In a landmark move, China spearheaded a UN resolution aimed at ensuring equal access to artificial intelligence (AI) for all nations. Co-sponsored by over 140 countries, including the United States, the resolution was unanimously passed at the 78th session of the UN General Assembly on Monday.
The resolution emphasizes the need for a \"human-centered\" approach to AI development, ensuring that the technology benefits every nation. It highlights the importance of equality and calls for international cooperation to help developing countries build their AI capacity. Additionally, it advocates for the inclusion of developing nations in global AI governance within an \"open, fair, and non-discriminatory business environment.\"
Fu Cong, China's permanent representative to the United Nations, underscored the ongoing global digital divide. \"Many developing countries have not been able to access or benefit from the use of AI as the global digital divide continues to widen,\" Fu stated. He added that the resolution aims to bridge this gap by supporting AI development and governance, in line with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
The resolution has been warmly received by numerous developing countries. According to China's permanent mission to the UN, these nations applaud the focus on AI capacity building and the practical measures outlined to promote shared benefits from AI development.
Zeng Yi, a member of the United Nations AI Advisory Body and a professor at the Institute of Automation of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, highlighted the original purpose of AI technology to empower sustainable development. He noted that while governance issues are crucial, capacity building remains a key element in ensuring that AI benefits reach low- and middle-income countries.
Supporting the resolution's goals, a recent Deloitte survey revealed that generative AI is transforming work in the Asia-Pacific region. With 11,900 respondents, the survey found that adoption rates of AI are approximately 30% higher in developing economies like India and Southeast Asia compared to developed nations such as Australia and Japan. This trend is attributed to a larger population of "digitally native" individuals in these regions, particularly younger generations who are adept at navigating AI technologies.
As AI continues to evolve, initiatives like the UN resolution led by China play a pivotal role in ensuring that technological advancements are accessible and beneficial to all, fostering a more equitable global landscape.
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China's UN resolution aims to bring equal access of AI to all nations
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