UN Secretary-General calls for global AI governance at AI Action Summit in Paris

In a powerful and urgent address at the AI Action Summit in Paris on February 11, 2025, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres issued a clarion call for global cooperation on Artificial Intelligence (AI) governance. Hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the summit gathered world leaders, technology experts, and policymakers to address the challenges and opportunities presented by AI, with a focus on equitable access and responsible development.

Mr. Guterres began his speech with a sobering question: "Are we ready for the future?" His answer was unequivocal: "No. We may not even be ready for the present." He highlighted the rapid pace of AI development, which has moved from science fiction to reality, transforming industries such as healthcare, education, agriculture, and more. While acknowledging AI’s potential to drive innovation and accelerate progress, he warned of the significant risks it poses if left unregulated, emphasizing the need for inclusive global governance.

One of the central themes of the UN Secretary-General address was the growing divide between AI "haves" and "have-nots." He pointed out that while some nations and corporations are making record investments in AI, many developing countries are being left behind. This disparity, he cautioned, could deepen existing geopolitical and economic inequalities unless urgent action is taken to ensure broader access to AI resources and knowledge.

To address this imbalance, Mr. Guterres called for global collaboration, stressing that AI should serve as a bridge rather than a barrier between developed and developing nations. He highlighted the United Nations as a key platform for fostering AI solidarity and governance, pointing to the Global Digital Compact adopted at the UN Summit of the Future as a landmark agreement that establishes a universal framework for AI governance.

He further outlined several initiatives to promote equitable and responsible AI development. Central to these efforts is the proposed Independent International Scientific Panel on AI, which he described as a critical mechanism for fostering a shared understanding of AI risks, benefits, and opportunities. By bringing together global expertise, the panel aims to bridge knowledge gaps and guide policy decisions. Guterres urged all nations to support its establishment without delay.

In addition, he announced the creation of a Global Dialogue on AI Governance within the UN framework. This initiative is designed to ensure that all countries, regardless of their technological advancement, have a voice in shaping the future of AI. The dialogue will work to align AI governance efforts globally, prevent misuse, and uphold human rights in AI applications.

The Secretary-General emphasized the importance of AI capacity-building in developing nations. He noted that AI development is not just about transferring technology but also about creating sustainable digital infrastructure, fostering local talent, and empowering countries to actively participate in the AI revolution. He praised the launch of the AI Foundation for Public Interest as a step toward making AI resources more widely accessible.

Guterres also addressed the environmental impact of AI, noting that while the technology has the potential to advance climate action and energy efficiency, it also demands significant energy resources. He called for the development of AI systems that consume less power and urged integration with smart grids to optimize energy use and ensure AI runs on sustainable energy sources.

Closing his address, Guterres posed three critical questions: "Who decides what problems AI should or should not solve? Who benefits most from its deployment? Who bears the cost of its mistakes?" He stressed that these questions affect everyone and, therefore, demand inclusive and transparent answers. He urged governments, technology leaders, development banks, philanthropists, and academia to work together to create fair AI policies and business models.

By:  Nana Appiah Acquaye