Amandeep Singh Gill
Under-Secretary-General and the UN Secretary-General’s Envoy on Technology
The recent unanimous adoption of the Global Digital Compact (GDC) at the United Nations Summit of the Future marks a turning point in international digital cooperation.
The comprehensive GDC framework, rooted in human rights, global collaboration and international law, sets forth a collective vision for a more inclusive, fair, secure and sustainable digital future.
International governance of artificial intelligence
At the heart of the GDC is the first truly universal agreement on the international governance of artificial intelligence. It commits the UN to initiate a global dialogue on AI governance with all key players, fostering inclusive discussions aimed at shaping ethical and responsible AI development worldwide.
Independent international scientific panel
This groundbreaking commitment includes establishing an Independent International Scientific Panel within the United Nations to promote scientific understanding of AI, encompassing its risks and opportunities. Comprising leading experts from diverse fields, this panel will provide rigorous, evidence-based evaluations of emerging AI technologies and their societal implications. It will inform policy decisions and guide AI development to safeguard public interest.
At the heart of the GDC is the first truly
universal agreement on the international
governance of artificial intelligence.
Global network for AI capacity building
Equally transformative is the initiative to develop a global network for AI capacity building. This endeavour aims to bridge the technological divide by enhancing digital and AI competencies and capabilities across nations, particularly in the global south. By facilitating knowledge exchange and resource sharing, all nations can participate in and benefit from the AI revolution, thereby promoting equitable growth and innovation.
Call for collaborative action
For international policymakers and industry leaders, the GDC presents both an opportunity and a responsibility. It calls for collaborative action to implement its provisions effectively, necessitating partnerships across sectors and borders. By embracing the Compact’s guidelines, stakeholders can drive a digital transformation that is technologically advanced, ethically sound and socially equitable.
Endorse the Global Digital Compact
In light of these transformative developments, we invite all stakeholders, civil society organisations and private companies to endorse the Global Digital Compact. Uniting behind this unprecedented agreement, we can collectively advance global digital cooperation and ethical AI governance. Embracing the Compact’s vision acknowledges the profound impact of digital technologies and AI on society and reinforces our shared responsibility to navigate the digital age responsibly.
