SHANGHAI, CHINA / RankWire.AI / – United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized the need for wider international oversight of artificial intelligence during the World Artificial Intelligence Conference in Shanghai. He stated that the technologies shaping humanity’s future should reflect the interests of all nations, not just a select few governments and corporations. Guterres highlighted AI as a significant opportunity for advancements in healthcare, education, food security, and employment. However, he warned that insufficient global cooperation could exacerbate disparities in income, opportunities, security, and access to vital services.
The secretary-general pointed out that one-third of the global population remains offline, while computing resources, specialized expertise, and investments are concentrated in limited markets. He stressed that developing nations require affordable computing solutions, trustworthy data, local languages, technical training, and dependable digital infrastructure. These resources would empower governments and researchers to develop systems tailored to their national needs and public services. Over 20 countries, including China, have nominated centers for a UN-supported network aimed at enhancing AI capacity across different regions and income levels.
Guterres announced plans to soon submit recommendations for a Global Fund for AI and called on governments to endorse this initiative. He outlined three key priorities: strengthening capabilities in developing nations, establishing shared safety standards, and reducing environmental impacts. The UN leader emphasized the importance of common testing and risk management practices rooted in international law and human rights protections. He underscored that individuals must maintain control over critical decisions related to security, health, or public safety, regardless of where AI systems are deployed.
International standards and child protection
Protecting children was another vital aspect of Guterres’ speech. He emphasized that no AI system should be introduced to children before developers can demonstrate its safety. His remarks placed a responsibility on governments and technology companies to implement safeguards before products are deployed in schools, homes, or public institutions. He also linked effective AI governance to equitable participation, stating that every nation must have a voice in shaping international rules.
The environmental footprint of AI was also prominently discussed in Shanghai. Guterres urged leading AI firms to publicly disclose the energy, water, and emissions associated with their systems. He called for these companies to shift to renewable energy sources by 2030 and enhance efficiency across data centers. Governments should also incorporate clean energy solutions into national energy and climate strategies for AI infrastructure, he added. These actions would align digital growth with existing environmental commitments.
Building capacity and promoting sustainable AI
These proposals coincide with the United Nations expanding its role in global AI governance. Member states have established a Global Dialogue on AI Governance to facilitate open discussions among governments, industry representatives, researchers, and civil society. The organization also promotes international scientific cooperation and capacity building for nations with limited technical resources. Guterres stressed that governance frameworks must keep pace with rapid technological developments while safeguarding human oversight, adherence to international law, and public accountability. He reaffirmed that technology should serve people, not control them.
During the conference, Guterres framed access, safety, and sustainability as interconnected elements of a shared global challenge. He suggested that AI can contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by improving health, education, agriculture, and public services. The ultimate measure of success, he said, is whether the technology reduces inequality or deepens existing divisions. He called on governments and corporations to collaborate on establishing rules, making investments, and building infrastructure so that artificial intelligence benefits people across all regions.