The Council of Europe has introduced a groundbreaking AI Framework Convention, signed by the UK, US, EU, and several other nations, to establish a legal foundation for the ethical development and deployment of artificial intelligence.
The treaty, described as "technology-neutral," aims to provide comprehensive guidelines covering the entire lifecycle of AI systems while encouraging innovation. It addresses three critical areas: safeguarding human rights, maintaining the integrity of democracy, and upholding the rule of law. Signatories include 46 Council of Europe member states, the EU, and 11 non-member states, all of whom have committed to ensuring that AI technologies do not infringe upon fundamental rights or undermine public trust.
Key leaders have voiced their support for the convention, emphasizing the importance of balancing technological advancement with ethical considerations. Marija Pejčinović Burić, Secretary General of the Council of Europe, stressed the need to ensure AI development aligns with existing human rights standards, while UK Lord Chancellor Shabana Mahmood highlighted the potential of AI to enhance public services and drive economic growth. Mahmood also warned against allowing AI to erode essential values like human rights and the rule of law, underlining the convention's role in shaping the future of AI in a way that protects these principles.
Despite the treaty's ambitious goals, some experts have expressed concerns about its effectiveness. Dr. Kjell Carlsson, head of AI strategy at Domino Data Lab, commended lawmakers for addressing AI-related threats but criticized the framework for being too vague in its approach. He pointed out that while the convention represents a step toward increased AI regulation, it lacks specificity regarding the harms to be addressed and the actions required. As AI regulation continues to evolve globally, the Council of Europe's convention is seen as a pivotal, albeit imperfect, milestone in the ongoing effort to manage the risks associated with artificial intelligence.
