As artificial intelligence is integrated into all aspects of our lives, it is necessary to ensure that the technology of artificial intelligence is compatible with values such as human rights, democracy and the rule of law. As a result of this necessity, efforts to regulate artificial intelligence systems are emerging in the international arena. One of these efforts, the Framework Convention on Artificial Intelligence and Human Rights, Democracy and the Rule of Law, is important as it is the first legally binding international agreement in the field of artificial intelligence.
The Framework Convention on Artificial Intelligence and Human Rights, Democracy and the Rule of Law (“AI Framework Convention”), drafted by the Committee on Artificial Intelligence, was adopted by the Council of Europe Ministers of Justice at its annual meeting in Strasbourg on 17 May 2024. The AI Framework Convention was opened for signature at the Conference of Ministers of Justice in Vilnius, Lithuania on 5 September 2024. Signatories include Andorra, Georgia, Iceland, Norway, the Republic of Moldova, San Marino, the United Kingdom, Israel and the United States of America and United Union.
The AI Framework Convention aims to ensure standardization among the jurisdictions of states in the field of artificial intelligence, to minimize the possible risks of artificial intelligence and to benefit from artificial intelligence with high efficiency. The Convention also establishes a global framework to ensure that the lifecycle of AI systems is compatible with human rights, democracy and the rule of law.
The AI Framework Convention imposes obligations on States Parties to protect human rights and to identify, assess, prevent, take measures to mitigate and provide effective legal remedies to the use of artificial intelligence in accordance with democratic institutions and processes. The AI Framework Convention also provides for fundamental principles to be applied in AI activities, such as respect for human dignity and individual autonomy, transparency and compliance with oversight requirements, equality and non-discrimination, accountability and responsibility, privacy and protection of personal data. It is also envisaged that a monitoring mechanism will be established for the effective implementation of these objectives and principles.
While the Convention is legally binding for member states, unlike the European Union Artificial Intelligence Act, it is also open for signature by countries outside the Council of Europe. This shows that the future of artificial intelligence will be globally, through international cooperation and within ethical and legal boundaries.
The Agreement will enter into force on the first day of the month following the expiry of the three-month period from the date of ratification by five signatories, including at least three Council of Europe member states.
