This week, the United Nations Security Council is scheduled to have its inaugural formal discussion on artificial intelligence (A.I.) in New York. Britain intends to initiate an international conversation regarding the impact of A.I. on global peace and security.
The upcoming meeting on July 18, as revealed by U.K. Ambassador Barbara Woodward, will serve as the focal point of the United Kingdom’s council presidency this month. The meeting will feature presentations from international A.I. experts and Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.
A.I. An Existential Threat To Humanity
In a recent statement, Guterres emphasized the urgent concerns surrounding highly advanced A.I., highlighting that the warnings regarding its potential consequences are particularly pronounced among those responsible for its development.
“These scientists and experts have called on the world to act, declaring A.I. an existential threat to humanity on a par with the risk of nuclear war,” the U.N. chief said.
Governments worldwide are contemplating ways to address the risks associated with emerging A.I. technology, which has the potential to reshape the global economy and alter the international security landscape.
During its current presidency of the U.N. Security Council, Britain is actively pursuing a leadership role in regulating A.I. It will oversee the discussion on Tuesday, chaired by British Foreign Secretary James Cleverly.
A Governing Body Like The IAEA Is Necessary For A.I.
In June, UN Secretary-General Guterres endorsed a proposal by certain A.I. directives, suggesting establishing an international A.I. oversight body similar to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
In September, Secretary-General Guterres announced his intention to establish an advisory board on artificial intelligence, tasked with formulating initiatives for the United Nations to undertake. Additionally, he expressed his positive disposition towards establishing a new U.N. agency focused on A.I., using the International Atomic Energy Agency as a potential model. This agency would possess knowledge-based expertise and certain regulatory powers.
Ambassador Woodward highlighted the United Kingdom’s objective of promoting a multilateral approach to effectively manage the opportunities and risks associated with artificial intelligence. She emphasized the necessity for a global endeavor in this regard.
Weighing The Benefit & Cost Of AI
Woodward acknowledged A.I.’s tremendous benefits, including its potential to support U.N. development programs, enhance humanitarian aid operations, facilitate peacekeeping efforts, and aid in conflict prevention through data collection and analysis. Furthermore, she emphasized that A.I. can potentially bridge the gap between developing and developed nations.
However, Woodward stressed the importance of addressing the significant security concerns associated with A.I., as its risks raise serious questions requiring attention and resolution.
