Report: AI and Cities

Mila and UN-Habitat have released a new report, "AI and Cities". Artificial intelligence is a disruptive technology that offers a wealth of opportunities. This report provides an overview of some strategic applications of artificial intelligence. The report also aims to raise awareness of the risks of using artificial intelligence. Its aim is to provide local authorities with tools to assess where and if artificial intelligence is valuable and applicable, rather than to guide opportunities for adoption in specific contexts.

Cities and local authorities are key players in AI adoption and decision-making, as they regularly make day-to-day decisions about AI and how it affects people’s lives. The emergence of AI technologies offers new ways to better manage and equip cities. However, reshaping cities through technology and innovation needs to reflect the needs of citizens and, where possible, serve as a tool to promote equal prosperity and sustainable development. Cities, towns and settlements may have lower policy and risk assessment capacity than countries.

This report is part of UN-Habitat’s strategy to guide local authorities in supporting the human-centred digital transformation process of their cities or settlements. The research conducted in partnership with the Mila Quebec Institute for Artificial Intelligence covers a community of more than 1,000 researchers working to develop responsible AI for the benefit of all. UN-Habitat helps more than 90 countries build safe, resilient, inclusive and sustainable communities by working directly with partners in response to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), in particular SDG 11. This UN-Habitat collaboration provides a vision where responsible AI systems support society and the environment through knowledge, policy advice, technical assistance and collaborative action to develop sustainable cities and human settlements.