The United Nations annual AI for Good conference brought together tech leaders to discuss the transformative potential of artificial intelligence in various sectors, while also highlighting the risks of misinformation and security threats. The event emphasised the need for reducing AI bias and ensuring equitable development for all countries.
The United Nations held its annual AI for Good conference on May 30, 2024, in Geneva, Switzerland. The event, organized by the U.N. telecommunications agency, brought together tech leaders, including OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, to discuss the applications and challenges of artificial intelligence across various sectors such as robotics, medicine, education, and sustainable development.
U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres, speaking via video, highlighted the transformative potential of AI in areas like education, healthcare, agriculture, and disaster management. However, he also cautioned against the risks associated with AI, including the spread of misinformation and security threats. Guterres emphasized the importance of reducing AI bias and ensuring the technology benefits developing countries.
The conference comes amid growing concerns about AI safety and ethics, partially sparked by the public rollout of ChatGPT 18 months ago. Companies like Google, Microsoft, and Amazon are also heavily invested in AI development. Critics warn that AI-generated content could exacerbate the spread of online disinformation.
The event aims to help businesses, consumers, and governments navigate the benefits and pitfalls of AI technology, emphasizing equitable and secure development.
