Framework Convention on Artificial Intelligence and Human Rights, Democracy and the Rule of Law (“Convention”) is the first international artificial intelligence Convention.
I. Purpose of the Convention
The regulation of artificial intelligence technology, which has an important place in human life and is becoming increasingly widespread, is needed more than ever due to its increasing impact on daily life. The Council of Europe has adopted new regulations to protect human rights, democracy and the rule of law throughout the lifecycle of Artificial Intelligence (“AI”) systems and will sign the Framework Convention on Artificial Intelligence Human Rights Democracy and the Rule of Law to protect these values.
II. Terms of the Convention
● Each of the parties should take measures and make regulations according to the conditions and needs
of their country to ensure that the use of AI does not in any way contradict these values.
● AI systems shall protect human dignity and not violate human rights.
● While using AI technologies, the integrity of the democratic process should not be compromised, and actions contrary to its independence and efficiency should be avoided.
● AI technologies should be fair and transparent, non-discriminatory, and not violate the principle of equality.
● New innovations must not deprive individuals of their right to choice or result in outcomes contrary to human dignity, and parties must take all appropriate measures.
● Data privacy must be protected, and technologies that respect privacy rights must be developed.
● When creating new AI technologies, transparency towards individuals should be maintained, and all risks should be disclosed.
III. Scope of the Convention
● Parties are obliged to report at regular intervals.
● Parties shall stay in communication with each other, assist oneanother and cooperate.
● Parties should develop mechanisms to ensure compliance with the obligations required by this
Convention and make updates to act in accordance with the necessary requirements.
● If parties enter into an agreement between themselves, they may not make provisions contrary to this
agreement.
IV. Importance of the Convention
This Convention is of great importance because it is the first international treaty to focus on the ethical use of artificial intelligence, human rights, democracy, and the rule of law. While artificial intelligence technologies and innovations have many beneficial aspects, new regulations are needed to prevent these innovations from harming human rights. Artificial intelligence is a technology with the potential to create negative effects in fundamental areas such as human dignity, personal data protection, and democratic processes; therefore, this Conventon is an extremely important and timely step to prevent such negative impacts.
