The European Union, United States, United Kingdom, and several other nations have taken a landmark step in the realm of artificial intelligence regulation by signing the first-ever international legally binding treaty aimed at addressing the risks associated with AI technology. Announced by the Council of Europe, this new Framework Convention on Artificial Intelligence, human rights, democracy, and the rule of law was signed during a Council of Europe ministers of justice conference held in Vilnius, Lithuania.
This treaty represents a pivotal moment in the oversight of AI development on a global scale, marking the first instance of a legally binding international agreement explicitly designed to ensure that AI technologies align with fundamental human rights, democratic values, and the rule of law. The Council of Europe noted that the Framework Convention was signed by several nations, including Andorra, Georgia, Iceland, Norway, Moldova, San Marino, the UK, Israel, the US, and the EU.
Marija Pejcinovic Buric, the Secretary-General of the Council of Europe, emphasized the critical importance of setting standards for AI that prioritize ethics and protect the foundational values of society. She stated that with AI’s swift advancement, it is essential to ensure that this progress does not undermine human rights and democratic structures but instead reinforces them. Buric explained that the Framework Convention is a product of an open, inclusive drafting process, allowing a diverse range of expert perspectives to shape the treaty and ensure its applicability across different sectors and regions.
One of the key aspects of the Framework Convention is its comprehensive scope, designed to cover the entire lifecycle of AI systems—from their inception and development through to their deployment and use. This approach seeks to not only address potential risks associated with AI but also support AI-driven innovation and progress. The treaty’s stipulations are aimed at fostering responsible AI use that harmonizes with human rights standards and democratic principles.
Buric highlighted that the treaty has the potential for a global impact, as it remains open for additional nations to join. She expressed hope that the initial signatures will soon be followed by the necessary ratifications, enabling the treaty to come into effect and establish an international legal foundation for AI governance.
In sum, this pioneering treaty lays a foundational legal framework for AI, balancing the promise of technological progress with the imperative of managing its risks to society. It signals a growing global commitment to regulate AI in a way that safeguards human rights, advances democratic values, and ensures legal accountability, setting a powerful precedent for AI governance worldwide.