UN approves new Global AI Science Panel

The UN General Assembly approved a new 40-member Independent International Scientific Panel on Artificial Intelligence to assess AI’s impacts. The vote had 117 supporters, while the U.S. and Paraguay voted against, and Ukraine abstained due to a Russian expert’s inclusion.

This panel will produce regular reports on AI's economic and social effects, serving as a reference for governments but lacking enforcement power. UN secretary General saying on X:

In a world where AI is racing ahead, this Panel will provide independent scientific insight that enables all countries to engage on an equal footing, regardless of their technological capacity.

The U.S. opposed the panel, citing concerns about transparency and fears of authoritarian influence in AI governance. Ukraine abstained specifically over the Russian member's presence. Overall, the vote indicates a desire for shared scientific insights on AI, highlighting ongoing geopolitical tension around AI governance.