The United Nations General Assembly has established two new mechanisms to govern artificial intelligence: the Independent International Scientific Panel on AI and the Global Dialogue on AI Governance. The panel, comprising 40 experts from different regions, will provide evidence-based scientific assessments to guide policymakers on AI's opportunities, risks, and impacts.
The primary objective of these initiatives is to promote safe and trustworthy AI, ensuring that AI systems are designed, developed, and deployed in ways that respect human rights and promote sustainable development. Additionally, the initiatives aim to close digital divides and bridge the technological gap between nations, ensuring inclusive access to AI benefits.
The Global Dialogue on AI Governance will bring together governments, companies, and civil society to discuss critical issues, share best practices, and promote international cooperation on AI governance. The first dialogue session is scheduled for July 2026 in Geneva, followed by another session in New York in 2027. This platform will focus on key issues such as safe and trustworthy AI, transparency and accountability, open data and open AI models, human rights in AI development, and building capacity in developing countries.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres will select the panel members and has welcomed the General Assembly's decision, emphasizing the need for international cooperation on AI governance. By providing scientific assessments and fostering global dialogue, these initiatives aim to inform global decisions on AI governance and ensure that AI is developed and used in ways that benefit humanity.
