Dr. Wendy O’Brien from UNODC to Speak at AI for Developing Countries Forum
Dr. Wendy O’Brien, a prominent expert from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), is set to deliver a keynote address at the AI for Developing Countries Forum. Dr. O’Brien’s presentation will focus on “AI, Human Rights, and the Role of Technology in Efforts to Achieve Sustainable Development.”
Based in Vienna, Dr. O’Brien serves as the focal point on Artificial Intelligence within the Division for Treaty Affairs at UNODC. Her work emphasizes AI governance and the development of evidence-based technical guidance on the human rights implications of AI in the justice sector. She is renowned for her efforts in human rights-based criminal justice reform and promoting equal access to justice, particularly at the intersection of technology and human rights.
Dr. Wendy O’Brien
In addition to her role at UNODC, Dr. O’Brien is an Adjunct Associate Professor at Deakin University, Australia, and a guest faculty member at the United Nations Interregional Crime and Justice Research Institute. Her academic research spans human rights and technology, children’s rights, gender justice, violence prevention, and human rights-led law reform.
Dr. O’Brien’s professional experience includes seven years as a Senior Specialist with the Australian Crime Commission, where she led research and policy initiatives on gender-based violence and legal and therapeutic responses for child victims and children in conflict with the law.
Dr. O’Brien’s participation will highlight the importance of a human rights-based approach in the development and deployment of AI technologies, providing a crucial perspective on how AI can contribute to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals while safeguarding fundamental human rights.
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) is a global leader in the fight against illicit drugs, international crime, and terrorism. Established in 1997 through the merger of the United Nations Drug Control Programme and the Centre for International Crime Prevention, UNODC operates in all regions of the world through an extensive network of field offices. The organization’s mandate includes assisting Member States in their struggle against illicit drugs, crime, and terrorism by providing research and analytical support, developing normative instruments, and delivering technical assistance. UNODC’s comprehensive approach addresses a wide range of issues, including human trafficking, corruption, criminal justice reform, drug prevention, and treatment, as well as efforts to promote human rights and sustainable development. Through its diverse programs and initiatives, UNODC works to foster safety, security, and justice worldwide.