Mar 23 – The UN General Assembly has unanimously adopted a landmark resolution on promoting “safe, secure, and trustworthy” Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems, which will also contribute to sustainable development for all.

The nonbinding resolution, proposed by the US and co-sponsored by India among 120 member countries, was adopted by consensus without a vote on Thursday.

This marks the first time the Assembly has adopted a resolution on regulating the emerging field of artificial intelligence, the UN announced in a statement. US Vice President Kamala Harris hailed it as a “historic step toward establishing clear international norms for AI and for fostering safe, secure, and trustworthy AI systems.” “This resolution charts a path forward on AI where every country can both harness its potential and manage its risks,” Harris stated in a White House release.

The Assembly called on all Member States and stakeholders “to refrain from or cease the use of artificial intelligence systems that are impossible to operate in compliance with international human rights law or that pose undue risks to the enjoyment of human rights.”

“It affirmed that the same rights people have offline must also be protected online, including throughout the life cycle of artificial intelligence systems.” Additionally, the Assembly urged all States, the private sector, civil society, research organizations, and the media to develop and support regulatory and governance approaches and frameworks related to the safe, secure, and trustworthy use of AI.

Recognizing the “varying levels” of technological development among and within countries, the UNGA urged Member States and stakeholders to cooperate with and support developing nations to ensure inclusive and equitable access, bridge the digital divide, and enhance digital literacy.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the ‘Startup Mahakumbh’ event on March 20, emphasized India’s potential in AI technology. He stressed the importance of seizing opportunities in AI and highlighted initiatives like the National Quantum Mission, India AI Mission, and Semiconductor Mission, which aim to empower India’s youth.

PM Modi also referenced his address to the US Congress, where he discussed AI. In December 2023, PM Modi inaugurated the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI) Summit in Delhi, highlighting India’s lead chairmanship in 2024. He showcased initiatives such as the AI agriculture chatbot and discussed AI’s role in healthcare and Sustainable Development Goals.

Furthermore, Union Minister of State for Electronics and IT Rajeev Chandrasekhar, speaking at the ‘AI Safety Summit 2023’, emphasized India’s approach to AI with a focus on openness, safety, trust, and accountability. US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan praised the UNGA resolution for providing a comprehensive vision for countries to respond to the opportunities and challenges of AI.

The resolution outlines a path for international cooperation on AI, including promoting equitable access, managing risks, protecting privacy, preventing misuse, and addressing bias and discrimination. Additionally, the European Parliament recently approved the Artificial Intelligence Act, which aims to govern AI and balance innovation with citizen protection in the European Union.

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