Global Standards in AI Ethics

AI doesn't respect national borders. Software developed in one country is used globally. This creates a desperate need for international agreements on how AI should be governed to protect human rights without stifling innovation.

The UNESCO Recommendation

One of the most significant global frameworks is the UNESCO Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence. Adopted by 193 member states, it provides a "human-centered" approach. It isn't a strict law, but a set of principles that countries agree to strive for.

It emphasizes that AI actors should respect, protect, and promote human rights and fundamental freedoms. This includes the right to privacy, the right to non-discrimination, and environmental sustainability.

The EU AI Act

Moving from recommendation to law, the European Union is implementing the EU AI Act. This is the first comprehensive AI law in the world. It classifies AI based on risk levels—from "unacceptable risk" (like social scoring systems, which are banned) to "high risk" (like medical devices, which require strict compliance).