STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE 4: Foster science and technology at the service of humanity
UNESCO encourages knowledge production, Open Science and the free flow of ideas while developing global ethical standards for the creation and use of artificial intelligence (AI) and the role of the neurosciences to address the challenges of our time. Below are some examples of partnerships and programmes which support this strategic objective:
International Year of Basic Sciences for Sustainable Development
aims to provide a unique opportunity to convince all stakeholders that basic sciences provide the essential means to meet crucial challenges such as universal access to food, energy, health coverage and communication technologies and that a basic understanding of nature will lead to more effective actions for the benefit of all.
Networks and partnership to advance the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence
UNESCO advances the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence globally on more than 50 countries, with the support of its specialized networks such as the Women4EthicalAI platform, and AI experts without borders and also with the following partners: the European Commission, the Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean (CAF), the Patrick J McGovern Foundation, the Dutch Authority for Digital Infrastructure (RDI), and the Alan Touring Institute, among others.
Partnership with Interparliamentary Forum on Emerging Technologies
Innovative partnership between UNESCO and Interparliamentary forum on Emerging Technologies to mobilize parliamentarians worldwide in support of the implementation of the Recommendation, including through the production of toolkits for parliamentarians.
Partnership with Thomson Reuters Foundation
In partnership with UNESCO, the mobilizes civil society and journalists to advance the implementation of the Recommendation and ensure that they participate in an inclusive national and international debate.
Global and Regional Fora on the Ethics of AI
The , with the first edition hosted by Czechia in the context of their Presidency of the European Union and the second edition to be hosted by Slovenia in early 2024, offers an excellent platform to advance peer learning and exchanges in a multistakeholder and multidisciplinary fashion, and to build a robust international coalition ensuring the ethical development and use of AI worldwide.
UNESCO International Conference on the Ethics of Neurotechnology
UNESCO organized this Conference on 13 July 2023. Engaging all relevant stakeholders, including policymakers, lawmakers, scientists, ethicists, practitioners, and private sector companies, is crucial to gather various views and prepare the ground for shaping the ethical governance of neurotechnology.
Business Council for Ethics of AI
The Council, currently co-chaired by Microsoft and Telefonica serves as a platform for companies to come together, exchange experiences, and promote ethical practices within the AI industry. It aims to ensure that AI is developed and utilized in a manner that respects human rights and upholds ethical standards.
UNESCO and Infinix
UNESCO and Infinix have teamed up to enhance access to STEM education through the use of smartphones to benefit the African continent.
UNESCO and Al Fozan Foundation
UNESCO and the Al Fozan Foundation has created the UNESCO Al Fozan International Prize for the promotion of young scientists in STEM to strengthen STEM research, STEM education and international cooperation. The Prize gives recognition to achievements of young people that are conducive to socio-economic transformation and development on a global scale while also increasing the interest of young people, particularly girls and women, in science so as to promote gender equality, scientific literacy and the choice of a scientific career.
AI for the Planet alliance
A multidisciplinary global to drive AI solutions for climate change.
Open Educational Resources (OER) Dynamic Coalition
Connecting global stakeholders to share and adapt free educational resources, making learning accessible and collaborative for everyone.
International Basic Sciences Programme
IBSP is an international multidisciplinary programme established by UNESCO Member States in order to reinforce intergovernmental cooperation and co-operation between partner organizations in science to strengthen national capacities in the basic sciences and science education.
Civil Society Organizations also contribute to the achievement of this Strategic Objective. Some key partners are:
World Federation of Engineering Organizations (WFEO)
- Beijing International Peace Culture Foundation
- Reporters Without Borders (RWB)
- International Science Council (ISC)
- National Commission of the People's Republic of China for UNESCO
- The Association for International Sports for All (TAFISA)
- The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers
- Arab Institute of Human Rights (AIHR)
- International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA)
- Institute for Economics and Peace
- European Capitals and Cities of Sport Federation (ACES Europe)