The United Nations (UN) has taken significant steps in establishing guidelines for the governance of artificial intelligence (AI), with over 120 Member States backing a draft resolution focused on safe, secure, and trustworthy AI systems. Adopted on March 21, 2024, the resolution, titled “Seizing the Opportunities of Safe, Secure and Trustworthy Artificial Intelligence Systems for Sustainable Development,” aims to protect human rights and personal data while addressing the risks associated with AI. This initiative is part of a broader effort to align technological advancements with the UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Subsequent to the March Resolution, the UN’s High-level Advisory Body on Artificial Intelligence released its final report on September 19, 2024, emphasizing the need for coordinated global governance of AI. The report, titled “Governing AI for Humanity,” suggests the establishment of an international scientific panel dedicated to AI, fostering dialogue among policymakers, creating standards exchanges, and forming a capacity development network. It also proposes a global AI fund and stresses the importance of equitable distribution of AI benefits while minimizing associated risks.
Furthering these efforts, the UN General Assembly adopted another resolution on August 26, 2025, which established the “Independent International Scientific Panel on Artificial Intelligence” and the “Global Dialogue on Artificial Intelligence Governance.” The Panel will consist of 40 experts appointed by the General Assembly and is aimed at promoting scientific understanding of AI, while the Dialogue will serve as a forum for governments and stakeholders to discuss cooperation and share best practices. The inaugural Dialogue is set to launch during the 80th session of the General Assembly in September 2025, with additional meetings planned at the AI for Good Global Summit in Geneva in 2026 and a forum in New York in 2027.
While the UN lacks the authority to enforce laws or regulations concerning AI, it can recommend measures and initiate studies to promote the development of international law. Both the March and August Resolutions encourage Member States to adopt national regulations and governance frameworks tailored to their specific needs. Although the Resolutions are non-legally binding, they reflect a collective commitment to fostering an environment conducive to the responsible use of AI globally.
In addition to the resolutions, existing international frameworks continue to influence AI development. International human rights laws and principles, such as the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, remain applicable to AI actors. The overarching goal is to create an inclusive and equitable digital landscape, where technological advancements benefit all countries, particularly developing nations.
The Resolutions do not define AI explicitly but refer to “safe, secure and trustworthy artificial intelligence systems” within the non-military domain. This definition encompasses the entire lifecycle of AI systems, emphasizing their reliability, ethical considerations, and alignment with human rights standards. The UN encourages Member States and stakeholders from various sectors to collaborate on regulatory frameworks that ensure these AI systems contribute positively to societal goals, including the Sustainable Development Goals.
Furthermore, the core issues addressed by the March Resolution include bridging digital divides, promoting fair data governance, and facilitating cooperation among various stakeholders. By emphasizing the need for effective governance, the UN aims to ensure that AI systems are transparent, accountable, and operate in ways that respect human rights. The establishment of the Panel and the Dialogue reflects a proactive approach toward understanding AI’s implications, focusing on capacity-building in developing countries to help them harness the benefits of this technology.
While the Resolutions outline goals and frameworks, they do not impose specific compliance requirements or designate enforcement mechanisms. The General Assembly will consider the nominations for the Panel based on expertise and geographical balance, ensuring that diverse perspectives contribute to AI governance discussions. Once appointed, the Panel will provide annual assessments and updates, aiding in the ongoing dialogue about AI’s challenges and opportunities.
The focus on AI governance within the UN underscores the growing recognition of the technology’s potential impact on global society. As AI continues to evolve, the need for collaborative international frameworks will be critical in navigating the associated risks while maximizing the benefits for sustainable development. The establishment of these bodies indicates a significant step toward building an inclusive global dialogue on AI, emphasizing cooperation, transparency, and respect for human rights as core principles guiding its future development.
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