First international agreement opened for signature

The Council of Europe opened for signature the “Framework Convention on AI and Human Rights, Democracy and the Rule of Law”, which is the first legally binding international agreement on AI. Among the first Council of Europe members to sign; Andorra, Georgia, Iceland, Norway, Moldova, San Marino and the United Kingdom. It was announced that Israel and the United States also signed. It was further stated that the agreement will enter into force on the first day of the month following the expiry of the three-month period from the date of ratification by five signatories, including at least three Council of Europe member states.

UN launches global compact for AI governance

The United Nations’ (“UN”) Global Digital Compact (“GDC”) is part of its “Pact for the Future”, aiming to establish a global framework for digital cooperation and AI governance. It calls for transparency, accountability, and responsible tech practices from companies, including sharing IP addresses and promoting open-source innovation. The GDC also addresses issues such as digital inclusion, closing the digital divide, and protecting children from online abuse. Despite its comprehensive approach, the GDC is non-binding, leaving uncertainty about its implementation by member states and tech companies.

France appoints first AI minister

France has appointed Clara Chappaz, as its first-ever AI minister, reflecting its ambitions to become a global leader in AI. Chappaz will focus on AI and digitalization as part of Michel Barnier’s new cabinet. The move aligns with France’s vision to establish Paris as the “city of AI” and supports the national AI strategy, which includes significant investment by 2030. Chappaz will report to the Ministry of Higher Education and Research.

Australia proposes social media age limit

Australia plans to introduce a minimum age requirement for social media access, likely between 14 and 16, aiming to protect children from online harm, including bullying. The government will trial age verification technology, and the opposition supports banning social media for under-16s if elected. While intended to protect young users, experts argue the policy may limit children’s access to beneficial online content.

First criminal case of AI-driven music streaming fraud

Michael Smith, a musician from North Carolina, has been indicted in the first criminal case involving artificially inflated music streaming. Smith used AI to generate hundreds of thousands of songs and automated bots to stream them billions of times, fraudulently obtaining over USD 10 million in royalties. His scheme exploited streaming platforms and diverted payments from legitimate artists. Smith faces multiple charges, including wire fraud and money laundering conspiracy, each carrying a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison.

UN secretary-general endorses global AI governance framework

The UN Secretary-General endorsed the final report of the High-Level Advisory Body on Artificial Intelligence, which aims to govern AI for humanity. Recommendations include creating an International Scientific Panel on AI, a Global Fund for AI to bridge divides, and a UN AI Office to coordinate efforts. The report highlights AI’s opportunities and risks, emphasizing inclusive global governance, particularly for under-represented communities. The Secretary-General urged stakeholders and Member States to consider these recommendations as crucial steps in ensuring AI benefits all of humanity.

China proposes AI content labeling regulation

China’s Cyberspace Administration has proposed new regulations requiring internet service providers to label AI-generated content, such as text, images, audio, and video, to protect national security and public interests. The draft regulation mandates explicit labeling for downloadable, copyable, or exportable AI content and requires platforms to regulate the spread of AI materials. The public can provide feedback on the proposed measures by 14 October 2024.