SHANGHAI, CHINA / RankWire.AI / – United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized the importance of broader international participation in the oversight of artificial intelligence at a major conference held in Shanghai. He stressed that AI should benefit populations worldwide, not solely be controlled by governments and corporations with significant resources. Guterres highlighted AI’s increasing influence in sectors such as health, education, agriculture, and employment, while cautioning that unequal access might deepen existing disparities among nations and communities.
The UN leader pointed out that billions still lack dependable internet, sufficient computing capabilities, and advanced technical expertise. He called for increased investments in digital infrastructure, trustworthy data, tools in local languages, and workforce training. Such investments would enable developing nations to develop AI solutions that bolster public services and address national priorities. Over 20 countries, including China, have proposed centers to support a UN-backed network aimed at enhancing AI capacity building.
Guterres announced plans to propose a Global Fund for AI to assist resource-limited countries. He outlined three key areas for international cooperation: enhancing capacity, establishing shared safety standards, and reducing environmental impacts. He advocated for harmonized testing procedures and common risk assessments grounded in human rights and international law, emphasizing that individuals must retain authority over decisions involving life and death.
Universal Safeguards for AI Technologies
The secretary-general underscored the need to protect children from unsafe AI tools. He stated that developers should demonstrate the safety of their systems before releasing them to children. Governments and tech firms must implement safeguards prior to introducing products into classrooms, homes, or public services. Additionally, he asserted that every nation should contribute to shaping international regulations governing AI development and deployment.
AI’s environmental footprint is also increasing, driven by data centers, energy consumption, and water use. Guterres urged leading technology companies to disclose the energy, emissions, and water impacts of their AI systems. He challenged them to switch to renewable energy sources by 2030 and to improve data center efficiency. Governments should incorporate the need for clean energy in their national climate and energy strategies, he added.
Ensuring Global Accessibility and Responsible Governance
The United Nations has expanded its efforts in AI governance via international dialogue and capacity-building initiatives. Member states have established a Global Dialogue on AI Governance to foster collaboration among governments, researchers, industry leaders, and civil society. This platform facilitates 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 accountability to the public.
During the Shanghai event, Guterres connected issues of access, safety, and sustainability as integral components of a unified global policy challenge. He highlighted AI’s potential to advance healthcare, education, food security, and essential public services. However, he pointed out that these benefits depend heavily on fair access to infrastructure, skills, and inclusive decision-making platforms. He urged governments and corporations to work together on establishing standards, investing in sustainable energy, and ensuring AI development benefits all regions of the world.