The resolution on artificial intelligence (AI) recently received the endorsement of the United Nations General Assembly, marking a significant step in global efforts to shape its development. Introduced by the United States and backed by 123 countries, including China, the resolution was unanimously adopted on March 2, demonstrating widespread support across all 193 U.N. member nations.
The resolution calls on countries to prioritize the protection of human rights, safeguard personal data, and diligently monitor AI for potential risks. While many AI initiatives lack enforceability, concerns persist about the technology’s potential to disrupt democratic systems, facilitate fraudulent activities, and lead to significant job displacements, among other negative impacts. The resolution acknowledges these concerns and underscores the need for regulatory frameworks to ensure the security of AI systems.
Unlike resolutions from the Security Council, those from the U.N. General Assembly are not legally binding but serve as indications of global sentiment. This resolution urges various entities, including nations, to foster the development of such regulatory frameworks to enhance the security of AI systems.
Moreover, the resolution aims to bridge the digital divide between affluent and developing nations, ensuring that the latter are included in discussions about AI. It also seeks to equip developing countries with the necessary technology and skills to leverage the advantages of AI in areas such as disease detection, flood prediction, agricultural support, and workforce training.
In November, the United States, the United Kingdom, and several other nations formed a comprehensive global pact outlining measures to protect AI from malicious actors. The agreement highlights the importance of developing AI systems with inherent security features.
The resolution warns against the improper or malicious creation, advancement, implementation, and use of AI systems that lack adequate protections or violate international law. Major tech firms have generally expressed support for AI regulation while advocating for rules that align with their interests.
In contrast, European Union lawmakers have recently granted final approval to the world’s first comprehensive AI regulations. These regulations, expected to become operational by May or June after some procedural steps, prohibit various technologies, including biometric surveillance, social scoring systems, predictive policing, emotion recognition, and untargeted facial recognition systems.
The White House has also taken steps to mitigate AI risks for consumers, workers, and minorities while enhancing national security through a new executive order issued in October.
Overall, the endorsement of the AI resolution by the United Nations General Assembly and the subsequent efforts by various countries and organizations reflect the global recognition of the need to regulate AI effectively.