Secretary-General of the United Nations, António Guterres, called for reducing “exaggeration and fear” surrounding artificial intelligence, stressing the need for stronger human oversight as the technology advances at unprecedented speed.
Speaking at an artificial intelligence summit in New Delhi, Guterres announced the formation of a new global panel of experts aimed at ensuring that human control over AI becomes a practical reality rather than just a slogan, reports Al-Rai.
He explained that the United Nations General Assembly approved the appointment of 40 specialists to the newly established Independent International Scientific Group on Artificial Intelligence, which will help develop science-based governance frameworks for the rapidly evolving technology.
Guterres emphasized that regulating AI through scientific principles does not slow innovation but instead makes it safer, fairer, and more accessible worldwide. He urged policymakers and the public to rely on facts and evidence instead of hype, saying the world must move away from fear-driven narratives.
Warning that AI innovations are advancing faster than humanity’s ability to fully understand or manage them, he said the world is “rushing into the unknown.”
He added that clearer understanding of AI systems will allow governments to replace rough precautionary measures with smarter, risk-based regulation.
The proposed UN AI commission includes prominent experts such as Nobel Peace Prize-winning journalist Maria Ressa and Canadian AI pioneer Yoshua Bengio.
Guterres stressed that accountability must remain firmly in human hands, warning that responsibility should never be delegated entirely to algorithms.
World leaders and ministers are expected to issue a joint statement outlining a global approach to artificial intelligence at the conclusion of the five-day summit.
