Norway and Finland launch international AI control initiative

Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre and Finnish President Alexander Stubb are launching an international initiative to secure control over artificial intelligence. The appeal, titled We must act now, is being introduced during the high-level week of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

The initiative responds to warnings from researchers about the rapid development of advanced AI models and the potential security risks they pose. The leaders emphasize that humans must remain in control, arguing that international cooperation is essential rather than purely competing or slowing development.

The appeal calls for technology companies to implement internal controls, safety inspections, and shutdown procedures. It also advocates for international cooperation on common standards, transparency, and reporting serious security incidents across nations.

The idea originated during a dinner with European leaders in Rovaniemi, Finland. Ahead of the launch, Støre and Stubb engaged in extensive diplomatic outreach, securing early support from European Union leaders, Canada, Australia, Kenya, the United Arab Emirates, Turkey, Singapore, and South Africa, as well as a positive response from UN Secretary-General António Guterres.

While acknowledging that progress depends heavily on the actions of the United States and China, Støre compares the situation to nuclear technology, noting that powerful tools require international oversight frameworks similar to the International Atomic Energy Agency. Future implementation details remain open, though potential pathways include the United Nations or regional frameworks like the Group of Seven.