UNESCO-Uzbekistan Beruniy Prize for Scientific Research on the Ethics of AI

First Edition

About the Prize

In partnership with the Government of Uzbekistan, UNESCO established the UNESCO-Uzbekistan Beruniy Prize to recognize ethics of AI research, scientific cooperation and practical application at all levels. Named after renowned polymath Abu Rayhon Al-Beruniy, a figure known for advancing scientific knowledge and cultural exchange. The Prize fosters scientific dialogue and international collaboration in the area of the ethics of AI.

It is awarded biennially to three laureates - individuals, institutions, or organisations - whose research, policy contributions, or innovative approach and applications have significant impact on the development of the ethics of AI, contributing to the implementation of the principles outlined in the . The first edition of the Prize will take place in November 2025 in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, reinforcing UNESCO's mission to promote AI for the benefit of all humanity.

Nomination & Selection Guidelines

The call for nominations to the first edition of the Prize is now open until June 30th, 2025. Nominations that are incomplete or received after the deadline shall not be considered. There is no age limit for the candidates. The Prize aims to be gender transformative in line with UNESCO’s Global Priority on Gender Equality, and the candidatures of women scientists and practioners are strongly encouraged.

Who was Abu Rayhon Al-Beruniy?

The Government of the Republic of Uzbekistan proposed to establish and fund a joint UNESCO-Uzbekistan international prize, in the name of the Khwarazmian (modern Uzbekistan) Abu Rayhon Al-Beruniy, for scientific research on the ethics of artificial intelligence. A pioneering scholar, Abu Rayhon Al-Beruniy's intellectual legacy in mathematics, astronomy, philosophy, and scientific inquiry laid the foundation for cross-disciplinary knowledge and intercultural dialogue. His contributions continue to inspire ethical scientific progress and international cooperation.