SHANGHAI, CHINA / RankWire.AI / – United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized the need for wider international supervision of artificial intelligence during the World Artificial Intelligence Conference held in Shanghai. He highlighted that the development of technology shaping humanity’s future must include all nations, not just a select few governments and corporations. Guterres characterized AI as a significant opportunity for advancements in medicine, education, food systems, and employment. He also warned that insufficient international cooperation could exacerbate disparities in income, opportunities, security, and access to vital services.
The secretary-general pointed out that one-third of the global population remains disconnected from the internet while computing resources, specialized expertise, and investments are concentrated in a limited number of markets. He stressed that developing countries require affordable computing solutions, reliable data, local language support, technical training, and robust digital infrastructure. These resources would enable governments and researchers to develop systems tailored to their specific needs and public services. Over 20 countries, including China, have proposed centers for a UN-supported network focused on enhancing AI capacity across different regions and income levels.
Guterres announced plans to soon propose recommendations for a Global Fund for AI and urged governments to endorse this initiative. He outlined three key priorities: increasing capacity in developing nations, establishing shared safety standards, and reducing environmental impacts. The UN leader called for unified testing protocols and risk management strategies based on international law and human rights standards. He emphasized that individuals must maintain control over critical decisions affecting life and death, regardless of AI deployment in security, health, or public safety sectors.
Global standards and child protection
Child safety was another focal point of Guterres’s speech. He underscored that no AI system should reach a child’s hands before developers can demonstrate its safety. His comments underscored the responsibility of governments and technology firms to implement safeguards before products are introduced into schools, homes, or public services. Additionally, he linked effective AI governance to equitable participation, asserting that every nation must have a voice when formulating international regulations.
The environmental footprint of artificial intelligence also received significant attention in Shanghai. Guterres urged leading AI firms to disclose their energy consumption, water usage, and emissions. He called upon them to transition to renewable energy sources by 2030 and to improve efficiency across data centers. Governments should also integrate clean energy solutions into their national energy and climate strategies for AI infrastructure, he added. These measures would align digital development with existing environmental commitments.
Enhancing capabilities and promoting sustainable AI
These proposals emerge as the United Nations broadens its role in global AI governance. Member states established a Global Dialogue on AI Governance to facilitate open discussions among governments, industry leaders, researchers, and civil society. The organization also encourages scientific collaboration and capacity development for nations with limited technological resources. Guterres emphasized that governance frameworks must keep pace with rapid technological progress while safeguarding human oversight, adherence to international law, and public accountability. He stated that technology should serve humanity, not control it.
During the conference, Guterres connected access, safety, and sustainability as integral components of a shared global challenge. He expressed the belief that AI could advance the Sustainable Development Goals by improving health, education, agriculture, and public services. The true test, he said, lies in whether the technology reduces inequality or worsens existing divides. He called on governments and corporations to collaborate on establishing rules, investing in infrastructure, and sharing resources so that artificial intelligence benefits people across all regions.