UN: AI a "Powerful" Tool to Improve the Lives of Millions

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) released a report on Tuesday in New York, emphasizing that Artificial Intelligence (AI) has the potential to be a "powerful" tool for improving the lives of millions, if utilized wisely. The report, part of the UN’s annual sustainable development study, expresses optimism about AI’s capacity to enhance productivity and wealth creation. It highlights how rapidly affordable or free AI tools have been adopted by businesses and individuals alike.

In an effort to gauge public opinion on AI, the UNDP conducted a survey, finding that around 60% of respondents believe AI will positively impact their work and generate new opportunities. Those in low- and middle-income countries were particularly optimistic, with 70% expecting AI to boost their productivity, and two-thirds planning to incorporate it into education, healthcare, or work within the next year.

To fully leverage AI’s benefits, the report suggests modernizing education and healthcare systems to meet current needs and fostering a collaborative economy between humans and AI. "The choices we make in the coming years will define the legacy of this technological transition for human development," stated Pedro Conceição, Director of the UNDP Human Development Report Office.

Conceição further emphasized that, with the right policies and a focus on people, AI could serve as a vital gateway to new knowledge, skills, and ideas, empowering individuals, from farmers to small business owners.

Regarding human development indicators, the report notes a stagnation in progress across regions worldwide, following exceptional crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic. It also points out that inequalities between rich and poor countries have grown for the fourth consecutive year.

The study’s authors warn that global pressures, such as escalating trade tensions and the worsening debt crisis, are limiting governments' capacity to invest in public services and hindering traditional development paths. “This slowdown signals a real threat to global progress,” said UNDP Administrator Achim Steiner in the report.

Steiner added that if slow progress continues into 2024, the 2030 deadline for achieving sustainable development goals may be delayed by decades. This would make the world more insecure, divided, and vulnerable to economic and ecological shocks.