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The UK Signs an AI Safety Accord to Safeguard Democracy and Human Rights

A Historic Move Toward Ethical AI Governance

The UK signs a historic AI safety accord to protect human rights, democracy, and the rule of law. Learn how this treaty reshapes global AI ethics.

In a landmark move to protect democracy, human rights, and the rule of law, the United Kingdom has officially signed the Council of Europe’s AI Convention. This binding agreement marks a critical step toward creating a secure, ethical, and transparent global framework for managing the risks and rewards of artificial intelligence.

Lord Chancellor Shabana Mahmood, who signed the treaty on behalf of the UK, emphasized the importance of shaping AI rather than being shaped by it. “Artificial intelligence can radically improve the responsiveness and effectiveness of public services and turbocharge economic growth,” she stated. “However, we must not let AI shape us; we must shape AI.”

Balancing Innovation with Accountability

The treaty outlines a balanced view of AI’s potential. On the one hand, it recognizes AI’s power to increase productivity and enhance areas like healthcare and public services. On the other, it directly addresses pressing concerns data privacy, algorithmic bias, and misinformation.

Under the agreement, signatory nations must:

• Closely monitor AI development

• Enforce strict regulations

• Prevent misuse that could harm individuals or undermine institutions

These mandates aim to create a safe environment where innovation can thrive without compromising human dignity or trust.

Industry Leaders Support the Convention

Keiron Holyome, Vice President of UKI & Emerging Markets at BlackBerry, supported the convention’s goals. “To truly outrun cybercriminals and maintain a defensive advantage, robust frameworks for AI governance and ethical standards must be established,” he said.

He emphasized that this is not just about prevention. Ethical frameworks will also help unlock AI’s benefits for the greater good. Holyome stressed the need for cross-sector collaboration among governments, private industries, and academia to share knowledge and develop scalable, trustworthy solutions.

Strengthening UK Laws Through AI Legislation

The AI convention complements existing UK laws by adding layers of protection. For example, it strengthens elements of the Online Safety Act to better manage risks arising from biased or misused data in AI systems.

This legal alignment ensures that existing regulations remain relevant and effective in a rapidly evolving tech landscape.

Key Pillars of the AI Convention

The AI treaty focuses on three primary safeguards to ensure ethical use of AI across borders:

1. Protecting Human Rights

• Ensure responsible use of personal data

• Promote AI systems free from discrimination

• Uphold individual privacy and autonomy

2. Protecting Democracy

• Prevent AI from being weaponized to manipulate elections or public opinion

• Protect democratic institutions from interference

3. Upholding the Rule of Law

• Require national laws tailored specifically to AI systems

• Prevent harm through strict enforcement and accountability

• Ensure responsible innovation

These pillars aim to build public trust, which is crucial for the widespread adoption of AI technologies.

An Open Invitation to the World

While the convention originated within the Council of Europe, it is open to non-member countries as well. Nations such as the United States, Australia, and others are encouraged to join the initiative to promote a unified global approach to AI governance.

This inclusion reflects the shared responsibility to manage AI’s societal impact at scale.

Political Leaders Call for Public Trust

Peter Kyle, UK Secretary of State for Science, Innovation, and Technology, stated,
“AI holds the potential to drive new economic growth, a productivity revolution, and transformation in public services. But that vision can only succeed if the public trusts the technology behind it.”

Kyle added that the newly signed treaty serves as a cornerstone for earning that trust not just domestically but globally.

Next Steps for the UK Government

Following the treaty’s approval, the UK government plans to collaborate with:

• Local councils

• Devolved administrations

• Domestic regulators

This joint effort ensures that treaty commitments are implemented smoothly and effectively at every level of governance.

The UK’s leadership is already visible. It recently hosted the AI Safety Summit, co-hosted the AI Seoul Summit, and established the world’s first AI Safety Institute. Signing the AI convention is the latest milestone in its global leadership in ethical AI deployment.

A Bold Step for a Safer AI Future

The UK’s decision to sign the AI safety convention signals a new era of international cooperation, ethical AI development, and legal responsibility. It confirms that the country is not only embracing technological progress but doing so with integrity and foresight.

By aligning global policies with fundamental democratic values, the UK is helping to shape an AI future that benefits all—without compromising rights, freedoms, or democratic institutions.

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