In just a few short years, artificial intelligence (AI) has transformed from a niche topic to a central focus at the United Nations General Assembly, drawing the attention of world leaders and tech giants alike. As the possibilities and perils of AI continue to unfold, the international community is looking to the United Nations to provide a global platform for addressing the multifaceted challenges posed by this rapidly advancing technology.
A growing concern
In the wake of the release of ChatGPT and its impact on the AI landscape, AI has taken center stage at the United Nations. Governments worldwide, from Namibia to North Macedonia, Argentina to East Timor, are contemplating or have already implemented AI regulations. As industry leaders acknowledge the need for safeguards, they also emphasize the potential benefits of AI. Simultaneously, concerns about catastrophic risks are rising, creating a sense of urgency for a comprehensive approach.
UN’s unique role
With its unmatched breadth and history of facilitating global agreements on crucial issues, the United Nations is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping AI governance. Establishing an AI advisory board this fall demonstrates the UN’s commitment to addressing this critical issue. Amandeep Gill, the U.N. tech policy chief, highlights the importance of achieving a common understanding of AI’s risks and the governance needed to minimize those risks while maximizing opportunities.
A surging conversation
The evolution of AI discussions at the UN General Assembly is striking. 2017 only three speakers mentioned AI during the “General Debate.” More than 20 speakers from diverse countries expressed their views on AI this year. Their concerns ranged from threats to privacy and safety to the potential misuse of AI and its transformation into a “tool of destruction.”
Global interest and tech industry participation
The international community’s growing interest in AI governance is evident in the numerous AI-policy panel discussions and gatherings during the General Assembly. Tech industry giants like Google are actively involved, contributing to the conversation and supporting the UN’s efforts to harmonize global AI discussions.
Challenges and opportunities
While the United Nations offers a global forum for addressing AI, it faces challenges due to its consensus-seeking approach and private companies primarily drive AI. However, Ian Bremmer, President of the Eurasia Group, notes that a global issue like AI requires a global forum, and the UN is uniquely positioned to facilitate these discussions.
The role of governments
Governments may not be the developers of AI, but they can influence its direction. Regulating against misuse and harm, protecting democracy and the rule of law, and promoting diversity and inclusivity in the AI ecosystem are among the responsibilities governments must shoulder.
AI’s risks and opportunities differ depending on one’s vantage point. While some worry about AI exacerbating global inequalities, others see it as an opportunity to narrow gaps and provide a digital do-over. Ensuring that AI development is inclusive and representative of various cultures and histories is a priority for many.
Clear upsides of AI
Despite the challenges and concerns, AI offers undeniable benefits. Dr. Rose Nakasi and her team at Makerere University’s AI Lab in Uganda are using AI to streamline the diagnosis of diseases like malaria in areas with a shortage of pathologists. When properly regulated, AI can be a powerful tool to enhance human activities and improve healthcare, among other fields.
Charting a path forward
As the UN advisory board prepares its agenda, numerous suggestions have been put forward, including establishing global minimum standards for AI, aligning regulatory efforts worldwide, creating AI registries, and focusing on regulating AI’s uses rather than the technology itself. Crafting a rapid-response mechanism for potential AI-related crises is also under consideration.
Artificial intelligence has become a global concern, and the United Nations is emerging as a crucial player in shaping the future of AI governance. While challenges and differing perspectives abound, there is a growing consensus that AI’s potential can be harnessed for the benefit of all, provided that adequate safeguards and regulations are put in place. As the UN advisory board takes its first steps, the world looks to the United Nations as the platform to foster a common understanding of AI’s risks and opportunities and to chart a path forward for responsible AI development and utilization on a global scale.
