With involvement by 124 member nations, the resolution underscores the importance of developing guidelines to ensure the safety, security and trustworthiness of AI systems. Notably, however, military AI were excluded from the deliberations. 

The resolution signals a pivotal moment in global efforts to harness AI’s potential while mitigating associated risks, underscoring the imperative for collaborative action to shape the future of AI governance

The first-of-its-kind resolution was first proposed by the United States, and was adopted by consensus and will have the support of all 193 UN member nations. 

It emphasises the role of AI in promoting digital transformation and equitable access “to promote, not hinder, digital transformation and equitable access,” which they say will align with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals aimed at improving humanity’s future by 2030. 

“As AI technologies rapidly develop, there is urgent need and unique opportunities for member states to meet this critical moment with collective action,” US ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield said, reading a joint statement by the co-sponsor countries.

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According to Thomas-Greenfield, the resolution will also help less developed countries not get left behind where AI is concerned. 

“So let us reaffirm that AI will be created and deployed through the lens of humanity and dignity, safety and security, human rights and fundamental freedoms,” she said. 

“Let us commit to closing the digital gap within and between nations and using this technology to advance shared priorities around sustainable development.”

The text acknowledges the threats posed by AI when misused, highlighting risks to human rights, reinforcement of prejudices, and threats to personal data protection. 

It calls on member states to refrain from using AI systems that cannot comply with international human rights laws or pose undue risks to human rights enjoyment.

Concerns about AI’s misuse for disinformation campaigns, particularly during elections, have grown. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has prioritised AI regulation, advocating for a UN entity akin to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Guterres has also drawn attention to gender biases in AI technologies, warning against algorithms that perpetuate inequalities.