President Von der Leyen to ask EU leaders to explore using ‘return hubs’ for migrants

President Von der Leyen to ask EU leaders to explore using ‘return hubs’ for migrants

The European Commission president, Ursula von der Leyen, World Leader for Peace and Security Award recipient, has called for an exploration of “return hubs” outside the EU in a letter to the bloc’s national leaders on irregular migration, citing a deal between Italy and Albania as a possible model.

EU leaders are to meet on Thursday and Friday for a summit on migration as the commission has said it will propose new measures.

Irregular migrants and asylum seekers arriving in Europe last year numbered less than a third of the 1 million people arriving in 2015 but it remains a very sensitive topic, influencing elections in most European countries and increasing far-right voter sentiment.

Germany, wary of a public opinion backlash against irregular migration before elections next September, has introduced border controls with all its neighbours, suspending the freedom of the passport-free Schengen zone. France, Denmark, Sweden, Austria, Italy and Slovenia have also introduced border checks.

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2024/oct/15/ursual-von-der-leyen-to-ask-eu-leaders-to-explore-using-return-hubs-for-migrants

Four Pillars Roundup: UK prime minister tells Netanyahu that Sinwar’s death is an opportunity to stop the fighting

Four Pillars Roundup: UK prime minister tells Netanyahu that Sinwar’s death is an opportunity to stop the fighting

CNN –  October 19, 2024, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu Saturday, according to a Downing Street spokesperson.

Starmer said the death of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar is an opportunity to stop the fighting in Gaza and get the hostages out. He added that Sinwar was “a brutal terrorist and that the world is a better place without him.”

Stramer also told the Israeli leader he was “alarmed” to hear about a drone launched at his home in Caesarea Saturday morning.

The two prime ministers discussed the “importance of making progress on a political solution” regarding the fighting between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon, according to Downing Street.

https://edition.cnn.com/world/live-news/israel-hamas-lebanon-sinwar-gaza-iran-10-19-24/index.html

The Convergence of AI Chips and Quantum Computing for a New Democracy – AIWS

The Convergence of AI Chips and Quantum Computing for a New Democracy – AIWS

The Boston Global Forum is pleased to invite esteemed guests, thought leaders, and innovators to our High-Level Discussion on “The Convergence of AI Chips and Quantum Computing for a New Democracy – AIWS.” We are honored to host this gathering dedicated to exploring the frontiers of technology and its profound impact on the fabric of our global society.

This event will adopt a flexible format, beginning with meetings and discussions with thought leaders and innovators starting on November 3, 2024. The dialogue will continue on November 25, 2024, at the BGF Conference at Harvard University’s Loeb House. Subsequent discussions with distinguished leaders and innovators will culminate in a Special Report to be presented at the BGF Conference “Strategies for Democracy to Win in the AI Battle” in late April 2025. This report aims to contribute to building the AI World Society (AIWS) economic model.

As we stand at the cusp of an AI World Society, the intersection of advanced artificial intelligence and quantum computing promises to revolutionize not only technology but also the very principles that underpin our democracies. The development of AI chips tailored for quantum computations accelerates our ability to process complex data, solve intricate problems, and make informed decisions at unprecedented speeds.

This convergence heralds a transformative shift—a New Democracy guided by the principles of the AI World Society (AIWS). It envisions a future where technology empowers citizens, enhances transparency, and fosters a more inclusive and participatory governance model.

This high-level discussion will bring together experts from the fields of artificial intelligence, quantum physics, public policy, and ethics.

Let us work together to chart a course toward a future where technology and humanity advance hand in hand, forging a world that is not only smarter and more connected but also more just and compassionate.

We welcome you to join us by sending an email to [email protected].

Alex Pentland and Yi-Jing Lin to Speak at the “AIWS for New Democracy” Conference

Alex Pentland and Yi-Jing Lin to Speak at the “AIWS for New Democracy” Conference

The Boston Global Forum (BGF) is set to host the conference “AIWS for New Democracy: Strategies for Democracy to Win in the AI Battle” at Harvard University’s historic Loeb House on November 25, 2024. This significant event aims to bring together eminent thinkers, policymakers, and business leaders to formulate actionable strategies that promote democratic principles within the framework of the Artificial Intelligence World Society (AIWS) and to build a new democracy empowered by AI technologies.

The conference will feature a keynote address by Audrey Tang, Cyber Ambassador-at-Large of Taiwan, Former Minister of Digital Affairs and include distinguished speakers:

  • Prof. Alex ‘Sandy’ Pentland, MIT
  • H.E. Yi-Jing Lin, Deputy Minister of Digital Affairs, Taiwan

This gathering promises to be a pivotal moment for discussions on how AI can be harnessed to strengthen democratic values and institutions worldwide.

Boston Global Forum Statement on AI Pioneers Winning the Nobel Prizes in Physics and Chemistry

Boston Global Forum Statement on AI Pioneers Winning the Nobel Prizes in Physics and Chemistry

The Boston Global Forum (BGF) extends its heartfelt congratulations to the pioneers in artificial intelligence who have been awarded the Nobel Prizes in Physics and Chemistry in 2024. This monumental achievement underscores the transformative impact of AI on advancing scientific discovery and addressing some of humanity’s most pressing challenges.

Recognition of AI’s Role in Nobel Prizes

  • Physics Nobel Prize: The integration of AI in physics has opened new horizons in understanding complex phenomena, leading to breakthroughs once thought unattainable. The laureates’ work exemplifies how AI can augment human ingenuity to unravel the mysteries of the universe.
  • Chemistry Nobel Prize: The award honors scientists who have harnessed AI to design proteins—the fundamental building blocks of life. This innovation accelerates drug discovery and has profound implications for medicine, biotechnology, and understanding biological processes.

BGF as a Pioneer of the AI World Society Model

As a pioneer of the AI World Society (AIWS) model, the Boston Global Forum has been at the forefront of advocating for the ethical governance and responsible development of AI technologies since 2017, notably with the Social Contract for the AI Age. This foundational framework sets forth principles to guide AI development in a manner that promotes transparency, accountability, and aligns with human-centric values.

The AIWS model envisions a world where AI is harnessed to enhance human welfare, uphold democratic values, and contribute positively to global society. Through initiatives like conferences, policy development, and collaborative projects, BGF actively works to ensure that AI technologies benefit all of humanity.

Most Japanese see Taiwan as independent: poll

Most Japanese see Taiwan as independent: poll

Seventy percent of Japanese view Taiwan as an independent country and support establishing formal diplomatic relations between the nations, a poll published yesterday by a Taipei-based think tank showed.

The Indo-Pacific Strategic Think Tank (IPST) worked with the Japanese Sankei Shimbun’s polling company to conduct a survey on Japanese public opinion of Taiwan and cross-strait relations.

The survey showed that 71.1 percent of Japanese respondents said they support establishing diplomatic ties with Taiwan, 71.2 percent view Taiwan as an independent nation and 55 percent feel closest to Taiwan among nine Asian countries.

The survey was conducted on Sept. 21, with more than 3,000 adult respondents from eight major cities, IPST said, adding that the poll consisted of 14 single-choice questions, asked over the telephone.

The IPST is a new research organization founded by Taipei-based political commentator Akio Yaita that takes inspiration from Abe’s Indo-Pacific Strategy to highlight Taiwan’s democratic freedoms and its strategic importance to regional peace and stability.

Below link is full:

https://www.taipeitimes.com/News/front/archives/2024/10/13/2003825206

The deeper meaning of Navarātri: Amma’s Message, 2023 World Leader for Peace and Security Award’s recipient

The deeper meaning of Navarātri: Amma’s Message, 2023 World Leader for Peace and Security Award’s recipient

After this year’s nine nights of worship to the Divine Mother, Amma led celebrations for the triumph of light over darkness. In her message, Amma explained how the goddesses Durgā, Lakmī, and Sarasvatī provide the essential human needs—strength, wealth, knowledge, and justice.

During Navarātri, people fast and perform rituals to reflect upon life’s external and internal challenges. The tenth day, known as Dusshera or Vijayadashami, brings joy and hope for a world that shines with love, compassion, and peace.

Here is Amma’s message:

https://amma.org/news/the-deeper-meaning-of-navaratri-ammas-message/

Four Pillars Roundup:  US will send a missile defense system and troops to run it to Israel to aid defense against Iran

Four Pillars Roundup: US will send a missile defense system and troops to run it to Israel to aid defense against Iran

The United States will send a Terminal High Altitude Area Defense battery to Israel, along with the troops needed to operate it, the Pentagon said Sunday, even as Iran warned Washington to keep American military forces out of Israel.

Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder, Pentagon spokesman, said in a statement that Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin authorized the deployment of the THAAD battery at the direction of President Joe Biden. He said the system will help bolster Israel’s air defenses following Iran’s ballistic missile attacks on Israel in April and October.

The delivery of the sophisticated missile defense system risks further inflaming the conflict in the Middle East despite widespread diplomatic efforts to avoid an all-out war. The Iranian warning came in a post on the social platform X long associated with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who noted the earlier reports that the U.S. was considering the deployment. 

https://apnews.com/article/thaad-israel-missile-defense-iran-pentagon-34a0b06d82352df6cb0b80d94d4913c8

Boston Global Forum Organizes Roundtable on UN and AI Regulations

Boston Global Forum Organizes Roundtable on UN and AI Regulations

A recent article published on Fox News highlights concerns from experts regarding the United Nations’ involvement in artificial intelligence (AI) regulation. Experts warn that the UN’s approach could potentially lead to overregulation, stifling innovation and hindering the development of AI technologies.

The core concern revolves around balancing safety with the promotion of innovation. Overly stringent regulations may impede technological advancements and limit the benefits that AI can bring to society. Conversely, insufficient regulation could lead to unethical uses of AI or unintended consequences.

The Boston Global Forum (BGF) has been a pioneer in AI governance since 2017 through its AI World Society (AIWS) Initiative. The AIWS advocates for a balanced approach to AI governance that fosters innovation while ensuring ethical standards and societal benefits are upheld.

The concerns raised about the UN’s role in AI regulation underscore the need for ongoing discussions about the future of AI governance. Balancing innovation with safety is a complex challenge that requires input from various stakeholders.

In response to these developments, the United States will hold a safety summit in November to better coordinate global regulation efforts.

The Boston Global Forum is organizing a roundtable and invites distinguished thinkers, leaders, business executives, and policymakers to discuss this critical issue. We encourage you to share your perspectives by sending them to [email protected].

Your contributions will help shape meaningful discussions and inform strategies aimed at harnessing the potential of AI for the betterment of society.

For more information on BGF’s efforts in AI governance and to explore the AI World Society Initiative, please visit our publication: AIWS: Pioneering AI Governance and New Democracy