Page 66 - AI Governance Day - From Principles to Implementation

AI Governance Day - From Principles to Implementation

"We want to see there to be some consensus around a governance framework that
would work for the majority […] there must be a way in which we can all come to
common grounds and once we take that approach I think it becomes easier for
national states and national governments to look at the governance framework and
tailor it to their own country." (Emma Inamutila Theofelus)

Uruguay: national strategies and ethical frameworks

Ms. Mercedes Aramendia Falco discussed Uruguay's comprehensive approach to AI
governance, rooted in national and international standards. Uruguay's National AI Strategy,
initially established in 2020, was updated in 2021 to align with UNESCO’s recommendations,
ensuring transparency, accountability, and ethical implementation.

"We have a national strategy for AI which dates from 2020. In 2021, following the
recommendations of UNESCO, we understood the need to update that strategy on
AI." (Mercedes Aramendia Falco)

Uruguay’s approach involves collaboration across the entire ecosystem, including public and
private sectors, to develop an inclusive and effective strategy.

One of Uruguay’s key initiatives is the Ceibal Plan, launched in 2007, which aims to universalize
access to education by providing internet and laptops to all public school students. This plan
has evolved to incorporate AI, ensuring that students not only have access to technology but
also understand how to use it and the associated risks.

"We cannot just have one concrete action, we need many parallel activities to ensure
that AI has a positive impact and to ensure that students can access internet and be
connected. We are analyzing data to do so [and] we are using AI [for it]." (Mercedes
Aramendia Falco)

Despite the benefits, Ms. Falco acknowledged the risks, particularly concerning data privacy
and security. She emphasized the importance of maintaining transparency and control over
algorithms to prevent misuse of data. In sectors like finance and healthcare, where AI can
drive significant improvements, safeguarding sensitive information and ensuring ethical use
are paramount.

On the importance of collaboration towards international frameworks, Ms. Falco noted that
Uruguay's updated national strategy on AI is aligned with international standards to ensure
a cohesive approach. She emphasized the need for ongoing assessment and collaboration
with various stakeholders, including the private sector, to develop talent and build capacity,
highlighting Uruguay’s efforts to incorporate diverse perspectives in shaping AI governance.

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