According to the UNDP report referenced by YK-liitto, Finland has dropped to 12th place in the human development ranking, placing it behind all other Nordic countries.

The report also highlights a worrying trend: the gap between rich and poor countries is growing for the fourth year in a row. This means that while some countries continue to develop quickly, others face increasing challenges like debt, unemployment, and economic hardship.

A positive takeaway from the report is about the role of artificial intelligence (AI). Many people around the world believe AI could help improve living standards by creating new jobs and opportunities. In fact, six out of ten people surveyed expect AI to have a positive impact on their livelihoods.

Achim Steiner, the head of UNDP, says AI is advancing rapidly and affects many parts of our daily lives. However, he also stresses that it’s important to protect people’s privacy and use AI safely as we move forward.

Helena Laukko, Executive Director of the Finnish YK-liitto organization, adds that everyone should have the chance to shape AI technology — not just use it. This way, we can make sure its benefits reach all parts of society.

Despite this potential, the report raises concerns about inequality in AI development. For example, the three biggest AI companies have a combined market value of over 3 trillion dollars, which is even more than the total economy of all African countries combined.

This report encourages Finland and other countries to think carefully about how to improve human development and make sure advances in technology benefit everyone fairly and equally.

Source:
YK-liitto: Finland in 12th place in human development ranking, trailing other Nordic countries