The United Nations Committee on Information (COI) has concluded its 46th session, approving two resolutions aimed at bolstering assistance to developing nations in constructing communication infrastructures and reaffirming the vital role of the UN Department of Global Communication (DGC) in combatting misinformation amidst the era of artificial intelligence.
Presided over by Ambassador Usman Jadoon, deputy permanent representative of Pakistan to the UN, the COI addresses public information issues and guides the policies, programs, and activities of the DGC to align with the objectives of the 193-member Assembly.
One resolution, titled “Information in the service of humanity,” calls for reducing disparities in information flows by increasing support for communication infrastructure development in developing countries. It condemns attacks on journalists, supports training programs for broadcasters and journalists in developing nations, and advocates for regional cooperation to enhance media infrastructure and technology.
The second resolution, titled “United Nations global communications policies and activities,” emphasizes the Department’s mission to provide accurate and timely information to the public. It highlights the potential of safe artificial intelligence systems for sustainable development while cautioning against their improper or malicious use, particularly in relation to misinformation. The resolution requests specific efforts from the Department to identify and address misinformation in the context of artificial intelligence.
Melissa Fleming, Under-Secretary General for Global Communications, expressed gratitude for the consensus adoption of the resolutions, emphasizing their significance amidst global tensions. Ambassador Jadoon highlighted the importance of reliable information in the modern era and underscored the resolution’s acknowledgment of challenges such as disinformation and misinformation. He urged member states and the DGC to implement the resolutions, fostering a more peaceful and inclusive world through access to authentic information.
Pakistan currently chairs the Committee on Information for a two-year term (2023-24).
