UN adopts first global resolution on artificial intelligence

On 21 March, the UN General Assembly unanimously approved the first global resolution on artificial intelligence. The document calls on countries to protect human rights, personal data and monitor the risks associated with these technologies.

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The US-initiated resolution, which was also supported by China and more than 120 other states, is not legally binding. However, it favours strengthening privacy policy and regulation on AI.

"Today, all 193 members of the United Nations General Assembly have spoken in one voice, and together, chosen to govern artificial intelligence rather than let it govern us", said US Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield.

The resolution notes that the inappropriate development and use of AI systems could undermine the protection of human rights and fundamental freedoms. It is one of many recent international initiatives aimed at incentivising the development of AI while reducing the risks of its misuse.

In November 2023, for example, the US, the UK and several other countries unveiled an agreement on AI security. And in March 2024, the European Union adopted preliminary rules to oversee these technologies.

At the same time, the White House issued an executive order last autumn to reduce the risks of AI to consumers and minorities. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan called the new UN resolution a "core set of principles" to further regulate AI globally.

According to the US, agreeing on the resolution took about four months of intense negotiations, including with Russia and China, which are actively developing AI capabilities, including for military purposes.

Source: Reuters