Riyadh: UNESCO, through the International Center for AI Research and Ethics (ICAIRE) based in Riyadh, is spearheading a global movement to emphasize adherence to its AI Ethics Recommendations. Adopted in 2021 by 193 member states, these recommendations aim to ensure the safe use of AI technologies for the good of humanity. This initiative comes in response to the rapid advancements in AI technologies and growing concerns about their potential negative impacts on societies if ethical guidelines are not upheld.
According to Saudi Press Agency, UNESCO oversees a global network of centers in various countries worldwide to achieve its strategic priorities and support national agendas. There are more than 100 Category 2 Centres, including ICAIRE, an initiative proposed by Saudi Arabia and hosted in Riyadh. Through these centers, UNESCO promotes international cooperation, conducts research, disseminates knowledge, provides policy advice, and builds human capacities in this field.
On an international level, ICAIRE will be a major contributor to achieving the United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and UNESCO priorities. ICAIRE’s core activities will directly contribute to achieving eight out of the 17 SDGs, specifically Goals 4, 5, 8, 9, 10, 11, 13, and 17. Furthermore, ICAIRE will contribute to supporting seven out of UNESCO’s nine program outcomes, foremost among them being to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all. It will also contribute to establishing standards, principles, and ethical frameworks to address the challenges posed by emerging technologies and digital transformation.
Furthermore, ICAIRE is advancing two of UNESCO’s priority pathways. The first focuses on empowering women worldwide through the Elevate Program, which hones their skills in the field of AI. The second supports Arabic-speaking countries in North Africa in harnessing Arabic language technologies to foster their AI innovations. ICAIRE also seeks to set a leading example in research and development of non-English language technologies in Africa and to provide research support to developing countries across the continent, helping to address the challenges facing AI applications.
ICAIRE embarks on its mission guided by four foundational pillars: advancing research and development in artificial intelligence, promoting awareness of AI ethics, strengthening capabilities and expanding access to AI education in developing countries, and developing policy recommendations while increasing the participation of developing countries in AI policymaking.
ICAIRE is actively advancing regional and international cooperation initiatives in the field of AI. Serving as a global scientific beacon, it contributes to the betterment of humanity by promoting the practical adoption of AI ethics worldwide. It is committed to fostering the ethical and responsible use of AI to safeguard the present and future of humanity. ICAIRE also supports initiatives that drive research, development, and innovation in AI, reinforcing UNESCO’s comprehensive strategic programs and priorities while aligning with the United Nations 2030 SDGs.
ICAIRE also works to raise awareness of its scientific role in promoting AI ethics and the importance of adopting UNESCO’s recommendations. It explores the practical implementation of UNESCO’s AI Readiness Assessment Methodology (RAM) through a series of lectures, meetings, and workshops designed to advance AI ethics and research. These events bring together distinguished experts, policymakers, and stakeholders from around the world.