The U.S., Britain, and the EU have signed the first legally binding international treaty on AI, marking a significant step towards ethical AI development.
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| A historic agreement has been reached to regulate artificial intelligence, ensuring human rights and democratic values. Symbolic image |
New York, USA – September 05, 2024:
In a groundbreaking move, the United States, Britain, and the European Union are set to sign the first legally binding international treaty on the use of artificial intelligence (AI). The Council of Europe's convention on AI, which has been in development for over two years, is expected to be signed on Thursday, according to the Financial Times.
This landmark agreement marks a significant step towards establishing global norms for AI development and deployment. It comes amidst growing concerns about the potential risks and benefits of AI technologies, including their impact on human rights, democracy, and the rule of law.
The treaty, drafted by the Committee on Artificial Intelligence (CAI) and adopted by the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe in May, addresses a wide range of issues related to AI. It aims to ensure that AI is developed and used in a manner that respects human rights, promotes democracy, and upholds the rule of law.
The United States, which has been actively involved in the development of the treaty, has expressed strong support for its goals. A senior Biden administration official told the Financial Times that the U.S. sees "the key value-add of the Council of Europe in this space" and is committed to ensuring that AI technologies support respect for human rights and democratic values.
Britain's technology minister, Peter Kyle, has also praised the treaty, calling it "the first [agreement] with real teeth globally" and highlighting its ability to bring together a diverse group of nations.
The signing of the treaty is expected to have a significant impact on the global AI landscape. By establishing a common framework for AI governance, it could help to mitigate risks and promote responsible AI development. It also signals a growing recognition of the need for international cooperation to address the challenges and opportunities presented by AI.
As the treaty is signed, it will be crucial to monitor its implementation and ensure that it effectively addresses the concerns and aspirations of all stakeholders. The success of this treaty could pave the way for further international collaboration on AI and help to shape a future where AI is used for the benefit of humanity.