UPDATE – JULY 2025: The United Nations’ first AI resolution, adopted in March 2024, remains a foundational reference point in global AI governance. While not legally binding, it has influenced ongoing international cooperation and multilateral discussions. Especially as the UN prepares for the 2025 review of the World Summit on the Information Society. The resolution’s focus on digital inclusion, transparency, and international standards continues to shape capacity-building efforts and AI governance principles.
ORIGINAL NEWS STORY:
The United Nations General Assembly Approves First Resolution on AI
A landmark decision has been made by the U.N. General Assembly by approving its inaugural resolution on AI. Both the opportunities and challenges are addressed by this significant draft resolution presented by AI systems in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and broader sustainable development objectives. The UN’s dedication to upholding international law is reaffirmed by the resolution. As well as international law, human rights, and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Recognizing the immense potential of safe, secure, and trustworthy AI systems to accelerate progress across economic, social, and environmental dimensions. The resolution underscores the urgent need for global consensus on governing these technologies. The importance of inclusive international cooperation is emphasized. As well as developing effective safeguards, practices, and standards that foster innovation while preventing fragmentation.
Furthermore, regulatory and governance approaches are encouraged for adoption by member states and stakeholders. It stresses the importance of bridging digital divides and providing support in capacity building, technical assistance, and financing to ensure meaningful participation in AI governance discussions.
Member States and Stakeholder Roles
The resolution encourages member states and stakeholders to adopt regulatory and governance approaches that cultivate an enabling environment for safe, secure, and trustworthy AI innovation and entrepreneurship. It outlines a framework of measures, including promoting transparency, human oversight, and accountability, protecting human rights, conducting risk monitoring and impact assessments, and enhancing public awareness and digital literacy. Additionally, the resolution recognizes data governance as pivotal to realizing AI’s benefits and calls for the sharing of best practices and promoting consistency in cross-border data flow.
Looking ahead, the resolution calls for continued discussions as AI evolves rapidly. Also, it calls for promoting inclusive research and analysis to inform effective governance approaches. It emphasizes collaboration across governments, the private sector, civil society, and technical communities. Enhanced coordination is urged for the UN system in leveraging AI opportunities and addressing challenges through research, reporting, technical assistance, and capacity building, particularly for developing countries.
Conclusion
Finally, the resolution anticipates the 2025 review of the World Summit on the Information Society outcomes and the development of a global digital compact through the 2023 Summit of the Future. Overall, the resolution frames safe, trustworthy and well-governed AI systems as essential for accelerating sustainable development progress. Also, it provides digital divides are bridged and all countries can access AI’s benefits equitably through collaborative global cooperation.
Need Help?
You might be wondering how the UN resolution, or any other AI resolutions, regulations and laws could impact you. Don’t hesitate to reach out to BABL AI. All questions and concerns will be answered by their Audit Experts.
