Building Capacity for Responsible, Inclusive, and Rights-Respecting Approaches to AI 

Overview

This cutting-edge program is designed to foster stronger global cooperation on AI governance and build a network of informed policymakers and civil society advocates. By supporting the responsible development and implementation of AI technologies, the program ensures alignment with human rights and equity. 

Global Context

Over the past decade, the rapid development and deployment of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies have significantly influenced global dynamics, presenting both opportunities and challenges. While AI has been harnessed to drive innovation and societal progress, it has also been exploited by malicious actors to advance harmful agendas, exacerbating concerns about security, privacy, and ethical governance. In response to these challenges, the importance of robust and forward-thinking AI governance has become increasingly evident. 

The United States has taken a leadership role in addressing these complexities through international collaboration. Notably, it spearheaded a United Nations resolution aimed at fostering "safe, secure, and trustworthy AI systems that will benefit sustainable development for all." This initiative underscores a global commitment to establishing principles that guide the ethical use of AI while promoting inclusivity and resilience. Additionally, the U.S. introduced its inaugural International Cyberspace and Digital Policy Strategy, which delineates a vision for navigating the evolving digital landscape.

Program Objectives

1. Build Capacity for Responsible AI Policies: Equip foreign government officials with the tools and knowledge to create and implement responsible national AI policies. 

2. Empower Non-Governmental Stakeholders: Strengthen civil society and advocacy groups to champion rights-respecting AI governance. 

Program Activities

Meridian, in partnership with The Atlantic Council and DFRLab, will implement a series of initiatives, including: 

• Capacity-Building Workshops: Hands-on training sessions to deepen understanding of ethical and effective AI governance. 

• Global Exchanges: Facilitating cross-regional learning and knowledge-sharing among government, civil society, and industry stakeholders. 
• Participation in Key Events: Enabling active engagement at UN forums and multistakeholder discussions to promote best practices and ethical standards in AI policy.   

Join us over the next 36 months to revolutionize AI governance. Send us an email at AICapacity@Meridian.org or visit our website to submit an inquiry. 

Get Involved

If you are interested in contributing your subject matter expertise, building a stronger AI framework, or attending a future event over the next 36 months to revolutionize AI governance, please reach out to us at AIGovernance@meridain.org. 

Partner

The Building Capacity for Responsible, Inclusive, and Rights-Respecting Approaches to AI program is sponsored by the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Cyberspace and Digital Policy and supported in its implementation by Meridian International Center along with our partners, the Atlantic Council.

   

 

 

Staff

Name	Title
Hana Hausnerova	Vice President of the Meridian Center for Global Leadership, Customized Exchanges
Cami Bissen	Program Coordinator, Meridian Center for Global Leadership
Meredith Krieg	Customized Exchanges Program Officer, Meridian Center for Global Leadership