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UN Adopts Historic AI Resolution: Protects Data, Monitors Risks, Safeguards Rights
The United Nations General Assembly has unanimously adopted the first global resolution on artificial intelligence. The resolution aims to protect personal data, monitor AI for risks, and safeguard human rights. It was proposed by the United States and co-sponsored by China and 121 other nations.
In a groundbreaking move, the United Nations General Assembly has unanimously adopted the first-ever global resolution on artificial intelligence (AI). The resolution aims to promote the protection of personal data, monitor AI for potential risks, and safeguard human rights, according to US officials.
The non-binding resolution, proposed by the United States and co-sponsored by China and 121 other nations, underwent three months of negotiations. It also advocates for the strengthening of privacy policies. Senior administration officials, briefing reporters before the resolution's passage, described it as the "first-ever truly global consensus document on AI."
This resolution is part of a series of initiatives by governments worldwide to shape the development of AI. Concerns have been raised about the potential misuse of AI technology, including its impact on democratic processes, the potential for increased fraud, and the risk of significant job losses.
The resolution acknowledges that the improper or malicious design, development, deployment, and use of AI systems can pose risks that undermine the protection and enjoyment of human rights and fundamental freedoms.
Despite concerns about potential resistance from countries like Russia and China, both of which voted in favor of the resolution, officials admitted that there were heated conversations during the negotiation process. However, they emphasized that active engagement with these countries helped strike an appropriate balance between furthering AI development and protecting human rights.
In November, the United States, along with Britain and several other countries, unveiled the first detailed international agreement on ensuring the safety of AI from rogue actors. The agreement called for companies to create AI systems that are "secure by design."
While the Biden administration has been pushing for AI regulation, progress has been slow due to the polarized nature of the US Congress. Nonetheless, the White House has taken steps to mitigate AI risks to consumers, workers, and minority groups through an executive order issued in October, which also aims to bolster national security.
Similar to other governments worldwide, Chinese and Russian officials are actively exploring the use of AI tools for various purposes. Just last month, Microsoft revealed that hackers from both countries had been using Microsoft-backed OpenAI software to enhance their espionage skills.
The adoption of this global resolution on AI by the United Nations marks a significant milestone in addressing the challenges and potential risks associated with artificial intelligence. It sets the stage for international cooperation and collaboration in shaping the responsible development and use of AI technology.
The United Nations General Assembly has unanimously adopted the first global resolution on artificial intelligence.
The resolution aims to protect personal data, monitor AI for risks, and safeguard human rights.
It was proposed by the United States and co-sponsored by China and 121 other nations.
Source: SCMP