Credit: Steve A Johnson on Unsplash
3rd December 2026 | 8:00am - 10:00am EST
Humanity's relationship with Artificial Intelligence (AI) is at an inflection point. Disturbing developments in a growing number of countries worldwide in 2026 have triggered a new sense of urgency on the need for international action to address risks and threats posed by AI. While intensive dialogue in different fora surrounding this issue continues, it is now abundantly clear that concrete action is long overdue. Equally evident is the fact that failure to act, in the near future, will expose the global community to these exponentially growing threats, some of which are existential in nature.
Acknowledging this rapidly emerging global catastrophic risk, over 30 States worldwide as well as the European Commission issued a Call for Control of Frontier AI Models. In parallel, a growing number of States have also called for a multilateral UN-based solution, including the possibility of setting up an international mechanism/institution with oversight responsibility. In September 2026 at the United Nations, Singapore formally called on all UN Member States to explore the possibility of adopting a UN Framework Convention on AI Safeguards. This call for multilateral action has been echoed in other settings as well. The international community stands at a crossroads. Dialogue must continue, but not at the expense of action now.
Why parliamentarians?
Mobilizing efforts to strengthen international cooperation in promoting adoption of AI safeguards is a central component in meeting this moment of peril for the international community. Parliamentarians, both as lawmakers and advocates, play a key role in the drafting, approval, enactment, and enforcement of legislation implementing international treaties. Parliamentarians can also be impactful change makers and ‘champions’, engaging in active and effective advocacy and outreach to generate vital political will to support adoption of much needed international frameworks. Parliamentarians often have a privileged relationship of proximity with relevant Government Ministries, by virtue of the prerogatives of oversight and accountability that they exercise in their respective countries. Taking account of this reality, PGA has recently launched a Global Parliamentary Declaration supporting the proposal for adoption of a UN Framework Convention on AI Safeguards. The Declaration has already been signed by over 50 Parliamentarians in more than 30 countries worldwide.
This thematic discussion will allow Parliamentarians to learn from technical experts and engage with each other on risks, challenges and opportunities, and jointly identify tangible steps to safeguard international peace and security from the risks and threats posed by AI.
