In a historic move, the EU, US, and UK have joined forces to sign the first international treaty aimed at mitigating the risks associated with artificial intelligence (AI).
The Council of Europe Framework Convention on Artificial Intelligence, which focuses on human rights, democracy, and the rule of law, was unveiled for signature at a Council of Europe Ministers of Justice conference in Vilnius, Lithuania.
The newly signed treaty marks the first international legally binding agreement designed to ensure that artificial intelligence systems adhere to principles of human rights, democracy, and the rule of law.
Related: Navigating the EU AI Act for a Safer Digital Ecosystem
“A Strong and Balanced Text”
According to a statement from the Council of Europe, the Framework Convention has been endorsed by Andorra, Georgia, Iceland, Norway, Moldova, San Marino, the UK, as well as Israel, the US, and the EU.
Council of Europe Secretary General, Marija Pejčinović Burić , emphasized the importance of ensuring that the advancement of AI aligns with established standards, rather than compromising them.
“The Framework Convention is designed to ensure just that. It is a strong and balanced text—the result of the open and inclusive approach by which it was drafted and which ensured that it benefits from multiple and expert perspectives,” she said in a statement.
Buric highlighted that the Framework Convention was designed as an open treaty with the potential for widespread international adoption. She expressed optimism that the initial signatories will be joined by many others soon, leading to prompt ratifications and the treaty’s swift implementation.
The treaty establishes a comprehensive legal framework that addresses the entire lifecycle of AI systems. It aims to foster progress and innovation in AI while addressing potential risks to human rights, democracy, and the rule of law.
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