Human security in a fragmented world and
the age of emerging technologies

As stated in General Assembly resolution 66/290, “human security is an approach to assist Member States in identifying and addressing widespread and cross-cutting challenges to the survival, livelihood and dignity of their people.” However, feeling secure in our lives and our futures has become more and more challenging. The world has been undergoing a rapid transformation process, influenced by increasing geopolitical competition, regional conflicts, and accelerating technological change. The consequences of climate change seem increasingly unavoidable, and the succession of health, economic and conflict-related crises affects all of us, but especially the most vulnerable. This exacerbates social inequalities and deepens processes of exclusion and social fragmentation.

The vertiginous advance of technology, including the development of AI and machine learning, brings about new playing fields. It can democratise access to knowledge and media, but also allows spreading misinformation, hate-speech and driving societal fragmentation. The increased reliance on private technological corporations contrasts with voices denouncing technology’s devastating effects on the climate and on the territories with the necessary mineral resources, further exacerbating division. 

In the words of the Secretary-General, at the General Assembly on Priorities for 2026:

“Our priority must be to build unity in an age of division… Our challenge – and our priority – must be to build welcoming societies, not walled-off citadels. Societies that invest in the software of social cohesion, inclusion, education and skills, decent jobs and social protection with a new social contract… Look no further than artificial intelligence – and the algorithms shaping our lives…The forces of division and inequality are powerful – but so too is our capacity for solidarity and justice”.

The 2026–2027 RAUN theme - Human security in a fragmented world and the age of emerging technologies - calls for a united front in devising people-centred, context-specific, and sustainable solutions that strengthen cooperation and promote justice and security, while using emerging technologies as a tool to support inclusion and empower all people.