QNA – Geneva, February 25: The Permanent Mission of the State of Qatar to the United Nations Office at Geneva, in partnership with the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Tajikistan and under the auspices of the GCC, co-organized a side event titled “Youth and Artificial Intelligence: Shaping a Human Rights Future” on the sidelines of the 61st session of the Human Rights Council.
The event brought together representatives from diplomatic missions, international and regional organizations, civil society, as well as experts in artificial intelligence and digital policies, to discuss the intersection of emerging technologies and human rights.
In her opening remarks, First Secretary of Qatar’s Permanent Mission, Sarah Abdulaziz Al Khater, highlighted Human Rights Council Resolution 59/11 on “New and Emerging Digital Technologies and Human Rights,” emphasizing that Member States and stakeholders must prevent harm caused by AI systems. She stressed that AI applications should comply with international human rights law and must not pose unjustifiable risks to fundamental freedoms.
Youth advocate Hamad Al Mahdi underscored that young people must be active participants in shaping AI’s development rather than passive users, stressing collective reflection on its societal impacts.
The discussion highlighted AI’s potential to empower youth through enhanced education, access to knowledge, and digital literacy, while addressing challenges including privacy protection, algorithmic bias, and safe, responsible AI use. Participants emphasized the need for policies ensuring technology serves human rights and creates inclusive opportunities for young people globally.
The event reinforced Qatar’s commitment to advancing youth engagement, digital innovation, and human rights in the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence.