Framework Convention on AI (CETS 225): requirements, deadlines and compliance actions
Council of Europe Framework Convention on Artificial Intelligence and Human Rights, Democracy and the Rule of Law (CETS No. 225)
What is Framework Convention on AI (CETS 225)?
The first international treaty on AI. Parties must adopt or maintain measures so that activities within the lifecycle of AI systems are consistent with human rights, democracy and the rule of law, covering public authorities and actors on their behalf and, by choice of approach, private actors. It sets principles (human dignity and autonomy, transparency and oversight, accountability, equality and non-discrimination, privacy, reliability, safe innovation), requires remedies, procedural safeguards and risk and impact assessment, allows moratoria or bans for incompatible uses, and creates a Conference of the Parties for follow-up. National-security activities and defence are excluded.
Status note: Adopted 17 May 2024 and open for signature since 5 September 2024. Entry into force requires five ratifications including three Council of Europe member states; check the treaty office page for the current status.
Who does it apply to?
Obligations fall on state parties for the public sector; parties choose how to address private-sector AI activities. Activities related to national security and research and development not yet in use are excluded.
States and the EU that ratify; public authorities and private actors through implementing measures.
When do the requirements apply?
2024-05-17: adopted by the Committee of Ministers; 2024-09-05: opened for signature in Vilnius; entry into force after five ratifications (three from member states).
| Date | Milestone | Source reference | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Opened for signature Signing conference in Vilnius, Lithuania. |
— | Passed | |
| Date not yet set | Entry into force First day of the month following three months after the fifth ratification, including at least three Council of Europe member states. |
— | Tbd confidence: medium |
Entry into force date not confirmed from the treaty office at the time of checking.
Official sources
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Framework Convention on AI (CETS No. 225)
Council of Europe · 17 May 2024 · Tier 1 source
Change history
Record version 1: Added in the September 2026 global coverage expansion from the official source listed; reviewer to confirm dates, status and scope against the source text.. Full edit history is in the GitHub repository.
Frequently asked questions
- Which countries have signed?
- Signatories include the European Union, the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, Japan, Israel, Andorra, Georgia, Iceland, Norway, Moldova, San Marino, Switzerland and Ukraine, among others; check the Council of Europe treaty office for the current list and ratifications.
Informational only, not legal advice. Verify every claim against the linked official sources and consult qualified counsel before acting.