An artificial intelligence advisory body, created by the United Nations, has put forward seven recommendations to address the risks and governance gaps associated with AI. The advisory group, consisting of 39 members, was established last year in response to the rapid spread of AI technologies like OpenAI’s ChatGPT, which has raised concerns about misinformation, fake news, ad copyright infringement.
The recommendations, to be discussed at the UN's AI summit in September, focus on improving international governance of AI systems. One of the primary proposals calls for the creation of a global panel to provide impartial, reliable scientific knowledge on AI, and to reduce information asymmetries between AI labs and governments or the general public.
Since ChatGPT’s release in 2022, AI adoption has surged, prompting global discussions about its regulation. However, only a few countries have introduced laws to govern AI use. The European Union has led the charge with its comprehensive AI Act, while the United States has leaned toward voluntary compliance. Meanwhile, China has focused on maintaining social stability and government control over AI.
The UN report also recommended initiating a global policy dialogue on AI governance, establishing an AI standards exchange, and launching a global AI capacity development network. These measures aim to boost global governance capacities and ensure the responsible development and use of AI.
One of the more ambitious proposals is the creation of a global AI fund, intended to address gaps in collaboration and capacity across nations. The advisory body also emphasized the need for a global AI data framework to enhance transparency and accountability.
With the development of AI dominated by a few multinational corporations, the UN warns of the risk that these technologies could be imposed on the global population without adequate oversight or public input. By implementing these proposals, the advisory body aims to foster a more inclusive and transparent approach to AI governance, ensuring the technology benefits all nations and stakeholders.
The recommendations come in a global environment where AI regulation remains fragmented. While the EU has taken significant steps with its AI Act, countries like the U.S. and China have adopted different approaches, reflecting their unique governance philosophies and priorities.
These proposals will be part of broader discussions during the UN's upcoming AI summit, where member states will deliberate on the next steps to address the rapidly evolving AI landscape.
