The United States, the United Kingdom, and the European Union have signed the first international treaty on artificial intelligence. This agreement, crafted by the Council of Europe, aims to ensure that AI development and use adhere to human rights, democratic principles, and the rule of law.
The signing occurred during a conference of justice ministers in Vilnius, Lithuania, on Thursday (5). Countries like Israel and Norway also participated in the event.
An international treaty on AI
The treaty, negotiated by over 50 countries over two years, establishes three main pillars: protecting human rights, democracy, and the rule of law. It emphasizes that AI products must respect privacy and equality, and it holds developers accountable for any potential harm caused by their technology.
British Foreign Secretary Shabana Mahmood called the treaty a significant milestone for regulating AI safely, emphasizing the need for society to shape technology rather than be shaped by it. She highlighted that the agreement is crucial in ensuring that new technologies are used without compromising core values like human rights and the rule of law.
Beyond ethical guidelines, the treaty mandates that signatory countries monitor AI development and take action to prevent the misuse of AI systems that could undermine public services or individual rights.
For the treaty to come into force, it must be ratified by at least five countries, including three members of the Council of Europe.
