UK PM Rishi Sunak Highlights AI Dangers Ahead of Global Summit

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, during his address on Thursday, emphasized the importance of being forthright about the perils surrounding artificial intelligence (AI). While noting the opportunities for economic growth and problem-solving potential, Sunak also warned of the emergence of "new dangers and new fears".

In the run-up to the UK-hosted global summit on AI next week, he stated that it's paramount to face these concerns directly, to ensure safety whilst unlocking the potentials of AI for the public. Sunak further pointed out that the pursuit of responsible actions demands open discussions about these inherent risks.

The purpose of this forthcoming two-day international meeting at Bletchley Park is to facilitate a global understanding of the threats posed by AI. It will see the participation of global leaders, experts, and other influential figures.

Sunak, during the address, announced the establishment of an UK's AI Safety Institute. The Institute aims to investigate and scrutinize new AI forms, analyze related risks including social harms like bias and misinformation. He stressed that leaning solely on AI developing organizations for safety measures is not advisable.

The government, backed by insights from 50 experts, also publicized a study on Thursday that underlines the risks of AI capabilities falling into the wrong hands, particularly enhancing terrorist operations.

The document highlights that by 2025, generative AI could intensify existing risks at an unprecedented pace. The digital zone is the most susceptible to manifestations and impacts of these risks.

The existing global regulatory framework for AI is inadequate and likely falling short to foresee future trajectories, as per the study. It advocates collective regulatory actions involving industry, academia, civil society, governments, and the public.

Amid talks of AI outperforming humans, Sunak perceives the technology more in the role of an 'assistant'. He gave an example of a care worker who could utilize AI to ease paperwork tasks. However, he remains cautious about the unpredictable role of AI in the labour market and advocates education as the primary means to equip people with future skills.