The United Nations Independent International Scientific Panel on Artificial Intelligence has begun a landmark global study to assess the human-centred impacts of AI, marking one of the most coordinated international efforts yet to evaluate the technology’s rapid rise.
The 40-member expert panel, established following a United Nations General Assembly mandate, brings together leading researchers, policymakers, and interdisciplinary specialists to examine how AI is reshaping economies, governance systems, labour markets, and public services. The study focuses on ensuring that AI development remains aligned with human rights, safety, and equitable global access.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres has repeatedly underscored the urgency of global coordination on AI governance, stating: “Artificial intelligence is advancing faster than our ability to govern it.” He has also warned that AI must be shaped to serve humanity, not undermine it, noting: “We must ensure AI is guided by human values and international law.”
According to UN officials involved in the initiative, the panel is designed to function as a global scientific reference body for AI, similar in purpose to climate science assessment mechanisms, providing governments with neutral, evidence-based insights to close knowledge gaps between developed and developing countries.
The panel’s mandate includes producing comprehensive assessments of AI’s opportunities and risks, particularly in areas such as economic inequality, misinformation, workforce disruption, and public-sector transformation. A core principle guiding its work is the development of human-centred AI systems that prioritise societal well-being, accountability, and inclusiveness.
UN representatives involved in the process have emphasised that the initiative is not intended to slow innovation but to ensure responsible development. One senior UN-affiliated technology policy expert noted in briefing discussions that the goal is to ensure AI “strengthens public institutions rather than outpacing them,” reflecting concerns about governance lag.
The first phase of the study will establish foundational scientific baselines and map global AI capabilities, with subsequent reports expected to guide future international frameworks on AI cooperation and regulation as adoption accelerates worldwide.
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