As governance around the use of artificial intelligence (AI) continues to evolve, regulators are keeping pace by demonstrating a commitment to work together on shaping a global framework. On September 5th the UK, US, and EU, along with Israel and Norway, signed the first international treaty aimed at addressing the potential risks associated with the development of AI technologies in signatory territories. Developed by the Council of Europe, the treaty establishes the first legally binding framework to protect human rights, democracy, and the rule of law regarding AI development and usage.
AI’s numerous benefits must continually be balanced with the ethical and operational challenges it brings. For data protection officers (DPOs), the establishment of an international treaty signed by some of the world’s leading economies is a strong statement on safeguarding known and unknown risks on regulating technology, innovation and privacy. Key provisions of the treaty of note for DPOs include:
- Privacy & personal data protection: safeguarding privacy rights of individuals and their personal data, including through applicable laws, standards and frameworks
- Protecting human rights: ensuring personal data is used in an appropriate manner, their privacy is respected, and AI does not discriminate against anyone.
- Protecting the rule of law: placing responsibility for regulating risks associated with AI on signatory nations, shielding their citizens from possible harm, and ensuring its safe use.
Next steps and considerations
For signatories such as the UK, experts need to review to what extent the wide-ranging treaty provisions are already covered by existing legislations, while the government continues to work on a new AI bill. How much that will differ from regulations such as the EU AI Act remains to be seen.
As a provider of global Data Protection Officer services, HewardMills can help you navigate the International AI Treaty by providing expertise in risk assessment, DPIAs, compliance strategies, and ongoing monitoring to ensure alignment with the Treaty’s guidance on the protection of personal rights.
