Jessica Perez-Salinas, Writer

How do we manage the expansion and rapid development of artificial intelligence? At what point will our realities become synchronized with artificial intelligence? Nations across the globe are learning about and trying to address these issues everyday. There is no doubt that AI will change our world in unimaginable ways. 

Artificial Intelligence  (AI) is the development of technology that “simulates human learning, comprehension, problem solving, decision making, creativity and autonomy,” according to IBM. We see this in various forms, such as self-driving vehicles or language learning models. It has the potential to transform industries and create a new reality. AI is rapidly transforming our society, becoming a beacon for progress and chaos. It can further developments in the arts, sciences, and civil society with speed and efficiency. However, it can also be a source of destruction as it distorts and manipulates our reality. 

On Sep. 19, the United Nations AI Advisory Board released a report on the need for global governance over AI. The report titled “Governing AI for Humanity” calls for international AI regulation and examines the potential risks and benefits. The report was composed by 39 experts on AI from across the globe, including the UN’s Secretary General’s chief envoy on technology, Amandeep Singh Gill. The report emphasizes the need for intergovernmental cooperation to regulate AI advancements, arguing that “the very nature of the technology itself – transboundary in structure and application – necessitates a global approach.” Most striking is the Board’s suggestion to base the model of AI regulation on international human rights law.

Some of the risks posed by AI include the invasion of privacy and security, environmental damage through carbon emissions, and enabling distrust in democratic institutions through the spread of misinformation. 

Furthermore, the report acknowledges the AI divide, which is the uneven distribution of technology and AI resources, especially in the Global South. The report shows that only seven UN member states form part of non-UN AI initiatives. These seven states also belong to the G7, an intergovernmental organization composed of some of the most advanced democracies and economies. AI can lead to rapid scientific developments, aid economic recovery, and assist in reaching the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. However, AI achievements are dependent upon a country’s political and economic capabilities. Poor infrastructure, technology and policy can undermine the capabilities of AI, but the possibilities for progress are there. Global governance on AI can help lessen these burdens through the exchange of knowledge and resources. The report also highlights the need for equity and voice in discussions over AI.

AI affects everyone and it is integral that all countries have a voice in how to regulate it. AI advancements are rapidly outpacing the abilities of the UN, even more so than countries in the Global South. The report suggests the formation of an AI Fund accessible to UN member countries, which could also aid in the UN’s other developmental goals. Currently, the UN’s emergency fund and the World Bank’s Digital Development Partnership are possible multilateral options that countries can use to lessen the AI divide. AI can be beneficial for every nation, which is a key goal highlighted in the report. The future of AI depends on the collective interest of all nations to regulate technology greater than a few people can manage. 

Other global initiatives are in the works to combat the need for AI regulation including a bilateral agreement between the U.S and E.U plan to test AI security. 

Other key points in the report include the need for an AI office in the UN Secretariat and bi-annual discussion among all member states to have common ground for AI discussion. The future of AI is still in our hands. Time is of the essence, and we cannot let AI overcome us.