Regulating AI: Governments’ Efforts and Challenges
Australia
Australia aims to prevent the sharing of child sexual abuse material created by AI and the production of deepfake versions of the same material. To achieve this, the country will make search engines draft new codes. These regulations are in response to the rapid advances in AI, such as Microsoft-backed OpenAI’s ChatGPT.
Britain
In Britain, the data watchdog has raised concerns over the privacy risks posed by Snap Inc’s Snapchat generative AI chatbot, particularly to children. Additionally, the country’s competition authority has set out seven principles to make developers accountable and prevent anti-competitive conduct.
China
China has implemented temporary regulations for services powered by generative AI. This includes the publication of proposed security requirements and the creation of a blacklist of sources that cannot be used to train AI models.
European Union
European lawmakers are still in the process of agreeing on new AI rules. Negotiations are ongoing, and an agreement is expected by December. The proposed regulations will address various issues related to AI.
France
The French privacy watchdog is currently investigating complaints about ChatGPT. These investigations are aimed at ensuring compliance with privacy regulations.
Italy
Italy’s data protection authority plans to review AI platforms and hire experts in the field. In May, ChatGPT was temporarily banned in the country due to possible breaches, but it was made available again in April.
Japan
Japan is expected to introduce regulations by the end of 2023. These regulations will likely align with the U.S. attitude towards AI. The country’s privacy watchdog has also warned OpenAI about collecting sensitive data without permission.
Poland
The Personal Data Protection Office in Poland is investigating OpenAI over a complaint that ChatGPT breaks EU data protection laws. This investigation aims to ensure compliance with data protection regulations.
Spain
In Spain, the data protection agency has launched a preliminary investigation into potential data breaches by ChatGPT. This investigation is focused on protecting individuals’ data and ensuring compliance.
United Nations
The U.N. Security Council discussed the military and non-military applications of AI, emphasizing the need for an assessment of risks and benefits. The Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, supports the creation of an AI watchdog and plans to establish a high-level AI advisory body.
United States
The U.S. Congress held hearings on AI, featuring industry leaders like Mark Zuckerberg and Elon Musk. The discussions highlighted the need for government regulation and oversight. President Joe Biden’s voluntary commitments governing AI have also been signed by several firms.
Artificial intelligence is advancing rapidly, and governments worldwide are grappling with the challenges it presents. From regulations to privacy concerns, the race to govern AI is in full swing. As countries work towards consensus, it is essential to strike a balance between innovation and safeguarding against potential risks. The future of AI regulation will shape the way this transformative technology is utilized for the benefit of humanity.
