UNITAR
4 September 2024, Geneva Switzerland– The United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) and the Financial Intelligence Unit of Colombia (UIAF) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) that solidifies their partnership to combat financial crime. This collaboration will encompass capacity-building, joint research, tool development, event organization and technical assistance. The partnership will prioritize areas such as emerging technologies, cybersecurity, regulatory compliance, international standards, risk assessment, financial information systems, transparency and knowledge-sharing.
The MoU signing took place after a high-level panel discussion that explored the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in combating financial crime. Held to coincide with the UNITAR Division for Prosperity Advisory Board meeting, the event “AI-Driven Sustainable Solutions: Pioneering Innovations to Overcome Global Challenges” brought together leading experts from international organizations, the private sector, development banks and academia to discuss strategies for leveraging AI to enhance data-sharing, develop advanced detection systems and meet evolving regulatory requirements.
The panel discussion, moderated by Michael Fors, adjunct professor at Stanford University, Columbia University, and the University of Washington, featured insights from leading experts including
Ashleigh Owens, Senior Advisor with Shift
Linda Hill, Faculty Chair of the Leadership Initiative at Harvard Business School
Luis Eduardo Llinás Chica, UIAF Director General
Vendant Ahluwalia, CEO at Dataviv Technologies
UNITAR
The proliferation of digital media and the integration of AI models have underscored the critical role of financial information in combating financial crimes. AI technologies, capable of comprehending complex data, will revolutionize this struggle. By training AI models on vast datasets, we can identify anomalies in financial transactions, detect aberrant behaviour, recognize money laundering schemes, anticipate emerging threats, and uncover hidden patterns that characterize novel financial crimes. - Mr. Luis Llinás.
To further strengthen Colombia’s anti-money-laundering and counter-terrorism financing systems, UNITAR is developing a comprehensive e-learning programme, part of the UIAF’s Multidimensional Training Platform. Developed in partnership with the International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs Section of the US Embassy in Bogota, UIAF, and the University of Antioquia, this high-level accredited programme aims to reach over 30,000 compliance officers, providing them with the necessary skills and knowledge to combat financial crime.
UNITAR is committed to supporting countries in developing the necessary skills and capacity to leverage knowledge for financial crime prevention. This e-learning programme is a crucial step towards achieving this goal. – Mr Nikhil Seth, UNITAR Executive Director.
Division for Prosperity Director Mihoko Kumamoto mentioned this initiative builds upon UNITAR’s ongoing capacity-building work in the Sahel region and North Africa, demonstrating the Institute’s commitment to fostering a safer, more prosperous future for all.
About UNITAR
Founded in 1963, the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) is a dedicated training arm of the United Nations. We provide innovative learning solutions to individuals and organizations to enhance global decision-making and support country-level action for a sustainable future. Find out more at www.unitar.org