Strengthening Multilateral Governance: New Parliamentary Observatories on AI and Development Announced

Monday 23 September 2024 - 14:09

In a significant move to bolster multilateral cooperation, the President of the Moroccan House of Councillors, Enaam Mayara, announced the establishment of two parliamentary observatories focused on artificial intelligence (AI) and sustainable development. This declaration was made during the Future Summit held at the United Nations headquarters in New York.

Mayara emphasized the commitment of the Mediterranean Parliamentary Assembly to support stronger and more impactful multilateral institutions. Speaking at the summit, which took place from September 22-23, he reiterated the assembly's dedication to advancing the objectives outlined in the Future Summit and the Global Digital Compact. He underscored the importance of adhering to the principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights while fulfilling international legal obligations.

The initiative aims to foster effective responses to current and future challenges such as food security and climate change, through collaboration with all stakeholders. Additionally, it seeks to promote an open, secure digital future grounded in universal human rights, ensuring that the interests of future generations are considered in both national and global decision-making processes.

Addressing pressing issues in the Mediterranean region, Mayara highlighted the ongoing conflict in Gaza, advocating for rational dialogue and wisdom to end hostilities. He called for a collective effort towards peace, urging all parties to engage in discussions that align with international resolutions aimed at achieving a two-state solution.

Furthermore, during a parallel event, Mayara announced two tangible initiatives: the creation of a permanent parliamentary observatory for sustainable development goals based in Morocco, and a global parliamentary observatory dedicated to monitoring the malicious use of AI and emerging technologies.

This high-level event was co-chaired by Mayara and Dennis Francis, President of the 78th session of the UN General Assembly. It was organized by the Mediterranean Parliamentary Assembly in partnership with various UN bodies, including the Executive Directorate of the Counter-Terrorism Committee and Morocco's permanent mission to the UN.

The Future Summit commenced with a historic charter adopted by member states, aiming to pave the way for renewed and more effective multilateral action.