New York: The United Nations has called for a unified global approach to fully utilize the potential of artificial intelligence (AI), urging countries to collaborate on creating ethical standards and regulatory frameworks, during a special session on emerging technologies.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized that AI has the power to drive significant progress in critical areas such as healthcare, climate change, and education. However, he also cautioned against the risks of AI misuse, including threats to privacy, security, and employment. Guterres stressed that the benefits of AI should be shared universally, warning that without international cooperation, the technology could widen existing inequalities and pose new challenges to global stability.
“AI holds immense promise, but its power must be matched by a commitment to responsible development and equitable distribution,” he added.
The UN’s appeal comes amid growing concerns about the rapid advancement of AI and its potential to disrupt societies. The organization is advocating for the creation of global norms and ethical guidelines that prioritize human rights and societal well-being.
To facilitate this, the UN is encouraging partnerships between governments, tech companies, academia, and civil society. The goal is to foster an inclusive dialogue that balances innovation with the need for robust safeguards, ensuring AI’s benefits are accessible to all while minimizing its risks.
The session also featured discussions on the role of AI in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with experts highlighting how AI could accelerate progress if managed responsibly. The UN is expected to continue its efforts to lead international discussions on AI governance, aiming to create a cohesive global strategy that maximizes the technology’s positive impact while mitigating its potential harms.
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