Pakistan has called for Artificial Intelligence (AI) to be regulated under the United Nations (UN) charter, highlighting concerns over its potential misuse in military applications. This move reflects the growing global debate on the unchecked development of AI and its impact on international security and fairness.
AI has rapidly transformed industries, communication, and governance worldwide. But with this advancement comes a significant risk its use in military technologies. Earlier this year, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) adopted a resolution emphasizing inclusive and equitable AI governance. Many developing countries, particularly from the Global South such as Indonesia and Brazil, warned that unregulated AI could deepen inequalities and give powerful nations unfair control. Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif spoke at a UN Security Council high-level open debate on the margins of the 80th session of the UNGA. The AI development and use must be governed by the UN Charter and international law.
In its address, Pakistan stressed that AI must not become a tool of coercion. The call urged global powers to avoid shaping AI rules solely for their advantage, as doing so could marginalize developing countries. The country emphasized that the UN should play a central role in creating fair regulations, ensuring AI benefits are shared inclusively, rather than widening the digital divide.
Pakistan’s demand reflects a broader international concern: how should the world balance innovation with ethics and security? As AI evolves, its potential for misuse particularly in warfare cannot be ignored.
“AI must not become a tool of coercion,” Pakistan highlighted at the UN.
“Unchecked deployment risks deepening inequalities,” warned voices from the Global South.
This raises critical questions for the global community: Should AI be governed under international law, similar to nuclear weapons? Or should individual nations set their own rules? The answers will shape not just technology, but the future of global peace and equity.