An advisory body on artificial intelligence at the United Nations unveiled its final report on Thursday, presenting seven key recommendations to tackle the risks associated with AI and gaps in global governance. This report follows a year of deliberations by a 39-member advisory group, which was formed to address international concerns over AI governance. The recommendations are set to be discussed during a U.N. summit scheduled for September.
Establishment of AI Knowledge Panel
One of the primary proposals is the creation of a panel to provide impartial and reliable scientific knowledge about AI. The panel would also address the information disparities between AI labs and the broader global community, helping to bridge knowledge gaps.
AI Concerns Since ChatGPT’s Rise
Since the launch of OpenAI’s ChatGPT in 2022, artificial intelligence has expanded rapidly, raising concerns over the spread of misinformation, fake news, and potential copyright infringements. While AI use is booming, only a few countries have implemented laws to regulate AI tools. The European Union leads with a comprehensive AI Act, while the U.S. has opted for voluntary compliance. Meanwhile, China’s AI regulation aims to maintain social stability and state control.
Global Support and the “Blueprint for Action”
The United States, along with around 60 other countries, endorsed a “blueprint for action” for the responsible use of AI in the military on September 10. However, China refrained from supporting the non-legally binding document, which reflects ongoing debates over AI governance on the global stage.
Risk of AI Being Controlled by Multinational Companies
With AI development primarily led by a few major multinational corporations, the U.N. raised concerns about the potential for the technology to be imposed on populations without their consent. The advisory body emphasized the need for global oversight to ensure the equitable use of AI technology.
New Policy Dialogue and AI Standards Exchange Proposed
The report also called for a new policy dialogue on AI governance and the creation of an AI standards exchange. This exchange would foster global collaboration and help standardize AI practices worldwide. A global AI capacity development network was also proposed to strengthen governance capabilities.
Among the other recommendations, the U.N. proposed establishing a global AI fund aimed at addressing collaboration and capacity gaps. The advisory body also advocated for the formation of a global AI data framework, which would ensure transparency and accountability in AI usage.
Lastly, the report suggested the formation of a small AI office that would be responsible for coordinating and supporting the implementation of the proposed recommendations, ensuring a structured approach to AI governance.
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