G7 Science Academies Urge Action on AI, Nuclear Arms Control and Social Issues

The science academies of the G7 nations have jointly released a series of statements aimed at guiding policy discussions within their respective governments and addressing critical global challenges. The statements, presented at a meeting in Rome hosted by the Accademia Nazionale dei Lincei, an IAP member academy, cover a range of pressing issues including artificial intelligence (AI), nuclear arms control, health, social inequalities, agricultural security and cultural heritage.

The statements were formally presented to Italian President Mattarella at the Quirinale during a meeting attended by the IAP co-president, Prof. Masresha Fetene. The meeting, known as S7 + SSH7, saw discussions on the recommendations outlined in the statements, emphasizing the need for global cooperation and proactive policymaking.

Under the leadership of the host academy, the statements provide comprehensive recommendations to address the following key areas:

1. Artificial Intelligence and Society:

The academies stress the importance of globally coordinated governance to address the opportunities and challenges posed by AI. Recommendations include safeguarding AI systems against cyber and physical threats, promoting standards for AI-generated content, and ensuring equitable access to high-performance computing.

2. Nuclear Arms Control:

Amid rising international tensions, the academies call for renewed commitment to achieving a world without nuclear weapons. They underscore the role of the scientific community in communicating the catastrophic effects of nuclear warfare and developing means to monitor and verify agreements.

3. Health Issues:

Urgent actions are proposed to combat antimicrobial resistance, strengthen health systems, and mitigate the impacts of climate change on public health. Coordinated global initiatives are deemed necessary to identify and respond to potential pandemics.

4. Social Inequalities and Poverty:

The academies urge G7 nations to enhance integrated efforts to combat poverty and vulnerability, particularly within their own borders. Recommendations include policies to ensure adequate nutrition for all and access to essential infrastructure and services.

5. Security and Safety of Agricultural Production:

Measures are proposed to invest in monitoring soil biodiversity, integrate traditional and emerging agricultural practices, and promote sustainable trade patterns to ensure food security.

6. Science and Communication of Cultural Heritage:

The academies emphasize the importance of international collaboration in understanding and preserving cultural heritage. Efforts to counter illegal trafficking of cultural artifacts and promote awareness in educational institutions are highlighted.

The release of these statements underscores the commitment of the G7 science academies to addressing pressing global challenges and providing evidence-based guidance to policymakers. With the G7 summit in Puglia, Italy, approaching, the recommendations outlined in these statements are expected to inform discussions at the highest levels of government.

For more information, visit the website of the Accademia Nazionale dei Lincei here.
You can read and download the statement from the website of the National Academy of Sciences here.