‘Human rights, equality must be ensured’

Bangladesh’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations (UN) Ambassador Irene Zubaida Khan has called for human rights, equality and non-discrimination to be upheld in the development of artificial intelligence (AI), urging the international community to use emerging technologies for sustainable development rather than allowing them to fuel hatred and violence.

“Bangladesh is committed to building a world where the diversity and dignity of all people are upheld, both online and offline,” she said at a high-level UN event on Monday marking the 25th anniversary of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action (DDPA), according to a press release received on Tuesday.

Irene Khan said the DDPA made a clear commitment 25 years ago that no one should face discrimination on the grounds of race, colour, descent, or national or ethnic origin.

“Yet, the world remains far from fulfilling that commitment,” she said, reaffirming Bangladesh’s commitment to the full and effective implementation of the DDPA.

She called for stronger efforts in justice, education, development and international cooperation to address structural inequalities rooted in slavery, colonialism and other historical injustices.

Irene Khan also stressed the need to strengthen protection of the rights of migrants, refugees, forcibly displaced people, minorities, women, children and others in vulnerable situations.