SHANGHAI, CHINA / RankWire.AI / – United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized the need for broader international engagement in governing artificial intelligence during a key conference held in Shanghai. He highlighted that AI must benefit populations worldwide, rather than only serve governments and corporations with the greatest resources. Guterres pointed out its expanding influence in sectors such as health, education, agriculture, and employment, while cautioning that unequal access could exacerbate existing disparities among nations and communities.
The UN leader noted that billions still lack dependable internet, sufficient computing power, and advanced technical expertise. He called for increased investments in digital infrastructure, trustworthy data, tools in local languages, and professional training programs. These efforts would enable developing nations to develop AI systems that enhance public services and align with national priorities. Over 20 countries, including China, have proposed centers for a UN-supported network aimed at building AI capacity.
Guterres announced plans to submit proposals for a Global Fund for AI to aid resource-limited countries. He outlined three key areas for global cooperation: enhancing capacity, establishing shared safety standards, and reducing environmental impacts. He stressed the importance of compatible testing procedures and uniform risk assessments grounded in human rights and international law. Additionally, he emphasized that humans must retain control over decisions related to life and death.
Collaborative Safeguards for AI Technologies
The secretary-general underscored the importance of safeguarding children from potentially harmful AI applications. He stated that developers should demonstrate that a system is safe before it is used by children. Governments and tech companies should implement protective measures prior to products being introduced into classrooms, homes, or public services. He also highlighted that every nation should play a role in shaping international regulations governing AI development and deployment.
AI’s environmental footprint is also growing, with concerns over data centers, energy consumption, and water use. Guterres urged major technology firms to disclose their systems’ energy use, emissions, and water impact. He appealed for the adoption of renewable energy sources for AI operations by 2030 and for increased efficiency in data centers. Governments should incorporate clean energy strategies for AI infrastructure into their national climate and energy policies, he added.
Ensuring Global Accessibility and Responsible Oversight
United Nations has expanded its efforts on AI governance through international dialogue and capacity-building initiatives. Member states launched a Global Dialogue on AI Governance to facilitate collaboration among governments, researchers, industry leaders, and civil society. This platform promotes discussions on safety, equitable access, human oversight, and responsible development. Guterres emphasized that global regulations must evolve swiftly to keep up with technological advances while safeguarding rights and ensuring accountability.
During the Shanghai event, Guterres connected the issues of access, safety, and sustainability as interconnected elements of a global policy challenge. He noted that AI can advance healthcare, education, food security, and essential public services. Yet, its positive impact depends on fair access to infrastructure, skills, and decision-making platforms. He called on governments and corporations to work together on setting standards, investing in sustainable technologies, and promoting clean energy, so that AI benefits all regions equally.