Global Digital Compact
A UN framework for international digital cooperation.
How the laws define this
Both instruments establish that the Global Digital Compact is a United Nations effort aimed at outlining shared principles for an open, free, and secure digital future for everyone. They agree on this core purpose of establishing shared norms for digital cooperation. However, the instruments diverge in how they define its structure and execution. In Governing AI for Humanity: Final Report of the High-Level Advisory Body on Artificial Intelligence, it is characterized as an intergovernmental agreement adopted by the UN General Assembly. Conversely, Resolution A/RES/79/325 — Terms of reference and modalities for the establishment and functioning of the Independent International Scientific Panel on Artificial Intelligence and the Global Dialogue on Artificial Intelligence Governance describes it as a foundational framework whose objectives are directly supported by an AI Panel and Global Dialogue to inform global AI norms within the broader digital agenda.
Synthesised from the 2 statutory definitions below. Each one is quoted in full, with its source.
How jurisdictions differ
What is distinctive in each definition, binding law in force first.
| Jurisdiction | Instrument | Status | What is distinctive |
|---|---|---|---|
| United Nations | Resolution A/RES/79/325 — Terms of reference and modalities for the establishment and functioning of the Independent International Scientific Panel on Artificial Intelligence and the Global Dialogue on Artificial Intelligence Governance | In Force | This definition emphasizes the GDC as a UN initiative linking AI governance to a broader digital agenda, specifying how the AI Panel and Global Dialogue contribute to its objectives. |
| United Nations | Governing AI for Humanity: Final Report of the High-Level Advisory Body on Artificial Intelligence | Adopted | The report sets out seven institutional recommendations for global AI governance. |
Definitions (2)
An intergovernmental agreement adopted by the UN General Assembly to establish shared principles for an open, free, and secure digital future for all.
The Global Digital Compact is a United Nations initiative that seeks to outline shared principles for an open, free, and secure digital future for everyone. It serves as a foundational framework for digital cooperation, and the AI Panel and Global Dialogue are intended to contribute directly to its objectives by informing global norms and principles for AI within this broader digital agenda.
Questions and answers
What is the role of the AI Panel in the Global Digital Compact?
The AI Panel is established to contribute directly to the Global Digital Compact's objectives by informing global norms and principles for AI within the broader digital agenda.
What does the High-Level Advisory Body recommend for AI governance under the Global Digital Compact?
The report sets out seven institutional recommendations for global AI governance.
How does UN Resolution A/RES/79/325 relate to the Global Digital Compact?
Resolution A/RES/79/325 establishes mechanisms like the Independent International Scientific Panel on AI to support the Global Digital Compact's goals for a secure digital future.