Antonio Guterres Calls for AI Curbs, End to Global Wars
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has used his final address to the UN General Assembly to call for stronger global controls on artificial intelligence, an end to widening wars, faster climate action and sweeping reform of international institutions.
Guterres Calls for Global AI Safety Framework
Addressing the 81st UN General Assembly in New York, Guterres said countries leading the artificial intelligence revolution should share information on emerging safety risks and cooperate on testing and evaluation.
He called for a multilateral AI risk-management framework supported by credible and independent oversight. Guterres also urged governments to consider the responsible pacing of advanced AI development while establishing common safeguards against potentially serious risks.
His remarks came as the UN Security Council prepared for discussions with leading artificial intelligence companies on the technology’s implications for international security.
UN Chief Calls for End to Global Conflicts
Turning to escalating conflicts, Guterres called for de-escalation and dialogue, particularly across the Middle East.
He said fighting must stop, humanitarian assistance must be allowed to reach affected populations and navigational rights must be fully restored under international law.
Guterres also reiterated support for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Guterres Demands UN and Climate Reform
The outgoing UN chief warned that existing global institutions continue to reflect the balance of power of a previous era and are increasingly struggling to respond to modern challenges.
On climate change, he said major polluters must bear responsibility for environmental damage and called for stronger international action.
Guterres, whose second five-year term ends on December 31, said he would continue advocating for peace and the principles of the UN Charter after leaving office.
