The GAIN Act mandates that AI chip manufacturers prioritize American customers before any foreign exports, a move viewed as both a security measure and an act of imperial ambition. This legislation, passed by the Senate with a vote of 77 to 20, raises concerns about its impact on global innovation and the crypto mining industry.
AI global governance is the system of rules and collaborations that countries and organizations are developing to manage artificial intelligence across borders, aiming to ensure its safety, fairness, and utility for all. The urgency for international cooperation arises from shared risks such as misinformation and economic disruption that transcend national boundaries.
California’s recently signed artificial intelligence law by Governor Gavin Newsom aims to set a precedent for AI regulation among Democrats nationwide, mandating AI labs to disclose safety protocols and report any catastrophic risks. This legislation not only bolsters Newsom’s credentials as he considers a presidential run in 2028 but also garners support from both AI advocates and segments of the tech industry.
The United Nations has established two new AI governance bodies aimed at fostering inclusive international governance for artificial intelligence. These initiatives, highlighted during the UN General Assembly, address the urgent need for responsible AI adoption and collaboration among governments, industry, and civil society.
The United Nations is working to influence global policy on artificial intelligence by establishing an expert panel to develop standards for “safe, secure and trustworthy” AI. This initiative aims to facilitate international cooperation and discussions on AI governance while addressing concerns related to the technology’s impact on society and the workforce.
The United States rejected calls for international oversight of artificial intelligence at the U.N. General Assembly, emphasizing the importance of national sovereignty over centralized governance. This stance contrasted with global leaders advocating for collaborative frameworks to address the challenges posed by AI.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres welcomed the establishment of two new mechanisms to promote international cooperation on AI governance. These initiatives aim to harness the benefits of artificial intelligence while addressing its risks, fostering a collaborative dialogue among Member States and stakeholders.
Adam Thierer from the R Street Institute emphasized the urgent need for a national policy framework for artificial intelligence to prevent a chaotic regulatory environment that could harm investment and innovation. He compared the current situation to the 1990s approach to the Internet, warning that inconsistent regulations could undermine America’s leadership in digital technology.
The commentary discusses the tension between regulating AI for safety and promoting innovation, emphasizing that investments in AI safety and security can foster sustainable development in Global Majority countries. It highlights the upcoming AI Impact Summit in India as a pivotal opportunity to align innovation priorities with safety-first approaches in international AI cooperation.
ASEAN’s approach to AI governance is characterized by a consensus-driven, voluntary, and principles-based framework that allows member states to navigate their unique challenges and capacities. However, this strategy risks fragmentation as countries adopt diverse paths influenced by external models, raising questions about the region’s ability to consolidate into a cohesive governance model.