Comment by António Guterres

Governments must assume their responsibilities. It is the first responsibility of any government to protect its citizens – including from the threats of artificial intelligence. National action is essential. But global coordination is also indispensable. Because AI does not stop at borders – and neither do its risks. Voluntary pauses that are isolated, unverifiable and unevenly applied will not address the problem. If we believe AI development should slow when risks become too great, we need more than good intentions. Through the Independent International Scientific Panel on AI, we have brought together global scientific expertise to ensure that policy is guided by evidence. […] The United Nations will continue to explore practical ideas and approaches in the immediate days ahead. […] This requires genuine international cooperation and a coordinated global effort.