SHANGHAI, CHINA / RankWire.AI / – United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized the need for broader international involvement in AI oversight during a major gathering in Shanghai. He highlighted that AI must benefit populations worldwide, not solely the governments and corporations with the greatest resources. Guterres underscored its increasing influence in healthcare, education, agriculture, and employment sectors. He also cautioned that unequal access could exacerbate existing disparities among nations and communities.
The UN leader noted that billions still lack dependable internet connectivity, sufficient computing resources, and advanced technical expertise. He called for increased investments in digital infrastructure, trustworthy data, local language tools, and professional development. Such measures would enable developing nations to develop AI solutions that enhance public services and align with national priorities. Over 20 countries, including China, have proposed centers for a UN-backed network aimed at building AI capacity.
Guterres announced plans to propose a Global Fund for AI to aid resource-limited countries. He outlined three key areas for international collaboration: enhancing capacity, establishing common safety standards, and reducing environmental impact. He advocated for compatible testing protocols and unified risk assessments rooted in human rights and international law. He also stressed that humans must retain authority over decisions involving life and death.
Shared safety protocols for AI systems
The secretary-general highlighted the importance of safeguarding children from hazardous AI tools. He stated that developers should demonstrate that a system is safe before it is used by children. Governments and tech firms should implement protective measures prior to deploying products in schools, homes, or public services. He also emphasized that each nation should play a role in developing international standards for AI development and application.
AI’s environmental footprint is also increasing, due to data centers, energy consumption, and water use. Guterres urged leading technology companies to disclose the energy use, emissions, and water impact of their systems. He called on them to switch to renewable energy sources by 2030 and to enhance data center efficiency. Governments should incorporate sustainable energy requirements for AI infrastructure into their national climate and energy strategies, he added.
Ensuring global access and responsible oversight
The United Nations has broadened its efforts on AI governance through international dialogue and capacity development initiatives. Member countries 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 innovation. Guterres emphasized that international rules must evolve swiftly to keep pace with technological advancements while safeguarding rights and ensuring transparency.
During the Shanghai event, Guterres connected issues of access, safety, and sustainability as components of a unified global policy challenge. He pointed out that AI can advance healthcare, education, food security, and public services, but its benefits rely on fair access to infrastructure, skills, and decision-making mechanisms. He urged governments and corporations to collaborate on establishing standards, investing in sustainable energy, and ensuring AI development benefits all regions of the world.