The exponential growth of artificial intelligence (AI) has captured the attention of regulators worldwide. Countries like the US, the UK, the European Union, and other regions are actively working on legislation to oversee this technology. Now, the United Nations (UN) has entered the scene and is supporting a proposal by AI executives for the establishment of an international AI oversight body, similar to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has acknowledged the concerns raised by developers themselves about the potential risks associated with generative AI, which have become increasingly alarming. Guterres emphasizes the need to take these warnings seriously and address the challenges posed by this form of AI.
The United Nations (UN) has revealed its intention to establish a regulatory framework for artificial intelligence (AI). UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres plans to initiate the formation of a high-level AI advisory body by the end of 2023. This agency will be responsible for regularly reviewing AI governance and providing recommendations on aligning AI practices with human rights, the rule of law, and the common good.
Guterres expressed his support for an AI agency inspired by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), highlighting the potential benefits of such a model. However, he clarified that the creation of this agency falls under the jurisdiction of member states, not the UN Secretariat. In the coming days, Guterres intends to appoint a scientific advisory board comprising AI experts and chief scientists from UN agencies.
The IAEA, based in Vienna and established in 1957, currently has 176 member states. Its primary objective is to promote the safe and peaceful utilization of nuclear technologies while monitoring compliance with the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).
OpenAI, the organization behind ChatGPT, has also expressed support for the establishment of an AI advisory body similar to the IAEA. This body would be responsible for regulating AI deployment, ensuring compliance with safety standards, and monitoring computing power usage.
