U.N. Launches AI Advisory Body

While the European Union and the United States pursue their unique approaches to AI, the United Nations (U.N.) has introduced a new advisory board dedicated to AI. The U.N. AI Advisory Body, unveiled on October 26, aims to scrutinize the risks, opportunities, and international governance of AI. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres emphasized the urgent need to address the transformative potential of AI.

With 39 members, the body includes tech executives like Sony Chief Technology Officer Hiroaki Kitano and Open AI CTO Mira Murati, along with government officials from Mexico to South Africa and academics from countries such as the U.S. and Japan. The diverse composition of the body, representing six continents, underscores its commitment to global collaboration. The body is anticipated to deliver a preliminary report by the end of 2023 and a final report in 2024, with recommendations to be discussed at a U.N. summit in September 2024.

Upon the body’s announcement, the Secretary-General expressed the view that AI could contribute to addressing many global challenges. “But all this depends on AI technologies being harnessed responsibly, and made accessible to all – including the developing countries that need them most. As things stand, AI expertise is concentrated in a handful of companies and countries. This could deepen global inequalities and turn digital divides into chasms.” He highlighted that the advisory body marks the beginning of efforts to responsibly leverage the benefits of AI.

For those contemplating the potential impact of the U.N. and other governmental bodies worldwide, feel free to contact BABL AI. One of their audit experts can provide valuable guidance and support.