In a major milestone for global artificial intelligence governance, the Council of Europe (COE) has officially opened the Framework Convention on Artificial Intelligence and Human Rights, Democracy, and the Rule of Law for signatures. The treaty, which aims to regulate the use of AI systems in line with human rights principles, democracy and the rule of law, marks the first-ever legally binding international agreement designed to manage AI’s impact on society.
Global Signatories Line Up
At a high-level conference in Vilnius, several nations and organizations stepped forward as early signatories to the treaty. Countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and the European Union, alongside Andorra, Georgia, Iceland, Norway, the Republic of Moldova, and San Marino, formally added their names to the historic agreement. Israel also joined the group, signaling global momentum behind AI safety and regulation.
The treaty, formally known as CETS No. 225, offers a legal framework that covers the full lifecycle of AI systems, from their development to their implementation. It sets clear guidelines aimed at fostering AI innovation while safeguarding against risks to human rights, democratic processes, and the rule of law.
A Strong and Balanced Treaty
Marija Pejčinović Burić, Secretary General of the Council of Europe, emphasized the significance of the treaty. “We must ensure that the rise of AI upholds our standards, rather than undermining them,” she said. “The Framework Convention is designed to ensure just that. It is a strong and balanced text— the result of an open and inclusive approach by which it was drafted, ensuring multiple and expert perspectives.”
Burić added that the treaty’s “open nature” allows it to reach a broad spectrum of countries and AI stakeholders, underscoring her hopes that more nations will quickly join the list of signatories. “I hope these will be the first of many signatures and that they will be followed by swift ratifications so that the treaty can enter into force as soon as possible,” she noted.
A Legal Framework for the AI Age
The convention, which was formally adopted by the COE Committee of Ministers on May 17, 2024, sets the tone for future AI regulations by being technology-neutral. This means it is designed to evolve with the rapidly advancing AI landscape, addressing new challenges without becoming outdated.
The treaty also emphasizes a global collaboration. While the COE has led the initiative, negotiations included 46 member states of the Council of Europe, the European Union, and 11 non-member states, including major global players like Argentina, Japan, the United States, and Mexico. The participation of private-sector representatives, civil society, and academic experts in the drafting process added further depth to the treaty’s comprehensive approach.
Next Steps: Ratifications and Global Reach
For the treaty to become fully effective, it must now be ratified by at least five signatories, including three COE member states. Once this occurs, the treaty will enter into force on the first day of the following month after a three-month waiting period.
For the treaty to become fully effective, it must now be ratified by at least five signatories, including three COE member states.
While the treaty’s framework has been hailed for its comprehensive approach, its true test will come as countries move to ratify it and begin implementing the necessary measures to ensure compliance. The treaty is open for any country worldwide to join, and those that do so will be committing to uphold its provisions—ensuring that AI developments in their jurisdictions align with fundamental human rights, democratic principles and the rule of law.
A Global Step Forward for AI Regulation
As AI continues to inform every aspect of modern life, there has been growing concern over the lack of unified global governance around the technology. From facial recognition systems to automated decision-making in finance and law enforcement, the potential for AI to infringe on individual rights has led to urgent calls for regulatory frameworks.
The COE’s Framework Convention could become a cornerstone in global AI regulation, providing a unified approach that balances the benefits of AI innovation with the need for stringent oversight. The treaty’s focus on human rights and the rule of law aims to prevent AI systems from being misused in ways that could undermine democratic governance or infringe on privacy.
Building a Safer Future for AI
While the early list of signatories includes some of the world’s largest AI markets, notable absentees such as those in Asia and the Middle East highlight the challenges of forging a truly global consensus. Countries like China, a key player in AI development, have yet to indicate their stance on the Framework Convention, leaving questions about how global AI standards will ultimately take shape.
Nonetheless, the opening of this treaty marks a significant step forward. As AI technology rapidly evolves, the need for international cooperation and shared regulatory frameworks has never been more pressing. The Framework Convention stands as a symbol of what can be achieved when nations come together to address the ethical and societal challenges posed by artificial intelligence.
As more countries contemplate signing on and ratifying the treaty, the world will be watching to see whether this agreement can set the standard for a future where AI enhances human life without compromising the values that underpin democratic societies.
