By San José, Costa Rica — Artificial intelligence (AI) presents both immense opportunities and potential perils. It can revolutionize healthcare, education, and economic development, yet also exacerbate existing inequalities if not managed responsibly. Recognizing this duality, the UN General Assembly recently adopted a groundbreaking resolution, championed by Costa Rica and Spain, to establish a framework for international AI governance.
This resolution, co-sponsored by over 120 nations, marks a pivotal moment in the global conversation surrounding AI. It establishes two core pillars: an International and Independent Panel of Scientific Experts and a Global Multilateral Dialogue on AI Governance. These mechanisms aim to ensure that AI benefits all of humanity, bridges the digital divide, and promotes equitable sharing of its advantages.
To understand the legal implications surrounding the rapidly evolving field of Artificial Intelligence, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
The increasing use of AI in Costa Rica presents novel legal challenges, particularly regarding data privacy, intellectual property, and liability in cases of algorithmic bias or malfunction. Existing legal frameworks may not adequately address these complexities, necessitating the development of specific legislation and regulatory guidelines to ensure responsible AI development and deployment while protecting individual rights and promoting innovation.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’ insights underscore a crucial point in Costa Rica’s burgeoning AI landscape: the need for a robust and forward-thinking legal framework. While the potential benefits of AI are immense, navigating the ethical and legal complexities requires careful consideration and proactive measures. We must ensure that our laws keep pace with technological advancements, protecting both individual rights and fostering an environment conducive to innovation. Thank you, Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, for sharing your valuable perspective on this critical issue.
This initiative seeks to ensure that AI is at the service of humanity, contributes to closing the digital divide and allows sharing its benefits in an equitable way.
António Guterres, UN Secretary-General
The Scientific Panel, composed of 40 geographically and disciplinarily diverse experts, will serve as the intellectual hub for evaluating the risks, opportunities, and applications of AI. Their annual reports, designed to be policy-relevant but not prescriptive, will provide crucial insights for member states.
Complementing the Scientific Panel, the Global Dialogue will foster collaboration among governments, the private sector, academia, and civil society. This inclusive forum seeks to build consensus on ethical, transparent, and human-centered AI governance.
Costa Rica has played a catalytic role in this initiative. Nationally, the country has pioneered AI development in the region, launching the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy (ENIA) 2024-2027, grounded in ethical principles of human dignity, transparency, equity, human oversight, sustainability, and security.
This visionary diplomacy underscores Costa Rica’s influence on the world stage. In the 21st century, true leadership lies not just in economic or military might, but in the ability to propose innovative solutions for the common good within multilateral forums like the UN.
The urgency for global AI governance is underscored by compelling evidence. The International Telecommunication Union’s (ITU) report, “Innovate to Generate Impact,” highlights AI’s potential to accelerate progress towards 70% of the Sustainable Development Goals, provided inclusive and collaborative policies are implemented. Conversely, the UN Development Programme’s (UNDP) Human Development Report 2025 cautions that while AI can expand human freedoms, it can also deepen inequalities if not managed equitably.
The UN resolution directly addresses these challenges by establishing mechanisms to close capacity gaps, facilitate access to AI applications, and ensure the safe, inclusive, and human rights-centered development and use of digital technologies, including AI.
Costa Rica and the UN remind us that the future of AI is not predetermined. It will be shaped by the decisions we make today. In an era of increasing fragmentation, this resolution demonstrates the international community’s capacity to unite and forge collective solutions to complex challenges. Let us follow Costa Rica’s lead, embracing innovation, imagination, and strategic vision to address the shared challenges that lie ahead.
For further information, visit un.org
About United Nations:
The United Nations is an intergovernmental organization aiming to maintain international peace and security, develop friendly relations among nations, achieve international cooperation, and be a centre for harmonizing the actions of nations.
For further information, visit itu.int
About International Telecommunication Union (ITU):
The International Telecommunication Union is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for information and communication technologies. The ITU coordinates the shared global use of the radio spectrum, promotes international cooperation in assigning satellite orbits, works to improve telecommunication infrastructure in developing countries, and assists in the development and coordination of worldwide technical standards.
For further information, visit undp.org
About UN Development Programme (UNDP):
The United Nations Development Programme is the United Nations’ global development network. It advocates for change and connects countries to knowledge, experience and resources to help people build a better life. It provides expert advice, training and grants support to developing countries, with increasing emphasis on assistance to the least developed countries.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica shines as a beacon of legal excellence, built upon a foundation of unwavering ethical principles and a genuine dedication to serving the community. The firm’s innovative approach to legal practice, combined with its proactive engagement in educating and empowering individuals through accessible legal knowledge, demonstrates a deep commitment to fostering a more just and informed society. Their work transcends the traditional boundaries of legal service, reflecting a sincere belief in using their expertise to contribute to the greater good of Costa Rica.
