First-ever global AI treaty signed!

Countries from across the globe—including the US, UK, and the EU—have signed the first-of-its-kind, legally binding, international AI treaty which is designed to make sure that AI systems align with “human rights, democracy and the rule of law.”

The legally binding AI treaty—which is called the Framework Convention on Artificial Intelligence and has been in the works since 2019—was drawn up by the Council of Europe (COE), which is an international human rights organization whose function is to uphold human rights, democracy, and the EU’s legal systems.

It has a set of principles centered around transparently developing AI systems that protect personal data, human dignity, and democracy. Its main aim is to manage any risks that AI may inflict on human rights and “fill any legal gaps that may result from rapid technological advances,” while also promoting innovation and progress.

Three months after signing the treaty, the governments of the signatory countries will be required to implement safeguards and “adopt or maintain appropriate legislative, administrative or other measures” to align with these principles.