During his visit to the UAE, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman issued a stark warning about the existential threat artificial intelligence (AI) poses to humanity. He stated, “We face enormous risks and a survival crisis. The challenge for the world is how we manage these risks while still enjoying significant benefits. No one wants to see the world facing annihilation.”
Altman pointed to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) as a model for global cooperation in regulating dangerous technologies, established shortly after World War II in response to the atomic bombings in Japan. He underscored the importance of a unified global response, expressing hope that the IAEA could play a pivotal role.
“We can look to the IAEA as an example,” he remarked. “The world is contemplating: ‘This technology is extremely dangerous; we need to take measures to protect ourselves.’ I believe we can strike a balance.” His message emphasizes that while current risks may not appear immediate, they could escalate rapidly in the near future.