Estonia leads first UN global dialogue on artificial intelligence

TALLINN - The UN's first Global Dialogue on AI Governance, co-chaired by Estonia and El Salvador, is taking place in Geneva on Monday and Tuesday.

The dialogue brings together governments, international organizations, companies, researchers, and civil society representatives to discuss how to shape the responsible, inclusive, and transparent use of artificial intelligence at a global level.

Over the two days, four thematic sessions will address the potential of artificial intelligence in supporting sustainable development, reducing the digital divide, developing safe, trustworthy, and human-centric AI based on international law, and strengthening international cooperation in the field of rapidly evolving new technologies.

"The rapid development of artificial intelligence is increasingly affecting countries, societies, economies, and people," said Rein Tammsaar, Estonia's permanent representative to the UN. "Global cooperation on AI is the best way to leverage the technology's opportunities, mitigate associated risks, and ensure that no country is left behind. Estonia is honored to lead this historic process and help shape the future of international AI governance under the auspices of the UN. Estonia has gained valuable experience, visibility, and contacts, and has established itself among the countries capable of guiding the global AI discussion and offering solutions to others."

The dialogue was mandated by the UN member states through the 2024 Pact for the Future and its component, the Global Digital Compact. Estonia has been leading the AI dialogue with El Salvador since last autumn, when the President of the UN General Assembly, Annalena Baerbock, made the corresponding proposal to Estonia's permanent representative, Rein Tammsaar.

Interest in the dialogue has been exceptionally high. During the preparatory process, over 1,500 written submissions were received from countries and other stakeholders worldwide. More than 4,000 participants have registered for the event, including heads of state and government, foreign and digital ministers, and thousands of civil society representatives. The Estonian delegation is led by President Alar Karis.

The outcomes of the UN Global Dialogue on AI Governance, including a summary report by the co-chairs, will be presented to the UN member states. Based on this, planning for the next steps to further develop global AI governance will begin.