UN Adopts First Global Artificial Intelligence Resolution

Significance:

• First UN Resolution on AI: Adopted by the General Assembly, it signifies global support for ensuring AI benefits all nations, respects human rights, and is safe, secure, and trustworthy.
• Historic: Described as historic by U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris, it sets out principles for the safe use of AI, highlighting its importance in public interest and protection from potential harm.

Principles:

• Public Interest: AI should be adopted and advanced in a way that protects everyone and ensures everyone can enjoy its benefits.
• Respect for Human Rights: AI development and use should respect human rights and fundamental freedoms throughout its life cycle.

Global Support:

• Sponsorship: Sponsored by the United States and co-sponsored by 123 countries, including China, it was adopted by consensus, signifying support from all 193 UN member nations.
• Wide Consensus: Notable for the wide consensus forged among countries, including Russia, China, and Cuba, in advancing progress for safe AI development and use.

Objectives:

• Closing the Digital Divide: Aims to bridge the gap between developed and developing countries in discussions and benefits of AI, ensuring developing countries have the technology and capabilities to take advantage of AI’s benefits.
• Ensuring Safe AI Systems: Urges the development of regulatory and governance approaches and frameworks for safe AI systems, warning against improper or malicious use inconsistent with international law.

Impact on Development Goals:

• 2030 Development Goals: Aims to use AI to help achieve the UN’s development goals for 2030, including ending global hunger and poverty, improving health, ensuring quality education, and achieving gender equality.

Conclusion:

• The resolution marks a significant step towards ensuring AI is used for the common good, respects human rights, and benefits all nations, with global support for safe and trustworthy AI systems.