UN creates independent global scientific panel on artificial intelligence

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres officially launched an Independent International Scientific Panel on Artificial Intelligence (AI) on Wednesday, framing it as a necessary multilateral response to a technology reshaping societies at breakneck speed. The panel is intended to provide a global, science-based assessment of AI's impacts to inform governance and "serve all of humanity."

Mandate and composition of the expert panel

The initiative stems from a mandate given by UN Member States in the recent Pact for the Future. Following an open call that attracted over 2,600 applicants, Guterres recommended 40 experts with diverse backgrounds in machine learning, data governance, public health, cybersecurity, and human rights to the General Assembly for a three-year term. "All members will serve in their personal capacity, independent of any government, company, or institution," Guterres emphasized. Among the selected experts is Melahat Bilge Demirkoz, a professor from Türkiye's Middle East Technical University (METU).

Addressing the pace of AI development

Highlighting the urgency of the effort, the UN chief noted the blistering pace of technological change. "AI is moving at the speed of light. No country can see the full picture alone," Guterres stated at a news conference. He argued that shared understanding is essential to "build effective guardrails, unlock innovation for the common good, and foster cooperation." The panel is expected to deliver its first report in time for the Global Dialogue on AI Governance this July.

The strategic goal of shared governance

Guterres positioned the panel as the first global, fully independent scientific body of its kind, designed to close the widening AI knowledge gap. He framed the fundamental challenge as one of collective agency: "AI is transforming our world. The question is whether we will shape this transformation together, or allow it to shape us." The underlying goal is to establish a "practical basis for cooperation based on science and solidarity" to ensure the technology benefits all nations equitably.