AI Governance Must Be Grounded in Science and Human Rights, Says UN Chief at India AI Impact Summit 2026
New Delhi, February 20, 2026 — The India AI Impact Summit has emerged as one of the world’s foremost platforms exploring how artificial intelligence can be governed responsibly and used inclusively. Now in its 2026 edition, the week-long event in New Delhi has drawn global leaders, researchers, policymakers, and technology executives to debate the opportunities and risks posed by the next wave of AI innovation.
Science and Rights at the Core of AI Governance
On the fifth day of the summit, a high-level session titled “The Role of Science in International AI Governance” brought together a distinguished panel featuring António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations; Brad Smith, Vice Chair and President of Microsoft; and Josephine Teo, Singapore’s Minister for Digital Development and Information.
António Guterres set the tone by calling for AI systems to serve humanity rather than displace it.
“Science can inform us, but humans must decide,” he said. “Our goal is to make human control a technical reality, not a slogan.”
He stressed that the global governance of AI must rest on meaningful human oversight, accountability, and protection of human rights. His message was both a warning and a vision — advancing AI must go hand in hand with maintaining human dignity.
Machines That Make Humans Smarter
Offering the industry’s perspective, Microsoft’s Brad Smith urged that AI be developed to expand human potential.
“The real question is not whether we will build machines that are smarter than humans in some ways — we will,” Smith said. “The real question is how we use those machines to make people smarter and help humanity do what it needs to do.”
Smith’s remarks reframed AI as an ally in human progress — a tool designed to enhance creativity, capability, and collective problem-solving.
Investing in Trust and Responsible Research
Representing Singapore, Minister Josephine Teo highlighted the importance of sustained investment in research that underpins responsible AI.
“As a small state, we believe in AI as a force for the public good. But to do so, we must continue to invest in the science that builds trust,” she said.
Teo announced that Singapore has set aside one billion dollars under its National AI Plan, directing funds toward both foundational and applied research into responsible AI — a demonstration of policy-led commitment to ethical technological advancement.
A Shared Vision for Inclusive AI
As the discussion turned to the global landscape, speakers underscored the need for inclusive, science-based AI policy, particularly to empower the Global South. The dialogue touched on strengthening digital public infrastructure, equitable access to research, and international standards that ensure AI benefits are fairly distributed.
The conversation concluded with a shared understanding: sustainable AI governance depends on blending innovation with compassion.
“The future of AI must rest on the twin pillars of science and humanity — innovation guided by evidence, ethics, and empathy.”
CitiTimes 