In a landmark moment for AI governance, a coalition of nations including Andorra, Georgia, Iceland, Norway, Israel, and Moldova signed a pioneering AI safety treaty on September 19, 2024. This treaty is designed to establish a legal framework that ensures artificial intelligence (AI) technologies evolve in a way that safeguards human rights, democracy, and global security.
The AI safety treaty represents the first significant international agreement aimed at regulating the development and deployment of AI technologies. It focuses on mitigating potential risks posed by AI systems, such as misuse or unintended consequences, while simultaneously encouraging innovation. The treaty offers a balanced approach, ensuring that while technological advancements continue, they do so in alignment with ethical standards and social responsibility.
The framework was created with contributions from countries around the globe, including Argentina, Australia, Canada, Japan, Mexico, and Uruguay. It allows any nation to join as long as they adhere to the guidelines set forth in the treaty. The agreement will officially take effect three months after it has been ratified by five signatory countries, three of which must be members of the Council of Europe.
Marija Pejčinović Burić, Secretary General of the Council of Europe, praised the treaty as a robust and inclusive text that ensures AI advancements do not undermine human values. According to the World Economic Forum's Global Risk Report, AI is considered one of the greatest potential risks to society over the next decade.
This treaty marks a significant step toward fostering responsible AI development, reducing the chances of negative outcomes, and promoting a future where AI technologies align with human values and global security. It reflects a growing awareness of the importance of ethical AI governance, as more countries join the effort to create a safer digital landscape.
