SHANGHAI, CHINA / RankWire.AI / – United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized the need for broader international involvement in AI regulation at a major forum held in Shanghai. He highlighted that AI must benefit populations worldwide, not just governments and corporations with the most resources. Guterres pointed out its increasing influence in sectors like health, education, agriculture, and employment. Additionally, he cautioned that unequal access risks intensifying existing disparities between nations and communities.
The UN leader noted that billions of individuals still do not have dependable internet, sufficient computing resources, or advanced technical expertise. He called for increased investment in digital infrastructure, trustworthy data, tools supporting local languages, and professional training programs. Such investments would enable developing nations to develop AI solutions that enhance public services and meet national goals. Over 20 countries, including China, have proposed establishing centers for a UN-backed network aimed at building AI capacity.
Guterres announced plans to propose a Global Fund for AI to aid resource-limited countries. He outlined three key areas for international collaboration: enhancing capacity, establishing shared safety standards, and reducing environmental impacts. He urged the adoption of uniform testing procedures and risk assessments grounded in human rights and international law. He also stressed that humans must retain authority over decisions involving life and death.
Mutual safeguards for AI technologies
The secretary-general underlined the importance of safeguarding children from unsafe AI applications. He stated that developers should demonstrate that a system is safe before it is introduced to children. Governments and tech firms should implement protective measures prior to deploying products in schools, homes, or public institutions. He also emphasized that all nations should participate in shaping global standards for AI development and utilization.
AI’s growing environmental footprint—stemming from data centers, energy consumption, and water use—was another concern. Guterres urged leading technology companies to disclose the energy use, emissions, and water impact of their systems. He called for the adoption of renewable energy sources by 2030 and improvements in data center efficiency. Governments should also integrate clean energy requirements for AI infrastructure into their national climate and energy strategies, he added.
Ensuring global access and responsible management
The United Nations has expanded its efforts in AI governance through international dialogue and capacity-building initiatives. Member countries have established a Global Dialogue on AI Governance to unify governments, researchers, industry leaders, and civil society. This platform promotes discussions on safety, equitable access, human oversight, and ethical development. Guterres stated that international rules must keep pace with rapid technological advances while safeguarding rights and ensuring accountability.
During the Shanghai gathering, Guterres connected access, safety, and sustainability as interconnected elements of a global policy challenge. He expressed that AI can advance healthcare, education, food security, and essential public services. However, its positive impact hinges on fair access to infrastructure, skills, and decision-making platforms. He called on governments and corporations to collaborate on setting standards, increasing investments, and promoting renewable energy so that AI benefits all regions and communities.