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Why Is AI Policy Essential for Every Country's Future Development?

Writer's picture: Miao ZhangMiao Zhang



Did you know, 80% of the world's nuclear weapons have been reduced? This fact shows how strong arms control is1. But here's something interesting: it only took 12 years from the U.S. getting its first nuclear bomb in 1945 to creating the IAEA in 19571. The main job of the IAEA became keeping nuclear energy safe and stopping more countries from getting nuclear weapons in 19681. Now, we have a problem. There's less control over nuclear weapons than during the Cold War, and at the same time, the U.S. is putting limits on exporting AI chips. This is to lower AI risks linked to China's AI plans1. This situation shows how hard it is to manage AI. AI covers many areas and keeps changing, making it tougher to control than nuclear tech1.


The specific dangers of advanced AI are not clear yet. This makes it hard to create a full set of rules for it1. Government leaders and those in business have to work together to tackle new AI issues. They should make standards and put safety measures in place. They can't just rely on global pacts1. That's why some suggest making a Global AI Observatory (GAIO), like the group that looks at climate change. The GAIO would be able to spot AI's risks, chances, and effects around the world2.


Key Takeaways


  • The world faces a paradox: nuclear controls are more frayed, while AI poses new governance challenges.

  • Lack of clarity on AI risks hinders comprehensive regulation, necessitating collaboration and norm-setting.

  • A Global AI Observatory (GAIO) is proposed to track emergent AI capabilities and facilitate global debate.

  • The GAIO would establish global, standardized incident reporting databases and registries of crucial AI systems.

  • Broad global representation, including governments, scientific bodies, and universities, is crucial for the GAIO's success.



The Transformative Potential of AI


Artificial intelligence (AI) marks a new chapter in our development. It greatly shapes our society's growth and the path of human culture. This field offers immense possibilities worldwide.3 Nearly 40 percent of jobs worldwide face changes because of AI, while in advanced places, up to 60 percent of jobs could shift.3 Yet, AI also poses unknown risks and complex hurdles.


AI's Impact on Socioeconomic Development

With global challenges threatening peace and progress, every nation must work to create security. It's crucial to focus equally on both development and staying safe.3 In places just starting out or with less income, AI's influence is expected to be 40 percent and 26 percent, respectively.3 Our goal should be to use AI positively, making sure it serves everyone and helps create a better future we all share.


Opportunities and Challenges Posed by AI

3 AI will likely work alongside humans, improving many jobs. Almost half of these changed jobs might actually get better with AI.3 But, the benefits from AI could be different for various income groups.3 To tackle this, countries should set up solid support systems and training to fight against rising inequality due to AI.


3 The IMF checked how ready 125 countries are to use AI, finding that wealthier nations and some emerging ones are more prepared.3 In fact, countries like Singapore, the United States, and Denmark scored the highest in getting ready for AI.3 Advanced nations need to keep leading in AI, while those on the rise should invest in their digital foundations and the skills of their people.


Principles for Global AI Governance


We need to focus on people when making AI, aiming to better lives and keep the world safe. We want AI to help human progress. This means using AI to face big issues like the changing climate and protecting nature.


Respecting National Sovereignty and Laws

It's vital to honor other nations' rules and borders when sharing AI tech.4 This shows we're about using AI to make the world better, in line with peace and fairness for all.


Developing AI for Good

AI can do a lot for our world, helping with important matters like saving the planet.4 Let's make sure AI's actions follow laws and unite with everyone on basic values, like peace and justice.


Fostering International Cooperation

We must support mutual respect, equality, and benefit for all in AI growth.5 Every nation should have the same chance to grow AI, no matter their differences.5 We urge for teaming up globally to develop AI wisely, share knowledge, and offer tech to everyone through open-source.5 Drawing lines against others or creating exclusive groups to block AI development is not the way forward.5 We stand against barriers, like monopolies and unfair actions, that may harm the global AI flow.5


Mutual Respect and Equal Rights

It's key to respect each other and give everyone an equal shot in AI.5 Regardless of a country's size, power, or system, they should all get a fair chance in AI.5 Working together, on an even ground, is crucial. This ensures AI helps the whole world.5


Sharing Knowledge and Open-Source AI

We're asking for more global teamwork in AI's growth.5 By sharing AI insights and tech openly, we can boost progress and make sure AI is for everyone.5 The key to unlocking AI's full benefits is working together openly.5


Avoiding Technological Monopolies and Barriers

We're against monopolies and any barriers that could mess up AI's global supply.5 Avoiding unfair actions and elite gatherings is a must for everyone to use AI right.5 Embracing openness, togetherness, and working across the world are crucial. This is how we make AI a true force for good.5


Why every country needs a AI policy?

Governing AI is a global challenge that impacts all of us.6 Various countries, such as Canada, China, Denmark, and the UK, have laid out strategies to enhance AI.6 The European Commission urged its members to boost AI investment, offering direct research funds.6 Meanwhile, China plans to be the world leader in AI by 2030 through heavy investments.

To manage AI properly, all nations must share info and work together.6 By developing universal standards, we can prevent dangers, ensuring AI is secure and fair.6 Notably, countries like the US, Israel, and Russia lack a national AI policy.6 While the US excels in data openness, China falls behind at 93rd place.


We call for a team effort from all stakeholders, urging for an open dialog.1 Few labs are pioneering in AI, while1 the U.S. keeps a close watch, controlling AI chip exports to China to curb risks.


Risk Management and Governance Frameworks


Handling the risks and challenges of AI requires a solid framework.7 It suggests having a method to test risk levels, quick and flexible governance, and managing risks depending on their severity to respond well.8 The EU AI Act groups organizations into 4 risk categories. This helps in setting up proper governance structures.8


Risk Assessment and Tiered Governance

R&D should aim to make AI clearer and more predictable. They must boost data trustworthiness and ensure humans always control AI.7 This approach allows for fast and efficient responses to AI's risks and challenges.8


Trustworthy AI Technologies

For trustworthy AI technologies, R&D needs to make systems that are checkable, monitored, and traceable.7 The NIST framework outlines what makes an AI system 'trustworthy', like being safe and accountable.8 The ISO/IEC 42001 standard also helps in creating a solid governance for AI, with key requirements and controls.8

By using a risk-focused, tiered governance for AI and creating trustworthy AI technologies, groups can handle AI's risks and challenges well.78


Ethical Principles and Accountability

We must follow fairness and non-discrimination. Let's avoid biases and discrimination when collecting data or designing algorithms. This includes treating everyone fairly regardless of their background.9

Ethics should come first. We need strong ethical guidelines for AI. This means setting ethical standards and creating ways to make sure everyone follows them.10


Respecting Rights and Addressing Concerns

It's important to know who is responsible for what in the AI world. We should always protect the rights and interests of all people. This is crucial both at home and around the world. We must address any ethical issues quickly.10


Establishing Ethical Guidelines

Putting ethics first is key. We're working to set strong ethical standards for AI. This involves creating and improving rules and holding people accountable.10

Important steps have been taken to make AI more accountable. The U.S. and the EU are working together to do this. For instance, they're requiring certain AI systems to be checked before they're released. This ensures they meet high ethical standards.11 The EU AI Act makes sure AI systems are transparent and meet specific requirements.11

More than 90% of those involved say protecting data and privacy is crucial for AI. This is to make AI reliable and fair.11


Inclusive and Consensus-Based Approach

We aim to involve many and make decisions together12 in global AI governance. This means we want everyone to be part of the discussion. The idea is to work with people from various fields. We respect the ways different countries do things.12


Wide Participation and Consensus-Building

Taking things step by step helps include more people and agree on things together.12 It's important that everyone from all over can share their thoughts. We make sure our plans match what everyone needs.12


Gradual Approach and Policy Communication

Going slowly in AI governance lets us keep up with technology and tackle issues together.12 This steady pace makes sure new AI use matches our values. It helps nations work together better.12


Bridging the AI Governance Gap

We need more support from developing nations in global AI rules. Everyone must have the same chances and rights in AI growth and rules.13 International help is key to narrow the AI gap.14 Talking at the United Nations about a global AI body can fix big problems in AI use and safety.


Enhancing Developing Countries' Capacity

Giving more AI and data skills to governments helps manage new tech and keep countries safe.1413 Working with non-profits can make it easier to hire tech experts in the public sector.14 The Tech Talent Project found that putting money into tech teams is crucial. They must really care about helping the public.14


International Cooperation and Assistance

13 Japan's PM, Kishida Fumio, launched the Hiroshima AI Process Friends Group with 49 countries. Most are from the OECD.13 On December 1, 2023, the G7 tech leaders backed the Hiroshima AI Process's plan. Helping developing countries can boost their AI rules knowledge. This supports better global AI management.14


Conclusion

All nations must work together for a safer, progress-filled world. This involves focusing on both development and safety equally. By talking and sharing ideas, countries can strive towards a brighter future for all people. This includes using15 AI in ways that help everyone and create a world where success is shared.


The world must tackle the issue of15 AI hand in hand. It's a crucial mission for our planet's future. To secure that future, countries need to share knowledge and work as one. They should bring in rules and standards for16 AI that reflect the values of many.


The Need for International Coordination

AI governance is now a key goal worldwide, as it shapes our future.5 Over 60 countries have put AI policies in place since 2017. This shows the urgent need for global action.5 We back UN talks to set up a body for managing AI on an international level. This group would tackle big issues around AI's development, its safety, and control.


The Role of the United Nations

It's vital for all nations to share info and work together on AI management. This means less risk and better guidelines for running AI, agreed upon by many.5 In 2018, the G-7 formed the Global Partnership on AI. And the EU suggested AI rules to bring in full laws on AI's governance. This could help create a solid legal basis for managing AI.5 Countries working together can make sure AI is used in ways that support democratic values and protect human rights.5 This teamwork is key to making AI tech work for everyone, safely and responsibly.


FAQ

What is the importance of having an AI policy for every country?


Artificial intelligence (AI) changes how we live and grow economically. It offers big chances but also unknown risks. So, having AI policies lets us grab the good while staying safe from the bad. Developing AI policies helps AI benefit us all.


What are the key principles for global AI governance?


In global AI governance, focusing on people comes first. It means aiming for their well-being and following universal values. It's about respecting each country's laws but also sharing knowledge openly. Avoiding tech monopolies and keeping things fair are also crucial.


How can countries foster international cooperation on AI governance?


To work together on AI governance, countries should share info and help each other with tech. Talk and work together to find common ground are also key. Setting up effective global rules and standards ensures everyone gets a fair shot in AI.


What are the key elements of effective AI risk management and governance frameworks?


Good AI management means first figuring out the risks and how to deal with them. It includes having flexible rules in place. Trustworthy AI is a must, making sure it's clear, controllable, and serves us humans. Putting ethics at the core also matters, focusing on fairness, rights, and not discriminating.


How can the global AI governance gap be bridged?


To close this gap, developing countries need a louder say. Helping them get better at AI is essential. Talking about a global approach within the United Nations might be a good step. Such an approach could lead to a worldwide AI governing body.


Source Links


  1. https://foreignpolicy.com/2023/06/13/ai-regulation-international-nuclear/

  2. https://mitsloan.mit.edu/ideas-made-to-matter/world-needs-a-global-ai-observatory-heres-why

  3. https://www.imf.org/en/Blogs/Articles/2024/01/14/ai-will-transform-the-global-economy-lets-make-sure-it-benefits-humanity

  4. https://www.computerweekly.com/opinion/AI-governance-needs-global-approach

  5. https://www.brookings.edu/articles/strengthening-international-cooperation-on-ai/

  6. https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2018/09/learning-from-one-another-a-look-at-national-ai-policy-frameworks/

  7. https://ai.wharton.upenn.edu/white-paper/artificial-intelligence-risk-governance/

  8. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/ai-risk-compliance-governance-frameworks-overview-biswanath-banik-5q3oc

  9. https://unsceb.org/sites/default/files/2022-09/Principles for the Ethical Use of AI in the UN System_1.pdf

  10. https://transcend.io/blog/ai-ethics

  11. https://www.ntia.gov/issues/artificial-intelligence/ai-accountability-policy-report/overview

  12. https://executive.graduateinstitute.ch/communications/news/united-nations-ai-resolution-significant-global-policy-effort-harness

  13. https://www.csis.org/analysis/shaping-global-ai-governance-enhancements-and-next-steps-g7-hiroshima-ai-process

  14. https://www.federaltimes.com/opinions/2024/02/02/bridging-the-trust-gap-using-ai-to-restore-faith-in-democracy/

  15. https://issues.org/perspective-artificial-intelligence-regulated/

  16. https://www.brookings.edu/articles/how-different-countries-view-artificial-intelligence/

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