UN Chief António Guterres Warns Against AI Militarisation At BRICS Summit In Brazil

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has highlighted the risks of militarising artificial intelligence. He emphasised the need for a global response that prioritises equality and human rights. Developing countries should play a significant role in AI governance, he stated at the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Guterres stressed that AI is transforming economies and societies. He called for careful guidance to minimise risks while maximising benefits. The Pact for the Future proposes creating a UN-led international scientific advisory body on AI. This body will offer impartial advice to all Member States.

The Secretary-General advocated for regular global discussions on AI under the United Nations' leadership. These dialogues should include all Member States and relevant stakeholders. He insisted that AI should not be monopolised by a few but should benefit everyone, especially developing nations.

Guterres plans to present a report soon with innovative financing options to support AI development in these countries. He urged the BRICS group to back these initiatives, highlighting their importance for equitable AI governance.

He remarked, "We cannot govern AI effectively or equitably without addressing deeper structural imbalances in our global system." Guterres noted that we live in a multipolar world with changing power dynamics, necessitating multilateral governance with suitable global institutions.

The Secretary-General pointed out that current institutions are outdated and need reform. He emphasised the importance of Security Council reform and mentioned outcomes from the recent Financing for Development conference in Seville. These included calls for increased participation of developing countries in global economic governance.

Enhancing Economic Governance

The conference also highlighted the need for effective debt restructuring mechanisms and tripling the lending capacity of multilateral development banks. This includes concessional finance and local currency lending, which are crucial for closing the digital divide.

Guterres underscored that these efforts are essential for countries, particularly in the Global South, to fully harness AI's potential as a driver of inclusive growth and sustainable development.

He concluded by stating that cooperation built on trust remains humanity’s greatest innovation. This cooperation begins with all nations respecting international law without exception.

With inputs from WAM