Adopting a landmark resolution on steering the use of artificial intelligence towards global good, the General Assembly today also stressed the importance of addressing racial discrimination around the world, including through reparations.
By the terms of the resolution titled “Seizing the opportunities of safe, secure, and trustworthy artificial intelligence systems for sustainable development” (document A/78/L.49), which it adopted without a vote, the Assembly resolved to bridge the artificial intelligence (AI) and other digital divides between and within countries and promote safe, secure and trustworthy AI systems to accelerate progress towards the full realization of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Introducing that text, the representative of the United States noted the many existential challenges posed by artificial intelligence.
The international community must “govern this technology rather than have it govern us”, she said. In a year when more than half of the world’s population will elect their leaders, AI-generated content holds the potential to undercut the integrity of political debates.
However, it also holds profound opportunities to accelerate work, end poverty, save lives, protect the planet and create a more equitable world.
The technology is already being used, she added, to detect and diagnose disease earlier and more accurately; it is helping scientists better predict earthquakes, floods and hurricanes; and it is allowing vulnerable communities to prepare for and respond to natural disasters.
“Simply put, AI is proving to be an engine for us all to make up lost ground and even meet the Sustainable Development Goals,” she said. Her country engaged with over 120 countries to craft a text that cements a global consensus, she said, adding that it is crucial to ensure that no Government or other actors can use AI to undermine peace and human rights.
The Assembly also observed the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, which falls on 21 March every year. Assembly President Dennis Francis (Trinidad and Tobago) said that this annual commemoration is an opportunity to stand up alongside those who continue to fight racism and racial discrimination around the world. Millions worldwide still endure various forms of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia, and related intolerance.
Noting this year’s theme — A Decade of Recognition, Justice, and Development: Implementation of the International Decade for People of African Descent — he praised the adoption of national action plans against racism and recognition of the rights of people of African descent in national constitutions.
Looking forward to next week’s observance of the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade, he stressed the importance of reparatory justice.
Courtenay Rattray, Chef de Cabinet of the Executive Office of the Secretary-General, speaking on behalf of UN Secretary-General António Guterres, reflected that racism impacts communities differently.
This year’s theme recognizes that people of African descent face a unique history of systemic and institutionalized racism and profound challenges. Member States must build on the tireless advocacy of people of African descent — from Governments advancing policies to eliminate racism to technology firms urgently addressing racial bias in artificial intelligence.
“Let’s commit to work together to build a world of dignity, justice and equal opportunity for every community everywhere,” he stressed.
Speaking on his own behalf, he recalled that 60 years ago today, 69 people were killed and many injured when South African police opened fire on peaceful protesters in Sharpeville — courageous individuals demonstrating against the laws “which stood at the rotten heart of the Apartheid system.”
He called on States to ratify the International Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination and implement the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action. Countries responsible for the transatlantic slave trade must have the moral courage to deliver reparatory justice, including restitution where appropriate, and businesses that profited from the trade in human souls should also consider the case for reparations, he said.
Highlighting the importance of debt relief, poverty eradication and transfer of technology, including digital technologies, she said: “Building a future of justice requires mending an unjust past.”
Echoing that, Verene Albertha Shepherd, Chair of the Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, also called on States which colonized and underdeveloped Africa and the Americas, including the Caribbean, to respond to calls for reparatory justice and economic empowerment for people of African descent.