Paunovic at General Debate: Serbia Stands for Controlled Use of Science

The topic of this year's autumn assembly is "Harnessing science, technology and innovation for a more peaceful and a sustainable future". Paunovic added that the number of people employed in this sector has doubled to almost 115,000, which makes it the sector with the fastest growth. "In 2019, Serbia became the first country in Southeast Europe to adopt the National Strategy for the Development of Artificial Intelligence, which indicates our commitment to technological innovation. Also, in 2021, we introduced artificial intelligence into the curriculum of primary and secondary schools, ensuring that future generations get the skills needed to lead and shape the world driven by technology. In 2021, Serbia was one of only 11 countries in the world that had artificial intelligence in its curricula," Paunovic pointed out. As she stated, everything Serbia does shows that the approach to innovation is not only aimed at economic progress, but at the development of a society in which technology serves man. Paunovic said that today's role of science, technology and innovation in shaping a more peaceful and sustainable future, has never been greater. She added that as members of the IPU, they all have the task of leading changes at the global level. "The challenges of our age, such as climate change, inequality and conflict, require solutions that are bold, coordinated and, above all, sustainable. Only with a common commitment to science and technology can we make this future a reality," she said. She added that in this era, technology knows no borders and allows us to communicate, collaborate and solve problems together, regardless of geographical boundaries. "Innovation is becoming a fundamentally important instrument for fostering peace and stability. For example, technologies based on artificial intelligence are used globally to prevent conflicts, but they are also applied in early warning systems for natural disasters, as well as instruments that encourage dialogue and understanding," she said. As she added, Serbia is proud to be part of these global efforts, recognising that common technological progress is essential for building peace on a global level. "Serbia is actively working to promote clean energy and reduce the carbon footprint. However, progress in the use of technologies such as artificial intelligence must be achieved in a responsible manner.

In 2023, Serbia adopted ethical guidelines for artificial intelligence, which ensured that human rights are respected and fairness is ensured in the development and application of artificial intelligence. By doing so, we aligned with global efforts to ensure that everyone benefits from technology and that no one is neglected," she added. Ethical technology is the key to building trust and ensuring justice, emphasised Paunovic. "However, the challenges we are facing cannot be solved by any nation alone, global cooperation is of key importance, and Serbia actively contributes to international frameworks designed to use the potential of technology in a controlled manner for the common good. We joined the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence in 2022 and we are honoured to be elected to chair it in 2025," added the National Assembly Deputy Speaker. As she said, this shows Serbia's commitment to the responsible management of artificial intelligence and its determination to ensure that technologies serve the purposes of peace, sustainability and prosperity around the world. "IPU, as a unique platform for global cooperation, plays a key role in achieving these goals. Together, through cooperation, we can use the power of innovation in a controlled manner to solve the most difficult challenges of our time," she said. Paunovic concluded that Serbia is ready to do its part of the task.

The second day of the General Debate of the 149th IPU Assembly, which will last until 17 October, is underway in Geneva today. The Inter-Parliamentary Union is the oldest international parliamentary organisation and the biggest parliamentary forum dedicated to a dialogue of peace and cooperation between the people, which nurtures and promotes the concept of representative democracy, fosters contacts and considers questions of international importance.

Serbia hosted the 141st Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union in 2019. The IPU has 180 member countries, and Serbia has been a full member since 1891.

Source: TANJUG