The United Nations has established a 40-member scientific panel to examine the risks and impacts of artificial intelligence (AI), despite opposition from the United States. The move follows warnings from former AI employees about the potential dangers of rapidly advancing technology.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres described the panel as a “foundational step toward global scientific understanding of AI,” noting that it will provide independent analysis to help all member states participate in AI discussions on an equal footing.
A Global Panel for AI Oversight
The Independent International Scientific Panel on Artificial Intelligence will produce an annual report that evaluates AI’s risks, opportunities, and societal impacts. The UN calls it the “first global scientific body of its kind.”
The 40 experts were chosen from more than 2,600 applicants after an independent review conducted by UN bodies and the International Telecommunication Union. They will serve three-year terms, with Europe holding 12 seats, including representatives from France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Poland, Belgium, Finland, Austria, Latvia, Turkey, and Russia.
Alarm Bells From the AI Community
Concerns about AI’s rapid development have grown in recent months. Former Anthropic researcher Mrinank Sharma warned in an open letter that “the world is in peril” due to AI and other global crises. Former OpenAI researcher Zoe Hitzig expressed “deep reservations” about her previous employer’s strategy.
High-profile figures, including Dario Amodei, Sam Altman, and Steve Wozniak, have also publicly raised concerns about AI safety and ethics.
U.S. Voices Strong Opposition
The United States has criticized the panel, with its representative Lauren Lovelace calling it “a significant overreach of the UN’s mandate and competence” and arguing that AI governance should not be dictated by the UN.
Despite this opposition, UN officials emphasize that the panel is designed to offer independent scientific guidance rather than enforce rules, helping countries navigate AI development responsibly and with a shared understanding of its potential risks and benefits.
