The United Nations General Assembly achieved a significant milestone on Thursday by approving its inaugural resolution on artificial intelligence (AI), marking a global commitment to ensuring the responsible and safe use of this transformative technology while upholding human rights.
Sponsored by the United States and co-sponsored by 123 countries, the resolution gained unanimous support from all 193 U.N. member nations, symbolizing a unified international effort toward the regulation and governance of AI.
U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan hailed the resolution as a “historic step forward” in advancing the secure deployment of AI technologies. He emphasized that it underscores the importance of establishing a framework that prioritizes safety, security, and trustworthiness in AI development and usage.
The adoption of this resolution signifies a global consensus on fundamental principles guiding AI’s ethical and responsible deployment. It sets the stage for leveraging AI’s potential for societal good while effectively managing associated risks.
Over the course of several months, the United States collaborated with over 120 countries, including nations like Russia, China, and Cuba, to negotiate the text of the resolution. This broad-based cooperation underscores the urgency and importance of addressing the challenges posed by AI in a collaborative manner.
U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield highlighted the significance of the resolution, noting that amidst global disagreements, it stands as a testament to the international community’s shared commitment to advancing progress.
The resolution represents a pivotal moment in global governance, signaling a collective determination to harness AI’s benefits while safeguarding against potential risks and ensuring that it serves the best interests of humanity.
