UNESCO Launches AI Governance Tools at Riyadh Forum

The UNESCO Global AI Forum is taking place from September 14 to 17 at The Ritz-Carlton in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, co-hosted by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) and the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA). The forum's theme centers on translating international AI ethics principles into actionable governance measures and enhancing international cooperation.

Key discussions include AI ethics, responsible innovation, and environmental sustainability. The program features seven high-level ministerial dialogues, 21 expert panels, and two side events.

A significant focus is on implementing UNESCO’s recommendation adopted in 2021, which addresses the ethical implications of AI. Dr Abdullah Alghamdi, SDAIA President, emphasized the need for regulatory frameworks and international partnerships.

UNESCO Deputy Director-General Åsa Regnér noted Saudi Arabia's completion of the Readiness Assessment Methodology process. The forum also sees the launch of three tools to aid countries in strengthening ethical AI governance, including an updated methodology and an environmental toolkit.