UNESCO and STJ organize a workshop on Artificial Intelligence and the Rule of Law

UNESCO, in partnership with the Superior Court of Justice (STJ), organised the workshop "Artificial Intelligence and the Democratic Rule of Law." The intention was to promote discussion on the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the judiciary, explore its practical applications, and reflect on the ethical and legal challenges surrounding the topic. This training is part of UNESCO's Initiative for Judges.

Held on Thursday, 8 May 2025, at the opening of the workshop, UNESCO's Director and Representative in Brazil, Marlova Jovchelovitch Noleto, emphasised that the advancement of AI requires constant ethical reflection. She recalled that, in 2021, UNESCO approved the Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence, the first global regulatory instrument providing guidelines for the development and application of AI based on common values and principles.

UNESCO has been supporting countries and institutions in building a digital future committed to justice, social inclusion, and human dignity. It is human values and democratic principles that must shape technology and its use, not the other way around," stated the Director, who participated in the opening session alongside STJ President, Minister Herman Benjamin, and Minister Paulo Sérgio Domingues.

This milestone demonstrates international confidence in UNESCO's ability to lead the construction of a human-centred digital future based on dignity, social justice, and equality. The Recommendation provides guidelines not only for governments but also for the entire AI ecosystem and recognises the crucial role of institutions, such as the judiciary, in applying these principles.

The Director also praised STJ's initiatives aimed at implementing AI tools in the judicial system, emphasising the importance of concrete actions, such as assigning specialised AI personnel within offices. "The fact that STJ is leading this debate demonstrates a pioneering stance on the issue, with direct implications for our future as humanity," she added.

In 2021, UNESCO Member States adopted the Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence by consensus-the first global instrument guiding AI development and use based on shared values and principles. This milestone reflects international confidence in UNESCO's ability to lead the creation of a human-centred digital future rooted in dignity, social justice, and equality. The Recommendation provides guidelines not only for governments but also for the entire AI ecosystem, recognising the judiciary's vital role in applying these principles.

Minister Herman Benjamin highlighted the court's concern regarding AI-related issues, noting that STJ's jurisdiction covers the entire national territory. "The responsibility is immense when bringing such an important topic and its tools into our judicial work," he stated. He also mentioned plans to create a designated AI specialist position in each office, integrating the tribunal's central AI unit into daily operations.

Minister Paulo Sérgio Domingues also pointed out that AI has revolutionised the judiciary's functioning. While acknowledging productivity improvements, he warned of the need to carefully consider ethical limits in using these technologies. "The major concerns regarding AI usage range from algorithm development to the risk of deliberate manipulation of results," he said.

The workshop, organised by UNESCO and STJ, brought together national and international experts in four thematic sessions, covering topics such as AI ethics in the judiciary, its relationship with human rights, ethical impact assessments, and global perspectives on AI governance.