Over 60 Nations Call for Stronger International Cooperation on Ethical AI
Ministers and senior officials from more than 60 countries have urged stronger global cooperation to ensure artificial intelligence is developed and deployed safely, ethically, inclusively and for the public good.
More than 60 countries are calling for stronger international cooperation on the development and use of artificial intelligence, highlighting the growing need for common standards as AI rapidly becomes integrated into economies, governments and everyday life. The call came during the Fourth UNESCO Global Forum on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence, being held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from September 14 to 17, 2026.
The discussions brought together ministers and senior representatives from around the world to examine both the opportunities and risks associated with AI. Participants stressed that AI development should contribute to human well-being, sustainable development and the public interest rather than being driven solely by technological or commercial objectives.
A major focus of the meeting was the importance of ethical AI governance. Countries reaffirmed the relevance of UNESCO’s 2021 Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence as an international framework for promoting safe, inclusive and sustainable AI. The framework places emphasis on human rights, transparency, accountability and ensuring that technological progress benefits society broadly.
The participating countries also highlighted the differences between nations in technological capacity, infrastructure, resources and cultural circumstances. They called for international cooperation, intercultural dialogue and mutual learning so that countries with fewer resources are not left behind as AI capabilities advance. UNESCO was encouraged to continue helping governments develop national AI strategies that reflect these different circumstances.
The push for greater cooperation comes at a time when governments worldwide are developing their own approaches to AI regulation and national AI strategies. The challenge for policymakers is to balance innovation with safeguards covering issues such as privacy, discrimination, security, accountability and access. The latest declaration therefore reflects a broader global effort to ensure that the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence is guided by shared ethical principles rather than fragmented national approaches.
