Geneva: Hundreds of parliamentarians from approximately 130 countries convened at the 149th Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) in Geneva, where they adopted a critical resolution addressing the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. According to Emirates News Agency, the resolution calls on parliaments globally to rapidly develop and enforce comprehensive legal frameworks and policies guiding the responsible creation, use, and deployment of AI technologies. The resolution highlights several key areas of concern and action points: - It stresses the importance of mitigating risks that AI poses to democracy, human rights, and the rule of law, emphasizing the disproportionate effects on women and girls. - It proposes legislation against the creation and distribution of deepfake intimate images and AI-generated content that could incite violence or promote hate speech. - It advocates for the development of tools that can verify the origins of online images and content, thus enabling users to determine authenticity. - It calls for a review and update of existing laws to address new challenges and close loopholes brought about by advancements in AI technology. The resolution underlines the need for parliaments to proactively regulate AI, balancing innovation with the protection of fundamental rights. During the same assembly, the Governing Council introduced a new Charter on the Ethics of Science and Technology, drafted by the IPU's Working Group on Science and Technology. This Charter emphasizes the essential role of scientific knowledge in parliamentary decision-making and the ethical considerations vital for governing emerging technologies. Key points of the Charter include: - Highlighting the ethical responsibilities associated with scientific advancements. - Promoting equitable global participation and addressing gender, social, and economic disparities. - Establishing fundamental principles for regulating science and technology that support soc ietal values, research freedom, international cooperation, and sustainability. The Charter also recommends that legislators maintain parliamentary structures to provide evidence-based information, collaborate with ethical organizations, develop checklists for legislative scrutiny, and engage with civil society. In their final Declaration, legislators expressed their determination to utilize and regulate science, technology, and innovation (STI) for the betterment of humanity. They emphasized the importance of bridging digital divides, safeguarding human rights, and enhancing international cooperation in STI governance. Parliamentarians committed to implementing these goals through legislative, budgetary, and oversight measures, aiming to create an equitable and technologically advanced global community. The 149th IPU Assembly, held from October 13 to 17, 2024, focused on the theme "Harnessing science, technology, and innovation (STI) for a more peaceful and sustainable future."