OpenAI has introduced a preview of ChatGPT Pulse, a feature designed to deliver proactive and personalised updates to Pro users on mobile. Instead of waiting for users to ask questions, Pulse researches chat history, feedback, and connected apps to deliver daily insights.
The updates appear as visual cards covering relevant topics, which users can scan quickly or expand for detail. Integrations with Gmail and Google Calendar are available, enabling suggestions such as drafting meeting agendas, recommending restaurants for trips, or reminding users about birthdays.
These integrations are optional and can be switched off at any time.
Pulse is built to prioritise usefulness over screen time, offering updates that expire daily unless saved or added to chat history. Early trials with students highlighted the importance of simple feedback to refine results, and users can guide what appears by curating topics or rating suggestions.
OpenAI plans to refine the feature further before expanding its availability beyond Pro users.
Would you like to learn more about AI, tech and digital diplomacy? If so, ask our Diplo chatbot!
Technology is everywhere at this year’s UN General Assembly. Whether in the General Debate, side events on digital prosperity, or the launch of a new dialogue on AI governance, governments and stakeholders confronted the urgent question of how to ensure that digital transformation serves humanity. Here are the key moments from the week to date.
Digital Cooperation Day: From principles to implementation in global digital governance
On 22 September, the UN Office for Digital and Emerging Technologies (ODET) hosted Digital Cooperation Day, marking the first anniversary of the Global Digital Compact. The event gathered leaders from governments, business, academia, and civil society to discuss how to shift the focus from principle-setting to implementation of digital governance. Discussions covered inclusive digital economies, AI governance, and digital public infrastructure, with sessions on privacy, human rights in data governance, and the role of technology in sustainable development and climate action. Panels also explored AI’s impact on the arts and innovation, while roundtables highlighted strategies for responsible and equitable technology use. The Digital Cooperation Day is set to become an annual platform for reviewing progress and addressing new challenges in international digital cooperation.
The General Debate of the UNGA80
The General Debate opened on 23 September under the theme ‘Better together: 80 years and more for peace, development and human rights’. While leaders addressed a broad spectrum of global challenges, digital and AI governance were recurring concerns.
Day 1 debates circled around a central message: technology must remain a servant of humanity, not its master. From calls to ensure AI benefits all societies and to build universal guardrails for its responsible use, to concerns over cybercrime, disinformation, and the governance of critical minerals exploitation, delegations stressed the urgent need for cooperation, inclusivity, and safeguards.
Day 2 debates underscored a need to align rapid technological change with global governance, with countries calling for stronger international cooperation and responsible approaches to the development and use of technology. Delegations emphasised that digital technologies must serve humanity – advancing development, human rights, and democracy – while also warning of the growing security risks posed by AI misuse, disinformation, hybrid warfare, and cyber threats. Alongside some calls for rules and ethical standards, many highlighted the importance of inclusion, investment in digital infrastructure, and ensuring that all states can share in the benefits of the digital age.
On Day 3 of the UN General Assembly’s 80th session, AI and digital transformation remained at the forefront of global debates. Member states voiced both optimism and concern: from calls for ethical, human-centred governance of AI and stronger safeguards for peace and security, to warnings about disinformation, repression, and widening digital divides. Governments also highlighted the promise of digital technologies for development, stressing the importance of inclusion, connectivity, and technology transfer. The discussions underscored a common thread—while digital innovation offers extraordinary opportunities, its risks demand global cooperation, shared standards, and a commitment to human dignity.
Diplo and the Geneva Internet Platform are providing reporting from this event, which will last through 30 September, so be sure to bookmark our dedicated web page.
Digital@UNGA 2025: Digital for Good – For People and Prosperity
On 23 September, the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the UN Development Programme (UNDP) hosted Digital@UNGA 2025: Digital for Good – For People and Prosperity. The anchor event spotlighted digital technologies as tools for inclusion, equity, and opportunity. Affiliate sessions throughout the week explored trust, rights, and universal connectivity, while side events examined issues ranging from AI for the SDGs and digital identity to green infrastructure, early-warning systems, and space-based connectivity. The initiative sought to showcase digital tools as a force for healthcare, education, and economic empowerment, and to inspire action and dialogue towards an equitable and empowering digital future for all.
Security Council debate on AI
The UN Security Council held ahigh-level debate on AI, highlighting its promise and its urgent risks for peace and security. The debate, chaired by the Republic of Korea President Lee Jae Myung, underscored a shared recognition that AI offers enormous benefits, but without strong global cooperation and governance, it could deepen divides, destabilise societies, and reshape warfare in dangerous ways.
The launch of the Global Dialogue on AI Governance
Senior leaders outlined how AI could drive economic growth and development, particularly in the Global South, while plenary discussions saw stakeholders present their perspectives on building agile, responsive and inclusive international AI governance for humanity. A youth representative closed the session, underscoring younger generations’ stake in shaping AI’s future.
The Global Dialogue on AI Governance is tasked, as decided by the UN General Assembly this August, with facilitating open, transparent and inclusive discussions on AI governance. The dialogue is set to have its first meeting in 2026, along with the AI for Good Summit in Geneva.
Launch of open call for Independent International Scientific Panel on AI
The UN Secretary-General has launched an open call for candidates to join the Independent International Scientific Panel on Artificial Intelligence. Agreed by member states in September 2024 as part of the Global Digital Compact, the 40-member Panel will provide evidence-based scientific assessments on AI’s opportunities, risks, and impacts. Its work will culminate in an annual, policy-relevant – but non-prescriptive – summary report presented to the Global Dialogue, along with up to two updates per year to engage with the General Assembly plenary. Following the call for nominations, the Secretary-General will recommend 40 members for appointment by the General Assembly.
IN OTHER NEWS THIS WEEK
Global initiative calls for AI red lines by 2026
A coalition of global experts and leaders has launched the Global Call for AI Red Lines, an initiative that calls for clear red lines to govern the development and deployment of AI.
The initiative warns that advanced AI could soon far surpass human capabilities, escalating risks such as engineered pandemics, mass disinformation, manipulation of individuals—including children, security threats, widespread unemployment, and human rights violations. Some systems have already exhibited harmful or deceptive behaviour, and left unchecked, meaningful human control may become increasingly difficult.
The campaign calls for an operational international agreement on red lines for AI, with robust enforcement mechanisms by 2026, building on existing frameworks and corporate commitments to ensure all advanced AI developers are held accountable.
Signatories include Nobel laureates, former heads of state, and leading AI researchers such as Geoffrey Hinton, Ian Goodfellow and Yoshua Bengio. OpenAI co-founder Wojciech Zaremba, authors Yuval Noah Harari and Stephen Fry.
Why it matters: Warnings about AI’s potentially existential threats are far from new. As early as the 1960s, computer scientist I.J. Good cautioned about an ‘intelligence explosion,’ in which machines could rapidly surpass human cognitive abilities. Today, it often feels like there’s an AI researcher or some other public figure raising concerns about the technology every week. So what makes this initiative stand out? It combines high-profile backing, a demand for an international agreement on red lines, and a concrete timeline. Let’s see what impact it will have.
TikTok’s great American makeover
With an executive order, US President Donald Trump brought the protracted TikTok drama to a climax, paving the way for a new company—led by American investors who will own 80% of the platform—to take control of the app. TikTok’s (soon to be former) parent company, ByteDance, and its Chinese investors will retain a minority stake of less than 20%.
A new US-led joint venture will oversee the app’s algorithm, code, and content moderation, while all American user data will be stored on Oracle-run servers in the USA. The venture will have a seven-member board, six of whom are American experts in cybersecurity and national security.
Media reports that the US investor group is led by software giant Oracle, while prominent backers include private equity firm Silver Lake, media moguls Rupert and Lachlan Murdoch, and Dell CEO Michael Dell.
The crux of the matter: All US user data will be stored securely on Oracle-run servers in the USA, preventing foreign control. Software updates, algorithms, and data flows will face strict monitoring, with recommendation models retrained and overseen by US security partners to guard against manipulation.
The US government has long argued that the app’s access to US user data poses significant risks, as ByteDance is possibly subject to the Chinese 2017 National Intelligence Law, which requires any Chinese entity to support, assist, and cooperate with state intelligence work – including, possibly, the transfer of US citizens’ TikTok data to China. On the other hand, TikTok and ByteDance maintained that TikTok operates independently and respects user privacy.
What’s next? There are still some details to hash out, such as whether US users will be installing a new app altogether. Nevertheless, this agreement marks a significant step in resolving one of the most high-profile tech-policy disputes of the decade. Plus, the executive order leaves 120 days for the deal to take place.
The bottom line: For millions of American users, the political wrangling is background noise. The real change will be felt in their feeds—whether the new, American-guarded TikTok can retain the chaotic creativity that made it a cultural force.
Apple urges EU to scrap Digital Markets Act, calls for ‘fit for purpose’ alternative
Narrowly meeting the deadline, Apple has submitted a view arguing the DMA leaves it with two bad choices: either weaken the security and smooth experience of its devices by opening up to rivals, or hold back features from EU users. It points to delayed launches of tools like Live Translation with AirPods, iPhone Mirroring, and improved location services, which Apple says depend on tight integration that the DMA prevents.
The big picture:Critics in the US argue that European digital regulations unfairly target US tech giants. Apple has acknowledged the challenge, saying, ‘Over time, it’s become clear that the DMA isn’t helping markets. It’s making it harder to do business in Europe.’
EU digital affairs spokesman Thomas Regnier noted that the commission was ‘not surprised’ by the tech giant’s move. ‘Apple has simply contested every little bit of the DMA since its entry into application,’ Regnier said. Despite these complaints, the EU remains firm: thanks to the DMA, companies have the right to compete fairly and gatekeepers, like Apple, must allow interoperability of third-party devices with their operating systems, Reinger underlined.
The bottom line: Compliance with the DMA is mandatory, and there is little indication that the rules will ease.
The most likely outcome is that Apple continue operating under the DMA while seeking ways to adapt and lobby for adjustments that reduce disruption. European users may see some delays in new features or modifications to services, though.
Record $2.5b settlement forces Amazon to overhaul Prime sign-up and cancellation practices
Amazon has agreed to a $2.5 billion settlement with the US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) over deceptive Prime membership practices. The FTC’s investigation, initiated in June 2023, revealed that Amazon enrolled customers into its Prime program without their explicit consent, obscured critical information about costs and terms, and implemented a complex cancellation process designed to deter users from unsubscribing, described as the ‘Illiad process’. Approximately 35 million consumers were affected by these tactics.
Under the terms of the settlement, Amazon is required to pay a $1 billion civil penalty (the largest ever in a case involving an FTC rule violation) and provide $1.5 billion in refunds to consumers harmed by the deceptive Prime enrollment practices (the second-highest restitution award ever obtained by FTC action).
The settlement requires Amazon to make Prime enrollment and cancellation clear and simple, fully disclose costs and terms, allow easy cancellations, and have an independent supervisor ensure compliance.
This unprecedented settlement underscores the growing scrutiny of tech giants’ business practices and sets a significant precedent for consumer protection enforcement.
The cyberattack that disrupted major European airports
A cyberattack targeting Collins Aerospace, a critical systems provider that operates check-in and boarding platforms for numerous airports around the world, caused widespread disruption at major European airports. Passengers at London Heathrow, Berlin, and Brussels experienced long queues, flight delays, and cancellations throughout Saturday, with some recovery reported on Sunday, though disruptions continued, particularly at Heathrow and Berlin.
Collins Aerospace confirmed that its Muse software had been hit by a cyberattack and said teams were working to restore services.
In response to the incident, the UK’s National Crime Agency arrested a man in West Sussex on suspicion of computer misuse offences. The suspect has been released on conditional bail while the investigation continues. This might suggest that the investigation is complex and far from concluded.
Industry experts pointed out that this event highlights the vulnerability of the aviation sector, which often relies on shared software platforms. They suggested that stronger backup systems and better cooperation are needed to improve resilience against such attacks.
The next meeting of the Geneva Data Community, organised on behalf of the Swiss Federal Statistical Office, will bring together key stakeholders for an exchange on current initiatives and developments in the data field and an update from the World Health Organisation (WHO) on advancing the continuum between data, digital, and AI to improve health outcomes.
The Civil Society Alliances for Digital Empowerment (CADE) consortium will launch its Mapping and Baseline Study Reports. The reports provide a comprehensive overview of civil society participation in key Internet governance spaces—including the IGF, ICANN, ITU, and IETF—with a particular focus on amplifying underrepresented voices from the Global South. They also put forward practical recommendations to strengthen inclusive and meaningful engagement of civil society in digital policy processes.
The 6th AI Policy Summit continues the multi-stakeholder dialogue with leading experts in exploring the use of public policy and societal engagement to capture the benefits of artificial intelligence, minimize its risks, and enhance its adoption.
The 2025 edition of the World Trade Report reveals that, with the right enabling policies, AI could boost the value of cross-border flows of goods and services by nearly 40% by 2040 thanks to productivity gains and lower trade costs. However, for AI and trade to contribute to inclusive growth — with benefits shared widely — policies need to be in place to bridge the digital divide, invest in workforce skills, and maintain an open and predictable trading environment.
Learn the essential AI vocabulary you need. This guide explains key terms like parameters (7B vs 70B), tokens, context windows, LLMs, and AI hallucination.
Welcome to the third daily report from the General Debate at the 80th session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA80). Our daily hybrid AI–human reports bring you a concise overview of how world leaders are framing the digital future.
On Day 3, AI and digital transformation remained at the forefront of global debates. Member states voiced both optimism and concern: from calls for ethical, human-centred governance of AI and stronger safeguards for peace and security, to warnings about disinformation, repression, and widening digital divides. Governments also highlighted the promise of digital technologies for development, stressing the importance of inclusion, connectivity, and technology transfer. The discussions underscored a common thread—while digital innovation offers extraordinary opportunities, its risks demand global cooperation, shared standards, and a commitment to human dignity.
To keep the highlights clear and accessible, we leave them in bullet points — capturing the key themes and voices as they emerge.
Global digital governance and cooperation
There is a need for global standards for transparency, and accountability mechanisms to address abuses associated with digital technologies; these should be as dynamic as the technologies themselves. (European Union)
Technological breakthroughs, including artificial intelligence, must foster peace, development, and human dignity. (Haiti)
Artificial intelligence
Responsible AI (governance)
A human-centred approach to AI is favoured – one based on fundamental values, democracy, and the rule of law. With the EU having adopted a regulatory framework for responsible AI, it calls for an equivalent level of ambition in the international domain. (European Union)
Rapid technological change, especially the rise of artificial intelligence, must be harnessed in a safe, responsible, and inclusive manner. (Montenegro)
AI is developing with lightning speed and largely unchecked, posing obvious risks to the social fabric without any agreement on rules and boundaries. (Liechtenstein)
Global/international cooperation is needed to set AI on the right course (United Kingdom), and ensure AI systems remain safe, secure, and trustworthy. (Micronesia)
A move towards multilateral and ethical governance of AI is necessary to guarantee inclusive access and ensure its use is guided by the common good. (Ecuador)
The global community must support innovation in emerging technologies like AI while addressing the associated risks. (Sweden)
AI brings enormous opportunities but also incalculable risks for civilisation, and it should be made a priority of UNGA’s 80th session. (North Macedonia)
Concern is expressed about the misuse of AI by capitalism, which could accelerate climate change and liquidate the planet. (Bolivia)
The internet, social media platforms, and artificial intelligence reinforce isolation by using algorithms that ensure people receive more of the same content rather than new ideas. (Ghana)
AI for development and growth
We must change with the times and take advantage of today’s opportunities such as using AI and other technologies. (Netherlands)
AI is the most powerful new lever to advance the UN charter’s vision of social progress and better standards of life. It needs to be forged as a force for freedom, prosperity, and human dignity. (United Kingdom)
AI should be championed as a bridge-builder across continents to share its extraordinary potential. (United Kingdom)
AI for development is championed through partnerships with African nations to create AI ecosystems that empower communities to meet the sustainable development goals. (United Kingdom)
Digital tech, security, and peace
Cybersecurity
Cyber threats are among the major challenges of our time. People trust the UN to tackle such challenges, but often the responses provided have fallen short. (Equatorial Guinea)
Micronesia is committed to developing national strategies and policies to safeguard digital dataand mitigate the risk of malicious attacks. (Micronesia)
Artificial intelligence is being used to consolidate repression and empower criminals across the internet. (United Kingdom)
International peace and security
New technologies are being utilised to disrupt communications and guidance systems. (Yemen)
Wars are now multidimensional, including media, information, and cyberwarfare, war from space, and the use of other technologies that are developed without impunity. (Bolivia)
AI, social media, and the internet, including the dark web, carry a potential threat to global peace and security. (Ghana)
A call is made for enhanced global cooperation to address the root causes of conflict, including new technologies. (Uganda)
The inclusive and constructive dialogue that shaped the first UNGA resolution on AI should serve as a model for discussions on AI, peace, and security, and on the responsible use of AI in the military domain. (Micronesia)
International humanitarian law must be upheld, and weapons which “kill randomly” must be banned. (Austria)
Human rights in the digital space
The values of freedom, democracy, and human rights are threatened by the abuse of digital technologies. (European Union)
Emerging technologies, particularly AI, pose significant risks to human rights, requiring a move toward multilateral and ethical governance. (Ecuador)
Disinformation and misinformation
The rise of disinformation is among the challenges our world is confronted with. (Haiti, Montenegro). Technology makes it easier to disseminate disinformation and sow seeds of division. (Ghana)
The values of freedom, democracy, and human rights are threatened by disinformation. (European Union)
Authoritarian states are manipulating large language models so that chatbots answer in the voice of their propaganda. (United Kingdom)
Digital technologies for development
Digital inclusion and access
Access to technologies, especially in the digital and artificial intelligence era, is a decisive factor for promoting sustainable development. (Cameroon)
Technologies of the future should be embraced as an opportunity for growth, innovation, and a sustainable future. (Norway)
Digital access programmes seek to narrow the technological divide for millions. (United Kingdom)
A move towards multilateral and ethical governance of AI is necessary to avoid new digital gaps. (Ecuador)
The national growth and development plan focuses on developing the digital sector and enhancing youth employment. (Gabon)
Digital transformation is a catalyst for sustainable development. Partnerships with developed countries in advancing technology are welcomed. (Eswatini) Global partners are invited to invest in technology. (Botswana)
There is a desire for a modern state able to invest in people, development, technology, and education. (State of Palestine)
Existing inequalities mean that only some are at the frontier of digital technologies. (Dominica) There are widening technological inequalities and unequal access to technology. (Rwanda)
Digital public infrastructure and services
There is potential for cooperation in digital connectivity, with Azerbaijan leading initiatives like the Digital Silk Way, which includes plans for an advanced fibre optic cable network under the Caspian Sea. (Azerbaijan)
Uganda is deploying digital health solutions to improve service delivery and accountability. (Uganda)
Technology transfers
A lack of technological transfer is a major challenge. (Equatorial Guinea)
Technology transfers are advocated for. (Ecuador)
Support is required in technology transfer to address the intertwined challenges of development and environmental stability. (South Sudan)
No state should be locked out of opportunities for growth, finance, and technology due to geographical circumstances.(Ethiopia)
A call for increased long-term concessional financing, technology transfer, and fairer trade terms is made to support domestic development efforts. (Tanzania)
A call is made for fairer global governance,including equal access to financing for green technologies. (Chad)
For other topics discussed, head over to our dedicated UNGA80 page, where you can explore more insights from the General Debate.
The General Debate at the 80th session of the UN General Assembly brings together high-level representatives from across the globe to discuss the most pressing issues of our time. The session took place against the backdrop of the UN’s 80th anniversary, serving as a moment for both reflection and a forward-looking assessment of the organisation’s role and relevance.
Welcome to the second daily report from the General Debate at the 80th session of the UN General Debate (UNGA80). Our daily hybrid AI–human reports bring you a concise overview of how world leaders are framing the digital future.
Day 2 debates underscored a need to align rapid technological change with global governance, with countries calling for stronger international cooperation and responsible approaches to the development and use of technology. Delegations emphasised that digital technologies must serve humanity – advancing development, human rights, and democracy – while also warning of the growing security risks posed by AI misuse, disinformation, hybrid warfare, and cyber threats. Alongside some calls for rules and ethical standards, many highlighted the importance of inclusion, investment in digital infrastructure, and ensuring that all states can share in the benefits of the digital age.
To keep the highlights clear and accessible, we leave them in bullet points — capturing the key themes and voices as they emerge.
Global digital governance and cooperation
Technological disruptions are currently outpacing governance. (Kenya)
The digital age must be guided by international cooperation, ethical standards, and respect for human rights, with technology placed at the service of humanity. (Albania)
The world needs a strong and effective UN system capable of responding to the rapid evolution of new technologies. (Czechia) A renewed UN can strengthen digital security and international cooperation with ethical and inclusive principles that support freedom of expression. (Panama)
Albania is co-leading with Kenya the review process of the World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) and will work to ensure a successful outcome. (Albania)
International Geneva can make a unique contribution to the attainment of global goals, leveraging its expertise in humanity and innovation as a centre for reflection, discussion, and concerted action. (Switzerland)
Artificial intelligence
Responsible AI (governance)
AI must serve human dignity, development, and human rights, and not the other way around. (Estonia)
AI governance is seen as one of three significant global challenges facing the international community, along with nuclear weapons and the triple planetary crisis. (Costa Rica)
Governments should act swiftly to create regulations that make AI safer and more beneficial for people. Focus should be placed on developing AI responsibly, not halting progress. (Latvia)
A responsible approach from all international institutions, the private sector, and governments is needed to steer the AI revolution. (Slovakia)
Regulations, ethical standards, and governance mechanisms are urgently needed in the AI space, to address issues of equity and access. (Guyana)
A global standard is called for to ensure the use of AI is transparent, fair, and respects ethical boundaries, without substituting for human judgment or responsibility. (Namibia)
The UN General Assembly’s decision to establish two global AI governance mechanisms – the independent international scientific panel and a global dialogue on AI governance – is welcomed. (Guyana, Costa Rica)
AI for development and growth
AI can accelerate progress on the 2030 Agenda if directed towards a fair and equitable digital transformation. (Spain) It can strengthen national economies and collective efforts for development, optimising resources, accelerating medical research, and democratising access to knowledge. (Costa Rica) AI can also promote economic growth, drive scientific progress and innovation, improve healthcare, and make education more accessible. (Latvia)
AI and digitisation can accelerate the demand for energy. (Guyana)
Investment is needed in new technologies and artificial intelligence to help developing countries transition to a more prosperous future. (Congo)
AI must stand for ‘Africa included‘. (Nigeria)
An AI hub for sustainable development is being opened, involving hundreds of African startups in the development of artificial intelligence. (Italy)
A neutral sovereign artificial intelligence zone has been proposed. (Sri Lanka)
Guyana is establishing an AI hyperscale data centre which will help accelerate digitalisation and improve competitiveness. (Guyana)
Equipping citizens with the skills to use AI wisely and responsibly is essential. Estonia is implementing a new ‘Artificial Intelligence Leap’ to provide the best technological tools to students and teachers to maintain a comparative edge in education. (Estonia)
Digital tech, peace and security
Concerns were raised about the impact of drones – with or without AI – on peace and security. The proliferation of drones available to countries with limited resources or non-state actors presents a rapidly evolving security threat, having increased the lethality and changed the economics of war. (Croatia, Latvia, Ukraine)
Acts of hybrid warfare include disinformation campaigns, attempts to undermine public trust, cyberattacks, and acts of sabotage carried out by mercenaries recruited online. (Czechia) Damage to undersea cables and GPS jamming are also part of a growing wave of hybrid attacks. (Latvia)
Emerging threats such as cyberattacks, hybrid attacks, and the misuse of AI (for instance to spread disinformation or enable attacks on critical infrastructure) challenge international peace, security, and stability. Countering these requires resilience and increased cooperation. (Latvia, Costa Rica)
Technologies like AI, cyber capabilities, space technology and robotics can strengthen defences, but can also be misused by hostile actors. Security needs to be rethought, nationally and globally. Rules, safeguards, and cooperation must keep pace with innovation in technologies, to ensure that they can contribute to resilience and stability. The UN must evolve to be able to effectively address such complex challenges. (Croatia, Cyprus)
There is an urgent need for global rules on how AI can be used in weapons, comparable in urgency to preventing nuclear weapons proliferation. (Ukraine)
Military automation, enabled by AI, challenges the ability to maintain meaningful human control over life-or-death decisions without adequate regulatory frameworks. The conclusion of a legally binding instrument before 2026 is urged to establish prohibitions and regulations for autonomous weapons systems capable of identifying, selecting, and attacking targets without meaningful human control, stressing that no algorithm should make life or death decisions. (Costa Rica)
The arms race is resuming, including in cyberspace. (Senegal) Cybercrime and cyber terrorism are emerging challenges. (Guyana)
Human rights in the digital space
Safeguarding digital rights and advancing media freedom are critical for advancing democracy and protecting international law-based multilateral world order. (Estonia)
It is proposed to establish a global charter for digital governance and ethical AI to protect human rights in the digital sphere. (Central African Republic)
Disinformation and misinformation
Concern was expressed about an emerging generation that grows cynical because it believes nothing and trusts less, due to the rapid advancement of technology. (Nigeria)
The ‘pandemic’ of misinformation and disinformation is an emerging challenge. (Guyana)
The proliferation of misinformation, particularly via digital platforms, has fuelled distrust between countries, targeting elections, trade negotiations, and public sentiment. (Serbia)
Disinformation, which gains even greater volume in digital environments, is eroding public trust and is part of the challenges testing the principles of the UN Charter and the UN’s authority. (Dominican Republic; Sierra Leone)
Autocracies are deploying new technology to undermine trust in democracy, institutions, and each other. (Australia)
Digital technologies for development
Digital inclusion and access
Ensuring that every person and country benefits from the opportunities of the digital age is a global challenge. The international community must work together to close the digital gap between states that can and cannot benefit from digital tech and AI as development tools. (Sri Lanka)
There is a need for a new dialogue to promote a level of access to technology that allows emerging economies to more quickly close the wealth and knowledge gap. (Nigeria)
The digital divide must be closed. (Costa Rica, Nigeria) Advancing digital inclusion and the digital transition is essential for states to meet development goals. (Comoros, Kiribati)
A dedicated initiative is advocated for, bringing together researchers, the private sector, government, and communities to close the digital divide. (Nigeria)
Investments are made in digital transformation and the digital economy to foster inclusion and innovation, and ensure no one is left behind. (Albania, Sierra Leone)
Digital public infrastructure and services
Digital solutions are vital for overcoming challenges from geographical isolation and limited economies of scale, and are key to enhancing public services, education, commerce, and climate resilience. (Kiribati)
The GovStack initiative, co-founded by Estonia in collaboration with the International Telecommunications Union and Germany, provides governments with a digital public infrastructure toolbox aimed at modernising digital services by creating a modular, open-source, and scalable framework. (Estonia)
Digitalisation is a part of the commitment to sustainable development and the 2030 Agenda goals. (Serbia)
Digital democracy is a national aim. (Sri Lanka)
Technology transfers, trade, and critical minerals
Many countries need technology transfers and capacity building (Guatemala), and developed countries must honour their commitments in these areas. (Sierra Leone) Solidarity, translated into technology transfers and other measures, is needed. (Dominican Republic)
The world urgently needs supply chains that are more reliable, diversified, and resilient. (Paraguay)
Allowing critical infrastructure to depend on authoritarian regimes is gambling with both the economy and democracy. (Paraguay)
Africa has an abundance of critical minerals that will drive the technologies of the future. Investments in the exploration, development, and processing of these minerals in Africa will diversify supply to the international market and help shape the architecture for peace and prosperity. Countries that host minerals must benefit from them through investment, partnership, local processing, and jobs. (Nigeria)
For other topics discussed, head over to our dedicated UNGA80 page, where you can explore more insight from the General Debate.
The General Debate at the 80th session of the UN General Assembly brings together high-level representatives from across the globe to discuss the most pressing issues of our time. The session took place against the backdrop of the UN’s 80th anniversary, serving as a moment for both reflection and a forward-looking assessment of the organisation’s role and relevance.
OpenAI, Oracle, and SoftBank are expanding their Stargate AI infrastructure with five new US data centre sites. The addition brings nearly 7 gigawatts of capacity and $400 billion in investment, putting the partners on track to meet the $500 billion, 10-gigawatt commitment by 2025.
Three of the new sites- located in Shackelford County, Texas; Doña Ana County, New Mexico; and a forthcoming Midwest location, are expected to deliver over 5.5 gigawatts of capacity. These developments are expected to create over 25,000 onsite jobs and tens of thousands more nationwide.
A potential 600-megawatt expansion near the flagship site in Abilene, Texas, is also under consideration.
The remaining two sites, in Lordstown, Ohio, and Milam County, Texas, will scale to 1.5 gigawatts over 18 months. SoftBank and SB Energy are providing advanced design and infrastructure to enable faster, more scalable, and cost-efficient AI compute.
The new sites follow a rigorous nationwide selection process involving over 300 proposals from more than 30 states. Early workloads at the Abilene flagship site are already advancing next-generation AI research, supported by Oracle Cloud Infrastructure and NVIDIA GB200 racks.
The expansion underscores the partners’ commitment to building the physical infrastructure necessary for AI breakthroughs and long-term US leadership in AI.
Would you like to learn more about AI, tech and digital diplomacy? If so, ask our Diplo chatbot!
Welcome to the first daily report from the General Debate at the 80th session of the UN General Debate (UNGA80). Our daily hybrid AI–human reports bring you a concise overview of how world leaders are framing the digital future.
Day 1 debates circled around a central message: technology must remain a servant of humanity, not its master. From calls to ensure AI benefits all societies and to build universal guardrails for its responsible use, to concerns over cybercrime, disinformation, and the governance of critical minerals, delegations stressed the urgent need for cooperation, inclusivity, and safeguards.
While opportunities for innovation, development, and peace were highlighted, speakers warned that without global frameworks, the same technologies could deepen divides, fuel insecurity, and erode human dignity.
To keep the highlights clear and accessible, we leave them in bullet points — capturing the key themes and voices as they emerge.
Tech for humanity and common good & global cooperation
Technology must be put at the service of humanity. It must be our servant, not our master. (UN Secretary-General)
The use of technology and global connectivity is too often twisted by cynical leaders and warmongering regimes, but can be harnessed for the common good. (Slovenia)
A vision of AI for all is needed to ensure that tech advancements contribute to the universal values of humanity. (Republic of Korea)
Africa must play an active role in defining international roles and standards and ensuring that technology is at the service of humanity. (Mozambique)
The international community must ensure that technology lifts up humanity and no country is locked out of the digital future. (UN Secretary-General)
Peak technology is picking up pace, opening horizons of opportunity but paving the way for dangerous forces because they are not regulated. New risks are posed by AI, cyber, space and quantum technologies, and while common frameworks exist, they have been weakened or outpaced. Existing rules and institutions need to be consolidated, and frameworks for peace need to be built. (France)
Artificial intelligence
AI inclusion and capacity building
AI capacity gaps must be closed. All countries and societies must be able to use, design and develop AI, and benefit from the opportunities the technology offers. (Türkiye, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, UN Secretary-General) )
AI technologies should be used for the benefit of humanity, not as a new tool of domination. The UN Technology Bank for the Least Developed Countries could play a critical role in closing the digital and technological gap. (Türkiye)
A new international cooperation mechanism is proposed to facilitate the exchange of practical solutions and models of AI in healthcare, education, and culture. (Uzbekistan)
Not taking advantage of AI means wasting economic opportunities. Countries need to adapt to the challenges imposed by the need to use AI responsibly. (Morocco)
Responsible AI (governance)
The advancement of AI is outpacing regulation and responsibility, with its control concentrated in a few hands. (UN Secretary-General) There is a need for universal guardrails, common standards, and ethical norms to ensure transparency, safety, accountability, fairness, and the protection of individual rights in its deployment. The UN’s recent steps to establish an international scientific panel and an annual global dialogue on AI governance are supported. (UN Secretary-General, Kazakhstan)
Commitment was expressed to building multilateral governance to mitigate the risks of AI, in line with the Global Digital Compact. (Brazil)
AI could lead to a dystopia of deepening polarisation, inequality, and human rights abuses if not proactively managed. It can also be a driving force for innovation, prosperity, and direct democracy. (Republic of Korea)
Artificial intelligence poses new challenges to human dignity, justice, and labor, with risks of exclusion, social manipulation, and militarization through autonomous weapons. Addressing them requires understanding how AI works and having robust safeguards in place. (Mozambique)
Cybersecurity and cybercrime
Digital technologies come with new security threats, in particular cybercrime. Cybersecurity must be an important component of collective security. (Tajikistan)
Viet Nam looks forward to the signing ceremony of the UN Convention Against Cybercrime. (Viet Nam)
Digital technology, peace and security
There are risks associated with new technologies, from biotech to autonomous weapons. There is also a rise of tools for mass surveillance and control, which can intensify the race for critical minerals and potentially spark instability. (UN Secretary-General)
The US will pioneer an AI verification system to enforce the biological weapons convention. (United States)
Digital, space and AI technologies should be used as forces for peace, not tools for domination. (Portugal)
The use of ICTs to harm peace, security and sustainable development needs to be prevented. (Turkmenistan)
Human rights in the digital space
Technology must serve humanity and be a force for good. It must promote human rights, human dignity, and human agency. (UN Secretary-General)
Regulating digital platforms does not mean restraining freedom of expression, but ensuring that what is illegal offline is also illegal online. (Brazil)
Disinformation and misinformation
Digital platforms offer possibilities for people to come together, but they have also been used for sowing intolerance, misogyny, xenophobia, and misinformation, necessitating government regulation to protect the vulnerable. (Brazil)
The rise of tools for mass disruption and mass social control is a concern. ( UN Secretary-General)
There’s a growing challenge of disinformation being used to undermine democratic institutions and destabilize societies. The international community needs to defend truth as a supreme value. (Lithuania)
Digital inclusion and tech for development
To bridge the digital and technological divides is central to building resilient societies. (Portugal)
It is important to prevent inequalities in digital development and the use of artificial intelligence between countries. (Uzbekistan)
Digital transformation must be balanced, reflect the realities and legitimate interests of all states, and be free from politicization and bias. A proposal will be made to establish a world platform on digital integration. (Turkmenistan)
There is a need for a technological and a climate diplomacy that can regulate risks and democratise benefits through genuine transfer and sharing of technology and knowledge, so that technology is a factor of inclusive development. (Mozambique)
Sustainable development models need to be based on digital and green transition. For this, countries must invest in R&D, train human resources, develop green infrastructure, and formulate national plans, while developed countries must take responsibility insharing and transferring technologyto developing and underdeveloped countries. (Viet Nam)
Nations which benefited the most from industrial and economic development in the past should support developing countries through measures such as technology transfers and adequate financing. (Angola)
Critical minerals
Robust regulations need to balance responsible mineral extraction with effective environmental protection. (Nauru)
Rich countries are demanding greater access to resources and technology. The race for critical minerals cannot repeat the predatory and asymmetrical logic of past centuries. (Brazil)
Critical minerals need to be harnessed for inclusive growth and sustainable development, including within the communities where these minerals are extracted from. (South Africa)
The governance of strategic minerals needs to ensure that exploitation compiles with the principles of sustainable development, economic sovereignty and people’s well-being. (Democratic Republic of the Congo)
For other topics discussed, head over to our dedicated UNGA80 page, where you can explore more insight from the General Debate.
The General Debate at the 80th session of the UN General Assembly brings together high-level representatives from across the globe to discuss the most pressing issues of our time. The session took place against the backdrop of the UN’s 80th anniversary, serving as a moment for both reflection and a forward-looking assessment of the organisation’s role and relevance.
A collaboration between OpenAI, Oracle, and SoftBank has announced five new data centres under the Stargate initiative, a $500 billion plan to expand US AI computing infrastructure.
The latest sites bring total planned capacity to nearly 7 gigawatts, with over $400 billion already committed, putting the project ahead of schedule to meet its 2025 target of 10 gigawatts.
Oracle will lead three projects in Texas, New Mexico and the Midwest, adding over 5.5 gigawatts of capacity and creating more than 25,000 jobs.
SoftBank will develop facilities in Ohio and Texas, expected to scale to 1.5 gigawatts within 18 months. SB Energy, its affiliate, will provide rapid-build infrastructure for the Texas site.
The companies described the expansion as a step toward faster deployment and greater cost efficiency, making high-performance computing more widely accessible.
Site selection followed a nationwide review of more than 300 proposals, with further projects under evaluation, suggesting investment could surpass the original commitment.
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman stressed that compute power is key to unlocking AI’s promise, while Oracle and SoftBank leaders highlighted scalable infrastructure and energy expertise as central to the initiative. With Stargate, the partners aim to anchor the next wave of AI innovation on US soil.
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OpenAI has launched its low-cost ChatGPT Go subscription in Indonesia, pricing it at 75,000 rupiah ($4.5) per month. The new plan offers ten times more messaging capacity, image generation tools and double memory compared with the free version.
The rollout follows last month’s successful launch in India, where ChatGPT subscriptions more than doubled. India has since become OpenAI’s largest market, accounting for around 13.5% of global monthly active users. The US remains second.
Nick Turley, OpenAI Vice President and head of ChatGPT, said Indonesia is already one of the platform’s top five markets by weekly activity. The new tier is aimed at expanding reach in populous, price-sensitive regions while ensuring broader access to AI services.
OpenAI is also strengthening its financial base as it pushes into new markets. On Monday, the company secured a $100 billion investment commitment from NVIDIA, joining Microsoft and SoftBank among its most prominent backers. The funding comes amid intensifying competition in the AI industry.
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OpenAI and NVIDIA have announced a strategic partnership to build at least 10 gigawatts of AI data centres powered by millions of NVIDIA GPUs.
A deal, supported by the investment of up to $100 billion from NVIDIA, that aims to provide the infrastructure for OpenAI’s next generation of models, with the first phase scheduled for late 2026 on the NVIDIA Vera Rubin platform.
The companies said the collaboration will enable the development of AGI and accelerate AI adoption worldwide. OpenAI will treat NVIDIA as its preferred strategic compute and networking partner, coordinating both sides’ hardware and software roadmaps.
They will also continue working with Microsoft, Oracle, SoftBank and other partners to build advanced AI infrastructure.
OpenAI has grown to more than 700 million weekly users across businesses and developers globally. Executives at both firms described the new partnership as the next leap in AI computing power, one intended to fuel innovation at scale instead of incremental improvements.
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OpenAI and NVIDIA have unveiled plans for a major partnership to build next-generation AI infrastructure, with NVIDIA committing up to $100 billion to support OpenAI’s push toward superintelligence. The deal, outlined in a letter of intent, will see NVIDIA provide at least 10 gigawatts of computing power, with the first systems expected to be online in late 2026 through its new Vera Rubin platform.
NVIDIA’s CEO Jensen Huang called the agreement the next leap forward in AI, noting the companies’ decade-long collaboration from the early DGX supercomputers to the rise of ChatGPT. OpenAI’s CEO Sam Altman stressed that computing power is now the backbone of the future economy, framing the new investment as vital for both breakthroughs and large-scale access to AI.
OpenAI President Greg Brockman emphasised the scale of the move, saying 10 gigawatts of computing will allow the organisation to expand the frontier of intelligence and make the benefits of AI more widely available. NVIDIA will serve as OpenAI’s preferred partner for compute and networking, with both companies coordinating their hardware and software roadmaps.
The alliance builds on OpenAI’s existing collaborations with companies like Microsoft, Oracle, and SoftBank, which are working with the group to develop advanced AI infrastructure. Together, they are targeting global enterprise adoption while ensuring systems can grow at a pace that matches AI’s rapid evolution.
With over 700 million weekly active users and strong uptake across businesses and developers, OpenAI sees the partnership as central to its mission of creating artificial general intelligence that benefits humanity. Details of the deal are expected to be finalised in the coming weeks.
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