The United Nations General Assembly adopted a global resolution on artificial intelligence (AI) on March 21st.
The new resolution aims to promote the development of “safe, secure and trustworthy” AI. The Assembly said it is paramount that AI is developed in a sustainable way that does not threaten human rights.
The resolution of AI
The UNGA called on member states and stakeholders to refrain from deploying AI in a manner inconsistent with international human rights laws. He also recognized the different technological advancements from country to country and called for efforts to bridge this development gap.
Sections of the eight-page document call for raising awareness, strengthening investments, protecting privacy, ensuring transparency and addressing diversity issues around AI.
The resolution also encourages governments to develop safeguards, practices and standards for the development of AI and calls on specialized agencies and UN-related agencies to address AI-related issues.
The resolution is co-sponsored by more than 120 countries. It was adopted without a vote, representing the unanimous support of all 193 UN member states.
The United States played a key role
According to a statement According to the White House and national security adviser Jake Sullivan, the United States was the lead sponsor of the resolution, which was finally reached after four months of negotiations with other countries.
Sullivan highlighted the human rights aspects of the resolution and said:
“Crucially, the resolution makes clear that the protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms must be at the heart of the development and use of AI systems. »
In other statementVice President Kamala Harris said she and President Joe Biden are committed to creating and strengthening international rules on AI and other technologies.
Harris also called the resolution “a historic step toward establishing clear international standards” and said nations should address catastrophic and small-scale risks.
Other AI Efforts
The global UN resolution follows other, more localized efforts to regulate the rapidly growing AI industry in recent months.
The European Parliament voted in favor of an AI law, which aims to set governance standards for the region, the March 13. The European Commission launched an investigation into the use of AI by large online technology companies on March 14, based on a separate digital services law.
Meanwhile, the Biden administration signed an executive order in October 2023 that addresses various safety and security issues related to the development and use of AI in the United States.
India also introduced AI requirements in March, in the run-up to the country's national elections.