Council of Europe Opens AI Treaty for Signature

The Council of Europe has introduced the first international legally binding treaty on artificial intelligence, focusing on human rights, democracy, and the rule of law. The Framework Convention, signed by several countries including Andorra, Georgia, Iceland, Norway, the Republic of Moldova, San Marino, the United Kingdom, Israel, the United States, and the European Union, aims to ensure that AI systems align with established human rights standards.

Council of Europe Secretary General Marija Pejčinović Burić emphasized the importance of this treaty in maintaining high standards amidst the rise of AI technologies. The treaty, designed to be technology-neutral, covers the entire lifecycle of AI systems and balances progress and innovation with the management of risks to human rights, democracy, and the rule of law.

The treaty was adopted by the Council of Europe Committee of Ministers in May 2024, after negotiations involving 46 member states, the European Union, and 11 non-member states, including Argentina, Australia, Canada, Costa Rica, the Holy See, Israel, Japan, Mexico, Peru, the United States, and Uruguay. Contributions from the private sector, civil society, and academia were also included.

The Framework Convention will come into force after five signatories, including at least three Council of Europe member states, ratify it. This is expected to happen soon, as the treaty has already garnered significant international support.

Source: Council of Europe opens first ever global treaty on AI for signature