To the Board of Directors at OpenAI,

We write to you as concerned individuals from various parts of the world, united in our interest in the future and wellbeing of people in the face of rapidly advancing artificial intelligence technologies. This letter, expressing diverse perspectives from around the globe, is not just a request but a solemn appeal grounded in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, OpenAI’s own charter, and the broader ethical considerations of AI safety and alignment.

OpenAI’s mission – to ensure that artificial general intelligence (AGI) benefits all of humanity – is a beacon of hope in a world grappling with the complexities of AI. The vision you outlined, prioritizing broad benefit, long-term safety, technical leadership, and a cooperative orientation, resonates deeply with us. It reflects a commitment to not just technological advancement but to the core values of human dignity, equality, and the fostering of a global community.

The recent events surrounding the termination of Sam Altman and the destabilization of OpenAI’s leadership have raised grave concerns about the adherence to these very principles. The alleged lack of transparency and disregard for the voices of OpenAI’s employees strike a dissonant chord with the ethos of cooperation and broad benefit. It suggests a deviation from the path that was promised to humanity – a path of ethical responsibility and inclusive progress.

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, to which we all adhere, underscores the importance of dignity, respect, and fair treatment for all. These values are fundamental not just in human interactions but are equally critical in guiding the development and deployment of technologies like AGI, which have the potential to reshape our world. The current situation at OpenAI appears to contravene these values, undermining the trust and hope placed in your organization.

We urge you to consider the broader implications of your actions and decisions. Absorption by a corporate entity like Microsoft, while possibly beneficial in a narrow economic sense, does not align with the overarching goal of AGI benefiting all of humanity. Such a move could lead to the concentration of power and influence that your charter explicitly seeks to avoid. It could also hinder the cooperative and open approach necessary for global AI safety and alignment research.

In light of these concerns, we, as members of the global community, request the following:

• The immediate reinstatement of Sam Altman as CEO, recognizing his vision and leadership in aligning OpenAI’s goals with the broader interests of humanity.
• The resignation of the current Board of Directors, replaced by individuals committed to upholding the charter’s principles in both letter and spirit.
• A reaffirmation of OpenAI’s commitment to its charter, emphasizing transparency, ethical leadership, and a dedication to all of humanity.

We do not make these requests lightly. They stem from our belief in the potential of AI to be a force for good, a catalyst for solving some of our most intractable problems, and a means to enhance human capabilities in a way that is inclusive and beneficial to all.

In the spirit of cooperation and with a sense of responsibility, we hope you will consider this appeal as a reflection of our collective aspirations and concerns at this pivotal moment in history.

Sincerely,

[Members of the Global Community]