On Wednesday, Parliament approved the Council of Europe’s Framework Convention on Artificial Intelligence (AI), which addresses the inherent risks AI poses to fundamental democratic values at an international level. The decision was reached with a vote of 455 in favour, 101 against, and 74 abstentions, granting Parliament’s consent to the EU’s signature of the Council of Europe Framework Convention on Artificial Intelligence and Human Rights, Democracy, and the Rule of Law.
This convention integrates existing EU policies on artificial intelligence into an internationally recognised framework to promote the safe and rights-respecting deployment of AI within the EU and globally. Its objective is to ensure that AI systems adhere to stringent ethical standards throughout their entire lifecycle. The convention emphasises transparency, auditability, and effective oversight while reinforcing safeguards designed to protect fundamental rights, democracy, and the rule of law.
Notably, this framework convention represents the first legally binding international treaty dedicated explicitly to AI governance. It applies to AI-related activities conducted by public authorities and by private entities operating on their behalf. Private sector actors are responsible for addressing AI-related risks in accordance with the objectives outlined in the convention. They may fulfil these obligations directly or achieve comparable protection through alternative means.
In practical terms, the convention establishes a global baseline for AI governance. Within the European Union, the AI Act and related legislation set a higher standard of protection and harmonise the internal market. The principles of the convention align seamlessly with EU law, including regulations concerning the placement of AI systems on the market. Additionally, it is consistent with existing EU legislation, such as the AI Act, which outlines binding requirements for data governance, cybersecurity, transparency, and monitoring, alongside prohibiting certain unacceptable AI practices. Furthermore, it complements EU data protection regulations (GDPR), which safeguard personal data through risk-based frameworks, and EU non-discrimination law, which addresses discrimination and emphasises data quality and bias mitigation in high-risk AI systems, as well as sector-specific legislation on product safety, liability, and political advertising.
Co-rapporteurs José Cepeda (S&D, ES) and Paulo Cunha (EPP, PT) have underscored that the conclusion of this framework signifies the EU’s commitment to the safe development and deployment of AI. By leading this technological advancement with democratic and human-centred values at its core, the EU affirms that AI must serve people, enhance open societies, and uphold a European model founded on human dignity, transparency, and accountability. This approach also supports stable and sustainable economic growth, a path that Parliament fully endorses.
The convention is accessible to EU member states and global partners. In addition to the European Union, current signatories include the United Kingdom, Ukraine, Canada, Israel, and the United States.
