Artificial Intelligence has brought significant benefits to various industries and is now deeply integrated into daily human life, offering a wide range of advantages. However, its recent use has raised concerns about human rights and privacy. If left unaddressed, it could pose serious risks to fundamental human rights, democracy, and the rule of law
To address these concerns, some nations have signed the Framework Convention on Artificial Intelligence, Human Rights, Democracy, and the Rule of Law. This treaty, drafted by the Council of Europe—an international human rights organisation—was signed on Thursday by the EU, UK, US, and Israel. More countries are expected to join in the near future.
The treaty aims to tackle the challenges that could arise throughout the lifecycle of artificial intelligence systems, as well as the impacts and risks associated with this technology. Its scope includes public authorities and the private sector that use AI.
The legally binding agreement outlines requirements that the signatories must comply with, including the following:
- Each party shall adopt measures to ensure that AI activities align with obligations to protect human rights, as mandated by international and domestic laws.
- Each party must implement measures that respect human dignity and individual autonomy throughout the AI lifecycle.
- Each party is required to enforce transparency and oversight measures tailored to specific contexts and risks, including identifying AI-generated content.
- Each party is responsible for ensuring accountability for any negative impacts on human rights, democracy, and the rule of law resulting from AI activities.
- Each party must ensure privacy rights and personal data protection and implement safeguards in line with domestic and international laws.
- Each party must promote the reliability of AI systems and trust in their outputs.
- Each party must adopt measures to identify, assess, prevent, and mitigate risks associated with AI systems, focusing on their impacts on human rights, democracy, and the rule of law.
This treaty is a significant step by governing bodies to ensure the responsible application of AI and to protect the privacy and rights of individuals involved in its use and development.
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