Why in the News? 

The US, EU, and the UK have signed the first legally binding international treaty on artificial intelligence, designed to balance AI innovation with the protection of human rights and democracy. Supported by more than 50 countries, the treaty ensures accountability for harmful AI impacts and fosters global collaboration. 

About the Treaty  

• Place: Vilnius, Lithuania 
• Purpose: To make sure that AI systems respect human rights and democratic values. 
• It is known as the Council of Europe Framework Convention on Artificial Intelligence, Human Rights, Democracy, and the Rule of Law. 
• It is the result of years of negotiations between 57 countries. 
• Signatories: United States, European Union, United Kingdom, Israel, Georgia, Norway, Iceland, Andorra, Moldova, San Marino, Japan, Argentina, Australia, Canada, Mexico, Peru, Uruguay, Costa Rica and the Vatican.  

Council of Europe 

• Founded: 1949 (Treaty of London (1949) 
• It is an international body established after World War II to promote human rights, democracy, and the rule of law across Europe. 
• Headquarters: Strasbourg, France 
• It has 46 member states including all 27 EU members. 
• It cannot make binding laws.

Representatives of the Signatory States