Global leaders unite behind Hamburg Declaration on Responsible AI for sustainable development

Leaders from governments, businesses, academia, and civil society have endorse the groundbreaking Hamburg Declaration on Responsible AI for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This first-of-its-kind global initiative establishes a shared commitment to ensuring artificial intelligence is developed and deployed in ways that promote equity,

The Declaration sets out key principles to guide AI’s role in global development, emphasizing human rights protection, support for marginalized communities, and the fight against disinformation. Signatories also pledged to enhance the energy efficiency of AI systems, expand AI education opportunities for women and girls, and foster homegrown AI innovations in the Global South. 

UNDP Administrator Achim Steiner underscored the urgency of this mission, stating, “AI is one of the most transformative forces of our time, yet its benefits remain out of reach for many developing countries. This Declaration is a vital step toward ensuring AI advances equity, connects communities, and reduces inequality—not widens it.”

German Development Minister Reem Alabali-Radovan echoed this sentiment, calling the Declaration a turning point in making AI a force for inclusion rather than exclusion. “Too many people are still left behind in the digital revolution,” she said. “AI must become a driver of equality and sustainable progress for all.” 

The Hamburg Declaration builds on discussions that began at HSC 2024, where the UNDP and Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) first proposed a set of responsible AI guidelines. Over the past year, extensive multi-stakeholder consultations refined this vision, culminating in a global call to action. 

Now, the challenge is implementation. The Declaration urges governments, businesses, and civil society to invest in sustainable AI solutions, support local innovators, and ensure no region is left behind in the digital transition. Only through coordinated global efforts can AI fulfill its potential as a tool for achieving the SDGs and creating a fairer future. 

The Hamburg Sustainability Conference, co-hosted by BMZ, UNDP, the Michael Otto Foundation, and the Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg serves as a critical platform for advancing sustainable solutions. The 2025 edition, held on June 2–3, reinforced the need for collaboration across borders and sectors.

By:  Nana Appiah Acquaye