Managing Artificial Intelligence for Accelerating the Implementation of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, Allam Ahmed, Arshi Naim
Allam Ahmed
World Association for Sustainable Development (WASD)
London
United Kingdom
ORCID: 0000-0002-1494-354X
Arshi Naim
London Institute of Sustainable Development (LISD)
United Kingdom
ORCID: 0000-0003-1325-6964
Paper Type: Editorial
DOI: 10.47556/J.WJSTSD.21.1-2-3.2026.1
Received: 16 March 2026 / Revised: 17 March 2026 / Accepted: 18 March 2026 / Published: 20 March 2026
Abstract: The special issue on Managing Artificial Intelligence for Accelerating the Implementation of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, positioning it within the urgent global context of advancing the 2030 Agenda. The special issue is closely aligned with the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by examining how Artificial Intelligence (AI) can act as a catalyst for comprehensive, sustainable, and data-driven development across critical areas such as poverty reduction, healthcare, education, climate action, and sustainable cities. In the current scenario, which is marked by rapid digital transformation, increasing global inequalities, and escalating environmental challenges, AI presents both unprecedented opportunities and complex ethical considerations. This issue addresses these dynamics by emphasising responsible AI governance, equitable access, and the integration of technological innovation with human-centred development principles. A distinctive feature of this special issue lies in the diversity of its contributions, bringing together interdisciplinary research, policy analyses, and applied case studies from academics, practitioners, and policymakers across different regions and sectors. The collection reflects a balance between theoretical insights and real-world applications, including contributions from both conference presentations and open-call submissions. The uniqueness of this issue is further demonstrated through its comprehensive thematic coverage-spanning governance, business transformation, and environmental sustainability while maintaining a strong focus on actionable outcomes and global collaboration. By bridging gaps between research, policy, and practice, this special issue offers timely and relevant insights for accelerating SDG implementation in an increasingly complex and interconnected world.
Keywords: Artificial Intelligence; Sustainable Development Goals; Digital Transformation; Technological Innovation; Human-Centred Development; Ethical Considerations.
Citation: Ahmed, A. and Naim, A. (2026): Managing Artificial Intelligence for Accelerating the Implementation of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. World Journal of Science, Technology and Sustainable Development (WJSTSD), Vol. 21, Nos. 1/2/3, pp. 1-10. WASD: London, United Kingdom.
