Welcome to AI/IA Issue 8, a bulletin from UNITAR highlighting news in Artificial Intelligence and International Affairs for the Diplomatic Community

2024 | ISSUE NO. 8

Artificial Intelligence & International Affairs

A bulletin highlighting recent developments in Artificial Intelligence relevant to International Affairs and the Diplomatic Community

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Background:

AI plays a growing role in diplomacy by enhancing complex analysis and supporting decision-making – among others – however its ethical integration is pivotal for all societies navigating global challenges via informed diplomatic endeavors. In this context, UNITAR's bulletin AI/IA, focusing on Artificial Intelligence and International Affairs has been specifically developed for the diplomatic community and cosmopolitan decision-makers. Each issue will delve into the evolving landscape of AI in the context of global diplomacy to provide readers with the necessary information needed to take empowered decisions. 

News:

OECD launches pilot to monitor application of G7 code of conduct on advanced AI development

The OECD has launched a pilot project to monitor the implementation of the G7 Code of Conduct for advanced AI development. This initiative aims to ensure responsible AI development and adherence to ethical standards. The pilot will assess compliance among participating countries, focusing on transparency, accountability, and fairness in AI technologies. This monitoring effort is part of broader international efforts to guide the ethical use of advanced AI, supporting innovation while mitigating risks.

More information: OECD launches pilot to monitor application of G7 code of conduct on advanced AI development | OECD

 

EU AI Act enters into force

The European Artificial Intelligence Act (EU AI Act) came into force on August 1, 2024. It establishes a comprehensive regulatory framework for AI within the EU, categorizing AI systems into risk levels ranging from minimal to unacceptable. The Act mandates strict compliance for high-risk AI applications, such as those in healthcare and recruitment, and prohibits certain uses, like social scoring. It aims to promote safe, transparent, and human-centered AI development, supporting innovation while protecting citizens' rights and safety.

More information: AI Act enters into force - European Commission (europa.eu)

 

Brazil proposes $4 billion AI investment plan

Brazil has announced a $4 billion plan to enhance its artificial intelligence (AI) sector, focusing on fostering innovation, research, and AI integration across various fields, including industry, education, and public services. This investment is part of a broader effort to position Brazil as a global leader in AI, driving economic growth and addressing social challenges through cutting-edge technologies. The initiative highlights the country's commitment to advancing its technological infrastructure and capabilities.

More information: Brazil proposes $4 billion AI investment plan | Reuters

 

Nigeria publishes draft national AI strategy

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and the National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR) in Nigeria have published a draft National Artificial Intelligence (AI) Strategy aimed at guiding the development and deployment of AI technologies in the country. The strategy covers sectors like education, finance, health, and security, based on ten core principles to achieve Nigeria's AI vision for 2024-2028. It aims to build a balanced, ethical AI ecosystem that drives economic growth, protects data privacy, and positions Nigeria as a global AI leader.

More information: Nigeria’s National AI Strategy (nitda.gov.ng)

 

AI expert to lead Action Plan to ensure UK reaps the benefits of Artificial Intelligence

The UK government has appointed AI expert Matt Clifford to lead an Action Plan aimed at maximizing AI benefits for economic growth, public services, and innovation. The plan includes creating an "AI Opportunities Unit" to centralize expertise and promote AI adoption across sectors, while addressing skill shortages and supporting businesses. It also emphasizes ethical considerations in data use and regulation to align AI with societal values and maintain public trust, positioning the UK as a leader in AI development and implementation.

More information: AI expert to lead Action Plan to ensure UK reaps the benefits of Artificial Intelligence - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

 

New Zealand releases cabinet paper on AI, indicating a light-touch risk-based approach to regulating AI

The New Zealand Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) has published a cabinet paper outlining the government's strategic approach to artificial intelligence. Key aspects include: (1) a light-touch, proportionate, and risk-based regulatory approach, (2) promotion of OECD AI Principles for responsible AI use, (3) leadership in AI innovation by the Government Chief Digital Officer, (4) international engagement to influence AI standards, and (5) coordination across government agencies to enhance AI-driven innovation, productivity, and public service delivery.

More information: Approach to work on Artificial Intelligence (mbie.govt.nz)

SAVE THE DATE

AI-related events in the upcoming months:

SEPTEMBER 10 –11:

The AI Conference 2024-Shaping the future of AI

San Franscisco, USA

The conference will convene a diverse range of participants to propel the development and deployment of AI technology for the greater good

The AI Conference 2024

 

SEPTEMBER 22–23:

Summit of the Future  

UN HQ / New York, USA 

The summit will convene world leaders to address current and emerging challenges and prepare for the future.

Summit of the Future website - EN | United Nations 

 

OCTOBER 9–10:

World Summit AI 

Amsterdam, Netherlands 

The summit gathers the global AI ecosystem of Enterprise, Big Tech, Startups, Investors, Science and Academia to set the global AI agenda.   

World Summit AI 2024

 

OCTOBER 14–18:

AI Everything

UAE

The summit unites startups, companies and governments across the world in the technological advancement of AI.

AI Everything

 

DECEMBER 2-3:

UNESCO International Forum on the Futures of Education 2024

Suwon, Gyeonggido, Republic of Korea

The International Forum will provide an opportunity for policy-makers and other education specialists to exchange and share contextualized experiences in innovative policy, practice and research to transform education in line with the recommendations of the report of the 2021 International Commission on the Futures of Education

Renewing education to transform the future | UNESCO

 

DECEMBER 11–12:

The AI Summit

New York, USA

The summit gathers enterprise leaders providing opportunities to learn, network and test out new AI advancements.  

The AI Summit

 

 

 

Certificate on Artificial Intelligence and Professional Skills

Application Deadline: October 4 

Dates: October 8 - 17 

Future-proof your career with our two-week online course, led by distinguished experts in the field of AI. Learn about AI and its intersection with strategic planning, negotiation, decision-making and communications, and gain the knowledge and skills you need to thrive in the evolving digital landscape.

To apply, kindly follow this link

https://bit.ly/AI-and-ProfessionalSkills-Certificate

A Community of Practice Surrounding AI 

UNITAR is building a community of practice surrounding AI. To that end, we would be most grateful if you could answer a brief survey:  

Complete Survey Now >

Your responses will help us better understand the uses of AI within the diplomatic community and thus enable us to provide the most relevant training and/or resources.

Should you or the relevant person(s) from your organization be interested in joining our community of practice in AI, kindly contact us.

Useful Sources:

Contact Us:

Mr. Malcolm Olivieri 

[email protected]

+ 41 22 917 8400

 

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