Artificial intelligence (AI) is establishing itself as a major driver of transformation in the contemporary world. Capable of improving healthcare systems, optimizing agricultural practices, and supporting the energy transition, AI represents an unprecedented opportunity to address complex societal challenges.

However, its potential cannot be fully realized without an appropriate global governance framework. The UN’s 2024 report, entitled “Governing AI for the Benefit of Humanity,” provides a strategic roadmap to address the ethical, economic, and social issues raised by this technological revolution.

The Promise of AI: Sustainable Development and Social Inclusion

The report highlights the multiple areas where AI can have a significant impact.
In the healthcare sector, advanced algorithms enable improved diagnostic accuracy, optimized hospital resource management, and the development of new treatments. In agriculture, predictive analysis systems help maximize yields while minimizing environmental footprint. AI also plays a crucial role in combating climate change by optimizing energy networks and modeling the effects of environmental policies. Finally, it is identified as a lever to accelerate the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in the areas of education, poverty reduction, and food security.

Current Gaps in Global Governance

Despite its promise, AI still exposes concerning weaknesses, particularly in governance.
The report highlights unequal representation on a global scale. Countries of the Global South, in particular, are largely excluded from international discussions. Moreover, the lack of coordination between national and regional initiatives leads to fragmentation of efforts, hindering the establishment of a coherent global vision. Finally, the implementation of commitments made remains insufficient, limiting the impact of adopted policies.

Major Risks Associated with AI

The UN identifies several risks associated with AI deployment. Among them is the spread of misinformation through generative models, algorithmic biases exacerbating inequalities, and risks to public safety, particularly related to autonomous weapons. Opaque AI systems deployed without adequate regulation pose challenges in terms of accountability and transparency. These dangers underscore the urgency of establishing global governance to prevent excesses that could threaten international peace and stability.

A Common Vision for Fair Governance

To address these challenges, the UN proposes a structured approach based on three pillars: a common vision and foundation of standards, and shared benefits.

The report recommends the creation of an international scientific panel on AI, inspired by the IPCC, to provide impartial analyses and recommendations based on scientific data. This panel would be tasked with examining the capabilities, risks, and opportunities related to AI, while promoting international collaboration. Furthermore, the establishment of a common foundation of standards would ensure interoperability of national and regional frameworks while avoiding fragmentation of approaches. Finally, mechanisms such as a global AI fund or a global data framework would promote inclusive participation, particularly for least developed countries.

Building Capacity Globally

The UN also emphasizes the need to develop human and technological capacities through a global network of centers of excellence. These centers, interconnected within a UN-affiliated network, would be tasked with:

  • Training AI talent in local contexts.
  • Providing equitable access to computing resources and data.
  • Supporting the development of applications adapted to the specific needs of different regions.

The objective is to reduce the digital divide and enable every country to benefit from the opportunities offered by AI.

An Agile and Inclusive Institutional Model

To coordinate these initiatives, the report proposes the creation of an AI Office within the UN Secretariat. This light and flexible body would act as a catalyst to implement recommendations, coordinate existing initiatives, and mobilize key stakeholders, including governments, the private sector, and civil society. It would also be tasked with promoting agile and interconnected governance, capable of adapting to the rapid evolution of AI.

The report concludes with a call to action: for a new global social contract for AI. This contract aims to ensure that the opportunities offered by this technology are equitably distributed and that risks do not disproportionately burden the most vulnerable populations.

An Opportunity to Seize

The UN’s 2024 report marks a crucial step in the reflection on global AI governance. It offers an ambitious and inclusive vision. But the success of this initiative will depend on the will of member states, stakeholder engagement, and the UN’s ability to mobilize resources and coordinate efforts. The future of AI remains to be written.

The central question remains: will this technology be used for the common good, or will its development be dictated by economic and geopolitical interests? This report constitutes a first step towards responsible and visionary governance of AI, in the service of humanity.