The UN has announced the creation of a new committee aimed at advocating for 'human control' over artificial intelligence (AI), a position that the US government has rejected. This was highlighted during the AI Impact Summit held in New Delhi, where UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized the importance of approaching the AI landscape with caution, urging for more evidence and factual discussions rather than excessive fear and exaggeration. He stated, 'We are entering the unknown', reflecting on the unpredictable nature of AI technologies.

The formation of this new committee follows the growing prevalence of generative AI and its significant economic impacts, particularly on technology companies experiencing soaring profits due to the surge in demand for AI solutions. However, alongside these economic benefits, there are mounting concerns regarding the societal implications, including job displacement, ethical considerations, and potential environmental impacts. Guterres noted that the UN General Assembly has appointed 40 experts for this initiative, designated as the Independent Scientific Panel on Artificial Intelligence, tasked with evaluating AI in a manner similar to how the UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) addresses climate issues.

The US's dismissal of the UN's proposal underscores the divide between different nations regarding the regulation and oversight of AI technologies. The ongoing discussions reflect broader global tensions as countries navigate the balance between innovation and regulation, particularly in an era marked by rapid technological advancement. The implications of these deliberations will likely shape international norms and policies regarding AI governance in the coming years.