Geneva: The UN on Monday issued a warning regarding the emergence of generative AI, cautioning that the technology could evolve into "a modern-day Frankenstein's monster," with human rights at risk as tech giants roll out these advancements globally. UN rights chief Volker Turk highlighted both the significant promise and potential perils of generative AI, emphasizing that its misuse for political or economic gain could lead to manipulation, distortion, and distraction.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Turk addressed the business and human rights forum at the UN, stating that the introduction of generative artificial intelligence by powerful tech companies could jeopardize human rights. He identified several rights under threat, including privacy, political participation, free expression, and work, stressing the clear and immediate nature of these risks.
Turk further warned that without adequate safeguards and regulations, AI systems might transform into uncontrollable entities, likening them to a "modern-day Frankenstein's monster." He underscored the need for governments to collaborate in preventing such outcomes, which could undermine the potential benefits of emerging technologies and lead to unforeseen consequences.
In addition to concerns about generative AI, Turk pointed to the danger posed by the increasing concentration of corporate power and the vast accumulation of wealth among a select few entities. He noted that in some instances, this concentration surpasses the economies of entire nations. Turk emphasized that unchecked power could result in abuse and subjugation, highlighting the importance of legal constraints to prevent such abuses.