Australia urges slowdown of AI race in global statement

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is confident other nations will join the growing calls to regulate artificial intelligence (AI) amid mounting concerns over its rapid development. The joint statement, released ahead of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, urges additional safeguards for AI and emphasizes the need to keep it under human control.

The statement, signed by more than 20 countries, stresses that AI must remain under human direction, oversight, and control, and should be developed and used in line with international law. Leading scientists and executives warn that the pace of AI development could outpace our ability to manage emerging risks. The statement remains open for endorsement by additional countries, something Albanese hopes will happen.

Australia's central role in drafting the statement came through direct discussions with Finnish President Alexander Stubb, who issued the joint position on behalf of other nations. Albanese explained that Australia aims to shape the rollout of AI rather than have it shape our society. As the US and China meet in Washington on Thursday, where AI measures are expected to be discussed, concerns about AI are being labeled as a hoax by US President Donald Trump.

Albanese emphasized that Australia played a crucial part in bringing the statement together, as leaders have been engaged in conversations similar to those happening in living rooms.

AI is expected to have a significant impact on people's lives and work, and the statement calls for transparency in safety protocols for AI companies and the development of common standards by governments. The UN is also urged to explore creating an international institution to set AI standards. Albanese has been meeting with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa, focusing on technology and its implications.

Australia has been praised for its trailblazing approach in implementing a ban on under-16s using social media, with the EU considering similar laws. The European Commission also noted that Australia will soon allow its researchers to join Horizon Europe, the EU's funding program for innovation. Albanese highlighted this as a significant advancement for Australia, as it often misses out on commercializing innovative research.

Ahead of the UN General Assembly, Albanese delivered an address at the Partners for Multilateralism, International Law, Peace and Prosperity summit, emphasizing that countries cannot afford to isolate themselves in the face of modern challenges.