149th IPU Assembly in Geneva: Focus on Science, Technology, and AI
The 149th Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Assembly is set to take place in Geneva, Switzerland, from October 13 to 17, 2024. This event will gather parliamentarians from around the world to explore how science, technology, and innovation can contribute to a peaceful and sustainable future.
Key Themes and Objectives
The central theme of the Assembly is to enhance parliamentary action in maximizing the benefits of emerging technologies while addressing potential risks, especially those linked to artificial intelligence (AI). Swiss psychiatrist and technology pioneer Bertrand Piccard will address the Assembly, stressing the importance of keeping humanity at the heart of scientific and technological advancements.
Charter on the Ethics of Science and Technology
A significant goal of the Assembly is to adopt a new Charter on the Ethics of Science and Technology. This Charter, developed by the IPU’s Working Group on Science and Technology, aims to provide a regulatory framework guiding legislative and decision-making processes to ensure that scientific and technological progress benefits society, the environment, and humanity.
Resolution on AI’s Impact
The Assembly is also expected to pass a resolution titled “The impact of artificial intelligence on democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.” This resolution urges parliaments to establish strong legal frameworks and policies for the responsible creation and use of AI, protecting democratic institutions from AI-related threats like misinformation and hate speech.
Additional Meetings
Throughout the Assembly, various IPU bodies will convene, including the Forum of Women Parliamentarians, the Forum of Young Parliamentarians, and the Committee on the Human Rights of Parliamentarians, along with the four thematic Standing Committees.
Doubts Revealed
IPU -: IPU stands for Inter-Parliamentary Union. It is an international organization that brings together parliamentarians from around the world to discuss important global issues.
Geneva -: Geneva is a city in Switzerland, known for hosting many international organizations and events. It is a place where people from different countries come together to discuss important topics.
AI -: AI stands for Artificial Intelligence. It refers to machines or computers that can perform tasks that usually require human intelligence, like understanding language or recognizing images.
Charter on the Ethics of Science and Technology -: This is a set of guidelines or rules that help ensure science and technology are used in a way that is fair and good for everyone. It focuses on making sure new technologies are used ethically.
Bertrand Piccard -: Bertrand Piccard is a Swiss psychiatrist and adventurer known for his efforts in promoting clean technologies. He often speaks about how technology should benefit humanity and the environment.
Parliamentarians -: Parliamentarians are members of a parliament, which is a group of people who make laws for a country. They represent the citizens and discuss important issues to make decisions for the future.