Hamburg Declaration on Responsible AI: A Global Commitment for Sustainable Development
At the recent Hamburg Sustainability Conference (HSC), leaders from government, business, academia, and civil society united to endorse the Hamburg Declaration on Responsible AI for the Sustainable Development Goals. This is the first global declaration focused specifically on artificial intelligence in the context of international development.
The declaration lays out a clear set of principles aimed at promoting AI that is equitable, inclusive, and sustainable. It emphasizes empowering developing countries to benefit from AI technologies while ensuring that these tools respect human rights and protect marginalized communities.
Key Principles and Commitments
- Upholding human rights and protecting vulnerable populations.
- Combating disinformation through responsible AI deployment.
- Improving AI systems’ resource efficiency.
- Expanding AI education access, particularly for women and girls.
- Supporting local AI innovation ecosystems in developing regions.
Addressing Global Challenges Together
UNDP Administrator Achim Steiner highlighted the gap between AI’s potential and its actual impact in developing countries. He stressed that the Hamburg Declaration represents a vital step toward ensuring AI contributes to equity and reduces global inequalities. Steiner emphasized that AI’s capabilities should benefit everyone, everywhere, on an equal basis.
German Development Minister Reem Alabali-Radovan pointed out the ongoing challenge of ensuring fair and sustainable access to AI worldwide. She called the declaration a turning point that positions AI as a tool for inclusion, equality, and sustainable progress.
From Commitment to Action
The declaration is the product of extensive collaboration initiated at HSC 2024. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) led the development of these principles. Over the past year, multi-stakeholder dialogue sharpened this shared vision.
Now, the focus shifts to action. Governments, businesses, and civil society are challenged to invest in inclusive AI solutions, back local innovation, and ensure no region is left behind in the digital transition.
Collective, coordinated efforts will be essential to meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through responsible AI deployment, building a more equitable digital future.
About the Hamburg Sustainability Conference
The HSC is a global forum that brings together changemakers from various sectors to develop practical solutions for sustainability challenges. It is organised by BMZ, UNDP, the Michael Otto Foundation, and the Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg. The 2025 conference took place on June 2–3 in Hamburg, Germany.
For professionals working at the intersection of IT and development, understanding these commitments can guide strategic decisions on AI projects that align with global sustainability objectives. To deepen your expertise in AI technologies and their responsible applications, explore relevant courses at Complete AI Training.
Your membership also unlocks:
