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May 6 '25, 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Global Launch of the Human Development Report 2025
A matter of choice: People and possibilities in the age of AI
Date
May 6, 2025
Time
10:30am – 12:30pm CEST
Venue
Palais des Académies | Paleis der Academiën, Brussels, Belgium and online
Registration
You can register here
Background
The 2025 Human Development Report explores the implications of artificial intelligence for human development and the choices we can make to ensure that it enhances human capabilities. Rather than attempting to predict the future, the report argues that we must shape it – by making bold decisions so that AI augments what people can do.
This is the second report in a trilogy examining key dimensions of uncertainty: addressing polarization (2023-24), shaping our shared digital future (2025), and navigating the Anthropocene through human aspirations (2026).
What the event is about
This year’s report addresses one of the most critical questions of our time: “How can Artificial Intelligence enhance human potential and wellbeing?” It explores AI’s influence across life stages and its far-reaching impacts on our social, economic, and political systems.
The report also features the latest Human Development Index (HDI) and presents a new global survey on public perceptions of AI across various domains. During the launch, distinguished guests and experts will discuss how the choices we make today will shape the legacy of AI for human development in the years to come.
Program
The event will begin with opening remarks from:
- Ursula von der Leyen, President of European Commission (video message)
- Maxime Prévot, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Belgium
- Achim Steiner, Administrator of UNDP
Pedro Conceição, Director and Lead Author of the Human Development Report Office, UNDP will present the key findings of the report, followed by a high-level fireside chat featuring:
- Achim Steiner, Administrator of UNDP
- Rebeca Grynspan, Secretary-General of the UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) – joining virtually
- Koen Doens, Director General for International Partnerships, European Commission
Attendees will then explore the report’s themes further during the “Choices” panel discussion and live Q&A featuring these distinguished speakers:
- Esther Dweck, Minister of Management and Innovation in Public Services, Brazil (virtual)
- A. Michael Spence, Nobel Laureate and Professor Emeritus of Management at Stanford University
- Urvashi Aneja, Founder & Director of Digital Futures Lab (virtual)
- Rapelang Rabana, Co-CEO of Imagine Worldwide (virtual)
- Rose Mutiso, Research Director of Energy for Growth Hub
The event will be hosted and moderated by Esther Paniagua, Award-winning Journalist and Author. In-person attendees are invited to join a light reception following the launch.