Blog of  Tania Gómez Herazo, from Soroptimist International Belgium. 

The United Nations Economic Commission for Europe region (UNECE) Civil Society Forum for the review of the Beijing +30 Platform for Action convened a groundbreaking workshop on October 19, 2024, to explore the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in promoting gender equality and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The workshop, titled “Emerging Technologies: Harnessing AI for Good,” brought together experts, thought leaders from around the world, and stakeholders from various sectors to engage in a dynamic dialogue on the complex relationship amongst AI, the Beijing 12 critical areas and the UN SDG’s.

Objectives and Key Takeaways

The primary objective of the workshop was to highlight the positive potential of AI in advancing gender equality across diverse sectors, including education & training, health, cybersecurity, and the economy. The workshop aimed to equip participants with practical insights and actionable points to leverage AI as a tool for good, while also addressing the potential risks and challenges associated with its implementation.

Key takeaways for participants included:

• • A deepened understanding of the complex relationship between AI and gender equality, as well as the intersection with CEDAW
  • Increased awareness of the potential risks and opportunities associated with AI in the context of gender equality.
  • Practical insights and actionable points for leveraging AI to advance gender equality and the SDGs within their respective mandates.

Workshop Highlights and Outcomes

The workshop featured a diverse range of presentations, discussions, and interactive activities that fostered a rich and engaging learning experience for participants. Highlights included:

• • Expert presentations on topics such as AI in education, ethical considerations in AI development, and the role of AI in cybersecurity.
  • Interactive discussions on the challenges and opportunities of using AI to address gender disparities in different sectors.
  • Hands-on experience with AI-powered tools and platforms for brainstorming and collaboration.
  • Development of actionable plans for leveraging AI to advance gender equality and the SDGs in participants’ respective fields.

The workshop generated a wealth of insights and ideas on how AI can be harnessed to create a more equitable and inclusive world for all women and girls, especially from the perspective of Quality Education & Training. Key outcomes included:

• • Identification of key challenges and opportunities in using AI for Quality Education & Training
  • Development of innovative solutions and strategies for leveraging AI to address gender disparities making use of non-biased data sets and unharmful methods.
  • Increased awareness of the importance of ethical considerations and responsible AI development.
  • A renewed commitment to collaboration and knowledge-sharing among stakeholders.

Toolkit

The workshop encouraged collaboration and feedback to create a valuable toolkit for member states. It also explored the use of generative AI to enhance the learning experience, emphasising personalised learning journeys and addressing potential biases and ethical considerations. Overall, the workshop sought to promote the positive potential of AI in education while acknowledging and addressing potential risks.

Next Steps and Future Directions

The workshop concluded with a call to action for continued engagement and collaboration among participants and all stakeholders:

• • Developing comprehensive guidelines and ethical frameworks for the responsible use of AI. The toolkit is one example.
  • Establishing partnerships and collaborations to pilot and implement AI initiatives in different sectors.
  • Fostering international cooperation and knowledge exchange on AI and gender equality topics.

The “Emerging Technologies: Harnessing AI for Good” workshop marked a significant milestone in the ongoing dialogue on the role of AI in promoting progress on the Beijing 12 critical areas and achieving the UN SDGs. By bringing together diverse perspectives and expertise, the workshop generated valuable insights and recommendations for leveraging AI as a powerful tool for social good.

As we move forward, it is imperative that we continue to explore the potential of AI in a responsible and ethical manner, ensuring that its benefits are shared equitably and that its risks are mitigated effectively. By working together, we can harness the power of AI to create a more ethical, equitable, and sustainable world for all women and girls.