UN Secretary-General António Guterres on Thursday launched the global dialogue on AI governance, calling it a “cornerstone” for building a global system to ensure safe, trustworthy, and inclusive artificial intelligence.
Speaking at a high-level meeting during the 80th session of the UN General Assembly, Guterres said the initiative is built on three pillars, policy, science, and capacity, and described it as the “principal global forum” for shaping AI’s future.
The dialogue aims to develop governance frameworks grounded in international law and human rights, harmonize rules across countries, remove barriers, and promote open innovation, including shared resources and open-source tools.
Guterres announced the creation of an International Scientific Panel on AI, a 40-member independent body from multiple regions and disciplines that will place science “at the heart of global efforts.” He also said consultations will soon begin with member states and donors on creating a Global Fund for AI Capacity Development.
UNGA President Annalena Baerbock stressed that the initiative is designed to give every country, large or small, a voice in shaping AI technologies. She highlighted AI’s potential to accelerate progress on 80% of the Sustainable Development Goals but warned that focus, governance, and sustainability remain key challenges.
Baerbock called for capacity-building across all regions, fair representation in decision-making, and governance mechanisms rooted in ethics, equity, and sustainability.
