Hate speech and deepfakes threaten democracy and peace — UN secretary general

The United Nations secretary general António Guterres has declared this year’s “International Day of Democracy” a referendum on artificial intelligence in a message posted to the UN website on Aug. 30.

Observed annually on Sep. 15 since 2017, the International Day of Democracy is an event promoting the principles of democracy. Each year, prior to the event, the UN secretary general gives a message describing the theme of the event and its importance. 

Per a press release from the UN, this year’s Democracy Day focuses on “artificial intelligence (AI) as a tool for good governance.”

According to the secretary general’s message:

“Left unchecked, the dangers posed by artificial intelligence could have serious implications for democracy, peace and stability. This can start with the proliferation of mis- and disinformation, the spread of hate speech and the use of so-called deepfakes.”

The message also described the potential for artificial intelligence technologies to help “promote and enhance full and active public participation, equality, security and human development.” 

A mixed message

The UN’s stance on AI, per the secretary general’s message, is that AI must “serve humanity equitably and safely.” However, it’s unclear exactly what this means in the context of promoting and upholding democracy.

Solving issues such as the proliferation of AI-generated hate speech, deepfakes, and other concerns related to the use of AI-powered tools remains a largely social and regulatory issue. 

The democratization of technology, however, is arguably the foundation of democracy itself. This year’s International Day of Democracy, according to the Secretary General’s message, will largely focus on how AI can be harnessed to foster inclusiveness and equality. 

Related: Chip breakthrough could bring ultra-fast 6G network ‘within a decade’