Consensus Adoption of U.S.-Led Resolution on Artificial Intelligence by the United Nations General Assembly

With today’s adoption in the UN General Assembly of the U.S.-led resolution on Artificial Intelligence (AI), UN Member States have spoken with one voice to define a global consensus on safe, secure, and trustworthy AI systems for advancing sustainable development.  This consensus resolution, developed with direct input from more than 120 countries and cosponsored by more than 120 Member States from every region, is a landmark effort and a first-of-its-kind global approach to the development and use of this powerful emerging technology.

Artificial intelligence has enormous potential to advance sustainable development and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).  This resolution helps ensure that the benefits of AI reach countries from all regions and at all levels of development and focuses on capacity building and bridging digital divides, especially for developing countries.  It underscores the consensus that AI systems can respect human rights and fundamental freedoms, while delivering on aspirations for sustainable development, as these are fundamentally compatible goals.

Governments must work with the private sector, civil society, international and regional organizations, academia and research institutions and technical communities, and all other stakeholders to build this approach.  Importantly, this resolution will serve as a foundation for multilateral AI efforts and existing and future UN initiatives.

The United States will continue to work with governments and other partners to ensure the design, development, deployment, and use of emerging technologies, including AI, are safe, secure, and trustworthy and are directed to achieving our common goals and solving our most pressing challenges.