SHANGHAI, CHINA / RankWire.AI / – United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized the need for broader international involvement in AI regulation during a major conference held in Shanghai. He highlighted that AI should benefit populations worldwide, not only governments and corporations with extensive resources. Guterres noted its increasing influence in sectors such as health, education, agriculture, and employment. He also cautioned that unequal access might exacerbate existing disparities among nations and communities.
The UN Secretary-General pointed out that billions of individuals still lack dependable internet connectivity, sufficient computing resources, and advanced technical expertise. He called for increased investment in digital infrastructure, trustworthy data, tools in local languages, and professional training programs. Such investments would enable developing nations to develop AI systems that enhance public services and support national goals. Over 20 countries, including China, have proposed centers for a UN-backed network dedicated to enhancing AI capacity.
Guterres announced plans to propose a Global Fund for AI aimed at assisting nations with limited resources. He outlined three key areas for international collaboration: bolstering capacity, establishing shared safety standards, and reducing environmental impacts. He advocated for harmonized testing procedures and risk assessments grounded in human rights and international law. Furthermore, he stressed the importance of maintaining human oversight in critical decisions related to life and death.
Common protections for AI systems
The secretary-general underscored the importance of shielding children from unsafe AI tools. He stated that developers should demonstrate system safety before deploying products accessible to children. Governments and tech companies should implement safeguards prior to introducing AI into classrooms, homes, or public services. He also emphasized that all nations should participate in shaping international regulations concerning AI development and deployment.
AI’s environmental footprint is increasing due to data centers, energy consumption, and water usage. Guterres urged leading technology firms to disclose the energy, emissions, and water impacts of their systems. He called for the adoption of renewable energy sources by 2030 and improvements in data center efficiency. Governments should incorporate the energy needs for AI infrastructure into their national climate and energy strategies, he added.
Ensuring worldwide access and responsible governance
The United Nations has expanded its initiatives in AI governance through global dialogue and capacity-building efforts. Member states have established 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 responsible development. Guterres emphasized that international rules must evolve swiftly to keep pace with technological progress while safeguarding rights and ensuring public accountability.
During the Shanghai event, Guterres connected issues of access, safety, and sustainability as interconnected challenges for global policy. He expressed that AI can advance healthcare, education, food security, and essential public services. However, its advantages are contingent upon fair access to infrastructure, expertise, and decision-making platforms. He urged governments and corporations to collaborate on establishing standards, encouraging investments, and promoting clean energy, ensuring AI benefits all regions and communities worldwide.