UNESCO first introduced its Recommendations on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence in 2021, offering concrete guidance on how public and private funds can be directed towards programs that benefit society. These Recommendations were adopted by all 194 UNESCO Member States, leading to significant efforts to put them into practice. Legislators, experts, and civil society representatives have convened at UNESCO forums to share information and report on progress in implementing these guidelines. Following the 2024 forum in Slovenia, Conor Lennon of UN News spoke with participants such as Aisen Etcheverry, Minister of Science and Technology in the Chilean Government.
Etcheverry highlighted Chile’s proactive approach to adopting and implementing the UNESCO Recommendations on Artificial Intelligence ethics. The country has established research centers and governmental capabilities to address AI-related challenges effectively. As the use of AI by government agencies has increased, Chile has issued instructions on using AI responsibly, such as a model that predicts individuals least likely to claim entitled benefits. This approach demonstrates how technology can enhance public sector services while maintaining crucial human interaction between governments and citizens.
Artificial Intelligence has the potential to contribute significantly to efforts in fighting climate change and advancing progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Etcheverry emphasized the importance of protecting citizens from potential misuse of AI and harmful practices. By engaging in public consultations with experts and developing regulations, Chile aims to present a bill to Congress in March to address these concerns. Additionally, efforts are underway to train individuals involved in using and designing AI, empowering them to consider the social implications and responsibilities associated with AI technologies.
The Recommendations on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence have provided countries like Chile with a framework for critical thinking and regulatory development surrounding AI. These guidelines have prompted discussions on how to ensure responsible AI use and design, emphasizing the need for a societal perspective in AI development. Chile is focused on fostering a culture of responsibility among AI users and designers, beyond technical programming skills. As part of these efforts, the country is considering strategies to address digital literacy and cybersecurity concerns associated with AI technologies.
In conclusion, the ongoing work to implement the UNESCO Recommendations on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence reflects a global commitment to leveraging AI for societal benefit while addressing ethical and regulatory challenges. Countries like Chile are actively engaging in efforts to protect citizens from harmful AI practices, promote responsible AI use, and enhance public sector services through technology. By prioritizing ethical considerations and social perspectives in AI development, governments, and organizations can harness the potential of AI to drive positive social impact and advance sustainable development goals.
