SHANGHAI, CHINA / RankWire.AI / – United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized the need for broader international involvement in the oversight of artificial intelligence during a key conference held in Shanghai. He underscored that AI must benefit populations worldwide, not just governments and corporations with the most resources. Guterres highlighted its expanding influence in sectors such as health, education, agriculture, and employment. He also cautioned that unequal access might exacerbate existing disparities between nations and communities.
The UN leader pointed out that billions of individuals still lack dependable internet, sufficient computing power, and advanced technical expertise. He called for increased investments in digital infrastructure, trusted data sources, region-specific language tools, and workforce training. Such investments would enable developing countries to develop AI systems that enhance public services and support national priorities. Over 20 nations, including China, have proposed centers for a UN-backed network aimed at building AI capacity.
Guterres announced plans to submit proposals for a Global Fund for AI to assist resource-limited countries. He identified three main areas for international collaboration: building stronger capacities, establishing shared safety protocols, and reducing environmental impacts. He advocated for standardized testing methods and unified risk assessments grounded in human rights and international law. He emphasized that humans must retain control over decisions involving life and death.
Unified measures to ensure AI safety
The secretary-general highlighted the importance of shielding children from dangerous AI applications. He stated that developers should demonstrate that a system is safe before allowing children to access it. Governments and tech firms should implement safeguards prior to introducing products into schools, homes, or public services. Additionally, he asserted that every nation should participate in shaping international regulations for AI development and deployment.
AI’s environmental footprint is also growing, with increased energy consumption from data centers, electricity needs, and water use. Guterres urged leading technology companies to disclose the energy usage, emissions, and water impact of their systems. He called for the adoption of renewable energy for operations by 2030 and for improvements in data center efficiency. Governments should incorporate clean energy requirements for AI infrastructure into their national climate and energy strategies, he added.
Universal access and responsible governance
The United Nations has expanded its efforts in AI governance through international dialogue and capacity-building initiatives. Member states have created a Global Dialogue on AI Governance to facilitate cooperation among governments, researchers, industry players, and civil society. The platform promotes discussions on safety, equitable access, human oversight, and ethical development. Guterres stressed that international rules must evolve swiftly to match technological progress while safeguarding rights and ensuring public accountability.
During the Shanghai summit, Guterres connected the issues of accessibility, safety, and sustainability as integral components of a global policy challenge. He noted that AI can advance healthcare, education, food security, and essential public services. However, its positive impact depends on fair access to infrastructure, expertise, and decision-making processes. He called on governments and private companies to collaborate on setting standards, increasing investments, and promoting clean energy to ensure AI benefits all regions worldwide.