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.

Note: By registering for this event, you agree for ITU (the event organizer and data controller) to process your personal data for the organization and management of the event in accordance with the ITU Data Protection and Privacy Policy. The personal data you submit as part of the registration and your participation in the event will be used by ITU for the organization, management, and follow-up of the event, including managing attendance and for internal ITU administrative requirements. The event is taking place via Zoom, and it will be recorded. You can read here Zoom’s privacy notice on how it processes your personal data. The event video recording will be made publicly available on ITU’s event webpage to raise awareness and promote standardization aiming at knowledge-transfer and bridging the standardization gap. For any questions or requests concerning your personal data, including your inclusion in video, you can contact ITU at digitaltransformation@itu.int. 

Co-organized by: