Bill Gates warns governments are unprepared for AI upheaval
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates warned on Tuesday that governments worldwide are unprepared for the social changes artificial intelligence will bring, as concerns grow over AI-driven job losses, cyberattacks and increasingly autonomous systems.
In an interview with Reuters, Gates said governments were “way behind” in preparing for the technology, while arguing that AI could still deliver major benefits in healthcare, education and agriculture if access is managed fairly.
His remarks came amid a growing debate over how governments should respond to increasingly capable AI systems. OpenAI and Anthropic executives have called for greater caution over the development of advanced models, while lawmakers in the United States are considering measures that would require AI companies to address major known risks.
Gates shifted from his earlier optimism about AI, warning that the technology could displace large numbers of workers, enable cyberattacks and create psychological risks through increasingly sophisticated AI companions. He also called for international cooperation to oversee the most powerful systems.
On Tuesday, the Gates Foundation announced plans to spend at least $1 billion over the next two years on expanding access to AI, particularly in education, healthcare and agriculture. The initiative will also support efforts to ensure AI systems work effectively across different languages and communities.
Gates argued that AI could help narrow the gap between wealthy and developing countries, but warned that poorly managed development could instead deepen inequality.
His comments come as governments and technology companies struggle to keep pace with rapidly advancing AI capabilities. Germany said on Monday that halting AI development was not a viable option, while calling for greater international involvement in managing its risks.
Gates said international cooperation, including between the United States and China, would be necessary to address the risks. He compared the challenge to a crisis requiring countries to work together despite geopolitical tensions.