UN Unanimously Adopts Historic Resolution on Artificial Intelligence

Friday 22 March 2024 - 10:09

In a historic move resonating globally, the United Nations General Assembly unanimously adopted its inaugural resolution on artificial intelligence (AI) on Thursday. Co-sponsored by Morocco and the United States, alongside an impressive 123 member states, the resolution titled "Seizing the Opportunities of Safe, Secure, and Trustworthy Artificial Intelligence Systems for Sustainable Development" marked a pivotal moment in the international community's collective journey towards harnessing the potential of this transformative technology.

Presented to the media by U.S. Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield and her Moroccan counterpart, Ambassador Omar Hilale, the resolution underscored the urgent need for continued dialogue on appropriate governance approaches rooted in international law, interoperability, adaptability, and inclusivity. It acknowledged the diverse needs and capacities of developed and developing nations alike, paving the way for a truly global embrace of AI's boundless possibilities.

At the core of this groundbreaking resolution lies a resounding call to action for member states to promote safe, secure, and trustworthy AI systems as catalysts for addressing the world's greatest challenges. From poverty eradication and global health to food security, climate action, energy, and education, AI's transformative power is poised to reshape our collective efforts towards a more sustainable and equitable future.

Morocco's pivotal role as the sole African and developing nation to participate in the press briefing alongside the United States, United Kingdom, Japan, the Netherlands, and Singapore underscored the resolution's inclusive spirit and recognition of AI's far-reaching implications for nations at every stage of development.

Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield hailed the consensus around this "groundbreaking and inclusive" text, praising the united voice of the 193 member states in favor of governing this new technology. She emphasized the resolution's consolidation of the global consensus towards safe, secure, and reliable AI systems that promote sustainable development while respecting fundamental freedoms.

Echoing these sentiments, Ambassador Hilale commended the resolution as a historic and consensual achievement resulting from a collaborative and inclusive process. He highlighted Morocco's honor in being associated with the presentation and negotiation of this landmark resolution, which will forever be etched in the annals of the United Nations.

Recognizing the immense potential of AI for developing countries, particularly those in Africa, in various spheres of sustainable development, Ambassador Hilale underscored Morocco's commitment to enhancing constructive dialogue on AI among UN member states. This effort, he emphasized, aims to ensure that this rapidly evolving technology serves the common good of humanity.

The negotiation process yielded a balanced and consensual resolution, establishing a common vision through which AI systems can bridge social, digital, and economic divides between developed and developing nations. The text calls for effective, equitable, and meaningful participation and representation of developing countries in international processes and forums on AI governance, aspiring to enhance digital infrastructure connectivity and access to technological innovations through stronger partnerships.

Furthermore, the resolution recommends increasing funding for research and innovation linked to the Sustainable Development Goals in digital technologies and AI systems, underscoring the global community's commitment to leveraging these advancements for the betterment of all.

As Ambassador Hilale aptly stated, this resolution is not an end in itself but the beginning of a collective journey to shape a safe, secure, and trustworthy artificial intelligence ecosystem for sustainable development, leaving no one behind.

In the digital age, where the boundaries of innovation blur the lines between nations, the UN's unanimous embrace of this groundbreaking resolution heralds a new era of global cooperation and collective responsibility. As AI continues to reshape our world, this historic achievement stands as a testament to the international community's resolve to harness its boundless potential while safeguarding the principles of equity, inclusivity, and sustainable progress for all.