The United Nations recently gathered over 600 young individuals in New York to address the governance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). The attendees contributed to a Youth-led Declaration on AI Policy and Governance, which aims to shape the UN’s Global Digital Compact and other initiatives. The declaration outlines shared perspectives, principles, and concrete recommendations to be implemented across the UN system. This aligns with ongoing efforts such as the Global Dialogue on AI Governance and the International Telecommunication Union’s Youth Advisory Board.
This convening of youth advocates underscores the importance of integrating young voices into AI policymaking, especially as governments worldwide confront the challenges posed by AI. Recent developments include the European Commission enhancing oversight to tackle deepfakes and INTERPOL highlighting AI’s link to over half of cybercrime incidences in Africa. In the U.S., lawmakers have been pressured to reconsider AI-related provisions in current legislation.
Timed with International Youth Day 2026, UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized the organization’s commitment to youth involvement, aiming for a future where each generation can prosper. This is particularly pertinent given the International Labor Organization’s report suggesting that 6.1% of jobs held by youths aged 15 to 29 are vulnerable to AI-driven changes, potentially leading to significant unemployment if even a fraction of these jobs are displaced.
Assistant Secretary-General for Youth Affairs Felipe Paullier articulated the necessity of youth engagement in designing AI systems, stating that their involvement leads to stronger, inclusive institutions. This perspective is critical as it echoes the broader sentiment that young people should not only adapt to evolving technologies but actively shape them. For further insights, the details of the event can be explored here.