The United Nations has unveiled a 40-member Independent International Scientific Panel on Artificial Intelligence (AI), highlighting global collaboration amidst swift technological advancements. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, announcing this initiative on February 5, emphasized its mission to benefit all of humanity. Notably, the panel features Pakistani expert Bilal Mateen.
Guterres addressed reporters at the UN Headquarters in New York, explaining that the panel was established as a response to the Pact for the Future, aimed at enhancing multilateral approaches to emerging technologies reshaping every aspect of life.
This will be the first fully independent global scientific body dedicated to bridging the AI knowledge gap and assessing AI’s real-world impacts on economies and societies, he noted.
Highlighting the rapid evolution of AI, Guterres stated, “AI is advancing at the speed of light. No single nation can fully comprehend its impact alone. It’s crucial we develop shared understandings to create effective guardrails, encourage innovation for collective benefit, and foster international cooperation.”
The call for this panel saw an overwhelming response with over 2,600 applications. Ultimately, the UN General Assembly was recommended a selection of 40 experts with deep knowledge spanning machine learning, data governance, public health, cybersecurity, childhood development, and human rights.
All panel members will operate independently, unaffiliated with any government, company, or institution. The panel’s inaugural report is anticipated to be ready for the Global Dialogue on AI Governance in July, according to Guterres.
Guterres remarked, “AI is reshaping our world. Our challenge is to either collectively shape this transformation or be molded by it.” He stressed the importance of finding common ground for cooperation driven by science and solidarity.
The list of 40 experts has been forwarded to the General Assembly for a three-year appointment.
Among those selected, Dr. Bilal Mateen, a physician-academic and technology leader, is recognized for his work at the intersection of AI, data science, and global public health. Serving as the inaugural Chief AI Officer at PATH, he focuses on ethical and inclusive AI applications to improve health outcomes globally.
