The UN warns that artificial intelligence might make the world more unequal.

A group suggests rules for using AI safely as it becomes more popular in different countries.

Published 1 July 2026 169 words
TECHNOLOGY A2
The UN warns that artificial intelligence might make the world more unequal.

A new report from the United Nations says that artificial intelligence (AI) could make the difference between rich and poor countries even bigger. The UN panel has created a plan for developing AI in a responsible way. This is because AI is growing quickly, but not all countries are using it the same way.

António Guterres, the UN secretary general, said that if AI develops without common rules, people and governments will have less control. He told governments not to wait because the technology is already here.

The report looks at the good and bad things AI can do. It can help in farming and schools. But it can also be used for bad things like cheating or influencing elections. The report states that just having AI tools does not mean everyone benefits equally.

Maria Ressa, who leads the panel, explained that AI is getting faster and more powerful. The report offers advice to countries on how to use AI for good while avoiding the dangers. Ideas include building local AI technology and teaching people about AI.

Vocabulary

artificial intelligence — Computer systems that can do tasks that normally need human intelligence.
exacerbate — To make something that is already bad even worse.
responsible — Behaving in a sensible and correct way.
adoption — The act of starting to use a new idea, method, or technology.
unevenly — Not in the same way or at the same rate.
exacerbate — To make something that is already bad even worse.

Discussion Questions

  1. Why might artificial intelligence make global inequality worse?
  2. What does the UN suggest for developing AI responsibly?
  3. How can differences in AI use affect countries around the world?

Based on an article from The Guardian.

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