Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has introduced an international framework to regulate and utilize generative AI, marking a significant addition to global governance efforts for this rapidly advancing technology.
Speaking at the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) in Paris, Kishida emphasized the potential benefits of generative AI while acknowledging the risks, such as disinformation.
Last year, under Japan’s leadership of the Group of Seven (G7) industrialized nations, the Hiroshima AI process was launched to develop international guiding principles and a code of conduct for AI developers. Kishida announced that 49 countries and regions have joined the voluntary framework, the Hiroshima AI Process Friends Group, to address the risks associated with generative AI and ensure its safe, secure, and trustworthy use.
Meanwhile, lawmakers in the European Union recently approved a landmark law governing artificial intelligence. The law aims to harness innovation while protecting against harm, reshaping how AI is used across various sectors, including healthcare and policing.
In the United Kingdom, Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has unveiled plans to allocate over 100 million pounds towards bolstering the country’s position in regulating AI. The focus is on addressing regulatory challenges and advancing research and development initiatives to ensure responsible AI deployment. Additionally, the UK aims to establish collaborative partnerships, particularly with the United States, to advance AI regulation efforts globally.
However, efforts to persuade Asian governments to adopt stricter AI regulations have encountered some resistance. While the EU is actively urging Asian countries to implement similar rules, many Asian nations, including Singapore and Japan, are adopting a cautious approach. They prefer to observe the evolution of AI technology before implementing local regulations, expressing concerns about the potential impact on innovation.
Overall, discussions on AI regulation are part of a broader global initiative led by European nations, with ongoing efforts to engage countries across Asia, North America, and other regions. As technology evolves, international cooperation and dialogue will be crucial in shaping responsible and ethical AI governance.
