The United Nations University (UNU), via the UNU Institute in Macau (UNU Macau), and Tsinghua University have jointly launched the UNU Hub on Promoting Ethical and Responsible Artificial Intelligence Development, hosted by Tsinghua University’s Institute for AI International Governance (I-AIIG). Alongside the UNU Hub on AI-Finance in Shanghai, this milestone marks one of the first UNU Hubs in Mainland China, reinforcing UNU’s mission to connect research, policy, and practice in addressing global challenges.

The Establishment Agreement was signed by Prof. Tshilidzi Marwala, Rector of the United Nations University and Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations, and Prof. Bin Yang, Vice Chancellor of the Tsinghua University Council.

Prof. Marwala remarked: “The UNU Hub at Tsinghua University reflects our global commitment to ensuring that AI development is aligned with human values. By joining forces with Tsinghua’s leadership in AI governance research, we are building a platform that will generate practical solutions, cultivate global talent, and strengthen international cooperation. This Hub will help societies address systemic risks and establish trusted frameworks, ensuring AI serves as a force for equity, sustainability, and human well-being.”

Prof. Yang remarked: “AI has emerged as a transformative force across all sectors of society. To harness its potential responsibly, research and international cooperation are essential. By integrating Tsinghua’s strengths in AI research with UNU’s global academic leadership, this joint Hub creates a unique opportunity to deepen collaboration between our institutions. Together, we can empower the world through AI and make greater contributions to building a community with a shared future for mankind.”

The mission of the UNU Hub on Promoting Ethical and Responsible Artificial Intelligence Development is to deepen scientific understanding of AI’s ethical challenges, develop inclusive governance frameworks, and empower the Global South with practical solutions. Its priorities include risk monitoring, ethical evaluation mechanisms, and targeted capacity-building for policymakers and young leaders, aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

The Hub will be coordinated by Prof. Liang Zheng, Vice Dean of I-AIIG, and Dr. Jaimee Stuart, Acting Head of Research at UNU Macau.