Secretary-General António Guterres also asked advertising and PR companies to “stop monetizing harmful content” and to strengthen information integrity. He called on media outlets to “raise and enforce editorial standards,” and urged countries to commit to creating and maintaining a free and independent media environment.

Mr. Guterres said the principles presented at the press conference were the result of consultations with the 193 UN member states, youth leaders, academia, the media and civil society, including technology companies.

The principles call on tech companies, advertisers, and media to refrain from using, supporting, or amplifying misinformation and hate speech.

All parties involved in the development of artificial intelligence (AI) should take urgent and transparent measures to ensure that all AI applications are designed, deployed and used safely, securely, responsibly and ethically.

The principles also call on technology companies to ensure safety and privacy, and give users more choice and control over their online experiences and personal data, calling on all key stakeholders to ensure special protections for children.

Mr Guterres stressed that big tech companies have a “huge responsibility” for the damage their products cause to people and communities. He called on the companies to take action.

He called on media outlets to provide “quality journalism based on truth and reality” and find advertisers who contribute to solving the problem. He also called on governments to protect journalists, promote human rights, refrain from shutting down the internet, and respect freedom of expression and opinion.

Ngoc Anh (according to AP)