- UN adopts first-ever global resolution on AI to make it safe and helpful for everyone.
- The resolution focuses on promoting positive AI potential while addressing risks and protecting human rights
The United Nations General Assembly has unanimously approved its inaugural global resolution aimed at guiding the safe and ethical utilization of artificial intelligence (AI) technology. The resolution, a collaborative effort spearheaded by the United States and co-sponsored by 123 nations, including China, emphasizes the imperative of fostering “safe, secure, and trustworthy” AI systems for the collective benefit of humanity.
The UN General Assembly on Thursday adopted a landmark resolution on the promotion of “safe, secure and trustworthy” artificial intelligence (AI) systems that will also benefit sustainable development for all
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Regulating AI Use Across Member States
The resolution that was recently passed requires all 193 member states to maintain strict laws that will allow artificial intelligence to be widely integrated while protecting basic human rights. The resolution’s main clauses demand that AI systems must comply with international human rights legislation at every stage of their development. Member states are required to cease employing any AI technology that fails to comply with these established human rights standards.
Additionally, the guidelines extend to AI systems identified as posing disproportionate risks to the protection of human rights, particularly for individuals in vulnerable circumstances. The resolution underscores the necessity for equitable rights both online and offline, ensuring that individuals maintain consistent protections regardless of their digital engagement.
Global Recognition and Reaction
Stakeholders around the world have praised the UN resolution’s approval, with prominent people like Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Vice President Kamala Harris praising it as a historic accomplishment. Vice President Harris and Jake Sullivan, the national security advisor, have referred to the resolution as “historic,” highlighting its importance in influencing the worldwide strategy for AI regulation.
According to Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield, the successful consensus achieved among member states represents a pivotal moment amidst the current global landscape. She applauds the resolution’s capacity to bring nations together in the pursuit of progress and highlights the shared accountability of regulating AI technology to guarantee its advantageous integration.
The UN resolution attempts to lessen the digital divide among member states while also encouraging appropriate AI deployment. Taking into account that different countries have reached different stages of technological development, the General Assembly emphasizes how critical it is to assist poorer nations in enabling equitable access to AI technology. The resolution aims to close this gap and encourage fair participation in the AI revolution by improving digital literacy.
Continued Global Efforts
The UN resolution’s approval is indicative of the increased awareness of the need for comprehensive worldwide AI legislation. Numerous parties, including the European Union, which passed the AI Act to regulate AI development and use in the area, have echoed this sentiment. The AI Act requires proper labeling for content generated by AI, which makes it easier to distinguish between information made by machines and content created by humans.
Various U.N. member states, notably the United States, China, and South Korea are vying for leadership in AI regulation. With President Joe Biden reaffirming the nation’s commitment to regulating AI, the White House outlined measures in October intended to ensure U.S. leadership in the field. Despite the rivalry, everyone agrees that international collaboration is crucial to determining how artificial intelligence will be developed and regulated.
