UN Chief Antonio Guterres Calls for Global Child Safety Rules as AI Reshapes Childhood and Education
The rapid growth of artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the way children learn, communicate, and understand the world around them. While AI offers significant opportunities in education and creativity, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has warned that children must not become experimental subjects for uncontrolled artificial intelligence systems.
Guterres has highlighted that AI is already influencing children’s learning habits, friendships, emotional development, and perception of reality. According to him, the world is witnessing both the benefits and risks of AI, making strong safeguards necessary to protect younger generations.
Growing Influence of AI on Children’s Lives
Artificial intelligence tools are becoming increasingly common in classrooms, homes, and online platforms. Students are using AI-powered applications for learning assistance, research, language improvement, and creative projects. These technologies can provide personalized education and help children access knowledge more easily.
However, experts and policymakers are raising concerns about possible negative impacts. Unregulated AI systems may expose children to inaccurate information, harmful content, privacy risks, and unhealthy dependence on technology.
Children are still developing their critical thinking abilities, emotional understanding, and social skills. Excessive or unsafe interaction with AI tools could influence how they build relationships, make decisions, and interpret information.
Call for a Child Safety Code for Artificial Intelligence
Guterres has called for the creation of a Child Safety Code for AI to ensure that technology companies, governments, and developers prioritize children’s protection.
Such a framework could include stronger privacy protections, age-appropriate AI design, transparency in AI systems, and measures to prevent harmful experiences for young users.
The objective is not to stop children from using AI but to ensure that innovation develops responsibly while keeping their rights and well-being at the center.
Balancing Innovation With Protection
AI has the potential to improve education by providing personalized learning experiences, supporting teachers, and helping students explore new ideas. Many schools and educators are exploring ways to use AI responsibly as a learning companion.
At the same time, children require protection from risks such as misinformation, algorithmic manipulation, cyber threats, and misuse of personal data.
A responsible approach would involve cooperation between governments, technology companies, educators, parents, and international organizations to create safer digital environments.
Children Should Benefit From AI, Not Suffer Its Risks
The debate around AI and children reflects a larger global challenge: how to encourage technological progress while protecting vulnerable communities.
Guterres’ warning emphasizes that children should have access to the advantages of artificial intelligence without being exposed to unnecessary dangers. A future powered by AI must also be a future where children’s safety, dignity, creativity, and development remain priorities.
As artificial intelligence continues to evolve, global action and responsible policies will play a crucial role in ensuring that technology becomes a tool for empowerment rather than a source of harm for the next generation.
