AI for Good: Bridging the Digital Divide with Innovation

Introduction to AI for Good

The "AI for Good" initiative marks a pivotal step in utilizing artificial intelligence to address some of the world's most pressing problems. Spearheaded by the United Nations and facilitated by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the initiative seeks to harness the transformative power of AI in ways that advance global welfare and sustainable development. At its core, AI for Good aims to scale AI-driven solutions to tackle a range of global challenges and promote the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By fostering collaborations among governments, industries, and AI innovators, the initiative strives to bridge the gap between cutting-edge technology and societal needs [source].

In today's rapidly evolving technological landscape, AI for Good stands as a beacon of innovation and hope, connecting AI experts with those dedicated to achieving the SDGs. It is not only a platform for showcasing technological advancements but also a vibrant hub for community-building and knowledge exchange. Through events like the AI for Good Summit, it offers myriad opportunities for stakeholders to engage, learn, and foster meaningful partnerships that drive innovation forward. The initiative also emphasizes the ethical deployment of AI and provides guidance on responsible practices, which are crucial in ensuring that AI solutions are equitable and beneficial to all [source].

The significance of the AI for Good initiative extends beyond its immediate goals of addressing global issues using AI; it provides a framework for international cooperation on AI governance and policy-making. By promoting inclusivity and equitable access to AI technologies, the initiative works to prevent the exacerbation of existing disparities, ensuring that developing countries are not left behind in the AI revolution. Furthermore, its focus on dialogue and collaboration helps to build trust among diverse stakeholders, paving the way for the development of global norms and standards in AI technology. This collaborative approach is essential for aligning national and international efforts to maximize AI's benefits for humanity [source].

Purpose and Objectives of AI for Good

AI for Good, an initiative led by the United Nations in collaboration with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), is designed to tackle some of the world's most pressing challenges by harnessing the power of artificial intelligence. The core purpose of AI for Good is to synergize technology and humanity's collective efforts, aiming to address the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as set by the United Nations. By linking AI innovators with problem-solvers dedicated to these global objectives, the initiative strives to create impactful solutions that are efficient, scalable, and ethically sound, ultimately enhancing the quality of life across different communities and regions. More information about AI for Good can be found on the official website.

The fundamental objectives of the AI for Good initiative are multifaceted and ambitious, aiming to foster collaboration and innovation on a global scale. Central to these objectives is the goal of bridging the digital divide, ensuring equitable access to AI technologies, and promoting inclusive growth. The initiative seeks to inspire creativity and partnership among AI developers, policy makers, and stakeholders from diverse sectors to generate AI-driven solutions that benefit society as a whole. By focusing on both technological advancements and ethical considerations, AI for Good endeavors to safely integrate AI into various policy areas such as healthcare, climate action, and education, significantly contributing to global well-being and prosperity. To explore the various aspects of AI for Good, visit the section on how it is tackling the digital divide.

One of the paramount objectives of AI for Good is to leverage AI's transformative potential in addressing complex global issues like poverty, inequality, and environmental sustainability. The initiative provides platforms such as the "Neural Network," which connects a vast community of over 40,000 AI enthusiasts dedicated to knowledge sharing and collaborative problem-solving. Through events like the AI for Good summit and various skill development programs, the initiative not only aims to foster discussions on AI's role in advancing SDGs but also provides practical training and resources to ensure sustainable development practices. For those interested in becoming part of this influential network, additional resources and event details can be accessed through the event calendar.

Participation in AI for Good Summit

The AI for Good Summit represents a unique global gathering designed to leverage artificial intelligence to address some of the world's most pressing challenges. Participation in this summit offers a remarkable opportunity for AI innovators, policymakers, and stakeholders to come together, share insights, and collaborate on projects aimed towards achieving the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By engaging with experts across a multitude of disciplines, participants can foster partnerships that drive innovative solutions with tangible impacts on society. The diverse program at the summit includes workshops, panel discussions, and presentations that highlight both cutting-edge research and practical applications of AI technologies.

Participants at the AI for Good Summit can expect to engage with leaders in the field of AI, as well as representatives from various sectors such as healthcare, education, and environmental sustainability. The summit is not only a platform for discussing new ideas but also a space for networking and building partnerships that can catalyze significant advancements in AI applications. Key themes often include ethical AI, governance, and the importance of inclusive AI that benefits all sectors of society. Through collaborative efforts highlighted during the summit, participants can directly contribute to shaping AI policies and frameworks that support equitable development globally.

The AI for Good initiative places significant emphasis on the global digital divide, seeking to use AI as a tool to bridge gaps and create opportunities across different regions and communities. Participants in the summit will have access to resources and discussions focused on how to deploy AI in ways that are sustainable and equitable, considering the unique challenges faced by developing regions. Sessions will cover a range of topics from AI in public health to agriculture and disaster response, ensuring that participants are exposed to a wide array of use cases and success stories. By harnessing AI, the summit aims to empower participants to drive impactful change, emphasizing solutions that are both scalable and adaptable to various contexts worldwide.

AI for Good Events and Resources

The AI for Good initiative, organized by the United Nations and facilitated by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), hosts a range of events and provides resources aimed at leveraging artificial intelligence for societal benefit. Central to this initiative is the AI for Good Global Summit, a gathering of experts and leaders who share insights and strategies for using AI to tackle global challenges. The summit acts as a hub for exchanging ideas and is an excellent opportunity for anyone interested in learning how AI can be applied to meet the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). More details about the summit and participation can be found on the AI for Good Summit webpage.

In addition to the summit, AI for Good organizes various online and offline events throughout the year, creating numerous platforms for dialogue and collaboration. These events are meticulously cataloged on their event calendar, which features workshops, training sessions, and forums that explore diverse applications of AI. Notably, these events aim to connect AI innovators with communities and sectors that most need technological intervention, such as healthcare, agriculture, and climate action.

A particularly noteworthy resource is the Neural Network platform, which fosters a vibrant community of over 40,000 AI enthusiasts. This platform facilitates networking and collaboration, encouraging the sharing of knowledge and innovation. By connecting people who are passionate about leveraging AI for good, participants can collaborate on projects that address critical global challenges, as described on the AI for Good website's section on bridging the digital divide.

Moreover, AI for Good places a strong emphasis on educational resources for skill development in AI. This includes access to reports, research papers, and comprehensive courses designed to equip individuals with the necessary tools to innovate responsibly in the AI space. Through these educational offerings, the initiative aims to empower people to develop AI solutions that are ethical and effective, helping reduce the gap in AI literacy and fostering an inclusive technological environment.

Aside from these events and resources, AI for Good also focuses on governance and ethical use of AI through its AI Governance Dialogue. This forum addresses the need for comprehensive governance frameworks to manage AI's impact and ensure its technologies are developed and used ethically. By hosting discussions and providing resources on AI governance, the initiative aims to influence policy-making and advocate for global cooperation in AI regulation. Details on ongoing dialogues can be found through the platform's dedicated sections on the subject.

AI for Good's Approach to AI Governance

AI for Good is taking a systematic and inclusive approach to AI governance, recognizing the importance of harnessing artificial intelligence in a way that promotes social welfare and reduces potential risks. The initiative is hosted by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and emphasizes a collaborative framework that brings together stakeholders from various sectors. A central component of their strategy is the AI Governance Dialogue, which fosters discussions on effective governance models and shares resources aimed at guiding United Nations actions on AI .

The AI for Good initiative also addresses key challenges in AI governance, including ethical considerations, bias, and data privacy. By focusing on these areas, AI for Good aims to develop frameworks that not only advance technology but also account for its broader societal impacts. Their efforts include public events and dialogues that engage multiple actors, from policy makers to tech developers, ensuring that the governance of AI reflects a diverse set of viewpoints .

Through their extensive events, such as the AI for Good Global Summit, the initiative showcases the potential of AI to drive innovation while supporting governance standards that are robust and adaptable. These gatherings highlight the work of international collaborators aiming to build governance structures that are sustainable and inclusive, ultimately supporting the Sustainable Development Goals .

AI for Good also prioritizes the development of public-private partnerships as a means to enhance policy solutions through AI innovations. These partnerships are crucial in accelerating the implementation of AI technologies in critical sectors like healthcare and agriculture, demonstrating the initiative's commitment to policy impact and governance .

Moreover, the role of the AI for Good's Neural Network platform cannot be understated. It connects over 40,000 AI enthusiasts from around the world, allowing for a vibrant exchange of ideas and governance practices. This community-driven approach ensures that AI governance evolves in a way that considers practices and insights from diverse geographical and cultural perspectives .

Understanding the Neural Network Platform

The Neural Network platform stands as a cornerstone of the AI for Good initiative, symbolizing a global community where AI enthusiasts and experts converge to drive sustainable innovation. By connecting over 40,000 AI enthusiasts, the platform fosters collaboration, knowledge exchange, and the development of AI solutions tailored to meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) [1](https://aiforgood.itu.int/ai-for-good-is-tackling-the-digital-divide/). This digital ecosystem becomes a bridge between those crafting AI technologies and those addressing global challenges, ensuring that AI advancements are purposefully aligned with the pressing needs of society.

Integral to the Neural Network's functionality is its capacity to act as a repository of knowledge and a launch pad for innovative ideas. Users can access a range of resources, participate in collaborative projects, and contribute to discussions that propel AI advancements forward. This platform becomes a living organism, evolving with each new contribution and innovation facilitated by its users, thereby amplifying the reach and impact of AI [1](https://aiforgood.itu.int/ai-for-good-is-tackling-the-digital-divide/). Through this dynamic interaction, participants are not only consumers of information but also contributors to a collective knowledge base that aims to foster social good.

Moreover, the Neural Network serves as an inclusive space where individuals, irrespective of their geographical or economic background, can contribute to the AI discourse. The platform's commitment to inclusivity ensures that AI for Good is not an exclusive dialogue confined to a select few but a movement that champions diverse voices and perspectives [1](https://aiforgood.itu.int/ai-for-good-is-tackling-the-digital-divide/). This democratization of AI knowledge and resources is vital in addressing the digital divide and ensuring equitable access to technology and its benefits.

Apart from fostering a robust community, the Neural Network is instrumental in identifying and scaling innovative solutions to real-world problems. It acts as an incubator for ideas, allowing innovators to refine their projects with input from a global community of peers and mentors. This collaborative ecosystem helps to accelerate the development of AI applications that can effectively tackle issues like poverty, health care inefficiencies, and climate change [1](https://aiforgood.itu.int/ai-for-good-is-tackling-the-digital-divide/). By providing this supportive environment, the platform ensures that promising solutions are not only brought to light but also equipped to make tangible impacts across various sectors.

In summary, the Neural Network is more than just a digital platform; it is a forward-looking initiative that embodies the spirit of collaboration and innovation required to harness AI for the greater good. Its capacity to unite a wide array of thinkers and doers under the shared goal of advancing the SDGs makes it a pivotal component of the AI for Good initiative [1](https://aiforgood.itu.int/ai-for-good-is-tackling-the-digital-divide/). As it continues to grow and evolve, the Neural Network will likely play an increasingly critical role in shaping a future where technology serves as a force for positive change globally.

Highlights from the AI for Good Global Summit 2025

The AI for Good Global Summit 2025 marked a significant milestone in leveraging artificial intelligence to address global challenges. Hosted in Geneva, this summit was a vibrant gathering of AI enthusiasts, policymakers, and innovators who came together to explore how AI can be used to tackle the world's most pressing issues. The summit served as a platform for highlighting successful AI projects and fostering collaboration across sectors to achieve the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Topics ranged from AI governance to practical AI applications in healthcare, agriculture, and disaster response, reflecting the initiative's commitment to positive societal impact .

One of the summit's key highlights was the UNITAR briefing that delved into the complexities of AI governance. This session explored the roles of various actors and the significance of diplomacy in shaping policies for ethical AI deployment. It pointed out the challenges in establishing a global governance framework while emphasizing the importance of international cooperation to ensure that AI serves the global good. The conversations underscored the crucial balance between innovation and regulation, aiming to equip countries with the necessary tools to implement effective AI policies .

Innovation was at the forefront of discussions, with a particular focus on accelerating public-private partnerships (PPPs) through AI. This approach was highlighted during training sessions aimed at scaling policy solutions in sectors such as healthcare and agriculture. By fostering collaboration between governments and private enterprises, the summit sought to harness AI's potential to drive policy impact and enhance service delivery. These efforts are key to creating sustainable AI solutions that resonate with the needs of various communities worldwide .

Another notable feature of the summit was the launch of the UNICC AI Hub, a dedicated space to accelerate AI deployment across the UN system. This initiative highlighted the UN's commitment to incorporating AI into its operations to improve efficiency and effectiveness. By creating a centralized hub, the UN facilitates the sharing of best practices, innovative solutions, and resources, thus enabling a more coordinated approach to tackling global issues with AI .

The summit also addressed the importance of setting standards for AI and multimedia authenticity through an initiative by the World Standards Cooperation. This collaboration aimed at establishing guidelines to combat misinformation and ensure transparency in AI-driven content. Such standards are crucial in maintaining trust and credibility in digital media, which is increasingly governed by AI technologies. By prioritizing these standards, the summit demonstrated its proactive stance in addressing new-age challenges posed by AI .

Expert Opinions on AI for Good

The AI for Good initiative is increasingly recognized as a pivotal effort in harnessing artificial intelligence to address complex global issues. Experts from various fields have shared their perspectives, providing insights into how AI can be leveraged for social good. Anna Koivuniemi, Head of Google DeepMind, emphasizes the transformative potential of AI in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). She highlights successful projects like GraphCast for accurate weather forecasting and AlphaFold for groundbreaking biological research as exemplary applications of AI driving societal benefits. However, Koivuniemi also draws attention to the risks of biased algorithms exacerbating inequality and stresses the importance of responsible AI practices and awareness initiatives, which are integral to Google DeepMind's ethical framework. Her insights were elaborated at the AI for Good Global Summit, signaling a commitment to equitable access to AI resources and data.

Beyond individual expert opinions, the United Nations AI Advisory Body plays a crucial role in advocating for comprehensive and inclusive governance frameworks. Composed of experts across multiple domains, this body underlines the significance of international cooperation in ensuring AI technologies benefit humanity as a whole. Their interim report underscores the pressing need for governance models that prioritize inclusivity, especially for developing countries, to prevent further deepening of existing social and economic gaps. Addressing AI's inherent risks like bias and discrimination is imperative, with the Advisory Body envisioning AI as a catalyst for accelerating progress towards the SDGs. These expert opinions reflect a collective understanding of AI's dual potential to drive significant advancements while posing ethical challenges that must be managed through thoughtful governance.

Public Reactions to AI for Good

Public reactions to the AI for Good initiative have been varied and intriguing, reflecting the diverse perspectives on artificial intelligence and its role in addressing global challenges. While the initiative is largely celebrated for its potential to harness AI technologies for social good and sustainable development, there are nuanced public sentiments that emerge from different quarters. Enthusiasts from the AI community who are engaged through platforms like the "Neural Network" often express optimism, believing in AI's capacity to drive innovative solutions and transform lives on a global scale. Their discussions frequently highlight success stories where AI applications have made tangible impacts in sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, and education. These narratives underscore enthusiasm and hope for a future where technology plays a pivotal role in addressing societal issues. Explore more about AI for Good.

Conversely, skepticism also exists among segments of the public who voice concerns over AI's ethical implications and potential risks. Discussions often center around issues such as algorithmic bias, privacy invasions, and the displacement of jobs due to automation. These concerns are not unfounded, as AI for Good acknowledges these risks and emphasizes responsible AI development practices. The initiative's focus on governance, inclusivity, and equity is designed to bridge the digital divide and mitigate fears related to technological disparities between developed and developing nations. Such assurances aim to build trust and acceptance across diverse audiences. Learn how AI for Good addresses these challenges.

Overall, public perception reflects both the challenges and opportunities presented by AI for Good. On one hand, there is significant appreciation for the initiative's ambition to align AI development with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) - a vision that resonates with the human aspiration for progress and equitable growth. On the other, realistic apprehensions about the impacts of AI on jobs, ethics, and global inequality persist, demanding proactive engagement and transparency from leaders and policymakers involved in the AI for Good movement. These layered public reactions demonstrate the complex dynamics at play in the global conversation on AI for Good, a discussion that continues to evolve as the initiative progresses. Find out more about AI for Good's mission and objectives.

Economic Impacts of AI for Good

The "AI for Good" initiative, championed by the United Nations, is significantly influencing global economies by scaling artificial intelligence solutions to tackle major societal issues. This effort is part of a broader mission to connect AI innovators with entities focused on achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By facilitating these connections, the initiative is not only driving innovation but also stimulating economic activity within sectors that are central to sustainable development, such as agriculture, healthcare, and education. For instance, the use of AI in agriculture to improve yield prediction and supply chain efficiency can lead to more sustainable food systems, which is crucial for the global economy (source).

Furthermore, the economic impact of AI for Good is multifaceted, encompassing increased productivity and the creation of new markets and employment opportunities. AI technologies, when scaled effectively, can transform industries by enhancing efficiency and enabling the development of new products and services. This transition is expected to contribute to overall economic growth. However, there are concerns regarding the displacement of jobs due to automation. To mitigate this risk, the initiative emphasizes the importance of reskilling workers and creating new job opportunities through AI-driven sectors (source).

Moreover, while AI development and implementation promise substantial economic benefits, they also come with significant costs. These financial barriers can be particularly challenging for small businesses and emerging economies, potentially leading to increased economic inequality. Recognizing these challenges, the AI for Good initiative puts a strong focus on inclusive growth, striving to make AI technologies accessible and beneficial across different economic landscapes. By supporting policies that promote equitable access to AI innovations, the initiative seeks to ensure that the economic benefits of AI are distributed more evenly and do not exacerbate existing disparities (source).

The role of AI in economic growth also extends to improving public sector efficiency and international trade. By integrating AI into governmental operations, public services can become more efficient, enhancing overall economic productivity. On the international stage, AI can streamline trade processes, reduce costs, and open up new markets. These developments can lead to stronger economic ties between countries, fostering a more interconnected and collaborative global economy (source).

Ultimately, the "AI for Good" initiative is poised to drive transformative economic impacts globally by harnessing AI's potential to foster innovation and address critical global challenges. Its success in promoting sustainable economic growth will largely depend on the initiative's ability to balance the pace of technological advancement with the need for comprehensive reskilling programs and policies that ensure equitable access to AI's benefits.

Social Impacts of AI for Good

The social impacts of the AI for Good initiative are profound, as it seeks to apply artificial intelligence in ways that can genuinely enhance global well-being. One significant area is healthcare, where AI's capabilities in disease prediction and diagnosis can lead to more timely and accurate treatment, ultimately saving lives and improving quality of life. Furthermore, in tackling climate change, AI can aid in more precise weather prediction and enhance disaster response strategies, thereby reducing the harm from natural disasters and helping communities build resilience. This focus on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) demonstrates a commitment to addressing critical societal issues such as poverty, inequality, and environmental sustainability. The initiative's 'Neural Network' platform, which connects over 40,000 AI enthusiasts, exemplifies its potential to drive innovation through collaboration and knowledge-sharing among diverse groups worldwide. For more details on how AI for Good addresses these social challenges, you can explore their comprehensive resources here.

Despite its potential, the initiative also faces significant challenges. AI technologies have inherent biases that could perpetuate social inequalities if not properly managed. These biases arise from the data AI algorithms are trained on, which may reflect existing societal prejudices. Therefore, ethical considerations and a commitment to fairness are crucial to ensure that AI solutions do not exacerbate existing disparities. Additionally, the risk of misinformation and misuse of AI technologies must be addressed to prevent harm to individuals and communities. The AI for Good initiative emphasizes creating standards for ethical AI development and stresses the importance of skills development to mitigate these risks, as outlined in their ongoing projects and discussions here.

Moreover, by fostering international collaboration, AI for Good has the potential to set new norms for utilizing AI in addressing global challenges. These standards can help preserve the ethical use of AI, thus safeguarding social order and promoting fairness. Initiatives that include a broad spectrum of stakeholders ensure that diverse perspectives are considered, reducing the risk of excluding marginalized voices and improving the social impact of AI technologies. The initiative's proactive stance in promoting inclusive access to AI solutions also helps to bridge the digital divide, ensuring that advances in AI benefit all of humanity. For a more in-depth look at these initiatives, consider visiting their comprehensive portal here.

Political Impacts of AI for Good

The political impacts of the 'AI for Good' initiative are rooted in its ambitious aim to shape the global governance of artificial intelligence. By promoting international collaboration, the initiative seeks to establish comprehensive norms and regulations that ensure AI technologies are used ethically and equitably. This effort is crucial in a world where AI's rapid development outpaces traditional policy-making mechanisms. With active participation from governments and international organizations, 'AI for Good' is poised to influence policy and guide the direction of AI development on a global scale. The involvement of entities like the United Nations highlights the initiative’s potential to harmonize diverse international perspectives and create unified governance frameworks. Such efforts are vital to addressing the challenges posed by divergent national interests and priorities, which can often stall consensus on AI governance. The goal is not only to support technological advancement but also to mitigate geopolitical tensions arising from technological disparities, fostering a spirit of global cooperation.

A significant political challenge in the AI landscape that 'AI for Good' seeks to address is the concentration of AI power within a few nations and corporations, which could lead to global inequities. The initiative emphasizes inclusivity and equitable access to AI technologies, aiming to democratize AI benefits across borders. This focus is expected to reduce tensions that arise from technological imbalances, thereby promoting a more level playing field internationally. By advocating for transparency and inclusivity, 'AI for Good' pushes for trust-building among stakeholders, which is critical in navigating the complex geopolitics of AI. The initiative also acknowledges that without a coordinated international approach, innovations in AI could exacerbate existing inequalities and lead to conflict. Thus, fostering a sense of shared responsibility among nations becomes a cornerstone of the initiative's strategy.

However, achieving global consensus on AI governance remains a formidable obstacle. The challenge lies in reconciling the varied national interests and regulatory frameworks that influence each country's approach to AI. 'AI for Good' works to bridge these gaps by facilitating dialogues and partnerships that align different priorities towards common goals. Its success depends on its ability to cultivate a collaborative environment where trust and mutual benefit take precedence over unilateral actions. The initiative's emphasis on inclusivity not only aims to bring diverse voices to the table but also ensures that AI development does not exclusively serve the interests of a select few. Through educational programs and cross-border collaborations, 'AI for Good' endeavors to empower a wide range of stakeholders, enabling them to participate meaningfully in shaping the future of AI policy.

Future Implications of AI for Good

The future implications of AI for Good are vast and multifaceted, touching on various aspects of society including economic, social, and political domains. Economically, the initiative's mission to deploy AI solutions for global challenges is poised to increase productivity and foster economic growth. By bridging AI innovators with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) stakeholders, AI for Good facilitates collaborative innovations that could create new markets and boost economic activity. Nonetheless, apprehensions about automation-induced job displacement and growing economic inequality highlight the necessity for comprehensive reskilling programs and inclusive growth strategies, particularly to avoid leaving small enterprises and developing nations behind. The high costs associated with AI development require a conscientious effort to democratize access and prevent exacerbation of current economic divides .

Socially, the AI for Good initiative promises substantial improvements in global well-being by applying AI to healthcare, climate change, and other critical areas. These applications can enhance disease prediction, improve disaster response, and address fundamental social issues like poverty and inequality. The initiative's focus aligns with solving societal challenges outlined in the SDGs, signifying its commitment to broader human welfare benefits. However, the potential for bias in AI systems underscores the importance of ethical development practices and fairness-focused governance to avoid aggravating social injustices. To mitigate these risks, AI for Good emphasizes skill-building, establishing standards, and advocating for the responsible use of AI technologies. This balanced approach is crucial to harnessing AI's benefits while minimizing its potential harms .

Politically, AI for Good plays a crucial role in promoting international collaboration and shaping global AI governance norms. The initiative's ability to engage governments and international bodies in discussions about AI development and governance posits a substantial influence on policy-making processes. By advocating for inclusivity and equitable access to AI resources, AI for Good works to bridge geopolitical divides that might otherwise be exacerbated by unequal technological progress. However, achieving a global consensus on AI regulatory frameworks remains challenging due to conflicting national interests and priorities. Successful implementation of these global norms hinges on fostering transparency and collaboration among all stakeholders, ensuring that AI development serves the collective good while respecting national sovereignty .