United Nations Chief Calls for AI Safeguards and an End to Wars in Final General Assembly Address

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres delivered his final address to the General Assembly, emphasizing the urgent need for world leaders to impose regulations on Artificial intelligence (AI) and put an end to ongoing conflicts. He stressed the importance of prioritizing climate change and reforming UN institutions, which he believes are increasingly unable to address the growing array of global challenges. Guterres, who served as Prime Minister of Portugal prior to his role as Secretary-General, reiterated his advocacy for global oversight of the potential risks associated with AI.

This call for regulatory measures comes as the United Nations 15-member Security Council is set to engage with AI leaders for a briefing on the technology implications, highlighting the complexity and urgency of the issue he addressed in his concluding remarks.Guterres reflected on the organizational gridlock at a diplomatic meeting in New York attended by nearly 130 world leaders, notably marked by the absence of Chinese President Xi Jinping and other notable leaders including those from South Africa, India, and Germany.

He received sustained applause for advocating a two-state solution for Israelis and Palestinians, emphasizing the necessity for “polluters to pay” regarding climate change, and calling for reforms in international institutions issues he has consistently championed during his decade-long leadership of the United Nations. Guterres’ address underscored his efforts to position the UN as a mediator in global conflicts and a platform for governing emerging technologies, all while facing the challenges of major powers circumventing the organization and significant funding cuts from Washington.

Countries at the forefront of technological advancements must collaborate on managing the emerging safety risks associated with artificial intelligence (AI), as emphasized by António Guterres at the recent assembly. He urged global leaders to foster conditions conducive to the responsible development of AI, advocating for shared efforts to establish a multilateral risk management framework that incorporates credible oversight.

In alignment with these goals, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced a proposed AI safety notification mechanism aimed at facilitating dialogue between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping during their upcoming summit. This initiative highlights the importance of addressing AI-related incidents that possess national security implications, stemming from discussions on enhancing US-China cooperation in the AI sector.

A Champion for Global AI Governance (United Nations)

Antonio Guterres has been an advocate for the need for global governance over artificial intelligence (AI). In 2023, the United Nations established a 39 member advisory body focused on AI, comprising executives from technology companies, government officials, and academics from various nations including the United States, Russia, and Japan. This initiative reflects the growing recognition of AI potential risks and its implications for international peace and security.

That year also marked the first meeting of the United Nations Security Council dedicated to addressing the risks associated with AI. During this session, China cautioned that AI technology should not be allowed to become a “runaway horse,” emphasizing the necessity for regulation to prevent misuse. The United States simultaneously raised concerns regarding the potential for AI to be used as a tool for censorship or oppression.On a separate but related note, Guterres expressed his concerns regarding the escalating conflict in the Middle East, particularly where advances by Houthi forces threaten vital shipping routes in the Red Sea and tensions remain in the Strait of Hormuz.

He urged for de-escalation and dialogue, highlighting the importance of halting hostilities, ensuring the flow of humanitarian aid, and restoring navigational rights in accordance with international law. Guterres emphasized the need for unity and decisive action to address these global challenges.On the United Nations system, Secretary General Antonio Guterres addressed criticisms from figures such as Donald Trump, who labeled the organization as bloated and ineffective, particularly following the U.S. withdrawal from multiple United Nations agencies and cuts to funding.

Guterres stated that the mechanisms for collective action are increasingly under strain, and he noted that the structure of global institutions continues to reflect outdated power dynamics and interests. This address also served as a farewell to the global leaders he has collaborated with over his decade-long tenure. Guterres affirmed his ongoing commitment to the principles of the United Nations, expressing that despite stepping down as Secretary General on January 1st, he will persist in advocating for the possibility of peace and uphold the values enshrined in the United Nations Charter. He concluded his address with a message of gratitude and resolve, asserting, “I will never, ever give up.”