Ethical AI, stronger frameworks to combat trafficking of cultural property: India at BRICS forum

INDIA has called upon BRICS to lead not just geopolitically, but also civilisationally, forging a "cultural ecosystem" that celebrates diversity, deepens humanity and anchors progress in shared values.

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Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, in his address on Monday at the BRICS Culture Ministers’ Meeting in Brazil, also called for "stronger legal frameworks" to combat illicit trafficking of cultural property, and advocated "ethical AI" that respects cultural diversity.

The ministerial-level dialogue culminated in the "adoption of a Joint Declaration outlining four strategic cultural priorities," the Indian Ministry of Culture said in a late-night statement.

These four priorities are -- "Culture, Creative Economy, and Artificial Intelligence (AI); Culture, Climate Change, and the Post-2030 Development Agenda; Return and Safeguarding of Cultural Property; and BRICS Cultural Festivals and Alliances", it said. The declaration reflects a collective vision for inclusive, rights-based, and innovation-driven cultural development, the ministry said

"It recognises culture and creative industries as drivers of sustainable growth, calls for ethical AI integration, safeguards for traditional knowledge, and advocates increased cultural investment," it added.

The 10th BRICS Culture Ministers’ Meeting was hosted at the iconic Itamaraty Palace, which houses Brazil's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Brazil is currently the chair of the influential grouping.