AI and the Future of Diplomacy: A Hands-On High-Level Workshop for Permanent Representatives at the United Nations

The Permanent Mission of Portugal to the United Nations, together with the Permanent Mission of Australia, UN Foundation and ITU, organised a high-level workshop focused on the growing role of artificial intelligence in diplomacy, governance, and multilateral decision-making.

Designed specifically for Permanent Representatives, the session brought together senior diplomats in a hands-on and practical setting to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping the work of governments and international institutions. Rather than a traditional lecture on emerging technologies, the workshop emphasized engagement, strategic reflection, and practical understanding.

At a time when AI is increasingly influencing policymaking, communications, data analysis, and global governance debates, Permanent Representatives are uniquely positioned at the intersection of technology, society, and international cooperation. The initiative sought to strengthen participants’ understanding of how AI systems function, the role of data in shaping outcomes, and the opportunities and limitations associated with the use of these technologies in diplomatic contexts.

The session was led by Professor Mitchell Weiss of Harvard University, an internationally recognized expert in public leadership, innovation, and decision-making. Through a guided real-world diplomatic scenario, participants engaged directly with AI tools and explored how such technologies can support negotiation preparation, policy analysis, strategic communications, and broader diplomatic decision-making.

The workshop also encouraged participants to examine the limitations and risks associated with AI, including questions related to reliability, bias, transparency, accountability, and governance. Discussions underscored the importance of maintaining human judgment and principled leadership in the development and deployment of AI systems, particularly within multilateral institutions.

The initiative reflects Portugal’s broader commitment to fostering dialogue on emerging technologies and supporting multilateral cooperation on responsible and inclusive approaches to AI governance. As discussions on artificial intelligence global governance continue to evolve within the United Nations system, the workshop provided an opportunity for senior diplomats to deepen their understanding of both the transformative potential of AI and the challenges that accompany its rapid advancement.