UN Urges Tech Giants To Combat Online Harm And Ensure Ethical AI

The United Nations chief has introduced global principles aimed at combating online hate and misinformation, urging big tech companies to leverage their influence to mitigate the harm they cause to individuals and societies worldwide.

Secretary-General António Guterres also called on advertising and public relations firms to cease monetising harmful content and to enhance information integrity.

He appealed to media outlets to elevate and enforce editorial standards and encouraged governments to foster and sustain a free and independent media environment.

Guterres explained that these principles, unveiled during a news conference, are the outcome of consultations with the 193 U.N. member states, youth leaders, academia, the media, and civil society, including tech companies.

The principles urge tech companies, advertisers, media, and other key stakeholders to avoid using, supporting, or amplifying disinformation and hate speech.

All parties involved in developing artificial intelligence must urgently and transparently ensure that AI applications are designed, deployed, and used safely, securely, responsibly, ethically, and with respect for human rights, according to the principles.

The principles also urge tech companies to guarantee safety and privacy, provide users with more choices and control over their online experiences and personal data, and ensure special protections for children.