Laws

UNESCO Recommendation on the Ethics of AI

UNESCO Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence

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Draft – legal and case law references not yet verified

In Plain Language

A global, non-binding standard adopted by UNESCO member states, covering values such as human dignity, environmental flourishing and diversity, with policy areas from data governance to gender and education.

Key Dates

  • Adopted by the General Conference

Verify Dates and status last checked 29 October 2026. Non-binding (soft law).

Key Articles for AI

ValuesHuman rights and dignity; living in peaceful, just societies; diversity and inclusiveness; environment.
Policy area: data governanceData quality, privacy and public-interest data use.
Policy area: genderAvoiding gender bias and promoting equality.

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Related Sources

UNESCO Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence (opens in a new tab)

Ethical Frameworks · UNESCO · UNESCO, 2021 · 2021

International ethical recommendation adopted in 2021, addressing human dignity and rights, fairness, gender equality, inclusion, well-being and environmental protection. Non-binding international guidance.

UNESCO Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence (opens in a new tab)

Regulations · UNESCO · 2021

A global standard adopted by 193 states, built on human rights, fairness, transparency and gender equality in AI.

Standards and ethical frameworks related to UNESCO Recommendation on the Ethics of AI