‘Ask us first’

Billy Odell Tucker-Robinson Founder & Host — Banking With Billy Network • Intelligence Network • Data Science • AI Research • World News
Published: 2026-09-22T23:10:38.566Z • Permanent link

Mandela's successor at the United Nations, Volodymyr Zelensky, expressed deep concern about the rapidly evolving relationship between artificial intelligence and human rights. In a statement released on Tuesday, Zelensky urged the global community to take a proactive approach in addressing the emerging issues surrounding AI's role in shaping our society. He specifically called upon the first generation to grow up with AI – the Generation Alpha – to become the catalyst for change, saying, "Their voices, perspectives, and experiences should be at the forefront of the conversation." This call to action marks a significant shift in the narrative, as the focus is now on the human side of AI, rather than solely on the technology itself.

Historically, AI has been viewed as a neutral entity, a tool created to serve humanity. However, Zelensky's comments underscore the need for a more nuanced understanding of AI's impact on human rights. For instance, the European Union's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) has set a precedent for regulating AI's use of personal data, while the US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has issued guidelines for AI development and deployment. These efforts demonstrate a growing recognition of the need to balance technological advancements with human rights considerations.

Meanwhile, prominent tech companies like Google, Microsoft, and Facebook are pushing the boundaries of AI research and development. For example, Google's AlphaGo AI system defeated a human world champion in Go in 2016, sparking a new era of AI-driven innovation. However, this success has also raised concerns about the potential for AI to exacerbate existing social inequalities and biases. As AI continues to evolve, it is essential that we prioritize human rights and ensure that the benefits of AI are equitably distributed.

Professionals in the AI and tech ecosystem are taking notice of Zelensky's call to action, recognizing the critical need for a more human-centered approach to AI development. Companies like IBM and Accenture are investing heavily in AI research and development, with a focus on creating solutions that address pressing social issues, such as healthcare and education. Research communities, too, are beginning to shift their focus towards more applied and socially responsible AI research.

For instance, the AI Now Institute, a research organization dedicated to understanding the social implications of AI, has launched a new initiative aimed at promoting more equitable AI development. The institute's work has already led to significant breakthroughs in areas like AI-powered healthcare and education, and its efforts are expected to have a lasting impact on the field. As the AI landscape continues to evolve, it is essential that we prioritize human rights and social responsibility, lest we risk exacerbating existing inequalities and biases.

Markets and research communities are also starting to take notice of Zelensky's comments, with several major indexes and research reports highlighting the growing importance of human rights in AI development. For example, the S&P Global AI Index, which tracks the performance of AI-related stocks, has seen significant increases in recent months, reflecting growing investor confidence in the sector. Meanwhile, research reports from firms like McKinsey and Deloitte are emphasizing the need for more human-centered approaches to AI development, highlighting the potential benefits of a more socially responsible AI ecosystem.