The UN General Assembly unanimously adopted a groundbreaking global resolution on AI Thursday. Consequently, this move aims to encourage protecting personal data, monitoring AI risks, and safeguarding human rights, according to U.S. officials.
The nonbinding resolution was initially proposed by the United States. Additionally, it had 121 co-sponsors including China. Negotiations, however, took three months. Moreover, it advocates strengthening privacy policies too, officials briefed.
“With fast-changing technology, it’s crucial to steer by our values,” a senior official said. Furthermore, they termed it the “first-ever truly global AI consensus document.”
This resolution is the latest in a series of governments’ initiatives worldwide to shape AI’s development. Similarly, there are fears of disrupting democracy, enabling fraud, or causing job losses.
The measure states, “Improper or malicious AI design, development, use pose risks.” Additionally, it warns these “could undercut human rights and fundamental freedoms.”
Officials admitted “heated conversations” with nations like Russia and China during negotiations. Nevertheless, they “actively engaged with countries that often disagree with us.”
“We believe it balances furthering development and protecting human rights,” an anonymous official said.
Previously, in November, the U.S., Britain and over a dozen countries unveiled an international AI safety agreement. Specifically, it pushes for “secure by design” AI systems.
In contrast, Europe leads the U.S. in this domain. For instance, EU lawmakers provisionally agreed this month to oversee AI technology. Consequently, they inch closer to the world’s first AI rules. However, the Biden administration presses Congress for AI regulation, but polarization impedes progress.
Additionally, in October, the White House aimed to reduce AI risks through an executive order. Particularly, it targeted risks to consumers, workers, minorities while bolstering national security.
Conclusion
Similarly, like global governments, Chinese and Russian officials keenly explore using AI tools. For example, last month, Microsoft revealed their hackers used OpenAI software for espionage skills. Ultimately, this pioneering UN resolution marks a landmark step toward global AI governance and responsible development.
