Grossi questions feasibility of global oversight for artificial intelligence

Yesterday 15:48

By: Azzat Manal

Grossi questions feasibility of global oversight for artificial intelligence

International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Rafael Grossi has expressed skepticism about the possibility of establishing a single global system to oversee artificial intelligence, arguing that the technology is evolving too rapidly and across too many jurisdictions for centralized control to be realistic.

Speaking in an interview, Grossi said the complexity of AI systems and the different approaches taken by major technological powers make it difficult to imagine a unified authority capable of managing global AI development. Instead of pursuing centralized governance, he suggested that governments and international organizations focus on developing practical standards and shared principles that can encourage responsible innovation.

Grossi emphasized the importance of cooperation between public institutions and private technology companies, noting that many of the most significant advances in artificial intelligence are being driven by the private sector. He argued that collaboration with industry leaders is essential to establish minimum safeguards while allowing innovation to continue.

Despite acknowledging the challenges, Grossi expressed optimism about artificial intelligence, saying the technology has enormous potential to improve scientific research, healthcare, energy management, and industrial productivity if deployed responsibly.

The debate over AI governance comes as international organizations intensify discussions about the opportunities and risks associated with increasingly powerful AI systems. Governments worldwide are working to balance innovation with concerns related to privacy, cybersecurity, misinformation, intellectual property, and the ethical use of autonomous technologies.

At the same time, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has called for the creation of a comprehensive international framework for artificial intelligence. Speaking at a global AI dialogue in Geneva, he warned that technologies originally developed for civilian purposes are increasingly being adapted for military applications, raising concerns about autonomous weapons and broader security risks.

Guterres also stressed that future international agreements should prioritize human safety, transparency, and accountability while ensuring that the benefits of AI are shared more broadly across the world. He highlighted the need to expand digital access and protect vulnerable populations, particularly children, from manipulation and misuse of emerging technologies.

As artificial intelligence continues to transform economies and societies, discussions among governments, international organizations, researchers, and technology companies are expected to play a central role in shaping future global standards for the responsible development and deployment of AI.