New UNESCO Chairs in Italy: Roma Tre and Macerata on AI Ethics, Siena

Two new UNESCO Chairs established in Italy

The Italian academic landscape strengthens its ties with UNESCO through the establishment of two new Chairs addressing globally relevant topics: the ethics of artificial intelligence and the fight against illicit trafficking of cultural property. These initiatives link universities and national institutions to foster research, education and policy impact.

Ethics of Artificial Intelligence and practical knowledge

Universities involved: Roma Tre and University of Macerata. The Chair "Ethics of Artificial Intelligence and Practical Knowledge" is led by scholars focused on legal, social and cultural questions raised by emerging technologies.

Key aims:

• create interdisciplinary research and teaching programs on ethical AI;
• translate international guidelines (such as UNESCO's 2021 Recommendation) into practical tools for universities, public institutions and industry;
• foster public debate on human rights, transparency and algorithmic accountability.

Illicit trafficking of cultural property and cultural rights

University involved: University of Siena. The Chair "Illicit Trafficking of Cultural Property and Cultural Rights" organizes research, training and cooperative actions to counter looting and protect communities affected by cultural heritage loss.

Focus areas:

• mapping criminal networks and market routes for trafficked objects;
• developing restitution strategies and participatory approaches to heritage enhancement;
• providing training for cultural operators, law enforcement and local communities.

Impact and national network

With these activations, the number of UNESCO Chairs in Italy reaches 45, complemented by the UNITWIN network. UNESCO Chairs are key instruments for connecting academic research, education and policy on heritage protection, sustainable development and ethical innovation.

Operational features:

• typical initial duration: four years, renewable;
• promotion of international collaborations among universities, research centers and institutions;
• focus on converting international recommendations into effective local practices.

These new Chairs reinforce Italy's role in global academic cooperation and provide concrete pathways to integrate knowledge, heritage protection and sustainable cultural development.