Blinken: Repressive Regimes Use Technology to Undermine Democracy

Antony Blinken, the U.S. Secretary of State, emphasized the need to ensure the preservation of democratic values in the use of technologies during his remarks on Monday, March 19, stating that authoritarian regimes exploit them to undermine democracy and human rights. Speaking at the third 'Summit for Democracy' in Seoul, South Korea, he said, 'Reviving democracy also requires shaping the future of technology, a future that is inclusive and respects human rights and advances people's lives.' He noted, 'As authoritarian and repressive regimes use technologies to undermine democracy and human rights, we must ensure that their application supports and upholds democratic values and norms.' Blinken remarked that 'fake news and misinformation based on artificial intelligence and digital technology not only violate individual freedom and human rights but also threaten democratic systems.' He observed a tremendous excitement for the use of artificial intelligence worldwide as this technology could accelerate progress. He referred to Kenya, where a 'new AI-equipped robot' helps women and girls access comprehensive and accurate information about reproductive health. He mentioned Chile, where the development of the 'Cremous' software, supported by AI, enables youth to engage with their ideas to promote social change and advance sustainable development. Ukraine was Blinken's third example, where an anti-corruption organization and tech companies developed an AI-equipped system to accurately document attacks on cultural heritage and civilian infrastructure, aiding Ukraine's efforts to prosecute Russian war crimes. However, Blinken pointed out that despite advancements in technology, 'currently, the world has only made 12 percent progress toward achieving sustainable development goals by 2030. Therefore, we are very behind. But AI can accelerate progress toward achieving the remaining 80 percent of these goals.' He specifically mentioned the application of AI 'in improving agricultural productivity, combating hunger, identifying and preventing disease outbreaks, transitioning to clean energy while protecting our planet.' The U.S. Secretary of State stated at the summit, 'We are garnering broad and inclusive support for safe, secure, and trustworthy AI.' He noted that the United Nations is set to adopt its first independent resolution on AI this week, focusing on ensuring its application to promote sustainable development and actually improve people's lives. More than 75 countries worldwide have supported this resolution led by the United States. Blinken invited countries that have not yet expressed their support to step forward. Joe Biden, the President of the United States, first proposed the idea of holding a democracy summit during his 2020 election campaign.