Delay in regulating AI could destabilize global security: UN Secretary-General

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has called on the Security Council to act decisively in establishing international regulations on artificial intelligence (AI), warning that any delays could exacerbate threats to peace and security. global security.

Speaking to ministers and ambassadors in New York, Guterres highlighted the urgency of responding to rapid advances in AI, which he said is outpacing humanity’s ability to effectively govern the technology.

Guterres highlighted the double-edged nature of AI, highlighting its potential benefits and risks. He noted that while AI can predict climate change-induced displacement or detect landmines, its misuse in military systems and digital security poses significant dangers.

“Every moment of delay in establishing international safeguards increases the risk for us all. No country should design, develop, deploy or use military applications of AI in armed conflict that violate international humanitarian and human rights laws. This includes relying on AI to select or engage targets autonomously,” » he declared.

Military applications

The Secretary-General has warned that the integration of AI into military systems could destabilize international security.

He highlighted alarming developments, including the potential combination of AI with nuclear weapons and the emergence of quantum AI systems.

“Recent conflicts have become testing grounds for military applications of AI.said Guterres, citing its use in autonomous surveillance, predictive policing and even life-and-death decisions.

“The fate of humanity must never be left to the “black box” of an algorithm. » he stressed, emphasizing the need for human oversight in decisions involving the use of force.

Guterres also raised concerns about the role of AI in the information space, particularly its potential to create deepfakes and AI-generated disinformation. These tools, he stressed, could manipulate public opinion, trigger crises and erode societal trust.

Additionally, the Secretary-General highlighted the environmental risks associated with AI, particularly the energy-intensive nature of data centers and geopolitical competition for critical minerals needed for AI technologies.

Global governance and resolutions

Guterres highlighted recent steps taken towards AI governance, including the adoption of the UN Global Digital Compact and two General Assembly resolutions aimed at strengthening cooperation and capacity building in AI. global scale.

He noted that a third resolution, focused on military AI, is expected to be considered by the General Assembly in the coming days.
Reiterating his call for a ban on lethal autonomous weapons, Guterres urged the Security Council to lead by example in preventing the weaponization of AI.
“Unprecedented global challenges call for unprecedented global cooperation. I urge you all to join forces to build a safe, secure and inclusive AI future. » he said.