The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially designated the Digital Ethics Centre at Delft University of Technology, Netherlands, as a WHO Collaborating Centre on Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Health Governance. The move aims to enhance the ethical oversight, governance, and responsible implementation of AI in healthcare systems worldwide.

AI holds immense potential to revolutionize healthcare, improve patient outcomes, and streamline medical processes. However, to harness its benefits effectively, it is essential to establish robust ethical frameworks, evidence-based policies, and collaborative governance mechanisms. WHO’s new collaboration with the Delft Digital Ethics Centre is a significant step toward achieving these goals.

Strengthening AI Governance for Health

The WHO Collaborating Centre designation acknowledges Delft University’s long-standing contributions to responsible innovation and its leadership in integrating ethical principles into digital technology design. The Centre has played a pivotal role in WHO-led international consultations, workshops, and training initiatives, reinforcing best practices in AI for healthcare.

“WHO is committed to helping Member States plan, govern, and adopt responsible AI technologies,” said Dr. Alain Labrique, Director of Digital Health and Innovation at WHO. “AI is poised to transform health systems, but ensuring equitable and ethical deployment is crucial. Strong academic and technical partnerships, like this one, will help guide us in this evolving field.”

A Hub for Research and Advocacy

As a WHO Collaborating Centre, Delft University will actively contribute to policy development, research, and capacity-building efforts. The institution will serve as a hub for education, advocacy, and expert guidance, facilitating knowledge exchange through regional and country-level training programs.

“The Delft Digital Ethics Centre has been at the forefront of digital ethics and responsible AI for two decades,” said Professor Jeroen van den Hoven, Scientific Director at Delft Digital Ethics Centre. “We look forward to supporting the global health community in ensuring AI is deployed responsibly and ethically.”

The Responsible and Ethical AI for Healthcare Lab, a collaboration between Delft University and its partners, will offer insights into implementing WHO’s AI guidance in clinical settings. This will aid in addressing challenges related to trust, transparency, and innovation in digital health.

A Step Toward Equitable AI in Health

Dr. David Novillo-Ortiz, Regional Adviser and Unit Head for Data, Evidence, and Digital Health at WHO Europe, emphasized the significance of the partnership. “This designation strengthens our ability to ensure AI serves public health responsibly. It will be instrumental in supporting Member States to navigate AI’s opportunities and challenges while upholding ethical standards.”

With AI increasingly shaping healthcare landscapes, WHO’s collaboration with the Delft Digital Ethics Centre underscores its commitment to evidence-based AI governance. By prioritizing ethics and innovation, the initiative aims to ensure AI-driven health solutions benefit populations equitably and safely.