As artificial intelligence continues to transform the world, global thought leaders are gathering in Africa to examine its implications for human development and civilization.
The United Nations is holding the inaugural AI and Human Development Convening from 27–28 June 2026 in Cairo, Egypt.
The event brings together scholars, innovators, historians, anthropologists, policymakers, and other leaders to explore how one of humanity's newest technologies is shaping human progress, sustainable development, education, culture, and society.
Convened by United Nations Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed, the open dialogue is curated by the United Nations Office for Partnerships in collaboration with Al-Azhar University.
This event marks the first of five regional gatherings aimed at exploring how AI influences civilization—ranging from the workforce and education to social norms, cultural values, and human relationships.
The global series is intentionally hosted in locations that carry profound meaning for the history of human civilization, with Cairo serving as one of its oldest centers.
Participants will discuss how technological progress can advance human well-being while safeguarding dignity, equity, and shared values.
Fundamentally, AI challenges the understanding of what it means to be human—a concept that has never been singular across civilizations, having been shaped by diverse traditions of faith, philosophy, community, and culture.
As AI reshapes work, communication, trust, and human interaction, the convening addresses essential questions regarding how these changes impact culture, the global social fabric, and the future of humanity’s relationship with technology.
This dialogue builds on the UN Secretary-General's Global Dialogue on AI Governance. It will inform key global processes leading up to the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, including contributions to the Pact for the Future and broader discussions on responsible AI.
Following the Cairo event, future convenings are planned for Mexico, China, India, and Italy, culminating in New York this September. In 2027, the initiative will expand to support country-led, intergenerational, and community-based convenings worldwide in the lead-up to the SDG Summit.
The inaugural event is taking place across two historic venues in Cairo: the Grand Egyptian Museum and Al-Azhar University.
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