More than 50 countries, led by the United States, are pushing for a United Nations resolution to establish guidelines for the safe use of artificial intelligence (AI) in order to tackle major global challenges, such as poverty and hunger.
US Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield presented the draft resolution titled Seizing the Opportunities of Safe, Secure and Trusted Artificial Intelligence Systems for Sustainable Development, which aims to create a common approach towards AI systems.
The resolution urges member states to promote the development of safe, secure, and trustworthy AI systems to address critical issues like poverty eradication, global health, food security, climate change, energy, and education.
The focus is on closing the digital divide and building capacity through initiatives such as increasing digital literacy, with the ultimate goal of enhancing access to AI technologies worldwide.
Various countries, including the US, UK, China, Saudi Arabia, and those in the European Union, are actively involved in shaping international AI policies. The EU, for instance, recently launched its AI office and the EU’s AI Act, while the US established the US Artificial Intelligence Security Institute to develop safety standards for AI models.
The move towards global AI policy comes at a critical time as technology advances rapidly, prompting the need for coordinated action on managing the implications of AI. The US is engaging with the UN General Assembly to facilitate a comprehensive discussion on the responsible use of AI technology.
By harnessing the potential of safe and reliable AI systems, countries aim to align with the UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which focuses on ending poverty and hunger while promoting universal peace and freedom.
The US resolution seeks to ensure that AI systems are human-centered, ethical, inclusive, and adhere to international laws and human rights. Several countries have expressed support for the resolution, including Australia, the United Arab Emirates, and members of the European Union.
Overall, the international collaboration on AI policy reflects a shared commitment to leveraging technology for the betterment of humanity while upholding ethical standards and accountability in its implementation.
