In an unprecedented global move, 193 countries under the auspices of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) have come together to adopt the first-ever global agreement on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence (AI). This landmark agreement, ratified in November 2021, sets the stage for a more ethical development and deployment of AI technologies, aiming to balance technological advancements with ethical considerations and human rights protection​ (UN News).
The Core of the Global AI Ethics Treaty
The treaty emphasizes the need for AI to be developed and used in ways that benefit humanity, highlighting the importance of safeguarding human rights and dignity and ensuring inclusivity and diversity. It addresses key concerns such as gender and ethnic biases, privacy, dignity, and the potential for mass surveillance and misuse in law enforcement​.
One of the notable outcomes of the treaty is the prohibition of AI systems for social scoring and mass surveillance, underscoring the need for transparency, accountability, and privacy in AI applications. Moreover, the agreement calls for data, energy, and resource efficiency to align AI with environmental sustainability and the fight against climate change.
Implementation and Impact
To ensure the effective implementation of this ethical framework, UNESCO has introduced several tools and methodologies, including Readiness and Ethical Impact Assessments, to guide member states. These tools are designed to assist in evaluating countries’ readiness to adopt ethical AI practices and assess the potential impacts of AI systems on society.
The Global Forum on the Ethics of AI 2024 served as a platform for exchanging insights and best practices among countries at different stages of AI development. It facilitated a dialogue among government representatives, the private sector, academia, and civil society, aiming to share experiences and learn from each other​.
The Path Ahead
This global treaty on AI ethics represents a crucial step toward establishing a harmonized global approach to AI governance. By emphasizing ethical considerations, human rights, and sustainable development, the agreement sets a precedent for future technological advancements. The collaborative efforts of countries, industry leaders, and various stakeholders are essential in navigating the challenges and harnessing the opportunities presented by AI for the betterment of humanity.
