UN rights chief: AI is an ‘existential’ threat to humanity

The UN’s top human rights official, Volker Turk, warned on Monday that artificial intelligence could pose an “existential” risk to humanity. He promised to pressure AI companies to reduce dangers his office says include disruption to basic services, communications, and democratic systems. Speaking ahead of his second term in office—an unusual move for the position—Turk called for “cast-iron guarantees” to secure AI technology. He also demanded accountability for deaths in US immigration custody and condemned Russia’s reported use of autonomous weapons. Turk’s warning comes as governments and tech firms race to expand AI’s power without clear global rules. His office has not yet detailed what specific “guarantees” it will seek from companies.