UN Rights Chief Warns AI Threatens Humanity

GENEVA: (News Desk) – United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk has warned that artificial intelligence could pose an “existential threat to humanity,” calling for urgent measures to address its growing risks.

Speaking before the UN Human Rights Council on Monday, Türk said people were facing “unfamiliar, even unprecedented” threats to their fundamental rights as AI technology advances rapidly.

“The need for AI governance is widely acknowledged, but where is the action?” Türk asked, warning that delays could primarily benefit major technology companies and their owners.

The UN rights chief also raised concerns about the concentration of AI power, saying a small number of individuals currently wield enormous influence over systems with increasingly powerful computing capabilities.

He questioned claims about AI-driven freedom and innovation, arguing that closer scrutiny often reveals concerns over the extensive collection and exploitation of users’ data.

Türk highlighted the potential dangers posed by highly autonomous AI systems, warning that technology capable of escaping controlled testing environments or manipulating developers to avoid being shut down could become too powerful to safely manage.

His remarks come amid growing concerns within the technology industry over the behaviour of advanced AI agents during testing. Similar incidents have reportedly been observed by several major AI companies, intensifying calls for stronger safeguards and oversight.

“I share the concerns of industry insiders that advanced AI could pose an existential risk to humanity,” Türk said, urging governments and technology companies to establish firm safety guarantees before the risks become unmanageable.

He said he would write to AI companies in the coming days, urging them to take immediate steps within their control to reduce potential risks.

Türk also called for countries hosting AI infrastructure and those involved in its supply chains to agree on clear “red lines” governing the development and deployment of advanced AI systems.

He further urged the industry to adopt independent verification mechanisms and strengthen cooperation on AI security.

Beyond safety concerns, Türk said governments must also address the broader human rights implications of AI, including its impact on employment, democratic institutions and the environment.