UNDP, GSMA & e& Launch AI Platform for Sustainable Development

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), GSMA, and global technology group e& have showcased the results of their new AI-powered Social and Climate Platform, demonstrating how artificial intelligence can generate real-time insights from non-conventional data sources. The initiative aims to inform policy decisions and accelerate sustainable development across the Arab States and beyond.

Developed under the Digital for Sustainable Development initiative, launched in 2023, the platform leverages natural language processing (NLP) and sentiment analysis to monitor critical issues such as climate change, natural disasters, and public health in real time. By analyzing vast datasets, the platform enables policymakers, researchers, and development practitioners to make data-driven decisions that enhance resilience and sustainability.

“Responsible AI has the potential to drive sustainable development by providing real-time, data-informed insights that strengthen decision-making and resilience,” said Robert Opp, UNDP’s Chief Digital Officer. “We welcome innovative solutions that align with UNDP’s commitment to ensuring that AI benefits everyone, everywhere.”

The collaboration between UNDP and e& was first announced during the United Nations General Assembly, where AI use cases were explored to assess the impact of the 2023 Türkiye-Syria earthquake. Expanding on this work, the partnership is also developing AI-driven healthcare solutions to enhance healthcare system insights and service delivery. These efforts adhere to a Responsible AI Framework, co-developed by UNDP and e&, ensuring ethical, transparent, and inclusive AI deployment across the Arab States.

Dena Almansoori, Group Chief AI & Data Officer at e&, emphasized the transformative potential of AI, stating: “Through this collaboration with UNDP, we’re proving that AI, when deployed responsibly, is a force multiplier for impact—transforming digital signals into life-changing solutions that drive resilience, equity, and progress throughout the Arab States and beyond.” She added, “This is the kind of positive impact e& strives for, using AI to rewrite the playbook for sustainable development and equip leaders with the foresight to act decisively.”

This initiative aligns with UNDP’s AI for Sustainable Development efforts, reinforcing the need for investments in digital public infrastructure, harmonized regulations, and regional collaboration. With these foundations in place, the Arab States region is well-positioned to unlock AI’s full potential for sustainable progress.