Responsible AI Takes Centre Stage as Global Leaders Endorse Hamburg Declaration
June 3, 2025 | 3 min read
The Hamburg Sustainability Conference (HSC) brought together global leaders from government, business, science, and civil society to jointly endorse the Hamburg Declaration on Responsible AI for the Sustainable Development Goals. This landmark declaration is the first global agreement focused specifically on using artificial intelligence to support international development efforts.
The Declaration sets out key principles to ensure AI technologies respect human rights, protect marginalized communities, and help fight disinformation. It also emphasizes resource efficiency, expanding AI education opportunities for women and girls, and encouraging local AI innovations, especially in developing countries.
Addressing Global Challenges Together
Achim Steiner, Administrator of UNDP, highlighted the significance of this commitment:
“Artificial Intelligence is one of the most transformative forces of our time, yet its potential remains unrealized for most developing countries. The Hamburg Declaration on Responsible AI for Sustainable Development represents a crucial commitment to using AI responsibly, ensuring it promotes equity, connects communities, and addresses global inequalities. Our task now is to make sure AI’s capabilities drive sustainable development, benefiting everyone equally.”
Minister Reem Alabali-Radovan from Germany’s Economic Cooperation and Development Ministry added:
“Improving access to fair and sustainable AI worldwide is one of the great challenges of our time. Too many people remain excluded from the benefits of digital innovation. The Hamburg Declaration marks a turning point — AI must become a driver of inclusion, equality, and sustainable development.”
From Commitment to Action
The declaration is the result of ongoing collaboration that started at HSC 2024. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) initially introduced a set of principles for responsible AI in sustainable development. Over the past year, multi-stakeholder discussions have refined these principles into a shared vision.
This declaration is a call for governments, businesses, and civil society to move beyond promises. It challenges all parties to invest in inclusive, sustainable AI solutions, support local innovation hubs, and ensure no region is left behind in the digital future.
Lacina Kone, CEO of Smart Africa, emphasized the role of African leadership:
“AI can be the great equalizer but only if it’s inclusive, ethical, and co-created. Today, Smart Africa proudly endorses the Hamburg Declaration on Responsible AI for the SDGs. Africa is not a bystander, we are shaping the future.”
What This Means for IT and Development Professionals
- Focus on ethical AI design: Build systems that respect human rights and avoid bias.
- Support local innovation: Engage with and back AI projects originating from developing regions.
- Expand AI education: Promote access and training, especially targeting underrepresented groups like women and girls.
- Combat misinformation: Develop AI tools that help identify and reduce false information.
For those working in AI and development, aligning projects with these principles can enhance impact and ensure technology serves a broader, more equitable purpose.
To stay updated on practical AI courses and training that align with responsible AI practices, explore Complete AI Training’s latest offerings.
Global cooperation is essential. Only through shared responsibility can AI contribute effectively to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and building a fair digital future.
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