Multilateral AI Governance

Supporting durable and effective multilateral cooperation on AI.

Artificial intelligence has rapidly become a central issue in global governance. In recent years, the United Nations has expanded its role in this space through the adoption of the Global Digital Compact, the establishment of the Office for Digital and Emerging Technologies, the creation of the Independent International Scientific Panel on AI, and the launch of the Global Dialogue on AI Governance. As these mechanisms take shape, the institutional architecture of UN AI governance is still evolving.

The Multilateral Reform program’s AI governance work focuses on strengthening coherence within this emerging architecture. The program examines how mandates interact, how processes evolve, and how institutional design choices shape the effectiveness of UN-mandated mechanisms. This includes mapping the UN AI ecosystem, engaging directly with Member States and UN entities to clarify roles and entry points for engagement, and providing structured ideas to support the development of processes such as the Global Dialogue.

At a moment when AI governance is advancing simultaneously at national, regional, multilateral, and corporate levels, reducing fragmentation and strengthening institutional clarity is essential. By focusing on governance architecture and structured engagement, the program aims to support durable and effective multilateral cooperation on AI.