Senator Anusha Rehman of Pakistan addressed the historic launch of the Global Dialogue on AI Governance under the auspices of the United Nations, urging the initiative to become a practical tool for countries at all levels of development. She told delegates the Dialogue should focus on closing knowledge and capacity gaps through tailored policy advice, hands-on training and broad open access resources.
Emphasising the need for a robust international response, Senator Rehman argued that AI governance must be guided by a comprehensive global framework that ensures systems are safe, secure and trustworthy while fully aligned with international human rights law and the Sustainable Development Goals. She said practical guidance and shared standards will be essential for consistent, rights-respecting deployment of AI across sectors.
To promote equity in AI innovation, the Senator called for active measures to facilitate technology transfers, ensure affordable access to infrastructure and make quality datasets and critical data available to developing nations. These steps, she noted, are crucial to prevent widening digital divides and to allow countries like Pakistan to harness AI for inclusive growth.
Senator Rehman proposed the establishment of a United Nations Artificial Intelligence Fund to provide sustainable financing and capacity-building for countries with limited resources. She said such a fund would underpin long-term training programmes, infrastructure upgrades and policy support so the benefits of AI are shared globally.
Equitable representation within the Dialogue and related panels was another priority highlighted by Senator Rehman, who stressed that participation from developing countries must reflect regional realities in outcomes. She also warned of immediate risks to citizens, especially children, youth and the elderly, calling for stronger privacy protections, public awareness on deepfakes and misinformation, and measures to combat bias and misuse of data.
Pointing to national efforts, Senator Rehman said Pakistan has adopted the National Artificial Intelligence Policy 2025 as a roadmap to leverage AI for inclusive and sustainable development. The policy, she explained, places particular emphasis on investing in human capital and infrastructure while strengthening regulations to protect personal data and ensure safe, responsible adaptation of AI technologies.
“Artificial Intelligence must become a driver of common public good and shared prosperity,” Senator Anusha Rehman affirmed, adding that Pakistan will continue to work constructively with the United Nations, its agencies and global partners to advance responsible and equitable AI governance for all countries.
