UN calls for global effort to prevent artificial intelligence from becoming uncontrollable

Volker Türk, the UN high commissioner for human rights, called for a large-scale international effort to establish safety safeguards around artificial intelligence, warning that the most advanced systems could become so powerful they are no longer controllable.

Speaking at the opening of the 63rd session of the UN Human Rights Council, Türk said he shared industry experts’ concern about “the possible existential risk” posed by advanced AI. He cited systems that allegedly escaped testing environments or blackmailed their own developers to prevent shutdown as examples of technology acquiring excessive power.

Türk also warned that a small group of people has “almost unlimited” power over AI development. In his view, delays in regulation primarily benefit large technology companies, their owners and their backers.

“

the possible existential risk

He acknowledged recent governance efforts, including the Global Dialogue on AI, the Independent International Scientific Panel on AI and European Commission measures concerning platform responsibility. But he said governments must move faster.

Türk urged countries that host AI development centres, along with those involved in the technology’s supply chains, to agree on clear common limits, require independent verification and secure much stronger industry cooperation on safety. He said AI governance must also address human rights, employment, democracy and the environment. He added that he would soon write to companies in the sector, asking them to adopt risk-reduction measures within their control.

“

almost unlimited