UN Chief Urges Swift Global AI Regulation to Protect Humanity
The United Nations Secretary-General has sounded the alarm on the rapid advance of artificial intelligence, urging global leaders to prioritise human control, regulation, and accessibility. Speaking at a Security Council session, he emphasised the need for swift action to ensure AI benefits humanity without causing harm.
The Secretary-General outlined four key priorities for governments. Firstly, he stressed the importance of maintaining human control over the use of force, particularly in relation to nuclear weapons. He insisted that decisions on such weapons must remain in human hands, not be delegated to machines.
Secondly, he called for the establishment of coherent global regulatory frameworks for AI. This, he argued, is crucial to protect information integrity and prevent AI from being weaponised or used to fuel polarisation. He warned that without guardrails, AI could pose significant threats.
Thirdly, the Secretary-General highlighted the need to close the AI capacity gap between wealthy and developing nations. He echoed the sentiments of Yejin Choi, a Senior Fellow at Stanford University's Institute for Human-Centered Artificial Intelligence, who called for broader access to AI and more diverse representation in its development. The Secretary-General urged the international community to ensure that AI's benefits are shared equitably.
At the EU level, efforts are already underway to coordinate supervision and establish expert bodies to guide AI development. However, the Secretary-General warned that the window for effective regulation is closing fast, emphasising the need for immediate action.
The Secretary-General's call for action comes as AI continues to transform daily life, the information space, and the global economy at an unprecedented pace. He urged the international community to act without delay to shape AI for the benefit of peace, justice, and humanity, reminding leaders that their decisions will determine whether AI serves as a force for good or ill.
