Bangladesh calls for using technology for sustainable development, not hate and violence

Bangladesh's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Irene Khan, has called for using new technology for sustainable development instead of making it a tool for spreading hate and violence. At the same time, she emphasised ensuring human rights, equality and non-discrimination in the development of artificial intelligence (AI).

She made these remarks while speaking at a high-level event held at the United Nations on Monday, September 28, marking the 25th anniversary of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action (DDPA). The information was conveyed in a press release in Dhaka on Tuesday, September 29.

Irene Khan said Bangladesh is committed to building a world where human diversity, rights and dignity are upheld both online and in real life. She noted that alongside the rapid advancement of technology, the protection of human values and fundamental rights must also be given equal importance.

The ambassador said the world has not yet reached the desired position in implementing the commitment made 25 years ago in the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action to eliminate discrimination based on race, colour, descent, and national or ethnic origin. In this context, she also reiterated Bangladesh's commitment to the full and effective implementation of the DDPA.

Irene Khan called for further strengthening justice, education, development and international cooperation to address the roots of historical discrimination. She particularly emphasised taking effective steps to eliminate structural discrimination created by slavery, colonialism and other historical injustices.

Additionally, Bangladesh's Permanent Representative called for stronger initiatives to protect the rights of migrants, refugees, forcibly displaced people, minorities, women, children and various vulnerable populations. In her view, it is also important to ensure that the benefits of technological development and global progress reach all people in society equally.