The “National Stakeholder Workshop on AI Ethics” brings together government officials to discuss integrating ethical considerations into AI strategies, ensuring alignment with public welfare and international standards. This initiative supports India’s efforts to create robust AI frameworks for ethical development and use in key sectors, thereby driving sustainable and equitable adoption of AI nationwide.
AI has the potential to significantly contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). However, this potential comes with ethical and practical risks, which can be amplified if AI is deployed without an appropriate ethical framework. To address this issue, UNESCO aims to support the Indian government in assessing and strengthening the resilience of existing AI laws, policies and institutions. This effort will ensure that AI implementation in India aligns with the values and principles outlined in the UNESCO Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence.
UNESCO and the Government of India will conduct a comprehensive needs assessment using the AI Readiness Assessment (RAM) methodology. This assessment will guide the joint design of strategic AI frameworks and establish the regulatory and institutional basis for the ethical development and use of AI in key policy areas such as education, environment, labor and health. gender equality.
The National Stakeholder Workshop on AI Ethics is a key event in this initiative. It aims to bring together government officials from the Union and State levels to engage in an in-depth dialogue on the ethical implications and societal impacts of AI technologies. The workshop will serve as a platform for critical discussions, integrating ethical considerations into national and state level AI strategies and programs. This approach ensures that AI deployment is consistent with public welfare and adheres to international norms and standards.
The workshop aims to lay the foundation for informed policymaking by fostering collective understanding and preparation for the challenges and opportunities of AI. It will drive equitable and sustainable adoption of AI across India, ensuring that AI technologies are used in a way that benefits society.
Goals
The National Stakeholder Workshop on AI Ethics aims to:
1. Convene a multi-sector group of stakeholders and discuss the current AI landscape in the country;
2. Raise awareness of the ethical implications and societal impacts of AI technologies;
3. Introduce international frameworks, guidelines and best practices for AI.
Attendees
The national government is engaging stakeholders including ministries, NITI Aayog, business partners like NASSCOM and government officials from 28 states and eight union territories in India to collaborate on AI initiatives. Participation will be limited to one senior official from each ministry, 28 states and 8 union territories.
Image source: Unesco
