IGF 2025 WS #493 Vision to Implementation: Effective Gov. Strategies for AI

    Organizer 1: Private Sector, Asia-Pacific Group
    Organizer 2: Civil Society, African Group
    Organizer 3: Civil Society, African Group
    Speaker 1: Assad Kazkaz, Private Sector, Asia-Pacific Group
    Speaker 2: Nermin Selim, Civil Society, African Group
    Speaker 3: Ahmed Sarhan, Civil Society, African Group
    Format
    Classroom
    Duration (minutes): 90
    Format description: Interactive and Engaging Discussion: The session will follow a classroom format, allowing for dynamic exchanges between speakers and active engagement with the attendees. This format fosters a balanced dialogue, where experts can present insights while participants contribute through Q&A and open discussions. Hybrid-Friendly Setup: Given the hybrid nature of IGF 2025, the room layout will ensure seamless interaction between onsite and online participants. A classroom seating arrangement will encourage direct engagement, while a dedicated screen for virtual speakers and participants will ensure inclusivity for remote attendees. Optimal Duration for Depth and Engagement: A 90-minute session allows sufficient time to cover key topics, including AI governance, ethical considerations, and sustainability, while maintaining an engaging flow with presentations, discussions, and audience participation. Visual and Interactive Elements: The session will integrate slide presentations, live polling, and interactive Q&A tools to enhance audience engagement and ensure a well-structured, informative discussion.
    Policy Question(s)
    1 - How can governments develop and implement AI policies that foster innovation while ensuring ethical, transparent, and accountable AI deployment? 2 - What are the key challenges in balancing AI-driven economic growth with sustainability, environmental responsibility, and social well-being? 3 - How can cross-sector collaboration between governments, industry, and civil society contribute to responsible AI governance and inclusive digital transformation?
    What will participants gain from attending this session? 1 - Practical Insights on AI Governance: Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of how governments worldwide are implementing AI strategies, including best practices for ethical AI deployment, regulatory frameworks, and responsible data governance. 2 - Diverse Perspectives on AI’s Societal Impact: The session will bring together experts from government, industry, and academia to offer varied viewpoints on balancing innovation with societal well-being, sustainability, and digital inclusion. 3 - Actionable Policy Recommendations: Participants will leave with concrete strategies for designing AI policies that promote transparency, accountability, and cross-sector collaboration. 4 - Sustainable and Responsible Innovation Approaches: The session will highlight how AI can drive economic growth while mitigating environmental risks and ensuring responsible use of emerging technologies. 5 - Networking and Collaboration Opportunities: Attendees will have the chance to connect with global stakeholders, fostering potential partnerships for AI-driven sustainable development initiatives.
    Description:

    As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to reshape economies, governance, and societies, governments face the challenge of translating AI strategies into actionable policies that drive sustainable and responsible innovation. This session will explore best practices, innovative approaches, and real-world case studies of AI governance, focusing on transparency, ethical deployment, and inclusive development. Key discussion points will include: The role of AI in driving economic growth while ensuring environmental sustainability. Effective government frameworks for AI regulation, accountability, and ethical oversight. Balancing innovation with societal well-being and responsible data governance. Cross-sector collaboration to foster AI-driven sustainable development. By bringing together policymakers, industry leaders, and AI experts, this session will provide concrete insights into how governments can develop and implement AI strategies that align with the principles of sustainability, inclusivity, and ethical innovation while addressing potential socio-economic and environmental risks.
    Expected Outcomes
    1 - Policy Recommendations: The session will generate actionable recommendations for governments and policymakers on designing AI governance frameworks that balance innovation, ethics, and sustainability. 2 - Knowledge Sharing and Best Practices: Participants will gain insights into successful AI strategies from different regions, fostering a deeper understanding of effective AI governance models. 3 - Stakeholder Collaboration: The session aims to facilitate dialogue between governments, industry leaders, and civil society, encouraging partnerships for responsible AI development. Follow-Up Initiatives: A policy brief summarizing key takeaways and recommendations from the session. Potential development of a working group or follow-up discussions to advance AI governance frameworks within international forums. Contribution to ongoing global discussions, such as WSIS+20 and the UN AI governance initiatives, to shape AI policies aligned with sustainable development goals.
    Hybrid Format: 1. Facilitating Interaction Between Onsite and Online Participants: The session will feature a hybrid discussion, ensuring equal participation for both onsite and remote speakers. A dedicated moderator will facilitate seamless interaction, ensuring online attendees can contribute to discussions in real time. Online speakers will join via Zoom virtual platform, with a shared screen option for presentations. A dedicated Q&A segment will allow online and onsite attendees to submit questions via a live chat function or audience microphone. 2. Designing the Session for an Optimal Hybrid Experience: The classroom setup will include a screen displaying remote speakers and online audience interactions. The session will be structured with short expert presentations followed by interactive discussions, maintaining a dynamic flow. A dedicated technical assistant will support online speakers and manage virtual participation. 3. Complementary Online Tools for Enhanced Participation: Zoom Chat/Q&A Feature for real-time engagement.