A ‘World First’ Artificial Intelligence Agreement

Artificial Intelligence (AI) refers to the simulation of human intelligence in machines, enabling them to perform tasks that typically require human cognitive functions, such as learning, reasoning, problem-solving, perception, and language understanding [1]. These technologies are advancing at an unprecedented pace, and promise to transform industries and society as we know it.

Although AI has the potential to bring substantial benefits, the technology also poses possible risks. In November 2023, the UK hosted the first AI Safety Summit, which brought together international governments, the leading AI companies, civil society groups and experts in AI research. [2]

The Bletchley Declaration

Once home to the Enigma machine used by Allied Forces during World War 2, Bletchley Park was chosen to host the AI Summit. 28 countries including the UK, US, and China signed the Bletchley Declaration at the Summit. This landmark declaration emphasises the global nature of AI risks and the importance of collaboration to ensure human-centric, trustworthy, and responsible AI development.

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said, "this is a landmark achievement that sees the world's greatest AI powers agree on the urgency behind understanding the risks of AI – helping ensure the long-term future of our children and grandchildren”. [3]

**Figure 1: The Bletchley Demonstration**
The world’s first agreement on safe and responsible development of frontier AI

International Cooperation - Public and Private

The key to the Summit was the emphasis on shared responsibility and inclusive decision-making processes. Rather than agreeing to set strict international rules around AI governance, international representatives gathered to exchange knowledge and best practices. This included agreement from AI labs to give governments early access to their systems for safety purposes. [4]

Industry giants like OpenAI, Meta, Google DeepMind and Microsoft reaffirmed their dedication to AI safety. Elon Musk, a co-founder of OpenAI, emphasised the paramount importance of addressing AI risks and advocated for a regulatory function to oversee AI companies, while avoiding overly restrictive regulations. [5]

The Future of Safe AI

The AI Safety Summit 2023 marked a pivotal milestone in the global effort to ensure the safe and responsible development of AI. Plans for future summits provide further opportunities for international stakeholders to come together, exchange ideas, and shape the global AI safety agenda.

At Deecon, we are witnessing first hand the impact AI is having on our business and our clients. As experts in our field, we are well-placed to help our clients embrace future technologies such as AI to drive business growth and efficiencies whilst simultaneously navigating the associated challenges.