The European Commission signed the Council of Europe Framework Convention on Artificial Intelligence and human rights, democracy and the rule of law

The European Commission signed the Council of Europe Framework Convention on Artificial Intelligence and human rights, democracy and the rule of law

On 5 September 2024, during the informal conference of Council of Europe Ministers of Justice in Vilnius (Lithuania), the European Commission signed the Council of Europe Framework Convention on Artificial Intelligence (AI) on behalf of the European Union. This agreement stands as a crucial framework that aligns with the principles of the EU AI Act, reinforcing a human-centric approach to AI development. The Convention addresses key areas, including transparency in AI-generated content, rigorous risk management, documentation obligations for high-risk AI systems, and the protection of human rights. It introduces innovative regulatory mechanisms, such as the concept of “regulatory sandboxes” to promote safe AI experimentation, while setting global standards for accountability, safety, and fairness in AI. Finally, it recognises the need for a risk-based approach as enshrined in the AI Act, ensuring that AI systems considered harmful to fundamental rights are subject to strict oversight. 

Next Steps: With the Convention now signed, the European Commission will submit a proposal for a Council decision to formalise the EU’s participation in the Convention. The European Parliament will also be called upon to provide its consent, marking the next crucial phase in implementing this ground-breaking agreement.