Collaborative, context-based AI governance and interoperable frameworks to ensure AI benefits humanity and supports SDGs are key, emphasised the session titled 'State of play of major global AI Governance processes' held at the AI for Good Global Summit 2024.

Context-based AI regulation and global understanding

Thomas Schneider, Ambassador and Director of International Affairs at the Swiss Federal Office of Communications (OFCOM) in the Federal Department of the Environment, Transport, Energy and Communications (DETEC), emphasised the importance of context-based AI regulation, advocating for a global understanding of AI risks and impacts rather than a sole focus on the technology. He drew attention to the Council of Europe treaty, which seeks to uphold existing human rights and democratic principles in AI use, and invited global participation in this initiative.

The EU AI Act and European AI Office

Juha Heikkila, Adviser for Artificial Intelligence in the European Commission Directorate-General for Communications Networks, Content and Technology from the European Commission, detailed the EU AI Act, which is set to be the first comprehensive, legally binding regulation of AI. He described the phased implementation of the Act, designed to ensure robust pre- and post-market enforcement. Heikkila introduced the European AI Office, which will coordinate and supervise AI regulation across the EU, playing a crucial role in the effective implementation of the Act.

US AI governance and safety measures

Alan Davidson, Administrator of the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), discussed the US approach to AI governance, including voluntary commitments from AI companies, a comprehensive AI executive order, and the establishment of the US AI Safety Institute. Davidson stressed the necessity for bipartisan legislation to ensure AI safety and trust, highlighting ongoing efforts to strengthen AI governance in the US.

China's commitment to AI ethics and global collaboration

Shan Zhongde, Vice Minister of the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) of China, outlined the country's commitment to AI ethics and governance, focusing on a human-centred approach and practical measures to mitigate AI risks. He also invited participants to the World Conference on AI in Shanghai, emphasising China's dedication to using AI for beneficial purposes and promoting international collaboration.

Japan's international AI governance role

Vice Minister for Policy Coordination, Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications of Japan, Hiroshi Yoshida, discussed the country's active role in international AI governance, including the Hiroshima AI process launched at the G7 in 2023. Yoshida stressed the need for interoperable governance frameworks that allow different implementation approaches while maintaining a common understanding of necessary actions.

Korea's AI safety standards and inclusivity

Do-Hyun Kan, Vice Minister and the Head of the Office of ICT Policy at the Ministry of Science and ICT(MSIT) of Korea, provided an update on the AI Safety Summit, affirming the validity of the goals set during the UK Safety Summit. He highlighted Korea's commitment to developing specific AI safety standards and promoting inclusivity in AI governance, ensuring that AI development benefits all segments of society.

Collaborative efforts and shared vision

The panellists collectively emphasised the importance of collaboration and cooperation in developing inclusive AI governance frameworks aimed at harnessing AI for good. They shared a common vision of leveraging AI to benefit humanity and achieve the SDGs, each contributing unique perspectives and initiatives from their respective countries and regions. The consensus centred on the need for interoperability, sharing of best practices, and a multistakeholder approach to ensure AI serves the global common good.

Read the full session report below:

dig.watchState of play of major global AI governance processesThe panel discussed the importance of global cooperation and context-based regulation in AI governance, sharing national strategies and emphasising the need for interoperable frameworks to ensure AI benefits society and advances SDGs. 15 May 2024 dig.watchState of play of major global AI governance processesThe panel discussed the importance of global cooperation and context-based regulation in AI governance, sharing national strategies and emphasising the need for interoperable frameworks to ensure AI benefits society and advances SDGs. 15 May 2024,