“Extremely concerned”: UN official warns Silicon Valley execs of AI dangers

February 21, 2024

In an interview with Axios, Volker Türk, the UN’s high commissioner for human rights, warned tech companies that AI can do real harm and it’s their responsibility to ensure that it doesn’t.

Türk says technologies like AI can address a wide range of societal problems but can also become powerful weapons of oppression. He reminded Silicon Valley firms that, rather than waiting for regulation, they should already be ensuring their products comply with the existing UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights.

The UN document, which was unanimously approved in 2011 states that:

“business enterprises have the responsibility to respect human rights wherever they operate and whatever their size or industry.“

Axios reports that the power of AI and availability of so much data about individuals could lead to politicians or outside influencers targeting different groups with messages that play upon their particular fears. “You’re almost using it for brainwashing,” Türk says, “and that’s where the danger lies.”

Türk, speaking of today’s AI systems says, “This is where we are at the moment. It’s not separate from who we are — our worst fears, our desires, our best aspirations.” He warned that AI could be used to scapegoat marginalized groups.

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