Riyadh hosted the first day of the fourth UNESCO Global Forum on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence (GFEAI 2026) on Tuesday, gathering ministers from UNESCO member states, senior officials, experts, researchers, and policymakers.
According to SPA, the discussions focused on the future of ethical AI governance and methods to strengthen international cooperation. The sessions covered AI governance, multilateralism, diplomacy, regional cooperation, and the transition from dialogue to implementation.
Participants examined the convergence of global perspectives to strengthen international consensus on ethical frameworks for the development and use of AI technologies. The program included the presentation of the National AI Index (NAII) awards, which honored eight government entities for their performance.
Additional sessions reviewed progress since the adoption of the UNESCO Recommendation on the Ethics of AI under the theme “Five Years of the Recommendation: Where We Are, Where We Go Next.” Discussions also addressed financing and partnerships to ensure AI serves people and society, alongside a session on women’s roles in shaping responsible innovation and their empowerment in the field.
Who participated in the first day of the GFEAI 2026 in Riyadh? The event drew a large international gathering that included ministers representing UNESCO member states. Additionally, the forum was attended by senior officials, researchers, experts, and policymakers who engaged in discussions regarding the future of ethical AI governance and international cooperation.
What were the main topics discussed during the forum sessions? Sessions addressed AI governance, multilateralism, and diplomacy, while exploring regional cooperation and the move toward implementation. Participants also examined global perspectives to build international consensus on ethical frameworks and the development and use of AI technologies.
What awards were presented during the GFEAI 2026 program? The program featured the presentation of the National AI Index (NAII) awards. These awards were used to honor eight government entities based on their specific performance within the index.