UN 
At the AI Impact Summit held in New Delhi, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres issued a compelling call for the establishment of a $3 billion global fund aimed at ensuring that the transformative benefits of artificial intelligence (AI) are accessible to all nations, particularly those in the developing world. Emphasizing the critical juncture at which technological advancement stands, Guterres warned against the concentration of AI governance and benefits within a limited group of countries or private entities.
“Decisions about the future of artificial intelligence cannot be monopolized by a handful of countries or left to the whims of a few billionaires,” Guterres remarked, highlighting the ethical and equity concerns surrounding AI deployment. He underscored the urgency of adopting a multilateral approach that promotes inclusivity, transparency, and shared responsibility in shaping AI’s trajectory.
The Secretary-General’s proposal for a dedicated fund aims to bridge the digital divide that currently hampers many developing nations from leveraging AI technologies for sustainable development. By facilitating access to AI tools, infrastructure, and capacity-building initiatives, the fund would empower these countries to harness AI-driven solutions in areas such as healthcare, education, climate change mitigation, and economic growth — all vital to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Experts and policymakers have increasingly recognized that AI’s rapid evolution presents both opportunities and risks. Without deliberate global cooperation, there is a danger that AI could exacerbate existing inequalities, entrenching economic disparities and limiting social mobility in vulnerable regions. The initiative proposed by Guterres aligns with ongoing international efforts to promote ethical AI frameworks and responsible innovation.
As AI continues to reshape societies worldwide, the call for equitable governance and shared benefits resonates strongly with the UN’s broader mission to leave no one behind. The establishment of a global fund dedicated to inclusive AI access represents a proactive step toward ensuring that emerging technologies serve as tools for sustainable development and social good, rather than sources of division or exclusion.
