Page 30 - AI for Good - Impact Report

AI for Good

published AI strategies or guidelines, reflecting a widespread and growing commitment to
shaping the future of AI in ways that align with core values of human rights, transparency, and
public trust.

The AI for Good Governance Day report also includes a list of major multilateral and national
initiatives as of the end of May 2024. 111

Common themes of AI governance frameworks

A closer examination of existing AI frameworks reveals that, despite differences in their specific
legal (regulation or codes of conduct) and cultural contexts, they share several overarching
themes. These commonalities reflect the shared concerns and objectives in the governance
of AI.

Ethical principles and human rights

Central to these frameworks is a commitment to ensuring that AI systems are developed and
deployed in ways that uphold fundamental ethical principles and human rights. This commitment
is reflected in documents such as UNESCO’s Recommendation on the Ethics of AI or the EU AI
Act, both of which emphasize the critical importance of protecting human dignity, privacy, and
freedom amid the rapid advancement of AI technologies.

Safeguards

Safety considerations are paramount, reflecting widespread concern over the potential risks
inherent in AI technologies. Ensuring the robust and secure operation of AI systems is a top
priority, particularly in high-stakes environments such as health care, transportation, and critical
infrastructure. Regulatory frameworks increasingly demand that AI systems be designed with
built-in safeguards to prevent misuse, whether intentional or accidental. This includes measures
to protect against vulnerabilities that could be exploited by malicious actors, as well as protocols
to ensure that AI systems can respond effectively to unforeseen challenges or errors. Additionally,
there is a strong focus on establishing rigorous testing and validation processes, both before
and after deployment, to verify that AI systems perform reliably and do not pose undue risks
to public safety. The overarching goal is to create AI systems that not only advance innovation
but do so in a manner that prioritizes the well-being and security of individuals and society.

Transparency and Accountability

Another central theme in AI governance is the emphasis on transparency and accountability
within AI systems. Across various regulations, there is a clear requirement that AI processes
must be explainable, ensuring that stakeholders understand how decisions are made and
that the output is comprehendable. Moreover, those responsible for deploying AI systems are
expected to be accountable for their outcomes, reinforcing the importance of ethical AI usage.
Data protection and privacy also emerge as critical concerns, highlighting the widespread
recognition of the sensitive nature of the data that powers AI systems.

At the same time, there is a shared commitment to fostering innovation and economic growth,
with many frameworks striving to balance regulatory needs with the imperative to support
technological progress. Objectives such as ethical principles, transparency, accountability, data
protection, and safety are closely aligned with the UN SDGs.

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