The UK signs an AI safety accord to safeguard

democracy and human rights.

 

 

In an effort to safeguard human rights, democracy, and the rule of law against possible risks posed by the technology, the UK has signed a historic AI safety convention. Lord Chancellor Shabana Mahmood signed the Council of Europe’s AI convention today as part of a united global approach to managing the risks and opportunities.

“Artificial intelligence has the capacity to radically improve the responsiveness and effectiveness of public services, and turbocharge economic growth,” said Lord Chancellor Mahmood.

“However, we must not let AI shape us we must shape AI. This convention is a major step to ensuring that these new technologies can be harnessed without eroding our oldest values, like human rights and the rule of law.”
The treaty acknowledges the potential benefits of AI – such as its ability to boost productivity and improve healthcare – whilst simultaneously addressing concerns surrounding misinformation, algorithmic bias, and data privacy. It will compel signatory nations to monitor AI development, implement strict regulations, and actively combat any misuse of the technology that could harm public services or individuals.

Keiron Holyome, VP UKI & Emerging Markets at BlackBerry, commented: “To truly outrun cybercriminals and maintain a defensive advantage, robust frameworks for AI governance and ethical standards must be established, ensuring responsible use and mitigating risks.
“The first legally binding international AI treaty is another step towards such recommendations for both AI caution and applications for good. Collaboration between governments, industry leaders, and academia will be increasingly essential for sharing knowledge, developing best practices, and responding to emerging threats collectively.”

Crucially, the convention acts as a framework to enhance existing legislation in the UK. For example, aspects of the Online Safety Act will be bolstered to better address the risk of AI systems using biased data to generate unfair outcomes.
The agreement focuses on three key safeguards:

• Protecting human rights: Ensuring individuals’ data is used responsibly, their privacy is respected, and AI systems are free from discrimination.
• Protecting democracy: Requiring countries to take proactive steps to prevent AI from being used to undermine public institutions and democratic processes.

Defending the rule of law by requiring signatory nations to create strict laws tailored to AI, protect their populations from damage, and make sure AI is used responsibly.

Although the convention’s initial focus is on Council of Europe members, additional countries are welcome to participate in this global endeavor to assure ethical AI development and deployment, including the US and Australia.

“AI holds the potential to be the driving force behind new economic growth, a productivity revolution, and true transformation in our public services, but that ambition can only be achieved if people have faith and trust in the innovations which will bring about that change,” said Secretary of State for Science, Innovation, and Technology Peter Kyle.

“A vital component of that endeavor will be the convention we signed today with international partners. Once it is enacted, it will increase safeguards for democracy, human rights, and the rule of law both at home and abroad and advance the global goal of responsible, safe, and secure AI.

Once the treaty is approved, the UK government has promised to work closely with local councils, devolved administrations, and domestic regulators to ensure smooth implementation of its obligations.

By holding the AI Safety Summit, co-hosting the AI Seoul Summit, and founding the first AI Safety Institute globally, the UK has demonstrated its commitment to responsible AI. The convention’s signature builds on these efforts.