United Nations Adopts Landmark Resolution On Artificial Intelligence (Image: UN)

The United Nations General Assembly unanimously adopted the first global resolution on artificial intelligence (AI) on Thursday. The landmark resolution, sponsored by the United States, is to encourage countries to safeguard human rights, monitor AI for risks, and protect personal data. Along with the United States, the resolution was co-sponsored by 123 countries.

US Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield said that all 193 members of the UN General Assembly have spoken in one voice and together chosen to govern AI technology. The international community must “govern this technology rather than have it govern us,”  said Linda Thomas-Greenfield. The UN made this move amid concerns that AI could be used to increase fraud, lead to dramatic job losses, or disrupt democratic processes.

The US administration also welcomed the UN General Assembly’s adoption of the resolution. US Vice President Kamala Harris said that it is a historic step toward establishing clear international norms for AI and for fostering safe, secure, and trustworthy AI systems. Kamala Harris also said that AI technology must be adopted and advanced in a way that protects everyone from potential harm and ensures everyone is able to enjoy its benefits.

“This resolution establishes a path forward on AI where every country can both seize the promise and manage the risks of AI,” US Vice President added in her statement. Notably, it is the first time the UN Assembly has adopted a resolution on regulating the emerging field. In February, the Joe Biden-led US administration announced the formation of the US AI Safety Institute Consortium (AISIC). More than 200 leading AI stakeholders are part of this initiative.