A global coalition places children’s rights at the heart of AI governance.
A new international coalition was launched during the UN Global Dialogue on AI Governance in Geneva to ensure that children’s rights remain central as artificial intelligence continues to transform society. Specifically, the Coalition for Children’s Rights and Protection in the Age of Artificial Intelligence brings together governments, UN agencies, technology companies, educators and civil society organizations. Moreover, its work is guided by the Convention on the Rights of the Child. The founding UN members include UNICEF, UNESCO, ITU, OHCHR and other UN entities, while 17 countries have already joined the initiative.
Children must actively participate in shaping AI systems.
The coalition recognizes that children already interact with AI through educational platforms, digital services and online algorithms. However, it argues that current governance frameworks do not fully address the risks these technologies may create. Instead of viewing children only as technology users, the initiative promotes their role as rights holders. Therefore, their perspectives should guide the design, deployment and oversight of AI systems, ensuring that decisions respect their rights and respond to their real needs.
International cooperation aims to build safer and more inclusive AI.
The coalition also supports the UN Secretary-General’s call for an AI Child Safety Pledge. In addition, its members committed to sharing evidence, exchanging good practices and strengthening international cooperation. As a result, children’s views will be considered from the earliest stages of AI development rather than after technologies are already in use. Ultimately, the initiative seeks to promote ethical, inclusive and rights-based artificial intelligence for future generations.
Reference
United Nations. (2026, 7 de Julio). New coalition puts children’s rights at the centre of the AI age. UN News. https://news.un.org/en/story/2026/07/1167891