AI governance: The UN’s approach

As technology advances at an unprecedented pace, artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming a core part of our daily lives. From healthcare and finance to retail and manufacturing, AI is driving efficiency and accuracy by continuously learning from data. Unlike human workers, AI can operate 24/7, boosting productivity in ways that were previously unimaginable. However, as AI becomes more embedded in society, so do the ethical and practical challenges that come with it. The question is no longer whether AI will transform our world, but how we ensure it does so responsibly.

One of the biggest concerns surrounding AI is its susceptibility to bias, reinforcing the need for proper governance. Cases like Facebook’s AI mistakenly labeling Black men as primates and Twitter’s racial bias in image-cropping algorithms highlight how AI can perpetuate harmful stereotypes if left unchecked. Additionally, AI-driven misinformation is becoming an increasing problem. Tech giants such as Apple and Google have faced backlash over AI-generated errors, from misleading search results to incorrect news summaries. These issues demonstrate why strong oversight and accountability in AI development are crucial.

The United Nations has played a key role in helping governments navigate AI’s opportunities and risks. In 2024, the UN General Assembly adopted a landmark resolution emphasizing the importance of protecting human rights in AI’s development and use. American diplomat Linda Thomas-Greenfield summed up the global challenge, stating that the international community has both the opportunity and responsibility to govern this technology rather than let it govern us. This captures the essence of the UN’s approach, which stresses that without proper regulation, AI could have far-reaching consequences for society.

The General Assembly has also helped clarify how AI should be governed. While recognizing AI’s potential to accelerate progress toward the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, it also acknowledged the risks of unregulated AI. The resolution called on all member states to refrain from using AI systems that violate international human rights laws or pose undue risks to fundamental freedoms. It reaffirmed that human rights must be protected both offline and online, throughout AI’s entire lifecycle. Additionally, the Assembly urged governments, private sector leaders, and research institutions to work together in developing regulatory frameworks that ensure AI is used in a safe, secure, and trustworthy manner.

This approach is essential in mitigating AI’s risks by establishing clear ethical guidelines and safeguards against misuse. By prioritizing human rights protections and ensuring accountability, these regulations give users more control over AI-driven systems while reducing the potential for harm. International collaboration is also key. Ongoing dialogue between nations is vital as AI continues to evolve. A global, cooperative approach allows countries to share best practices, address emerging risks, and create a regulatory landscape that adapts to technological advancements while safeguarding public interests.

One of AI’s most pressing ethical challenges is its impact on employment. The International Monetary Fund estimates that nearly 40% of jobs could be affected by AI, exacerbating financial inequality. While AI can streamline operations, its ability to replace human workers raises concerns about widespread job displacement. If left unchecked, AI’s increasing sophistication could lead to a future where human interaction in the workforce is significantly diminished. This shift would not only reshape economies but could also redefine the role of human labor itself.

The UN’s approach to AI governance offers a critical framework for addressing these challenges. By implementing strict regulations and ensuring AI serves as a tool for societal benefit rather than harm, many of its risks can be mitigated. AI has enormous potential, but without responsible oversight, it could also pose unprecedented dangers. The international community must act now to shape AI’s future, ensuring that it empowers rather than undermines humanity.