OpenAI CEO Sam Altman addressed the United Nations Security Council on September 23, 2026, discussing the potential and risks associated with rapid advancements in artificial intelligence. Altman highlighted that while AI offers a "new Renaissance" of creativity and discovery, it also presents risks of social upheaval and the concentration of power.
Sam Altman Calls for International Cooperation and Human Control at UN Security Council
Altman emphasized the importance of maintaining human control over increasingly autonomous systems, particularly concerning recursive self-improvement. He stated that no level of catastrophe risk is acceptable and that the industry must not prioritize competitive speed over safety guarantees.
To address these challenges, Altman proposed three core principles:
- Ensuring humans remain at the center of AI decision-making and that alignment reflects human values.
- Ensuring the benefits of AI support scientific and economic progress for people.
- Empowering individuals to increase their own agency.
Furthermore, Altman called for international cooperation to establish common standards for measuring AI capabilities, assessing risks, and maintaining oversight. He noted that critical decisions regarding AI development should be shaped through democratic processes and accountable governments rather than being determined solely by individual labs.
Sources
- Sam Altman’s remarks at the United Nations Security Council （OpenAI News, 2026-09-23）