NEW YORK, NEW YORK / RankWire.AI / – Khalilur Rahman, who presides over the 81st United Nations General Assembly, emphasized the urgent need for a more coordinated international approach to artificial intelligence regulation. During his address at the opening of the General Debate, he warned that the UN risks lagging behind the fast-paced evolution of technology. Rahman called on nations to develop dependable safeguards rooted in scientific research and stressed that AI policy should also foster innovation. His comments highlighted artificial intelligence as one of the key global issues confronting the international community.
Rahman highlighted the importance of keeping governments at the core of global AI management, while acknowledging that expertise also resides with researchers, businesses, innovators and civil society groups. He advocated for wider involvement of these actors in conversations about AI, noting that their technical insights can greatly aid governmental discussions. This appeal underscores the increasing significance of AI in sectors like public services, commercial industries, and infrastructure development.
As Rahman pointed out, AI is now embedded within critical systems such as electricity grids, water management, healthcare records, economic frameworks, and military operations. He cautioned against an international competition for technological dominance, instead urging the creation of pragmatic regulatory frameworks that mitigate potential risks while enabling beneficial applications. He emphasized that these safeguards should be founded on credible scientific knowledge. His remarks come amid ongoing efforts by governments to establish international mechanisms for assessing AI risks, benefits, and governance models.
UN Develops New Structures for AI Oversight
Over the past year, the United Nations has significantly expanded its initiatives related to artificial intelligence. The General Assembly established the Global Dialogue on AI Governance, along with an Independent International Scientific Panel on Artificial Intelligence. The dialogue convened its first session in Geneva on July 6 and 7, 2026, providing a platform for governments, experts and stakeholders to discuss global AI policies. The scientific panel comprises 40 members who evaluate AI opportunities, risks, and broader societal impacts.
Prior to the start of the General Debate in New York, Rahman addressed AI governance on September 10. He elaborated on how governments and other stakeholders should manage the rapidly advancing technologies already transforming societies. Later, on September 20, he met with Doreen Bogdan-Martin, Secretary-General of the International Telecommunication Union, to discuss collaboration on AI oversight and addressing emerging AI challenges. Their discussions also touched on ongoing engagement with industry as international efforts in AI regulation develop further.
AI Discussions Tied to Broader UN Reform Agenda
Rahman linked the conversation on artificial intelligence to a wider debate concerning how the United Nations can respond to rapid global changes. He reaffirmed that member states and the UN Secretariat continue to be central to tackling these issues. However, he also stressed that outside expertise plays an increasingly vital role, especially in highly specialized fields. Researchers, corporations, and civil society organizations contribute valuable knowledge to policymaking. These comments were made during the high-level meetings of the 81st General Assembly in New York.
The Assembly’s annual high-level segment started on September 22 and runs through September 26, concluding on September 28. Rahman pointed out that the UN has faced major technological and security challenges in the past, including nuclear proliferation and human cloning. He also referenced international actions taken to protect the ozone layer. When it comes to artificial intelligence, he emphasized the need for government leadership grounded in scientific and technical expertise. His overarching message was the importance of maintaining relevant international governance as AI becomes increasingly integrated into societal and critical infrastructure systems.