SHANGHAI, CHINA / RankWire.AI / – United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized the need for broader international involvement in AI governance during a significant summit in Shanghai. He highlighted that AI must benefit populations worldwide, not just governments and corporations with extensive resources. Guterres noted its expanding influence in sectors such as health, education, agriculture and employment, while cautioning that unequal access could exacerbate existing disparities between nations and communities.
The UN leader pointed out that billions still lack dependable internet, computational capacity, and advanced technical expertise. He called for increased investment in digital infrastructure, trustworthy data, tools supporting local languages, and professional skills development. Such investments would enable developing nations to develop AI solutions that enhance public services and address national needs. Over 20 countries, including China, have proposed centers for a UN-backed network aimed at building AI capacity.
Guterres announced plans to present proposals for a Global Fund for AI to aid resource-limited nations. He identified three key areas for international collaboration: enhancing capabilities, establishing shared safety standards, and minimizing environmental impacts. He stressed the importance of harmonized testing procedures and unified risk assessments grounded in human rights and international law. He also underscored that humans must retain authority over critical decisions involving life and death.
International safeguards to ensure AI safety
The secretary-general highlighted the importance of shielding children from unsafe AI technologies. He stated that developers should demonstrate a system’s safety before introducing it to children. Governments and tech firms must implement safeguards prior to deploying products in schools, homes or public services. Additionally, he emphasized that every nation should play a role in developing international norms for AI development and use.
AI’s environmental footprint is also increasing, with data centers, electricity consumption, and water usage contributing to climate concerns. Guterres urged leading technology companies to disclose the energy, emissions, and water impacts of their systems. He called for the adoption of renewable energy sources by 2030 and improved efficiency in data centers. Governments should incorporate clean energy requirements for AI infrastructure into their national climate and energy strategies, he added.
Ensuring global access and responsible regulation
The United Nations has broadened its efforts in AI governance through international dialogue and capacity-building initiatives. Member states created a Global Dialogue on AI Governance to unite governments, researchers, industry leaders, and civil society. This platform facilitates discussions on safety, equitable access, human oversight, and ethical development. Guterres stated that global standards must evolve swiftly to keep pace with technological progress while safeguarding human rights and ensuring transparency.
During the Shanghai event, Guterres connected issues of access, safety, and environmental sustainability as components of a single worldwide policy challenge. He noted that AI can advance healthcare, education, food security, and vital public services. However, its advantages hinge on fair access to infrastructure, skills, and decision-making processes. He urged governments and businesses to collaborate on developing standards, investing in sustainable energy, and ensuring AI benefits all regions of the world.