The United Nations stressed that the development of artificial intelligence (AI), “for the good of all” requires guardrails grounded in human rights, transparency, and accountability.
Speaking at the “Artificial Intelligence for Good” Global Summit organized by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasised the importance of human rights, transparency, and accountability as essential guardrails for the development of artificial intelligence (AI) “for the good of all.”
He also emphasised the imperative of ensuring that AI benefits every individual, including the significant portion of the global population still offline. Consensus on guiding norms for its deployment is urgently required to shape a future that upholds the principles of inclusivity and fairness.
AI FOR GOOD: LEVERAGING TECHNOLOGY TO ACHIEVE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS
The “AI for Good” Global Summit, convened in Geneva, serves as a platform for governments, civil society, UN agencies, innovators, and investors to explore how Artificial intelligence can contribute to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). ITU Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin stressed the importance of global cooperation in maximizing its potential while effectively preventing and mitigating potential harms. As the world faces challenges in meeting the SDGs by the designated deadline, leveragingArtificial intelligence for accelerated progress becomes a shared responsibility.
BALANCING POTENTIAL AND RISKS: MITIGATING HARMS AND ENSURING INCLUSIVE DEVELOPMENT
While AI holds immense potential for advancing various domains, including healthcare, renewable energy, and agriculture, it also carries inherent risks. Bogdan-Martin cautioned against a dystopian future where AI leads to widespread job loss, the dissemination of uncontrolled disinformation, or exclusive benefits limited to wealthy nations. UN human rights chief Volker Türk previously emphasized the need to anchor AI development in rights considerations to protect human agency, dignity, and fundamental rights. Hence, ensuring inclusive, safe, and responsible deployment of Artificial intelligence becomes a crucial focus for the international community.
The Path Ahead: Shaping the Future of AI with Governance and Responsibility
Described as a “historic” moment, the AI Summit underscores the urgency of establishing AI governance frameworks to shape its future trajectory. The ITU chief emphasizes the significance of pushing for inclusive and responsible AI deployment. Recognizing that its future is yet unwritten, stakeholders must collectively work towards maximizing its benefits while minimizing potential risks.
Innovation Showcased: Robotics for Good Exhibition
Coinciding with the Summit, the “Robotics for Good” exhibition features over 50 robots, demonstrating their potential to support healthcare, education, waste reduction, disability assistance, and disaster response. Notably, humanoid robots are showcased as caregivers and companions for the elderly, exemplifying its potential to positively affect people’s lives.
By prioritizing human rights, transparency, and accountability, and fostering international cooperation, the global community can harness AI’s power to advance societal well-being while mitigating associated risks.
