Overview

• Date of Signing: September 5, 2024
• Key Signatories: United States, European Union, United Kingdom
• Treaty Name: Council of Europe Framework Convention on Artificial Intelligence and Human Rights, Democracy and the Rule of Law

Background

• Drafting Period: 24 months
• Participating Countries: Over 50
• Conference Location: Vilnius, Lithuania

Key Features

• Approach: Risk-based
• Scope: Public and private sector AI systems
• Human Rights Focus: Prioritizes human rights in AI regulation

Commitments for Member States

• Human Rights: AI systems must protect human rights
• Democratic Integrity: AI must not undermine democratic processes or judicial independence
• Public Participation: Measures to ensure fair access to public debate and freedom of opinion

Exemptions

• National Security: Some exemptions for national security
• Research and Development: Certain R&D activities are excluded

Enforcement and Compliance

• Monitoring: Compliance ensured through monitoring
• Lack of Sanctions: No punitive measures like fines

Issues and Concerns

• Enforcement: Monitoring may be insufficient as a deterrent
• Sanctions: Absence of penalties for non-compliance

Context

• Other Agreements: G7 pact on AI, Europe’s AI Act, Bletchley Declaration
• Initial Approvals: 10 participants expected to approve early

This treaty represents a significant step in international AI regulation, focusing on human rights and democratic integrity while addressing various concerns about enforcement and scope.