UN secretary general discusses future of AI accountability News
Xuthoria, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
UN secretary general discusses future of AI accountability

UN Secretary General António Guterres addressed the fifth general assembly of the Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO) on Wednesday, regarding the future of global artificial intelligence (AI) use.

Guterres discussed ways to encourage innovation and advancement while maintaining thoughtful oversight and regulation of AI and other digital technologies.

“At a time of geopolitical fragmentation, digital cooperation is essential to dialogue, trust and stability,” he said. “In the Global Digital Compact, Member States recognized the need for humanity to steer technology—not the other way around.”

The Global Digital Compact is a UN framework on digital cooperation and governance of AI. Established in 2024, the adopted text aims to foster an “inclusive, open, sustainable, fair, safe and secure digital future for all.” Various forms of international law, including the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, form the foundation for this framework. Member states agree to collaborate with the private sector, civil society and international organizations to achieve the UN’s digital goals.

The secretary general promoted multiple UN initiatives aimed at understanding the “opportunities, risks and impacts” of AI. In July, the UN will host a “Global Dialogue on AI Governance,” created under the Global Digital Compact to serve as a cooperative platform for member states and stakeholders to discuss the risks and future of AI use and safety.

In August 2025, the UN General Assembly formed the Independent International Scientific Panel on Artificial Intelligence through Resolution A/RES/79/325. Its purpose follows the commitments outlined in the Global Digital Compact and focuses on ensuring AI is used to bridge the gap in digital development between nations. 

Founded in 2020, the DCO is an international organization with 16 member states. Their mission is to promote a cross-border, sustainable digital economy.

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