UN General Assembly Passes Resolution on AI

The UN General Assembly approved a resolution on AI, which establishes regulations on the development and use of AI systems. Led by the United States and supported by member states, the resolution aims at ensuring that AI is deployed responsibly and in line with human rights principles and Sustainable Development Goals. While this may bring challenges to the industry, the United Nations expects this to narrow digital divides while driving sustainable development.

The text of the resolution, entitled "Harnessing the opportunities of safe and reliable AI for sustainable development,” initially proposed by the European Union and endorsed by more than 120 member states, emphasizes the importance of protecting and promoting human rights at all stages of the lifecycle of AI systems, from design to deployment and use. This approach, according to the UN press release, aligns with international efforts to address the potential risks associated with the rapid evolution of AI technology.

"We expect this to complement future UN initiatives, including negotiations for a global digital pact and the work of the Secretary-General's high-level advisory body on artificial intelligence," said Linda Thomas-Greenfield, US Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the UN. 

One of the highlights of the resolution is its call for member states and other stakeholders to refrain from using AI systems that do not comply with international human rights standards or pose risks to the enjoyment of human rights. This attempt by the international community to establish common standards for the development and use of AI, according to the same press release, is intended to mitigate risks and ensure that the technology benefits society as a whole.

"Let us reaffirm that AI will be created and deployed through the prism of humanity and dignity, safety and security, human rights and fundamental freedoms," said Thomas-Greenfield.

The resolution recognizes the potential of technology to accelerate progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations (SDG), highlighting the importance of integrating AI in a responsible manner in efforts to address global challenges such as poverty, health, and environmental protection.

According to El Universal, the adoption of this resolution will have important implications within the technology industry, emphasizing aspects such as its responsible promotion and challenges in effectively complying with international standards. The text hopes to encourage the responsible implementation of AI by establishing a framework for its ethical and responsible development to help build trust in technology among users and regulators, while fostering greater adoption of AI in various sectors, like healthcare, agriculture and logistics. However, technology companies will now have to ensure that their AI products and services comply with international human rights standards, which could require additional investments in R&D, as well as in the implementation of control and oversight mechanisms to ensure compliance with regulations.

The adoption of this resolution could also catalyze greater collaboration between governments, industry and civil society in the development of AI-related policies and practices. "I hope this dialogue will serve as a model for future conversations on the challenges of AI in areas regarding peace, security and the responsible use of AI autonomy," said Thomas-Greenfield. "Let's commit to bridging the digital divide within and between nations, and to using this technology to advance shared priorities around sustainable development."