STI Forum Side event on Artificial Intelligence & Virtual Worlds: Innovating the Future of Work and Economic Growth to advance the SDGs

Description

The International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the United Nations International Computing Centre (UNICC), the Permanent Missions of Finland, the United Arab Emirates, and Tanzania to the United Nations, co-hosted the STI Forum 2025 side event titled “Artificial Intelligence & Virtual Worlds: Innovating the Future of Work and Economic Growth to advance the SDGs” This event took place on 6 May 2025, from 15:00 to 16:15 (New York time) in New York. This side event was also organized as part of ITU’s Digital Transformation Dialogues.

This side event explored how Artificial Intelligence (AI) and virtual worlds are reshaping industries, fostering innovation, and driving economic growth in alignment with SDG 8 and the Pact for the Future. With AI-powered automation, immersive virtual environments, and emerging virtual economies, technology is unlocking new opportunities for employment, entrepreneurship, and economic resilience. To fully harness these innovations, global partnerships (SDG 17) are essential. Collaboration between governments, cities, industry, academia and international organizations is essential to bridge digital divides, support responsible AI policies, and drive economic transformation—especially in developing economies.

Bringing together global leaders, this side event highlighted how AI and virtual worlds can enhance workforce skills, improve productivity, foster smart city innovation, and ensure inclusive economic participation. It also addressed key policy considerations, ethical implications and the role of standardization.