GENEVA: Global coordination is essential for building "safe and inclusive" artificial intelligence (AI) and making it accessible to all, said the United Nations (UN) secretary-general on Thursday. In a video message to the AI for Good Global Summit in Geneva, Antonio Guterres emphasized AI's transformative potential and its ability to "turbocharge" sustainable development goals (SDGs).
According to Philippines News Agency, AI could significantly advance the SDGs, but realizing this potential requires AI that minimizes bias, misinformation, and security threats. He highlighted the need to help developing countries harness AI, which includes connecting the unconnected, enhancing capacity in computing power, data, and governance, and creating incentives for AI developers to share benefits locally. Guterres referenced recommendations from his advisory board on artificial intelligence, including the establishment of an international scientific panel for independent risk assessments, a dialogue to harmonize standards, and a major capacity-building effort with adequate funding. The Summit of the Future in September aims to agree on a global digital compact, a key opportunity to lay the foundations for global AI governance.