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ITU 150

Enhancing the Development of Standards and Frameworks for Critical Technologies in Southeast Asia

Project No 9RAS21065
Title Enhancing the Development of Standards and Frameworks for Critical Technologies in Southeast Asia
Description

Critical technologies are rapidly being developed and deployed in Southeast Asia. However, there are significant gender implications of these technologies that could undermine women’s engagement and empowerment and the emergence of inclusive economies. Besides limited standards, frameworks, policies and initiatives, there is also a lack of awareness and knowledge among regulators, policy and law makers concerning these technologies and their implications. Therefore, this project deploys a multi-stakeholder consultative and capacity development approach to build awareness and develop standards, frameworks, policies, and initiatives for implementation at national and regional levels to mitigate biases, build trust and create inclusive economies in Southeast Asia. Initially, the project will focus on Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines to facilitate the development and implementation of regional frameworks, which countries can apply to their own national contexts while fostering harmony and cooperation through the region. 

Area of Action Regulatory & Market Environment
ICT Applications
Cybersecurity
Status Implemented
Time Frame From 9/6/2021 To 31/12/2024
Beneficiary Countries Indonesia (Republic of), Malaysia, Philippines (Republic of the), Thailand
Implementing Agency International Telecommunication Union (ITU)
Cooperation Agency Government of Australia represented by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT)
Financial Scale (CHF) More than 1'000'000
Achievements
The project advanced the development of ethical, inclusive and responsible artificial intelligence governance in Southeast Asia by supporting the integration of ethical and gender-sensitive AI principles into national and regional policy frameworks. Working with governments, regional organizations and international partners, the project promoted AI governance approaches that balanced innovation with social inclusion, transparency and accountability.
The project contributed to the development and strengthening of AI policy frameworks in Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand and the Philippines. Technical engagement and policy dialogue helped governments advance national AI strategies, governance guidelines and ethical frameworks that emphasized responsible AI development and increased consideration of gender equality and social inclusion within AI policy processes.
Collaboration with UNESCO supported the implementation of the AI Readiness Assessment Methodology in participating countries. Through national research activities, stakeholder consultations and analytical assessments, the project strengthened understanding of national AI ecosystems and helped identify opportunities for improving governance, regulatory preparedness and responsible AI adoption.
The project also contributed to regional cooperation on AI governance by supporting the development of ASEAN guidance on AI governance and ethics. Inputs provided through the project helped promote greater alignment of AI principles across Southeast Asia and encouraged the development of interoperable governance approaches for emerging technologies.
By strengthening policy frameworks, building awareness and promoting regional collaboration, the project enhanced the capacity of countries in Southeast Asia to develop and deploy AI technologies in a manner that is ethical, inclusive and supportive of sustainable digital transformation.

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