UN General Assembly Adopts Landmark Resolution on AI for Sustainable Development
On 21 March 2024, the United Nations General Assembly adopted by consensus a landmark resolution entitled “Seizing the opportunities of safe, secure and trustworthy artificial intelligence systems for sustainable development” (A/RES/78/265). The resolution marks a significant step in global efforts to steer the rapid development and use of artificial intelligence (AI) toward advancing sustainable development, protecting human rights, and delivering benefits for all countries.
The adoption of the resolution reflects the growing recognition by Member States that AI is a transformative technology with far-reaching economic, social, and environmental implications. While AI offers unprecedented opportunities to accelerate progress across the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the resolution also acknowledges the risks associated with misuse, inequality, and widening digital divides if appropriate safeguards and governance frameworks are not in place.
Adopted following an inclusive and consensus-driven intergovernmental process, the resolution reinforces the central role of multilateral cooperation in shaping the future of AI governance. It builds on existing UN frameworks, including the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and ongoing discussions related to the Global Digital Compact, and situates AI firmly within the broader sustainable development and human rights agenda.
A key feature of the resolution is its strong emphasis on multi-stakeholder collaboration. The General Assembly calls on governments and invites stakeholders from all regions – within their respective roles and responsibilities – including the private sector, international and regional organizations, civil society, the media, academia, research institutions, technical communities, and individuals, to work together to develop enabling, inclusive, and interoperable approaches to AI governance. Particular attention is given to capacity-building, technology transfer, and support for developing countries to help bridge existing technological and digital divides.
The resolution also highlights the increasing attention of the United Nations system to emerging technologies, recognizing that responsible innovation is essential to addressing today’s complex global challenges. By promoting safe, secure, and trustworthy AI systems, the General Assembly underscores the need to align technological progress with ethical principles, transparency, accountability, and international law.
Blockchain Alliance International welcomes the adoption of resolution A/RES/78/265 and views it as a timely and important milestone in global AI governance. BAI will continue working closely with the United Nations and all relevant stakeholders to bridge technology divides, foster cross-sector partnerships, and develop innovative, impact-driven solutions that harness artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies in support of sustainable development.