UN Secretary-General António Guterres warned that unregulated artificial intelligence (AI) poses a risk to democratic systems, exacerbating disinformation and gender inequality. He urged countries to establish AI governance guidelines and promote responsible use. Guterres noted AI’s potential benefits, including enhanced public participation and equality, but emphasized the need for international cooperation to mitigate risks.
UN Chief: Unregulated AI Threatens Democratic Systems
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UN Chief Calls for Global AI Governance Standards
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres cautioned that artificial intelligence (AI) could destabilize democratic systems if not regulated. In a speech marking the International Day for Democracy, Guterres urged countries to establish guidelines for AI governance.
Guterres’ warning comes amid growing concerns over AI’s role in disinformation campaigns. Recently, Kenyan President William Ruto sounded the alarm over AI-fueled disinformation. Other African leaders, including NEPAD’s Nardos Bekele, have highlighted the need for cohesion to harness technology for social good.
However, Guterres noted in remarks published in UN News that AI can promote public participation, enhance equality, and contribute to human development if used responsibly. On promoting gender equality, the UN chief insists that AI must serve humanity equitably and safely. He suggests this is not currently happening. To illustrate this point, the UN News report said:
“Harmful social norms and gender-based violence continue to hinder women’s political rights and media stereotypes often undermine their leadership capabilities. Additionally, online threats of violence against women in politics and public life are rising, potentially exacerbated by AI technologies.”
To counter this, the UN chief urged member countries to view the upcoming Summit of the Future as a platform to discuss ways to strengthen international cooperation on AI. A global consensus on AI will enable governments to block the use of the technology in fueling hate speech and distorting public opinion through deepfakes, Guterres said.
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