Third Committee of UNGA80: Sweden's intervention on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic States

Mr. Chairperson and Mme Special Rapporteur,

I am taking the floor on behalf of the Nordic-Baltic states. We thank the Special Rapporteur for her important report and analysis of the paradigm shift taking place in the digital world, particularly with the use of AI.

AI brings with it tremendous opportunities, like access to information, free speech, research and innovation. The drive to innovate using AI is also happening in the public sector, as regards health, education, and social services, where respect for human rights is key.

The interplay between public policy and private power has allowed innovation and the digital revolution. Examples confirm that self-regulation is important for fostering an enabling environment for business to develop. However, recent shifts in policies by some tech companies risk undermining public trust in their ability to self-regulate in accordance with the Guidelines for Business and Human rights.  

It is equally important to distinguish responsible regulation from repressive control, as digital technologies are also being misused to limit freedoms, manipulate media, and suppress independent journalism. We must uphold international human rights law as the foundation for digital governance. A practical tool in this regard is the “Rights respecting digital public infrastructures principles.” These principles, presented by the Freedom online coalition (FOC), promote a human rights-based approach to digital infrastructure, emphasizing inclusiveness, transparency, accountability, privacy, legitimacy, and offer coherence to companies in their global business across borders.

Mme Special Rapporteur,

Can you share other best practices from your consultations on different regulatory approaches to innovation, while ensuring respect for human rights, throughout the life cycle of AI systems?