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A recent UN report recommends establishing an international body to oversee the governance and monitoring of AI.
The report, produced by the UN Secretary General’s High-Level Advisory Body on AI, proposes creating a structure akin to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change to assess AI risks and provide updated information globally.
UN Proposes New Global AI Oversight Body
The report urges a new policy dialogue for the UN’s 193 member nations to discuss the risks associated with AI and align on actionable steps.
It also highlights the need to empower developing nations, particularly in the Global South, to benefit from AI and contribute to its governance.
Recommendations include setting up an AI fund, establishing AI standards, and creating data-sharing and governance systems for developing countries.
In recent years, rapid advancements in AI, such as large language models and generative technologies, have sparked debates over its risks and opportunities.
While AI promises economic gains, experts warn it may also create serious risks like automating disinformation, producing deepfakes, and displacing workers.
We can no longer view photorealistic AI as near future possibility. These images are virtually indistinguishable from actual photographs. Beyond replacing human workers, AI has high potential to be used unethically unless we develop some legal standards around it fast. https://t.co/ZiKvx9msae
— Animation Workers Ignited (@AWorkersIgnited) August 9, 2024
Moreover, the global AI governance proposals reflect an increasing interest from policymakers in regulating the technology.
Despite these efforts, the differences between major powers remain a challenge.
Economic competition and varying approaches to privacy and personal data management have created fissures in AI regulation.
For instance, the European Union’s stringent AI rules have led some U.S. companies to limit their AI products in Europe, while the U.S. has adopted a more hands-off approach.
Global Challenges Complicates AI Governance
Although governments may see AI as a strategic advantage, many scientists share concerns about its rapid development.
Earlier this week, a group of prominent academics from the West and China called for more collaboration on AI safety after a conference in Vienna, Austria.
Similarly, UN World Meteorological Organization Secretary-General Celeste Saulo stressed that technology alone will not solve global issues like climate change.
New multi-agency #UnitedinScience report:
The science is clear. We are far off track from achieving vital climate goals.
But there is hope. New technologies and innovation are potential game-changers.https://t.co/3UPWdjvuLs pic.twitter.com/XOea3TcFW8
— World Meteorological Organization (@WMO) September 18, 2024
She urged nations to share knowledge at the upcoming Summit of the Future in New York to ensure science and technology benefits reach all countries.
Saulo highlighted the importance of international cooperation to meet global goals such as the Paris Agreement, the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
