Major Nations Sign Landmark Global AI Safety Treaty
The US, UK, EU, and Others Commit to Upholding Democratic Values in AI
In a historic move, several major countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, European Union, and others, have signed a groundbreaking treaty focused on the safety and ethical use of artificial intelligence (AI). This treaty, developed by the Council of Europe, is the first international agreement of its kind to legally bind signatories to ensure that AI systems align with democratic principles.
The treaty, known as the Framework Convention on artificial intelligence and human rights, democracy, and the rule of law, highlights three key priorities: the protection of human rights, the safeguarding of democracy, and the upholding of the rule of law. It covers the complete lifecycle of AI systems, aims to support innovation, and addresses potential risks associated with AI.
Signatories to this pivotal treaty include a mix of countries, with notable omissions from Asia, the Middle East, and Russia. However, the door remains open for future accession by any nation willing to comply with the treaty's stipulations.
"We must ensure that the rise of AI upholds our standards, rather than undermining them," stated Marija Pejčinović Burić, COE secretary general. Her words reinforce the council's commitment to creating a balanced framework that incorporates a wide range of expert insights.
The treaty will formally come into effect three months after five signatories, which must include at least three Council of Europe member states, ratify it. This significant step joins other global efforts aimed at establishing responsible governance over AI technologies.
With this treaty, the international community marks a significant stride towards the responsible development and deployment of AI technologies. Countries worldwide will now be held to higher ethical standards, ensuring that AI progresses in a way that benefits society and upholds the tenets of human rights, democracy, and the rule of law.
