The Council of Europe has introduced the first legally binding international treaty on artificial intelligence (AI) to ensure AI use aligns with human rights, democracy, and the rule of law.
The Framework Convention on artificial intelligence, human rights, democracy, and the rule of law (CETS No. 225) was opened for signature at a conference of Council of Europe Ministers of Justice in Vilnius, Lithuania. It has been signed by countries including the UK, Israel, the US, and the European Union (EU), along with Council of Europe member states such as Norway, Iceland, and Georgia.
“We must ensure that the rise of AI upholds our standards, rather than undermining them,” said the Council of Europe’s Secretary General, Marija Pejčinović Burić. “The Framework Convention is designed to ensure just that.
“The Framework Convention is an open treaty with a potentially global reach. I hope that these will be the first of many signatures and that they will be followed quickly by ratifications, so that the treaty can enter into force as soon as possible.”
A new AI treaty – this time legally binding
The treaty establishes a legal framework covering the entire lifecycle of AI systems, from development to deployment, promoting innovation while addressing risks to public safety, privacy, and data protection.
It obligates countries to counteract any misuse of AI technologies, thereby protecting citizens and public services from threats such as misinformation and biased decision-making.
The Framework Convention introduces three main safeguards. These are protecting human rights by ensuring data privacy and non-discrimination, safeguarding democracy by preventing AI from undermining public institutions, and upholding the rule of law by regulating AI risks. Signatory countries are required to protect citizens from potential harms and ensure AI is used safely.
Adopted by the Council of Europe Committee of Ministers on 17 May 2024, the treaty will come into effect three months after at least five signatories, including three Council of Europe member states, ratify it. It is open to countries worldwide, allowing them to join and commit to its principles.
Lord Chancellor and Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood signed the treaty for the UK. “Artificial Intelligence has the capacity to radically improve the responsiveness and effectiveness of public services, and turbocharge economic growth,” said Mahmood. “However, we must not let AI shape us – we must shape AI. This convention is a major step to ensuring that these new technologies can be harnessed without eroding our oldest values, like human rights and the rule of law.”
Once ratified, the treaty will enhance existing laws in the UK, including elements of the Online Safety Act, which addresses the risks of AI bias and ensures fair outcomes in AI-driven decisions.
The UK government plans to collaborate with regulators, devolved administrations, and local authorities to ensure proper implementation of the treaty’s requirements.
Read more: Australia unveils new regulatory frameworks to ensure safe use of AI
