In a significant move toward international cooperation on artificial intelligence (AI), global leaders from the BRICS nations have agreed on a high-level framework to guide the development and regulation of AI technologies. The BRICS Leaders’ Statement on the Global Governance of Artificial Intelligence, adopted during the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro, affirms a collective commitment to promote principles that ensure AI is developed and used in ways that are inclusive, sustainable and respectful of human rights.
The declaration emphasizes the need for global cooperation under the auspices of the United Nations, urging multilateral engagement to address risks and challenges associated with AI while avoiding fragmented regulatory approaches. It highlights that governance frameworks should respect national sovereignty, promote digital inclusion, and help bridge the technological divide between developed and developing countries.
Key elements of the agreed framework include calls for transparent and ethical AI practices, the development of interoperable standards, and capacity building to ensure broad international participation, particularly from the Global South. Leaders described AI as a “unique opportunity” for driving innovation and sustainable growth, while cautioning that without fair governance mechanisms, AI could deepen existing global inequalities.
The BRICS accord represents an important step in global AI governance dialogues, complementing ongoing efforts such as the Framework Convention on Artificial Intelligence initiated by the Council of Europe, which aims to enshrine human rights and democratic values in AI deployment.
