The UN Secretary-General's High-level Advisory Body on AI (HLAB-AI) has released a report, "Governing AI for Humanity," addressing global AI risks and proposing a framework to ensure the technology's benefits are shared globally. It highlights the need for a globally inclusive AI governance system and offers seven recommendations to fill gaps in current regulations.
The report is based on consultations with over 2,000 participants worldwide, incorporating diverse perspectives through written submissions, discussions, and engagements with various stakeholders. This comprehensive process provided a broad view of how AI should be governed.
The final report emphasizes the importance of international collaboration to manage AI risks while promoting human rights. It calls for establishing a global AI governance structure that balances technological innovation with ethical and societal concerns.
The following seven main takeaways have been summarized by
Mr. Mohamed Elbashirwe:
1. Establishing an International Scientific Panel on AI
The report suggests creating a panel of experts from various fields to provide insights on AI's development and risks. This panel would help policymakers understand the complexities of AI technology and its potential effects. It would release annual reports and themed research summaries to keep everyone informed.
2. Launching a Global AI Governance Forum
A biannual forum is proposed to bring together governments, industry leaders, researchers, and civil society to discuss AI-related issues. This forum would serve as a platform for sharing best practices, aligning international AI policies, and responding to major AI challenges. It would operate similarly to the UN's Internet Governance Forum, offering non-binding recommendations.
3. Creating an AI Standards Exchange
The report recommends creating a platform where global definitions and standards for evaluating AI systems can be developed and maintained. This AI Standards Exchange would also work on new standards and address gaps in current frameworks, with the goal of establishing widely recognized global standards for AI.
4. Developing a Capacity Development Network
A global network connected to AI research centers is proposed to offer training, resources, and infrastructure to countries and organizations that currently have limited AI capabilities. This network would help bridge the gap in AI expertise and resources globally.
5. Introducing a Global Fund for AI
The report proposes a global fund that would provide financial aid, AI computing power, and access to datasets for developing countries. This would enable them to build their AI capabilities and participate more fully in the global AI landscape.
6. Implementing a Global AI Data Framework
A global data framework is suggested to set common standards for managing AI training data, ensuring it promotes diversity in culture and language. This framework would create guidelines for data sharing and interoperability across borders.
7. Establishing an AI Office within the UN Secretariat
The report calls for the creation of a new, flexible AI office within the UN to coordinate AI efforts across different UN agencies and engage with stakeholders. This office would serve as the central point for global AI governance and oversee the implementation of the report's recommendations.