US, UK, EU Sign World's First Binding AI Treaty

The United States, United Kingdom, and European Union have signed a landmark, legally binding treaty on AI, known as the Framework Convention on Artificial Intelligence, under the auspices of the Council of Europe. Additional signatories include Andorra, Georgia, Iceland, Norway, Moldova, San Marino, and Israel. The treaty delineates critical principles to be adhered to by AI systems, such as user data protection, adherence to legal norms, and maintaining transparency. Each participant country must implement legislative, administrative, or other measures that uphold the framework's guidelines. This is prepared by SSP.

The agreement is heralded as the inaugural international legally enforceable treaty regarding AI use, envisioned to safeguard human rights, democracy, and the rule of law. Council of Europe Secretary General Marija Pejčinović Burić emphasized the necessity for AI to sustain and not erode established standards, lauding the Framework Convention as a balanced and rigorous document achieved through an inclusive process. She also remarked on the treaty's global reach and encouraged more nations to join.

While the majority of recent AI safety agreements lack enforcement mechanisms, this treaty employs monitoring for compliance—a method described by the Financial Times as relatively weak. However, it sets a significant precedent and may serve as a model for nations contemplating AI regulation. Multiple regions, including the EU and the UK, as well as US states like California, are already advancing their regulatory frameworks for AI.

Despite some concerns regarding the enforceability and legal certainty of the treaty's principles, especially given its broad scope and caveats, it establishes a legal framework covering AI throughout its entire lifecycle, balancing the promotion of AI innovation with managing the risks it poses to human rights, democracy, and the rule of law.

The Framework Convention will come into effect three months post-ratification by five signatories, marking a crucial step toward cohesive international AI governance.