In this speech to the United Nations General Assembly, Boris Johnson discusses the dangers and opportunities presented by rapid advancements in technology.

Challenges in the Digital Age
Johnson highlights how digital technology, unlike past inventions, could potentially control humanity. He warns about smart cities leading to round-the-clock surveillance and how our personal data, the "crude oil of the modern economy" (3:42), is being collected without clear ownership or control. He raises concerns about algorithms making critical life decisions and the potential for real-time censorship.

Balancing Progress and Peril
While acknowledging the UK's role as a tech leader, Johnson notes that governments were "caught unawares" by the internet's consequences. He questions whether AI will bring helpful robots or "pink-eyed Terminators," and similar concerns about synthetic biology and nanotechnology. He references historical skepticism towards scientific progress, like the anti-vaxxer movement, but ultimately rejects this "anti-scientific pessimism" (8:36).

Optimism for Technology's Benefits
Johnson expresses optimism about technology's potential for good. He cites examples like nanotechnology revolutionizing medicine, neural interface technology restoring hearing, apps helping the blind navigate, 3D printing for rocket engines, mobile banking in Africa, and genome sequencing transforming medicine.

Shaping Technology for Freedom
The core of his message is that the design of emerging technologies must reflect human values. He warns against an "Orwellian world designed for repression" and instead advocates for a future of "emancipation, debate and learning".” He emphasizes the importance of ensuring new technology reflects the spirit of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Call for Global Principles
Johnson stresses the need for a global agreement on principles to guide technology's development, balancing freedom and control, innovation and regulation, and private enterprise with government oversight. He invites attendees to a summit in London to form a broad coalition for this mission, aiming to safeguard ideals, overcome human limitations, and address global challenges like disease, famine, and environmental protection.