CEID and Hariri Institute Event: Building Resilience: The Transformative Role of AI in Global Public Health Communication

Speaker: Melissa Fleming, UN Under-Secretary-General for Global Communications

Talk Title: "Building Resilience: The Transformative Role of AI, Science, and Data in Global Public Health Communication"

Abstract: Join us for a thought-provoking guest lecture featuring Melissa Fleming, United Nations Undersecretary for Communications. In this engaging session, we will delve into the dynamic intersection of artificial intelligence (AI), science, and data in the realm of global public health communication. The post-pandemic era has underscored the critical importance of effective communication strategies to address outbreaks, migration, political polarization and other global challenges. Melissa Fleming, a prominent figure in international communications, will share insights into the United Nations’ perspective on harnessing AI, science, and data to build resilience in global communication. She will bring fresh perspectives to the conversation, exploring the transformative potential of these technologies in shaping narratives, disseminating information, and fostering public understanding. Key topics of discussion will include: 1. The evolving landscape of public health communication in the digital age. 2. Leveraging AI for data analysis and predictive modeling in health crises. 3. The ethical considerations and challenges associated with the use of technology in communication. 4. The role of students in bridging the gap between complex scientific information and public understanding.

Bio: Melissa Fleming is the newly appointed Under-Secretary-General for Global Communications, taking up her functions as of 1 September 2019. From 2009 until August 2019, Ms. Fleming served UNHCR as Head of Global Communications and Spokesperson for the High Commissioner. At UNHCR, she led global media outreach campaigns, social media engagement and a multimedia news service to distribute and place stories designed to generate empathy and stir action for refugees. Ms. Fleming is a frequent interview guest on international media platforms, and her talks are featured on TED.com. She is author of the book, A Hope More Powerful than the Sea, and host of the award-winning podcast, Awake at Night. Ms. Fleming joined UNHCR from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), where she served for eight years as Spokesperson and Head of the Media and Outreach. Prior to IAEA, she headed the Press and Public Information team at the Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE). Earlier still, she was Public Affairs Specialist at Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty in Munich, having started her career as a journalist. From 2016 to 2017, she also served as Senior Adviser and Spokesperson on the incoming United Nations Secretary General’s Transition Team. Ms. Fleming holds a Master of Science in Journalism from the College of Communication, Boston University and a Bachelor of Arts in German Studies from Oberlin College.

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