G-7 Advances Call for International Standards for AI Amid Spread of ChatGPT
The Group of Seven nations held a two-day meeting in eastern Japan to discuss the responsible use of artificial intelligence (AI) and the potential of generative AI in a responsible manner. The G-7 digital and technology ministers also agreed to establish international standards, to ensure the "responsible" use of AI as they seek to harness rapidly developing technologies like AI bot ChatGPT. While AI tools like ChatGPT, which has garnered 100 million users around the world in less than three months, could be highly beneficial, concerns have also been raised over their unauthorized collection of large amounts of personal data and potential misuse. Therefore, the G-7 called for broader stakeholder participation in developing international standards over AI governance frameworks, and promoting dialogue on topics such as risk assessment.
International Technical Standards to Achieve the Common Vision of Trustworthy AI
The G-7 recognized that approaches to achieve "the common vision and goal of trustworthy AI" may vary across its members, but they expressed their opposition to "the misuse and abuse of AI to undermine democratic values, suppress freedom of expression, and threaten the enjoyment of human rights." They also cited five principles to govern the use of AI and emerging technologies: rule of law, due process, democracy, respect for human rights, and harnessing opportunities for innovation. To promote so-called Data Free Flow with Trust, a concept proposed by Japan, the G-7 ministers noted the need to "accelerate and operationalize" the idea, calling that data "an enabler of economic growth, development, and social well-being."
Concerns Over the Use of AI in Certain Countries
Apparently reflecting concerns over countries such as China where high-tech mass surveillance is believed to be used against certain ethnic groups, the G-7 expressed their opposition to "the misuse and abuse of AI to undermine democratic values, suppress freedom of expression, and threaten the enjoyment of human rights." The G-7 should accelerate discussions on the potential of generative AI in a responsible manner.
Conclusion
Countries have so far differed in their approaches to balance the use of innovative technology and regulations, with Japan taking a more cautious approach in regulations than the United States and European nations. To mitigate privacy concerns and other risks, G-7 calls for international standards to ensure the "responsible" use of AI. The group recognizes that responsible AI may vary across its members but acknowledges the need to establish international standards toward enhancing the free flow of trusted data across national borders.
