UN advisory body propose seven recommendations for AI

An AI-focused advisory body at the United Nations has today (Sep. 19) released seven recommendations to address risks and gaps in governance.

It was last year, in October, when the U.N. set up the advisory body which includes 39 members who aim to inform governments and the private sector about opportunities and challenges with the new technology.

A preliminary report was published at the end of 2023, with the most recent being its final report ahead of the U.N. summit later this month.

As part of its suggestions, advisors say an international scientific panel should be created. They say this should be “made up of diverse multidisciplinary experts in the field serving in their personal capacity on a voluntary basis.”

If created, the panel should produce an annual report, quarterly research digests on specific areas within AI, and ad-hoc reports on emerging issues.

The launch of a “twice-yearly intergovernmental and multi-stakeholder policy dialogue on AI governance on the margins of existing meetings at the United Nations” is the second recommendation.

The purpose would be to share best practices on AI governance that “foster development while furthering respect, protection and fulfillment of all human rights, including pursuing opportunities as well as managing risks.”

The creation of an AI office is needed, says UN

The creation of an AI standards exchange has been highlighted too which the U.N. says should bring together representatives from national and international standard-development organizations, technology companies, civil society and representatives from the international scientific panel.

An AI capacity development network has also been recommended to test potential AI solutions and create educational opportunities for members of the public.

A global fund is another idea, with this including “financial and in-kind contributions from public and private sources…”

A framework has been suggested, focusing on outlining definitions and principles for the global governance of AI data.

An AI office within the Secretariat has been proposed too. “It should be light and agile in organization, drawing, wherever possible, on relevant existing United Nations entities.” It’s this office that will provide support for the proposed panels, network, and standards.