN advisory body serves as a beacon of hope. It signifies a commitment to fostering innovation while safeguarding against the potential risks and challenges posed by AI technologies. The forthcoming recommendations from this panel will guide nations and organizations on a path toward harnessing the full potential of AI for the betterment of society.
Dame Wendy Hall’s appointment to the United Nations high-level advisory body on artificial intelligence reflects her exceptional contributions to the field and her commitment to responsible AI development. This global recognition signifies a crucial step in advancing ethical AI governance on a worldwide scale. As the panel commences its work, the world eagerly awaits the recommendations that will shape the future of AI for the benefit of all.
