UN: AI misuse and corporate influence pose a major threat

Speaking at the opening of the 14th UN Forum on Business and Human Rights in Geneva on Monday, he said that corporate power had become increasingly influential in driving social change.

He warned that new tools such as generative artificial intelligence – or AI – could easily be abused without proper controls.

“When powerful tech giants introduce new technologies like generative artificial intelligence, Human rights may be the first casualty” he said. “Generative AI is promising, but Its exploitation for purely political or economic gain can manipulate, distort and distract.”

He stressed that rules, safeguards and independent oversight must keep pace with innovation.

Concerns about worker exploitation

Mr Türk also highlighted the struggles faced by workers in many sectors. Migrant workers, women and people in informal jobs remain the most vulnerable to abuse.

He took note of that Some governments are rolling back laws that require companies to respect human rights within their businesses.