The Council of Europe has launched the first legally binding international treaty on artificial intelligence (AI) to align AI usage with the principles of human rights, democracy, and the rule of law. Known as the Framework Convention on Artificial Intelligence, Human Rights, Democracy, and the Rule of Law (CETS No. 225), the treaty was opened for signature during a conference of Council of Europe Ministers of Justice held in Vilnius, Lithuania.  

Countries including the UK, Israel, the US, the European Union (EU), and Council of Europe member states such as Norway, Iceland, and Georgia have signed the treaty, underscoring its broad appeal. 

In her remarks, Council of Europe Secretary General Marija Pejčinović Burić emphasized the importance of ensuring AI adheres to existing legal and ethical standards. "We must ensure that the rise of AI upholds our standards, rather than undermining them," she said. Burić expressed hope that more countries will follow suit, ratifying the treaty so it can enter into force swiftly. 

The treaty offers a comprehensive legal framework for regulating AI throughout its lifecycle, from development to deployment. It encourages technological innovation while simultaneously addressing concerns surrounding public safety, privacy, and data protection. 

The signatories are also obligated to guard against potential misuse of AI technologies, particularly in areas such as misinformation and biased decision-making. Key safeguards outlined in the treaty include the protection of human rights, particularly concerning data privacy and non-discrimination; the safeguarding of democratic processes by preventing AI from eroding public trust in institutions; and the regulation of AI risks to uphold the rule of law. 

The Framework Convention was adopted by the Council of Europe Committee of Ministers on May 17, 2024, and will take effect three months after at least five signatories, including three Council of Europe member states, ratify it. The UK’s Lord Chancellor and Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood signed the treaty, calling it a critical step in ensuring AI is harnessed responsibly without compromising core democratic values.