- The first “AI Governance Day – From Principle to Implementation” event was held, focusing on moving from principles to practical AI governance frameworks.
- Most countries do not yet have AI legislation in place, and countries can use processes in the UN system to support their AI governance efforts.
OUR TAKE
In this regulatory evolution, a gap has emerged between regulation and the status quo of the technologies and tools used to monitor and control AI systems. This gap poses significant risks and highlights the need to advance tools to ensure effective AI governance.
-Tuna Tu, BTW Reporter
What happened
At this year’s ITU Global Summit on AI for Good, government leaders, policymakers, researchers and technologists from developed and developing countries gathered for the first AI Governance Day – From Principle to Implementation. The focus of this United Nations (UN) event is to move from principles to practical AI governance frameworks. It brings together different stakeholders and reflects ITU’s mission to create an inclusive and neutral platform for artificial intelligence (AI).
Also read: AI governance is critical for the benefit of humanity
Why it’s important
The AI Governance Day report includes a list of key multilateral and national initiatives up to the end of May 2024.
Notable examples include China’s Algorithm Registry, launched in December 2022, the United States’ Artificial Intelligence Executive Order, issued in October 2023, and the European Union’s Artificial Intelligence Act, which will come into force in 2024.
Ai Governance Day focuses on how countries and regions can strike a balance between maximising the benefits and minimising the risks of AI. Participants shared experiences of effective practice, identified barriers, and explored ways forward.
Most countries have yet to enact AI legislation. Countries can leverage processes in the UN system to support their AI governance efforts. Led by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), the Inter-Agency Working Group on Artificial Intelligence has released a white paper analysing the UN system’s institutional models, functions, and existing international normative frameworks applicable to global AI governance. The document is a United Nations system-wide contribution to deliberations related to AI governance. The document was endorsed by the United Nations Chief Executives Board for Coordination (CEB), which is made up of United Nations executive heads.
