India Advocates for Digital Tools to Uphold Human Rights Globally
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United Nations, March 12 (NationPress) The expansion of digital tools on a global scale plays a crucial role in advancing human rights, as improving the well-being of every individual is vital for unlocking its full potential, stated India.
"In our nation, we have effectively utilized digital technologies to enhance the accessibility of rights for everyone, reaching a vast audience," remarked Sibi George, Secretary (West) at India's External Affairs Ministry, during his address to the Human Rights Council in Geneva on Wednesday (local time).
He added, "This initiative has also improved access to justice, civil and political rights, and promoted democratic engagement for 1.4 billion Indians, alongside empowering our women."
The recent AI Impact Summit held in Delhi, which saw participation from over 100 nations, supported the notion of universally sharing the advantages of AI, he pointed out.
The summit was attended by 20 heads of state and around 45 ministers, convened by India in collaboration with France.
George highlighted that the summit recognized the notion that the benefits of AI can only be fully realized when shared fairly among all of humanity, particularly including the Global South.
He recalled External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar's appeal to the Council to transition from mere statements and resolutions to practical enhancements in the everyday lives of the most vulnerable individuals.
"We strongly advocate for a comprehensive and balanced approach to all human rights, grounded in an integrated development framework, as the most effective route towards achieving this," George explained, citing India's digital initiatives as a foundational element.
He also reminded the Council of the grave threat that terrorism poses to human rights and urged for collective action against it.
"Terrorism remains one of the most significant dangers to human rights," he declared.
"We must maintain our determination to combat it in all its forms and manifestations," he added. "This Council should persist in voicing a unified stance on this matter."