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| United Nations Adopts Historic Global Resolution on AI Governance |
On March 24, 2024, the United Nations General Assembly unanimously passed a groundbreaking resolution on Artificial Intelligence (AI). This resolution, sponsored by the United States and co-sponsored by 123 countries, including Russia, China, and Cuba, marks a significant step in ensuring that AI technologies benefit all nations, uphold human rights, and remain safe, secure, and trustworthy.
Background:
The rapid advancement of AI technology has raised various concerns regarding its potential risks and benefits, including its impact on human rights, personal data protection, and democratic processes. The resolution represents the latest effort by governments worldwide to shape the development of AI and mitigate its potential harms.
Key Objectives:
The resolution aims to achieve several critical objectives, including:
- Closing the digital divide between developed and developing countries.
- Ensuring that developing countries have access to the necessary technology and capabilities to leverage AI.
- Safeguarding human rights and protecting personal data.
- Monitoring AI for potential risks and harms.
- Strengthening privacy policies.
Global Collaboration:
The United States collaborated with over 120 countries at the United Nations, including Russia, China, and Cuba, to negotiate the resolution's text over several months. The unanimous adoption of the resolution underscores the global commitment to governing AI and ensuring its responsible development and use.
Impact on Developing Countries:
The resolution underscores the importance of bridging the digital gap between developed and developing nations, ensuring that all countries have a voice in AI discussions. It also aims to equip developing countries with the technology and capabilities needed to harness the benefits of AI, such as disease detection, flood prediction, agricultural assistance, and workforce training.
Important Exam Facts:
- The resolution is non-binding, meaning it does not impose legal consequences on member states.
- Europe is leading the United States in AI regulation, with EU lawmakers recently adopting a provisional agreement to oversee the technology.
- The Biden administration has been pushing for AI regulation in the United States, but progress has been slow due to a divided Congress.
- In October, the White House issued an executive order to reduce AI risks to consumers, workers, and minorities while enhancing national security, establishing a set of guiding principles for AI development and use.