In a landmark move, the European Union, the United States, and the United Kingdom have signed the world’s first legally binding international treaty on artificial intelligence, marking a major step in regulating AI technology globally. The treaty, known as the AI Convention, was developed by the Council of Europe and adopted after years of discussions involving 57 countries.
The AI Convention seeks to address the potential risks posed by AI while promoting responsible innovation. It specifically focuses on safeguarding human rights for those impacted by AI systems, setting it apart from the EU AI Act, which regulates AI within the EU’s internal market. The AI Convention allows signatories to implement measures to give effect to the treaty’s provisions, reflecting a commitment to international cooperation on AI governance.
Critics, however, have raised concerns about the treaty’s enforceability. Francesca Fanucci, a legal expert who participated in the treaty’s drafting, expressed disappointment, describing the treaty’s provisions as too broad and lacking in legal certainty. She also highlighted exemptions for AI systems used in national security and noted limited oversight of private companies compared to the public sector.
Despite these criticisms, the treaty represents a significant step towards creating a framework for AI governance that balances innovation with the protection of fundamental human rights.
