As generative artificial intelligence (AI) emerges as another transformative technology poised to significantly impact free expression and economic opportunities, it is crucial that nations commit to principles to ensure that these powerful tools serve democratic ideals and promote global progress.

To safeguard democratic principles in the emerging AI economy, democratic countries should unite behind a global declaration to free and open AI. Specifically, countries should commit to the following principles enumerated in the Global Declaration on Free and Open AI:

Promoting freedom of expression: Governments should not restrict using AI to seek, receive, and impart information and ideas.

Protecting freedom to innovate: Governments should not restrict building and sharing AI models and training data.

Protecting free trade: Governments should not restrict the export of AI models and training data beyond those necessary for legitimate security concerns.

Protecting cultural, artistic, and scientific interests: Governments should not restrict the use of AI for cultural, artistic, and scientific creations and advancements, and governments should protect the moral and material interests resulting from the use of AI.

Encouraging responsible speech: Rather than censoring AI, governments should focus on empowering individuals through education, fact-checking initiatives, content provenance standards, and fostering counter-speech mechanisms.

Embracing transparency: Governments should not manipulate AI models, including the input and output of these models.

Empowering inclusive innovation: Governments should support the adoption of affordable, inclusive, and reliable AI tools throughout the economy and society, including through initiatives to accelerate digital transformation, promote AI literacy, and close the data divide.

International collaboration and cooperation: Governments should collaborate with the private sector to develop standards and trade agreements that promote free and open AI—ensuring global access to AI tools and preventing undue restrictions on these tools.

Read the full Global Declaration on Free and Open AI at itif.org.

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