Gates says no government is ready for AI-driven change

September 18, 2026 at 03:07 PM2 min

This digest was compiled by AI from multiple sources — links to the originals are below.

Bill Gates said in a Reuters interview that no government is prepared for the changes artificial intelligence will bring. The Microsoft co-founder warned of job losses, AI-enabled attacks, and dependence on virtual companions. His foundation announced at least $1 billion over two years to expand AI access in education, healthcare, and agriculture.

Key Facts

Gates said no government is engaging deeply enough with AI's implications.
The Gates Foundation will allocate at least $1 billion over two years to expand AI access in education, healthcare, and agriculture.
Gates plans to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping later in 2026.
Gates identified two main risks for the next decade: terrorist use of AI and labor market destabilization.

Government Readiness

Gates told Reuters that no government is engaging with AI deeply enough. "I don't think any government is digging into this as deeply as it needs to," he said. He added that governments are "way behind" the pace of technological development. Gates said he is discussing these concerns with world leaders, including US President Donald Trump and his team. He also plans to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping later in 2026.

Foundation Funding

The Gates Foundation announced at least $1 billion over two years to expand AI access. The funds will go to partners working in education, healthcare, and agriculture. The foundation also aims to support AI data infrastructure, including large language models in all human languages. Gates said AI could significantly help the world's poorest if managed well and access is equitable.

Risk Assessment

Gates highlighted two main risks for the next decade: terrorist use of AI and labor market destabilization. He warned that terrorists could use open-source AI tools to develop weapons. Gates compared AI to an alien intelligence that has already arrived, urging countries to cooperate as in disaster films. He stressed that governments must act jointly to prevent AI risks from spiraling out of control.