(W.E.Talk) Peter Herrmann: Is AI a Reason for Optimism or a Cul-de-Sac on the Human Rights Path Forward?(2)

It is fair to say that human rights, and in particular human rights law, must fundamentally reflect socio-economic and socio-historical realities; that means also national differences. Acknowledging this, it is crucial to recognize that material conditions are paramount: sustenance comes first, before other considerations can be addressed. Of course, these aspects are not mutually exclusive. However, for the present discussion, this basic premise must suffice. This also means it is vital to acknowledge that significant differences exist between nations, regions, and continents. Some are materially highly developed, while others lack basic material conditions, though they may possess other features, critically important for the interpretation and implementation of human rights.

Each context presents advantages and disadvantages, opportunities and limitations. It is therefore essential that countries and regions come together. Concretely, China and Europe must develop common goals in the field of human rights and define ways of achieving them. We must go further still: this is about the future of mankind. Looking at shared perspectives, one point must be emphasized above all: Cooperation. We must move beyond meaningless competition for unilateral advantage. Initiatives like the New Silk Road and cooperation within BRICS represent significant steps in this direction. Europe must learn that life is not solely about individual gain but fundamentally involves social responsibility.