HAMILTON, Canada

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Wednesday announced the launch of an Independent International Scientific Panel on Artificial Intelligence (AI), describing it as a global effort "to serve all of humanity" amid rapid technological change.

Guterres told reporters at a news conference that the panel "is a direct response to the mandate given by Member States in the Pact for the Future to strengthen multilateral solutions for emerging technologies that are reshaping every aspect of our lives."

"It will be the first global, fully independent scientific body dedicated to helping close the AI knowledge gap and assess the real impacts of AI across economies and societies," he added.

Guterres highlighted the speed of AI development, saying, "AI is moving at the speed of light. No country can see the full picture alone. We need shared understandings to build effective guardrails, unlock innovation for the common good, and foster cooperation."

Following an open global call that drew more than 2,600 applications, he recommended 40 experts to the UN General Assembly with deep expertise across machine learning, data governance, public health, cybersecurity, childhood development and human rights.

"All members will serve in their personal capacity, independent of any government, company, or institution," he said.

The panel is expected to deliver its first report in time for the Global Dialogue on AI Governance in July, he said.

"AI is transforming our world. The question is whether we will shape this transformation together, or allow it to shape us," Guterres said, emphasizing the need for "common ground, and a practical basis for cooperation based on science and solidarity."

Guterres sent the list of 40 names to the General Assembly to be appointed for a period of three years.

Among the names is Melahat Bilge Demirkoz from Türkiye, who is a professor at the Middle East Technical University (METU).