Statement by the Deputy Permanent Representative of Brazil to the United Nations, Ambassador Norberto Moretti, at an open conversation with the UNSG´s Envoy on Technology over AI governance and human rights - Global Digital Compact (GDC) - March 7th, 2024

Brazil´s proposed approach for AI in the Digital Economy Working Group for the G20 interweaves it with other key elements such as meaningful connectivity, digital public infrastructures and information integrity within a broader logic of "digital inclusion". The purpose is to ensure visibility to the priorities of developing countries regarding the digital economy agenda, so that digital technologies transformative potential becomes a meaningful force for inclusive development, leaving no one behind.

Embracing that perspective means facing head-on such issues as the concentration of capacities, talent, datasets and infrastructures by a handful of actors. It also means seeking to ensure the developing world not only has access to, as consumers, but is also able to contribute to further developing these technologies, by putting in place the necessary building blocks and meaningfully integrating into their value chains.

To bring all of that to fruition, developing countries can hardly rely solely on the own national efforts. International cooperation has an indispensable role to play through knowledge dissemination, capacity-building or joint efforts aiming at the development, deployment and adaptation of AI systems to local realities. We should also foster an exchange of goods practices on human-centric AI policies and regulation, especially those targeted at public services delivery and research and development.

Accordingly, as the UN is an irreplaceable forum for a neutral, development-oriented and inclusive debate on AI, we are intent on seizing the chance of the GDC to give practical and concrete meaning to those aims, in line with the broader framework of the World Summit on the Information Society and building on the body of experience, knowledge and policy prescriptions stemming from such fora as UNCTAD and the CSTD. That´s a safe way to secure a solid foundation for development in the GDC, including AI, in addition to the equally legitimate agenda of rights and values. And that leads us to the specific topic at hand today.

Human rights in the context of digital technologies

The discussion on human rights in the context of digital technologies is a priority for the Brazilian government. In our view, as digitalization permeates every aspect of our lives, it is important to promote the right of everyone to enjoy the benefits of scientific progress and its applications.

33% of the global population still lacks access to the internet. Among those that do have access to cyberspace, many lack meaningful connectivity, or the skills for effective utilization of the digital environment.

Such digital divides can have a negative impact on the enjoyment of all human rights, not only freedom of opinion and expression, but also economic, social, and cultural rights. Disparities in digital literacy as well as meaningful connectivity can exacerbate social inequalities.

Bridging digital divides entails not only expanding access to the internet and other digital technologies, but also empowering individuals to make effective use of these technologies for enjoyment of their human rights.

In the multilateral arena, Brazil is involved in many initiatives aimed at safeguarding human rights in the online environment. Particularly, we are concerned with the impact of digital technologies on the integrity of democracies, the spread of hate speech, racism, privacy, gender-based violence and incitement to political violence.

Concerning AI, Brazil acknowledges the need for a balanced approach that respects both the promise of AI and the respect for human rights. AI systems often rely on vast amounts of personal data to operate effectively, and the improper handling of this data can result in invasive surveillance and discrimination, as well as misinformation, hate speech and disinformation.

Brazil recognizes the importance of addressing biases and discrimination in AI algorithms. We support efforts to promote transparency, accountability, and fairness in AI development to mitigate these risks and ensure that AI technologies do not discriminate against any individual or group. Human oversight is essential to avoid bias and errors.

Brazil supports the development of international norms and standards to guide responsible conducts in cyberspace. We stand ready to collaborate with the global community to ensure that AI advances align with our shared commitment to human rights.