The United Nations announced the submission of a proposed list of 40 international experts to establish an Independent International Scientific Panel on Artificial Intelligence. UN Secretary-General António Guterres revealed the move during remarks at the United Nations Headquarters in New York. The initiative is positioned as a key step to ensure UN AI efforts serve humanity as a whole.

According to Guterres, the panel was formed in direct response to a mandate from Member States under the Pact for the Future. The pact aims to strengthen multilateral approaches to emerging technologies that are rapidly reshaping societies and economies worldwide. As a result, the proposed panel is intended to close critical knowledge gaps around artificial intelligence.

The Secretary-General reported that the panel will operate as the world’s first fully independent global scientific body focused on artificial intelligence. It will assess AI’s real-world impact on economies and societies. He stressed that such a framework is increasingly necessary due to the unprecedented speed of AI development.

“AI is moving at the speed of light. No country can see the full picture alone,” Guterres said. He added that shared understanding is essential to build effective safeguards, unlock innovation for the common good, and support international cooperation.

Furthermore, Guterres noted that artificial intelligence is transforming the global landscape at an accelerated pace. Therefore, the panel will help separate verified information from misinformation and reliable science from unsubstantiated content. It is expected to act as a trusted and impartial reference point for policymakers and stakeholders.

The selection process followed a global open call that received more than 2,600 nominations. The final list includes experts from multiple regions and disciplines, including machine learning, data governance, public health, cybersecurity, child development, and human rights. Among the nominees is Tuka Alhanai from the United Arab Emirates.

Key points reported by the UN include:

• All panel members will serve in their personal capacities and remain independent of governments and companies.
• The panel will work on an accelerated timeline.
• Its first report is expected ahead of the global dialogue on AI governance scheduled for July.

Guterres confirmed that the panel’s findings will contribute directly to upcoming international discussions on artificial intelligence governance, reinforcing the role of UN AI initiatives in shaping global policy.

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