Highlights:

  • The resolution, sponsored by the U.S. and co-sponsored by 123 nations, was unanimously adopted and is backed by all 193 U.N. member nations.
  • The U.S. National Security Adviser stated that the resolution sets a course for privacy protection and prevention of misuse.

Recently, the UN approved a global AI resolution, prioritizing the protection of personal data, monitoring AI risks, and ensuring human rights are upheld.

The resolution, sponsored by the U.S. and co-sponsored by 123 other nations, was unanimously adopted and will receive backing from all 193 U.N. member nations. This nonbinding agreement offers a holistic approach for nations utilizing AI, emphasizing the importance of governing the technology rather than being governed by it.

These remarks were made by Linda Thomas-Greenfield, U.S. Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the U.N., upon introducing the resolution. She emphasized that the resolution will also support less developed countries, ensuring they do not lag behind in the realm of AI.

“So let us reaffirm that AI will be created and deployed through the lens of humanity and dignity, safety and security, human rights and fundamental freedoms. Let us commit to closing the digital gap within and between nations and using this technology to advance shared priorities around sustainable development,” she said.

U.S. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan reiterated these views in a White House press release, emphasizing that the resolution will promote “equitable access” to AI worldwide while addressing the inherent risks associated with its development. He highlighted that the resolution outlines measures to safeguard privacy, prevent misuse, and mitigate biases and discrimination.

He said, “The resolution squarely addresses the priorities of many developing countries, such as encouraging AI capacity building and harnessing the technology to advance sustainable development. Critically, the resolution makes clear that protecting human rights and fundamental freedoms must be central to the development and use of AI systems.”

Despite numerous concerns surrounding the advancement of AI, particularly regarding privacy, the potential displacement of millions in the workforce, and the fear of AI surpassing human control, certain individuals within the tech industry view it as a potential “gift” for humanity. They argue that AI can only contribute to human prosperity if governments adopt a more laissez-faire approach.

That sentiment is shared by Marc Andreessen, the billionaire Co-founder of the venture capital firm Andreessen Horowitz. He claimed that allowing businesses to develop AI without putting them through a “moral panic” should be our “moral obligation.” The “best thing our civilization has ever created,” according to him, is artificial intelligence, and “regulatory capture” shouldn’t impede its progress. Adopting a “Greed is good” stance, he stated that while businesses will struggle to gain AI dominance, the benefits will eventually filter down to lower global income disparity and raise living standards.

Although Andreessen hasn’t said anything about the U.N. resolution yet, the business community has already expressed some support for it. Vice Chair and President of Microsoft Corp. Brad Smith stated on X recently, “We fully support the @UN’s adoption of the comprehensive AI resolution. The consensus reached today marks a critical step towards establishing international guardrails for the ethical and sustainable development of AI, ensuring this technology serves the needs of everyone.”