The future will be driven by artificial intelligence (AI), and to ensure the technology benefits everyone, the United Nations recently passed its first resolution on AI. That’s a big deal for a set of empty and unenforceable recommendations, so let’s break down what this means for you and the world.
The core message is safe, reliable, and trustworthy artificial intelligence. The resolution, co-sponsored by more than 120 countries, emphasizes the development of artificial intelligence that respects human rights and promotes sustainable development. It also said AI systems should not discriminate or reinforce bias but should be designed to address issues such as climate change and poverty.
Sounds good enough, right? Even so, we still have a long way to go.
What are the benefits of resolutions?
The resolution recognized the existence of a “digital divide” between developed and developing countries. Not everyone has equal access to technology, and the United Nations is calling for cooperation to ensure everyone has the opportunity to participate in the AI revolution. This could involve sharing resources and knowledge to help developing countries build their own AI capabilities.
The United Nations isn’t just blaming governments here. This resolution is a call to action for everyone—countries, businesses, researchers, and even ordinary people like you and me. Each of us has a role to play in shaping the future of artificial intelligence. Because your next phone will be packed with artificial intelligence, you’re doing your part even if you don’t know it.
The UN’s AI resolution is a positive step towards a future where AI works for everyone. By focusing on security, human rights, and global cooperation, we can harness the power of AI to build a better world.
resolution itself no A set of rules, but also a framework for future discussions and collaborations. This is a commitment by the international community to work together to ensure that artificial intelligence benefits all mankind. We expect more specific guidance to emerge in the coming years…and that’s the biggest problem with it.
toothless tiger
This resolution to promote safe and beneficial artificial intelligence is a landmark achievement. It signals a global recognition of the need to harness the power of artificial intelligence for good while mitigating potential risks. However, while this is a positive step, the resolution itself has limitations that require continued dialogue.
The biggest drawback is that the resolution is not binding. Unlike Security Council resolutions, these resolutions do not have the force of law. This means, for example, that countries with a vested interest in autonomous weapons development may not feel the need to change course. The resolution relies on “encouraging” responsible AI development, but it has its limitations.
The power of the United Nations is only within the scope allowed by a few “big powers”. Countries such as China, Russia and the United States typically ratify and support the United Nations only if it serves their interests. Since these countries have the power to unilaterally veto any resolution, the good intentions of other member states are meaningless.
A unanimous, non-binding agreement means nothing. But this is the only way such a resolution can pass. Putting “words on paper” is an important first step toward real, meaningful work.
Without a global set of rules, each country or governing body must step in. We’ve already seen this with the Biden administration’s recent order ensuring that NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology) and the Department of Homeland Security are committed to a way to test the safety of artificial intelligence systems before they are released. method. This follows a (non-binding) agreement between 18 countries declaring that AI systems are safe by design.
The European Union also enacted legislation to regulate artificial intelligence, becoming the first government to do so. In this landmark bill, the EU also sets the stage for enforcement options.
Another alternative approach to self-regulating AI is what we are seeing in Canada. Product manager Jules Walker said that before releasing Google Gemini, Google met with “experts, policymakers and regulators in different fields” to ensure that artificial intelligence is responsible and works well for Canadians.
Despite these shortcomings, the resolution remains a crucial first step. It promotes international dialogue and lays the foundation for more specific regulations in the future. Here are the next steps:
- Member states can formulate supplementary agreements with specific implementation mechanisms on the basis of this resolution.
- International institutions can work to establish global standards for AI development and deployment.
- Developed countries can help developing countries build the infrastructure and expertise needed for responsible use of AI.
The UN’s AI resolution may not be a panacea; it’s a call to action. By acknowledging its limitations and working to build stronger frameworks, we can ensure that AI becomes a force for good around the world.
If the world chooses to ignore these guidelines, we will see an AI free-for-all, with a handful of powerful countries and companies deciding our fate.