Spain finds itself at the heart of global debates on the future of artificial intelligence. Amid the rapid integration of AI into the economy and public administration, Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has put forward an initiative that could reshape how new technologies are regulated worldwide. His call to establish international rules under the auspices of the UN has sparked significant discussion among world leaders and experts.
Sánchez emphasized that while AI development brings many advantages, it also carries serious risks. Chief among these, he warned, is the potential for power to become concentrated in the hands of a limited group of companies, threatening democratic institutions. According to Sánchez, if no action is taken, technology may spiral out of control and be used to harm society rather than benefit people.
Risks for the labor market
The Prime Minister placed particular emphasis on AI’s impact on employment. According to government estimates, up to 50% of administrative positions in Spain could be automated in the coming years. This means hundreds of thousands of workers could be at risk of losing their jobs. Sánchez insists on urgent measures to protect people from mass layoffs and to ensure a fair transition to the new economic reality.
He also noted that existing regulatory mechanisms are no longer keeping pace with the challenges posed by artificial intelligence. According to the head of government, only joint efforts at both national and international levels can lead to effective security and oversight measures.
Global Regulation
Sánchez proposed the creation of a global AI governance system with the United Nations playing a central role. He recalled that Spain has already become the first European country to open a national agency for AI oversight and to adopt a digital citizens’ rights charter. In his view, these steps should serve as an example for other nations.
The Prime Minister welcomed the formation of an international group of AI experts under the UN and expressed readiness to host the group’s first meeting in Spain. He emphasized that only by joining forces can we prevent abuses associated with new technologies and maintain control over their development.
Clash with Tech Giants
Sánchez’s remarks come amid increasing tensions with X (formerly Twitter) owner Elon Musk. Musk has sharply criticized Spain’s initiatives to restrict minors’ access to social networks and tighten content regulation. Sánchez, for his part, insists on the need for strict rules to protect citizens from harmful algorithms and the spread of dangerous information.
In response to Musk’s accusations, the Prime Minister stated that Spain will hold all platforms accountable, including X, Meta, and TikTok, especially on issues related to the distribution of prohibited content and the use of AI to create harmful materials. According to russpain, the government has already launched an investigation into these companies.
Spain at the forefront
The country ranks sixth in the world in AI adoption and competitiveness. This achievement was made possible by long-term investments, cooperation with European partners, and a drive for technological independence. Sánchez emphasizes that Spain aims to use AI to improve public services and reduce bureaucracy, not to increase control over citizens.
The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development has recognized Spain as a leader in implementing AI in public administration. Authorities are confident that only transparency, security, and alignment with sustainable development goals will allow society to harness the potential of new technologies for the common good.
Pedro Sánchez is the current Prime Minister of Spain, known for his proactive stance on digital transformation and technology regulation. Under his leadership, the country has become one of the leaders in implementing artificial intelligence in the public sector. Sánchez consistently advocates for international cooperation and the development of unified standards for new technologies, believing that only in this way can their safe and fair use for all citizens be ensured.
