Speaking at the opening of the World AI Conference in Shanghai on Friday, Guterres described AI as “humanity’s greatest opportunity in the 21st century” but warned that it could also become “one of its greatest risks” if its development and governance are not managed inclusively. “Technology that will shape the future of humanity must be shaped by all of humanity,” Guterres said.
Guterres stressed that AI governance cannot be left in the hands of a small number of countries or corporations. “Every nation needs a seat at the table,” Guterres said.
The remarks come as the UN intensifies efforts to establish a more inclusive global framework for AI governance. Recent initiatives include the adoption of the Global Digital Compact, the creation of the Independent International Scientific Panel on AI and the launch of the Global Dialogue on AI Governance.
According to Guterres, the focus must now shift from commitments to implementation, ensuring all countries have access to the knowledge, resources and capacity needed to benefit from AI.
Guterres said AI has the potential to accelerate medical breakthroughs, improve education, strengthen food systems and support progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals.
However, Guterres warned that many developing countries risk being left behind. “One-third of humanity is still offline,” Guterres said.
Guterres noted that computing power, technical expertise and investment remain concentrated in a relatively small number of countries and companies, a trend that could widen existing inequalities.
“Unless those disparities are addressed, AI could lead to greater inequalities, greater divides in income, in opportunity, in security,” Guterres said.
To help bridge this gap, Guterres said more than 20 countries, including China, have nominated centres to participate in a UN-supported Global Network for Exchange and Cooperation on AI Capacity Building.
Guterres also announced plans to present recommendations for a Global Fund for AI, designed to improve access to AI capabilities and infrastructure for developing nations.
Setting out priorities for the future, Guterres highlighted three key areas requiring urgent attention: expanding AI capacity in developing countries, establishing international safety standards and improving environmental sustainability.
According to Guterres, developing countries should be able to build AI systems using local data, languages and expertise rather than relying solely on technologies developed elsewhere.
Guterres also called for internationally recognised standards on testing, safety and risk management. “Human rights must be protected,” Guterres said. “Humans must keep control over every life-and-death decision.”
Guterres added that “no AI system should be put in a child’s hands before it has been proven safe”.
On environmental sustainability, Guterres urged major AI companies to disclose the environmental impact of their systems and transition operations to renewable energy by 2030. “The defining question is whether that transformation will reduce inequalities or reinforce them,” Guterres said. “Whether it will concentrate power or expand opportunity.”
–UN/ChannelAfrica–
