Anthony Albanese joins more than 20 global leaders in calling for AI safeguards

The rapid growth of artificial intelligence needs to be brought under control to ensure the technology is reined in and stays under human oversight, nations have warned.

In a joint statement signed by leaders of more than 20 countries, including Prime Minister Anthony Albanese , additional safeguards were urged for AI to keep it under control.

The statement was issued ahead of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, where AI measures are set to be on the agenda.

“AI must remain under human direction, oversight and control. It must be developed and used in line with international law,” the statement, released on Tuesday, Australian time, said.

“Leading scientists and executives are warning that the pace of development could outpace our ability to manage emerging risks.”

Alongside Australia, leaders such as Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez signed the statement.

Albanese is set to meet with European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen on the sidelines of the UN later in the day for a bilateral meeting.

The statement said risks with AI needed to be addressed, without widening the gap between countries for access to some of the benefits of the technology.

“ Artificial intelligence is an extremely powerful technology. It has potential to improve lives, advance science and strengthen our economies,” it said.

“At the same time, the rapid development of frontier AI models poses serious risks to safety and security if not appropriately managed.”

The statement also sounded the alarm on AI systems being able to circumvent safeguards and gain unauthorised access to several systems.

The signatories called for AI companies to develop transparent safety protocols and for governments to develop common standards for the technology.

It also urged the UN to explore options to create an international institution that could set out AI standards.

Ahead of the UN General Assembly, Albanese will give an address to the Partners for Multilateralism, International Law, Peace and Prosperity summit.