UNA, ICAIRE Sign MoU to Support Knowledge Exchange, Media Capacity Building

The Union of News Agencies of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (UNA) and the International Center for AI Research and Ethics (ICAIRE) signed a memorandum of understanding in Riyadh on Thursday, marking a significant step toward advancing ethical artificial intelligence and media capacity building across the Islamic world. The agreement, formalized on the sidelines of the fourth UNESCO Global Forum on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence (GFEAI 2026), aims to promote knowledge exchange, coordinate training programs for media professionals, and support ethical technological transformation in the digital age.

Context and Background

The memorandum was signed by Mohammed Al-Yami, Director General of UNA, and Majid Alshehry, Director General of ICAIRE. The agreement reflects a shared commitment to the objectives outlined in UNESCO’s Medium-Term Strategy (2022–2029), which emphasizes ethical governance of emerging technologies and inclusive access to information. UNA’s mission aligns closely with UNESCO’s strategic goals, particularly in fostering press freedom, professional journalism, and the responsible use of AI in media.

The fourth UNESCO Global Forum on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence, hosted in Riyadh, provided a fitting platform for this partnership. Saudi Arabia has emerged as a global convener of dialogue on AI ethics, leveraging its position within the G20 and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to bridge gaps between technological innovation and moral responsibility. The MoU underscores the Kingdom’s growing role in shaping international norms for AI governance, consistent with its Vision 2030 ambition to become a knowledge-based economy and a hub for technology and media excellence.

Key Details

The MoU establishes a framework for collaboration in several areas. First, it seeks to facilitate knowledge exchange between UNA and ICAIRE, enabling member news agencies to access cutting-edge research and best practices in AI ethics. Second, it includes provisions for media capacity building, with coordinated training programs designed to equip journalists and media professionals with the skills needed to navigate the digital age responsibly.

Third, the agreement supports ethical technological transformation, promoting the development and deployment of AI systems that respect human dignity, privacy, and cultural values. Fourth, it aims to develop partnerships that achieve sustainable impact, ensuring that the benefits of technological advancement are shared equitably across the Islamic world and beyond.

Both organizations bring substantial expertise to the partnership. UNA, based in Jeddah, serves as the umbrella organization for news agencies across the OIC’s 57 member states, fostering cooperation and information sharing. ICAIRE, headquartered in Riyadh, is dedicated to advancing AI research and ethics, guided by UNESCO’s principles and the Kingdom’s leadership in ethical AI frameworks.

Implications and Impact

This MoU carries significant implications for the global media landscape and the broader field of AI ethics. For UNA’s member agencies, it offers access to training and resources that can enhance reporting on complex technological issues, combat misinformation, and promote responsible journalism. For ICAIRE, the partnership expands its reach, allowing its ethical guidelines and research to inform media practices across diverse cultural contexts.

Regionally, the agreement reinforces Saudi Arabia’s position as a leader in AI ethics and media development. It complements the Kingdom’s broader efforts, such as the Saudi Data and AI Authority (SDAIA) and the NEOM project, which integrate advanced technologies within ethical frameworks. Internationally, the MoU strengthens cooperation between UNESCO’s strategic objectives and the OIC’s institutional networks, demonstrating how multilateralism can drive inclusive innovation.

The timing is particularly relevant as AI increasingly influences news production, distribution, and consumption. By prioritizing ethics and capacity building, UNA and ICAIRE are addressing a critical need: ensuring that journalists can harness AI’s potential while upholding integrity, accuracy, and cultural sensitivity. This aligns with global calls for AI governance that respects human rights and fosters sustainable development.

Vision 2030 Alignment

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 envisions a diversified economy driven by knowledge, innovation, and technology. The MoU between UNA and ICAIRE exemplifies this vision by promoting ethical AI, enhancing media skills, and fostering international partnerships. It supports the Kingdom’s goals of expanding digital infrastructure, empowering youth, and positioning Saudi Arabia as a global leader in responsible AI. As the world grapples with the challenges and opportunities of artificial intelligence, this partnership underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to shaping a future where technology serves humanity ethically and equitably. By facilitating knowledge exchange and media capacity building, the agreement contributes to a more informed, connected, and resilient Islamic world, in line with Vision 2030’s overarching ambition to build a thriving society and a competitive economy.

20 Questions

Q1. What organizations signed the MoU?

A1. The Union of News Agencies of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (UNA) and the International Center for AI Research and Ethics (ICAIRE) signed the memorandum of understanding.

Q2. When and where was the MoU signed?

A2. The MoU was signed in Riyadh on Thursday, September 17, 2026, on the sidelines of the fourth UNESCO Global Forum on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence.

Q3. Who represented UNA and ICAIRE at the signing?

A3. UNA was represented by Director General Mohammed Al-Yami, and ICAIRE was represented by Director General Majid Alshehry.

Q4. What is the main purpose of the MoU?

A4. The MoU aims to promote knowledge exchange, media capacity building, ethical technological transformation, and sustainable partnerships between the two organizations.

Q5. How does the MoU align with UNESCO’s strategy?

A5. The MoU aligns with UNESCO’s Medium-Term Strategy (2022–2029), particularly its goals on ethical AI and inclusive access to information.

Q6. What are the key areas of cooperation under the MoU?

A6. Key areas include knowledge exchange, training programs for media professionals, ethical AI transformation, and developing sustainable partnerships.

Q7. Why is this MoU significant for the Islamic world?

A7. It strengthens media cooperation across OIC member states, enhances professional skills, and promotes ethical AI use in journalism.

Q8. What is UNA’s role in the OIC?

A8. UNA serves as the umbrella organization for news agencies across the OIC’s 57 member states, fostering cooperation and information sharing.

Q9. What is ICAIRE’s mission?

A9. ICAIRE is dedicated to advancing AI research and ethics, guided by UNESCO’s principles and Saudi Arabia’s leadership in ethical AI frameworks.

Q10. How does the MoU support media professionals?

A10. It coordinates training programs to equip journalists with skills for responsible reporting in the digital age, including AI ethics and combating misinformation.

Q11. What is the significance of the UNESCO Global Forum?

A11. The forum provides a global platform for discussing AI ethics, and hosting it in Riyadh highlights Saudi Arabia’s role in shaping international AI governance.

Q12. How does the MoU relate to Saudi Vision 2030?

A12. It supports Vision 2030 by promoting ethical AI, enhancing media skills, and fostering international partnerships for a knowledge-based economy.

Q13. What are the expected outcomes of the MoU?

A13. Expected outcomes include improved media capacity, ethical AI practices, and stronger collaboration between UNA and ICAIRE for sustainable impact.

Q14. How will the MoU benefit UNA’s member agencies?

A14. Member agencies will gain access to training, resources, and best practices in AI ethics, enhancing their ability to report on technological issues.

Q15. What role does Saudi Arabia play in AI ethics?

A15. Saudi Arabia is a leader in AI ethics, hosting global forums and supporting initiatives like ICAIRE and SDAIA to promote responsible AI development.

Q16. How does the MoU address challenges in the digital age?

A16. It addresses challenges by promoting ethical AI, building media capacity, and fostering partnerships to ensure responsible technological transformation.

Q17. What is the duration of the MoU?

A17. The source text does not specify the duration; the MoU is a framework for ongoing cooperation between the two organizations.

Q18. How does the MoU support sustainable development?

A18. By developing partnerships and promoting ethical AI, the MoU aims to achieve sustainable impact, aligning with global development goals.

Q19. What is the significance of the MoU for global AI governance?

A19. It demonstrates multilateral cooperation between UNESCO’s objectives and OIC networks, setting a precedent for ethical AI governance worldwide.

Q20. How can other organizations participate in similar initiatives?

A20. Organizations can engage with UNA or ICAIRE to explore partnerships aligned with UNESCO’s strategy and Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 for ethical AI and media development.

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