The AI Asia Pacific Institute recently participated in the 8th UN Regional Symposium held at Songdo Convensia in Incheon, bringing together leaders from around the world to discuss the transformative role of AI in public governance. The symposium, with the theme “Achieving the 2030 Agenda Through Effective Governance and AI Transformation,” attracted about 300 government officials and experts from 48 countries across Asia-Pacific and East Africa.
In her address, Kelly Forbes highlighted several impactful use cases that illustrate the potential harms of unchecked AI systems. She discussed instances where AI-driven programs have miscalculated public benefits and financial obligations due to faulty data and algorithmic biases, leading to numerous errors and wrongful claims. These cases underscore the risks that AI systems can pose to citizens’ rights. Kelly Forbes advocated for improved transparency and accountability in AI decision-making, emphasizing that responsible AI practices require collaboration across governments, private sectors, academia, and civil society to mitigate bias and enhance transparency in AI-driven social decision-making.
To promote this collaboration, Forbes called for foundational AI principles and governance led by governments, while urging the private sector to develop accountable AI technologies. Additionally, she proposed establishing an AI Technical Facility to encourage regional cooperation and facilitate the global adoption of ethical AI practices.
In a dedicated youth session titled “Shaping a Future of AI for and by the Youth,” Forbes also addressed the importance of including young voices in AI policy discussions. She stressed that the youth, with their digital fluency and innovative perspectives, play a crucial role in identifying AI risks and opportunities that older generations might overlook. “Only through such multifaceted collaboration can AI truly serve the public good,” Forbes stated, advocating for a global approach that empowers youth, experts, and policymakers to create an AI landscape that is sustainable and equitable for future generations.
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