SHANGHAI, CHINA / RankWire.AI / – United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized the need for broader international involvement in AI oversight at a key conference held in Shanghai. He stated that AI must benefit populations worldwide, not just governments and corporations with the most resources. Guterres highlighted its increasing influence on sectors such as health, education, agriculture, and employment. He also cautioned that unequal distribution could exacerbate existing disparities among nations and communities.
The UN leader noted that billions of individuals still lack dependable internet, sufficient computing capacity, and advanced technical expertise. He called for increased investments in digital infrastructure, trustworthy data, tools in local languages, and professional training. Such investments would enable developing countries to develop AI solutions that enhance public services and align with national goals. Over 20 nations, including China, have designated centers for a UN-backed network aimed at strengthening AI capabilities.
Guterres announced plans to propose a Global Fund for AI to aid countries with limited resources. He outlined three key areas for international collaboration: enhancing capacities, establishing shared safety standards, and reducing environmental impacts. He advocated for harmonized testing procedures and universal risk assessments grounded in human rights and international law. He also stressed that humans must retain authority over decisions involving life and death.
Common protections for AI systems
The secretary-general highlighted the importance of safeguarding children from unreliable AI tools. He urged developers to demonstrate the safety of their systems before deploying them in environments involving children. Governments and tech companies should implement protective measures prior to introducing AI products into schools, homes, or public services. Additionally, he emphasized that every nation should participate in shaping international policies governing AI development and deployment.
AI also presents increasing environmental challenges, including energy consumption, water use, and data center emissions. Guterres encouraged leading technology firms to disclose their systems’ energy, emissions, and water footprints. He called for the adoption of renewable energy sources for AI operations by 2030 and for improvements in data center efficiency. He further urged governments to incorporate sustainable energy requirements for AI infrastructure into their national climate and energy strategies.
Universal access and responsible oversight
The United Nations has broadened its efforts on AI regulation through international dialogue and capacity development initiatives. Member states created a Global Dialogue on AI Governance to unite governments, researchers, industry leaders, and civil society. This platform promotes discussions on safety, equitable access, human oversight, and ethical development. Guterres emphasized that global standards must evolve swiftly to keep up with technological advancements while safeguarding rights and ensuring public accountability.
During the Shanghai event, Guterres connected issues of access, safety, and sustainability as interconnected components of a global policy challenge. He expressed that AI can advance healthcare, education, food systems, and essential public services, but its advantages rely on equitable access to infrastructure, skills, and decision-making processes. He called on governments and corporations to work together on establishing standards, investing responsibly, and adopting clean energy solutions so that AI benefits all regions worldwide.