At its 10005th meeting on September 24, 2025, the UN Security Council held an open debate on the opportunities and dangers posed by artificial intelligence (AI). Secretary-General António Guterres described AI as a “double-edged sword”: it can strengthen prevention efforts, anticipate crises, and aid peacebuilding, but without safeguards it risks weaponisation, disinformation, and destabilisation. He urged global regulation, a ban on lethal autonomous weapons without human control by 2026, and reaffirmed that nuclear decisions must always remain with humans. “Innovation must serve humanity — not undermine it,” he stressed.
Experts echoed both optimism and caution. Yoshua Bengio warned of AI’s potential misuse in cyberattacks, bioweapons, and disinformation, while urging stronger research into safe AI. Yejin Choi highlighted the concentration of AI development within a few companies and countries, stressing the need for accessible, culturally inclusive technologies. Speakers emphasized that equitable access and broad global participation are essential to prevent AI from deepening inequality.
Member States underscored AI’s transformative potential for security and development but voiced serious concerns about its military use. Leaders from France, the UK, Korea, Slovenia, Greece, and Pakistan pointed to risks in warfare, including the lowering of thresholds for conflict, erosion of human conscience in decision-making, and the dangers of autonomous weapons. African leaders warned of “digital colonialism” given low internet penetration and limited data capacity on the continent. Positions diverged, with China calling for inclusive global governance, while the United States opposed centralized international control, cautioning against overregulation.
Despite differences, speakers agreed AI’s future hinges on responsible governance, with human judgment and accountability at the center. The Council was urged to lead in shaping rules that balance innovation with peace, security, and the common good.
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