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Assessing AI Risks: Insights from the International Safety Report

CIO Review Europe | Monday, July 06, 2026

FREMONT, CA: A newly published international AI safety report, commissioned after the inaugural AI Safety Summit, sheds light on AI's potential threats. The report addresses various concerns, from the impact on jobs and the environment to the risks of proliferating cyberattacks, deepfakes, and amplified social biases. It also explores the concentration of power in the AI market and the growing divide in AI research and development (R&D). However, the report focuses primarily on the risks associated with general-purpose AI, which can perform various tasks.

Uncertainty and Complexity in AI Risk Management

While assessing numerous risks, the report refrains from drawing definitive conclusions, noting the uncertainty regarding how AI will develop. The report identifies two central challenges in managing AI risks: difficulty prioritising risks due to uncertainty about their severity and likelihood and the complexity in determining appropriate roles and responsibilities within the AI value chain. It emphasises the need for further monitoring and evidence gathering in all areas of concern.

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Political Implications of AI's Future Development

The report concludes that AI's future impacts, including how and by whom it is developed, depend primarily on political decisions made by governments and societies today. How AI is designed, who benefits from its potential, and the risks exposed will shape its trajectory. It calls for international collaboration and agreement to responsibly guide AI's future development. The report highlights the importance of constructive scientific and public discussions for policymakers to make informed decisions.

Societal and Economic Impacts of AI

One of the primary areas of concern in the report is AI's impact on labour markets. While the exact effects remain uncertain, AI is expected to lead to mixed outcomes, such as increased wages for some workers while reducing them for others, especially those in cognitive tasks. AI's growing capabilities may also lead to increased risks for worker autonomy, particularly for those in logistics industries. The report warns that AI-driven labour automation could exacerbate inequality, reducing workers' share of income relative to capital owners.

The report also discusses the "AI R&D divide," where the development of AI is heavily concentrated in countries with strong digital infrastructure, particularly the U.S. This disparity could exacerbate global inequalities, leaving low- and middle-income countries dependent on AI technologies. Additionally, the rise of "ghost work," where workers in low-income countries perform tasks to support AI development under precarious conditions, is a growing concern.

Environmental Impact of AI

On the environmental front, the report highlights AI's significant energy consumption, particularly in data centres. While some operators are turning to renewable energy sources, much of the training for AI models still relies on high-carbon energy sources. The report suggests that despite efficiency improvements in AI hardware, overall energy use continues to grow, potentially accelerating environmental impact. It cautions that projections of AI's future environmental footprint are unreliable due to the rapid pace of development.

Bias and Discriminatory Outcomes in AI

The report emphasises the potential for AI to amplify existing political and social biases, which could lead to discriminatory outcomes. AI systems, often trained on data from predominantly English-speaking and Western cultures, may reinforce stereotypes and neglect marginalised groups. It calls for a holistic approach to bias mitigation, involving diverse perspectives and stakeholders to ensure more equitable outcomes.

Risks of AI Malfunctions and Misuse

Addressing the risks associated with malfunctioning AI, the report highlights the concerns about AI systems gaining control over critical processes, potentially leading to catastrophic consequences. While opinions on this risk vary, the report acknowledges the complexity of managing AI systems that may operate beyond human control, especially in competitive environments where companies or countries may prioritise technological advancement over safety.

In terms of malicious AI use, the report discusses the risks associated with cyberattacks, deepfakes, and the development of biological or chemical weapons. It acknowledges the harmful potential of deepfakes, particularly for vulnerable populations, and the challenges in detecting and mitigating such content. Furthermore, while AI’s use in cyber vulnerabilities presents significant risks, the report suggests that these can be managed, particularly with AI's defensive capabilities.

The report's findings, building on earlier assessments of AI safety, will inform discussions at the upcoming AI Action Summit in France in early 2025. The French government has emphasised the report's importance in shaping future AI policies, highlighting the need for international collaboration and evidence-based decision-making. As AI technology expands, societies and governments must work together to address these pressing challenges responsibly.

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