Canada signs the Council of Europe Framework Convention on Artificial Intelligence and Human Rights, Democracy and the Rule of Law

From: Global Affairs Canada

News release

February 11, 2025 - Ottawa, Ontario - Global Affairs Canada

The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, today announced that Canada has signed the Council of Europe Framework Convention on Artificial Intelligence and Human Rights, Democracy and the Rule of Law.

This landmark convention establishes a common international legal framework that addresses the risks that artificial intelligence (AI) poses to human rights, democratic institutions and the rule of law. The convention will strengthen global cooperation on AI, enabling States to seize the technology’s opportunities and benefits while protecting people, groups, and societies from a wide range of potential harms.

By signing into the Framework, Canada is joining 11 other countries and the European Union, including G7 partners, as an early signatory to the convention, which advances Canada’s vision for a rights-respecting, law-abiding, and inclusive approach to the global governance of AI.

Canada will continue to advance these fundamental principles through its 2025 G7 Presidency, with AI as a core theme.

The Government of Canada has engaged with provinces and territories, and sought views on the convention from Indigenous partners, expert stakeholders, and the public. The government will continue to engage with all Canadian partners throughout the implementation process of the Framework Convention. 

Quotes

“Canada is proud to sign the first international convention on AI and human rights. This will reinforce human rights and democratic norms in AI governance, while strengthening transatlantic and global cooperation on AI, including in emerging markets and developing countries.”

- Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs

“As the use of AI grows domestically and internationally, our government is committed to advancing responsible governance of AI. By signing on to this landmark global framework, we are safeguarding core democratic principles in the design, development, and use of AI. We look forward to continuing the work with our G7 partners as part of our 2025 G7 Presidency, to ensure that AI contributes to our shared and mutual prosperity.”

- François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry

“Canada is committed to the safe, responsible, and ethical use of AI. This convention aligns with the core pillars of our upcoming AI strategy for the federal public service, ensuring that AI enhances the delivery of our modern services and scientific research capabilities. Our approach is human-centered and focuses on enabling policies and infrastructure, with trust and collaboration at the forefront.”

- Ginette Petitpas Taylor, President of the Treasury Board of Canada

Quick facts

  • The Council of Europe adopted the convention in May 2024 and first opened it for signature in Vilnius, Lithuania, on September 5, 2024. 

  • Canada, along with Japan, signed the convention on February 11, 2025, at a signing ceremony held on the margins of the AI Action Summit in Paris.

  • As of February 11, the convention has been signed by 13 signatories: Andorra, Canada, Georgia, Iceland, Israel, Japan, Norway, Moldova, Montenegro, San Marino, the United Kingdom, the United States of America, and the European Union. 

  • The convention will come into force once five states, including at least three Council of Europe Member States, express their consent to be legally bound by the convention.

  • Canada was granted observer status to the Council of Europe in April 1996.

  • Canada participated in negotiations for the convention, playing a constructive role and advanced Canadian priorities, including respect for international law. 

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