International: Review of the UN AI Advisory body interim report on Global AI governance

03 Jan 2024    3 minute read
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In brief

On 23 December 2023, the United Nations Advisory Body on Artificial Intelligence released an interim report, marking a step forward in the global discourse on Artificial Intelligence (AI) governance. This report, a collaborative effort of experts from government, the private sector, civil society, and academia, calls for a robust global framework to regulate AI. Its publication underscores the urgency and complexity of addressing AI's rapidly evolving landscape.

Contents

  1. Key Highlights
  2. Principles and functions for a global AI governance framework
  3. Conclusion and future steps

Key Highlights

Global AI governance: A critical imperative: The report emphasizes the necessity of a global approach to AI governance, transcending national efforts like the EU's AI Act or the US Executive Order on AI. Recognizing the UN's unique position to lead this endeavor, the report suggests a framework that unites diverse international perspectives, ensuring that no region or sector is left behind.

Risks and opportunities in the AI landscape: The Advisory Body's approach to AI risks is novel, categorizing them in relation to vulnerabilities that impact individuals, groups, society, the economy, and ecosystems. It underlines that AI's benefits and risks are not evenly distributed, warning of a scenario where AI's positive aspects are primarily accessible to wealthy societies, exacerbating global inequalities.

  • Opportunities: AI presents enormous opportunities for growth and innovation, especially in key sectors like healthcare and agriculture. However, the report highlights a stark contrast in the Global South's capacity to leverage these benefits, citing limitations in resources and infrastructure. This disparity underscores the need for inclusive governance that enables all countries to harness AI's potential.
  • Risks: The report uniquely frames AI risks, shifting focus from technical risks to broader vulnerabilities affecting society at large. These include the reinforcement of biases, the potential for increased surveillance, and challenges in regulatory frameworks keeping pace with AI's advancement. The report also notes the geopolitical implications of AI, including data access and talent concentration, and their impact on global power dynamics.

Principles and functions for a global AI governance framework

The interim report does not advocate for a singular AI governance model but proposes underlying principles and functions essential for an effective global framework.

Guiding principles are: 

1. Inclusive governance: AI should be governed for the benefit of all, ensuring equitable access and participation globally.

2. Public interest: AI should be governed in the public interest, aligning with human rights and sustainable development goals.

3. Data governance alignment: AI governance should progress in tandem with data governance, emphasizing the importance of data commons.

4. Universal and networked collaboration: AI governance requires universal, adaptive multi-stakeholder collaboration, reflecting the global nature of AI.

5. Anchoring in international commitments: Governance should be rooted in UN law and other international agreements, ensuring a stable and consistent global approach.

 

The report outlines critical functions for a global AI governance regime, ranging from scientific assessment to international collaboration:

1. Assessment of AI's future: Regular evaluations and consensus-building on AI's trajectory are vital for informed policy-making.

2. Interoperability and norms alignment: Harmonizing AI development with international norms is crucial for consistent governance.

3. Standardization and risk management: Developing common safety and risk management frameworks is essential for global AI regulation.

4. Cross-border development and testing facilitation: Encouraging international cooperation in AI model training and testing is key to equitable AI advancement.

5. Data and talent collaboration: International collaboration on data access, talent development, and infrastructure is crucial for balanced AI growth.

6. Unified reporting and peer review: Establishing standard reporting and peer review mechanisms ensures transparency and accountability in AI governance.

Conclusion and future steps

The UN AI Advisory Body's interim report is a clarion call for inclusive and forward-thinking global governance of AI. While it does not impose legal obligations, it represents a step towards establishing a harmonized and equitable AI governance structure. As AI continues to shape our world, this report provides a foundational blueprint for its responsible and ethical management.

For further information or assistance in navigating the complex landscape of AI regulation and governance, please contact our expert team.

Contact Information
Anahita Thoms
Partner at BakerMcKenzie
Berlin
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anahita.thoms@bakermckenzie.com
Eva-Maria Strobel
Partner at BakerMcKenzie
Zürich
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eva-maria.strobel@bakermckenzie.com
Alexander Ehrle
Associate at BakerMcKenzie
Berlin
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alexander.ehrle@bakermckenzie.com
Kimberley Fischer
Associate at BakerMcKenzie
Berlin
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kimberley.fischer@bakermckenzie.com

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