This week, on 6–7 July, the first-ever UN Global Dialogue on AI Governance is taking place in Geneva, co-chaired by Estonia and El Salvador. The dialogue brings together governments, international
organisations, businesses, researchers and representatives of civil society to discuss how to promote the responsible, inclusive and transparent use of artificial intelligence at the global level.
Over the course of two days, four thematic sessions will address the potential of artificial intelligence to support sustainable development, bridge the digital divide, promote the development of safe, trustworthy and human-centred AI in accordance with international law, and strengthen international cooperation on rapidly evolving emerging technologies.
“The rapid development of artificial intelligence is having an ever greater impact on countries, societies, economies and people,” said Estonia’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Rein Tammsaar. “Global cooperation on artificial intelligence is the best way to harness the opportunities offered by this technology, mitigate the associated risks, and ensure that no country is left behind. Estonia is honoured to lead this historic process and to help shape the future of international AI governance under the auspices of the United Nations. Estonia has gained invaluable experience, increased its international visibility, established important contacts, and reinforced its position among the countries capable of leading the global discussion on artificial intelligence and offering practical solutions to others.”
The dialogue was mandated by UN member states through the Pact for the Future and the Global Digital Compact, adopted in 2024. Estonia has co-chaired the AI dialogue with El Salvador since last autumn, when the President of the UN General Assembly, Annalena Baerbock, invited Estonia’s Permanent Representative Rein Tammsaar, to take on the role.
Interest in the dialogue has been exceptionally high. During the preparatory process, more than 1,500 written submissions were received from countries and other stakeholders around the world. More than 4,000 participants have registered for the event, including heads of state and government, foreign and digital ministers, and thousands of representatives of civil society. The Estonian delegation is led by President Alar Karis.
The outcomes of the UN Global Dialogue on AI Governance, including the co-chairs’ summary report, will be presented to UN member states. They will serve as the basis for planning the next steps in advancing global AI governance.
Additional information
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