The United Nations Security Council held its first meeting on artificial intelligence on Tuesday, July 19, 2023. The meeting was chaired by British Foreign Secretary James Cleverly, who is the current president of the Security Council.

The meeting focused on the potential risks and benefits of AI for international peace and security. Speakers highlighted the need for global regulation of AI, particularly in the areas of weapons, surveillance, and disinformation.

There is a growing concern that AI could be used to develop autonomous weapons that could kill without human intervention. The UN has called for a ban on such weapons, and many countries are working on developing international norms and standards for the use of AI in warfare.

AI-powered surveillance systems are becoming increasingly sophisticated, and there is a risk that they could be used to violate human rights. The UN has called for safeguards to be put in place to ensure that AI-powered surveillance systems are used in a lawful and ethical manner.

AI is being used to spread disinformation and propaganda, which could have a negative impact on international peace and security. The UN has called for efforts to counter the spread of disinformation, including through the use of AI.

In addition to the potential risks, speakers also highlighted the potential benefits of AI for international peace and security. For example, AI could be used to improve peacekeeping operations, detect and prevent cyberattacks, and track and monitor illegal activities.

The meeting concluded with a call for the international community to work together to develop global regulations for AI. The UN has said that it is committed to playing a leading role in this effort.

The meeting on AI was a significant step forward in the international community’s efforts to address the potential risks and benefits of this technology. It is clear that the world needs to work together to ensure that AI is used for good and not for harm.