The Role of the Government in Policy and Regulation of Emerging Technologies, AI, and Ethics

AI is a technology that took the world by storm companies, corporations, and governments have adopted AI in their daily and corporate workflows.

There are however a lot of concerns and speculation particularly in the area of AI taking over jobs meant for human beings

AI otherwise known as Artificial Intelligence, simply is the ability of a computer to mimic human intelligence and perform tasks attributed to human beings, it is an emerging technology still developing and evolving not fully understood therefore still needs to be examined

Global Impact of Emerging Technology and AI

Emerging technologies and AI are already having a significant impact on the world. For example, AI is used to develop self-driving cars, diagnose diseases, and create personalized learning experiences. These technologies are also being used to improve efficiency in various industries, such as manufacturing and retail.

With this in view, multi-stakeholders in different sectors came up with guidelines and frameworks The role of government in policies and regulations in AI, emerging tech, chatbots, and ethics is to ensure that these technologies are developed and used responsibly and ethically. This involves addressing a wide range of issues, including:

• Privacy and data protection: Government policies and regulations should ensure that personal data is collected, used, and stored responsibly and ethically. This includes protecting against unauthorized access, use, or disclosure of personal data, and providing individuals with control over their data.
• Bias and discrimination: Government policies and regulations should address the potential for AI and emerging technologies to be used in a biased or discriminatory manner. This includes ensuring that algorithms are fair and unbiased and that chatbots are not used to spread hate speech or discrimination.
• Transparency and accountability: Government policies and regulations should ensure that AI and emerging technologies are used transparently and accountable. This includes providing information about how AI systems work, and who is responsible for their development and use.
• Safety and security: Government policies and regulations should ensure that AI and emerging technologies are used safely and securely. This includes protecting against cyberattacks, and ensuring that AI systems do not pose a risk to human safety.
• Ethics: Government policies and regulations should address the ethical implications of AI and emerging technologies. This includes considering the impact of these technologies on human values, such as privacy, freedom, and equality.

Government policies and regulations can address these issues and ensure that AI and emerging technologies are used responsibly and ethically.

Governments on AI Governance

The European Union AI Act

The European Union (EU) AI Act is a law that aims to regulate the development and use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the European Union. The Act is designed to ensure that AI is used in a safe, ethical, and transparent manner and that it respects fundamental rights and values.

The Act covers a wide range of AI applications, including:

• AI systems are used to make decisions that have a significant impact on people’s lives, like in healthcare, finance, and law enforcement.
• AI systems are used to manipulate people’s behavior, in advertising and social media.
• AI systems are used to surveil people, such as in security and law enforcement.

The Act sets out several requirements for AI systems, including:

• AI systems must be designed and developed in a way that minimizes the risk of harm to people.
• AI systems must be transparent and accountable so that people can understand how they work and make decisions.
• AI systems must respect fundamental rights and values, such as privacy, freedom of expression, and non-discrimination.

The Act also establishes several governance mechanisms to oversee the development and use of AI, including:

• The European AI Board is responsible for advising the European Commission on AI policy.
• A European AI Agency is responsible for enforcing the AI Act and providing guidance on AI ethics and safety.

The EU AI Act is still under development, but it is expected to be adopted in 2023. Once adopted, the Act will be binding on all EU member states.

The United States of America on AI Governance

The United States government has taken a proactive approach to addressing the potential risks and benefits of artificial intelligence (AI) combining research, standards, regulations, and international cooperation. Here’s an elaboration of each step:

1. Research and Development:

• The National Science Foundation (NSF) supports basic research in AI, fostering innovation and fundamental understanding of AI technologies.
• The Department of Energy (DOE) funds research in AI for applications such as energy efficiency, materials science, and climate modeling.
• The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) invests in cutting-edge AI projects with potential military applications, such as autonomous systems and natural language processing.

2. Standards and Guidelines:

• The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has developed the AI Risk Management Framework, a set of voluntary guidelines to help organizations assess and mitigate AI risks.
• The Department of Defense (DoD) has established AI Ethical Principles, outlining expectations for the ethical development and use of AI in military applications.

3. Regulation:

• The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued guidance on the regulation of AI-based medical devices, ensuring patient safety and effectiveness.
• The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has brought enforcement actions against companies that have used AI in a deceptive or unfair manner, protecting consumers from AI-related fraud and abuse.

4. International Cooperation:

• The United States participates in the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) AI Principles, which provide a framework for responsible stewardship of AI.
• The United States is a founding member of the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI), a multi-stakeholder initiative to promote responsible AI development and use.

The government’s approach to AI is characterized by a multi-faceted and collaborative effort. By investing in research, developing standards and guidelines, implementing regulations, and engaging in international cooperation, the United States government aims to ensure that AI is harnessed for the benefit of society while minimizing potential risks.

As AI technology continues to advance, the government’s role in shaping its development and deployment will remain crucial. Regular reviews and updates of policies, regulations, and international agreements will be necessary to keep pace with the rapid evolution of AI and address emerging challenges and opportunities.

Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) on AI Principles

The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) is an intergovernmental organization that promotes policies to improve the economic and social well-being of people around the world. In 2019, the OECD adopted a set of AI Principles to guide the responsible development and use of artificial intelligence (AI).

The OECD AI Principles are based on the following values:

• Respect for human rights: AI should be developed and used in a way that respects human rights, including privacy, freedom of expression, and non-discrimination.
• Fairness and equity: AI should be developed and used in a way that is fair and equitable, and that does not exacerbate existing inequalities.
• Transparency and accountability: AI systems should be transparent and accountable, so that people can understand how they work and make decisions.
• Safety and security: AI systems should be safe and secure, and should not pose a risk to human safety or security.
• Human benefit: AI should be developed and used in a way that benefits humanity, and that promotes sustainable development.

The OECD AI Principles provide a framework for governments, businesses, and other stakeholders to develop and use AI responsibly. The principles are voluntary, but they have been endorsed by many countries and organizations around the world.

The OECD AI Principles cover a wide range of issues, including:

• Data governance: The principles call for the responsible collection, use, and sharing of data.
• Transparency and accountability: The principles call for AI systems to be transparent and accountable, so that people can understand how they work and make decisions.
• Bias and discrimination: The principles call for AI systems to be free from bias and discrimination.
• Safety and security: The principles call for AI systems to be safe and secure, and to be developed with appropriate safeguards.
• Human benefit: The principles call for AI to be developed and used in a way that benefits humanity, and that promotes sustainable development.

The OECD AI Principles are an important step towards ensuring that AI is developed and used responsibly. The principles provide a valuable framework for governments, businesses, and other stakeholders to develop and use AI in a way that respects human rights, promotes fairness and equity, and benefits humanity.

The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) is an international organization that serves as a forum for governments to work together to address common economic, social, and environmental challenges. It was established in 1961 with the mission to promote policies that would improve the economic and social well-being of people around the world. The OECD’s membership includes 38 member countries, primarily from developed economies, and it collaborates with a wide range of other countries and international organizations.

One of the core functions of the OECD is to provide its member countries with economic analysis and data. The organization publishes numerous reports and studies on a variety of topics, including economic growth, trade, employment, education, health, and the environment. These publications are widely respected for their quality and objectivity and are used by policymakers and researchers around the world.

In addition to its economic analysis and data, the OECD also develops policy recommendations and guidelines. These recommendations are based on the organization’s research and experience and aim to help member countries improve their economic and social policies. The OECD also works with member countries to implement these recommendations and to monitor their progress.

The OECD’s work has a significant impact on the global economy. The organization’s research and policy recommendations have helped to shape economic policies in a wide range of countries and have contributed to global economic growth and stability. The OECD also plays a vital role in promoting international cooperation on economic and social issues.

Here are some specific examples of the OECD’s work:

• In 2019, the OECD published a report on the future of work, which examined the impact of technological change and globalization on the labor market. The report made a number of recommendations for governments and businesses on how to prepare for the future of work.
• In 2020, the OECD published a report on the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The report estimated that the pandemic would cause a sharp decline in global economic output and called for governments to take action to support businesses and workers.
• The OECD also works with member countries to implement its policy recommendations. For example, the organization has helped to develop and implement policies to promote entrepreneurship, reduce poverty, and improve education and health outcomes.

The OECD is a valuable resource for governments around the world. The organization’s research, policy recommendations, and technical assistance have helped to improve the lives of people around the world.

Invest in Local Expertise To effectively regulate and develop AI and other emerging technologies, government must prioritize building a skilled workforce capable of designing, deploying, and overseeing these innovations. This involves investing in education and training programs focused on AI, machine learning, and data science. By nurturing local talent, we empower individuals to develop solutions that specifically address the unique challenges faced by our communities. This approach not only fosters innovation but also ensures that technological advancements are aligned with local needs, reducing our dependence on imported technologies. 3. Strengthening Digital Infrastructure and Literacy The Government must prioritize investments in robust digital infrastructure and literacy programs to bridge the digital divide, particularly in rural areas. Reliable internet access is fundamental for ensuring that citizens can benefit from AI and other emerging technologies. Additionally, digital literacy initiatives are crucial to equip individuals with the skills to engage meaningfully with technology. By enhancing infrastructure and education, governments can create an inclusive environment where the benefits of AI are accessible to all, thereby reducing existing inequalities.

Impact of Emerging Technology and AI in Nigeria

Nigeria is well-positioned to benefit from the opportunities presented by emerging technologies and AI. The country has a young and tech-savvy population, and a growing number of startups and tech companies. The government has also made significant investments in digital infrastructure and skills development.

Emerging technologies and AI can help Nigeria address some of its most pressing challenges, such as poverty, unemployment, and insecurity. For example, AI can be used to improve agricultural productivity, create new jobs, and enhance security.

The Nigerian National AI Srategy

Elaboration and Expansion of the Input Text: The Nigerian AI Strategy

Introduction

Artificial Intelligence (AI) presents significant opportunities for economic growth, job creation, and societal progress worldwide. The Nigerian government recognizes the transformative potential of AI and has developed a comprehensive strategy to guide the development and adoption of AI in the country.

The Nigerian AI Strategy

The Nigerian AI Strategy is a comprehensive plan to develop and deploy AI in Nigeria. The strategy was developed by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) in collaboration with stakeholders from government, industry, and academia.

The strategy has four main goals:

• To promote research and development in AI
• To develop an AI-enabled workforce
• To create an enabling environment for AI adoption
• To ensure the ethical and responsible use of AI

Key Elements of the Strategy

The Nigerian AI Strategy has four key elements:

1. Research and Development:

• Establish an AI research fund to support cutting-edge AI research in areas relevant to Nigeria.
• Collaborate with international research institutions to leverage global expertise and resources.
• Promote the development of AI research centers and labs in Nigerian universities and institutions.

2. Education and Training:

• Develop AI training programs for students at all levels, from primary to tertiary education.
• Partner with industry leaders to offer hands-on AI training and certification programs for professionals.
• Establish AI summer camps and boot camps to introduce AI to young people and encourage their participation in the field.

3. Enabling Environment:

• Review and update existing laws and regulations to address AI-specific issues such as data privacy, intellectual property rights, and liability.
• Develop supportive policies and incentives to attract investment in AI research and development.
• Build the necessary infrastructure, including high-speed internet connectivity and data centers, to support AI adoption.

4. Ethics and Responsibility:

• Develop a code of ethics for the development and use of AI in Nigeria.
• Establish mechanisms for public engagement and participation in discussions on AI ethics.
• Promote the responsible use of AI by raising awareness about potential risks and biases.

Challenges and Risks

While emerging technologies and AI have the potential to bring about significant benefits, there are also some challenges and risks associated with these technologies. These include:

• Job displacement: AI and automation could lead to job losses in some industries.
• Bias: AI systems can be biased, which could lead to unfair or discriminatory outcomes.
• Security: AI systems could be hacked or used for malicious purposes.
• Privacy: AI systems could collect and use personal data without consent.

Recommendations

To maximize the benefits and mitigate the risks of emerging technologies and AI, the Nigerian government should:

• Invest more in research and development: The government should invest in research and development to support the development of AI technologies relevant to Nigeria’s needs.
• Ensure the national AI strategy is actualized by investing in AI-powered businesses for growth and development: The government should develop a national AI strategy to guide the development and adoption of AI in the country.
• Create an enabling environment: The government should create an enabling environment for the development and adoption of AI by providing incentives for businesses and startups, and by investing in digital infrastructure.
• Address the ethical and social implications of AI: The government should address the ethical and social implications of AI by developing regulations and guidelines to ensure that AI is used responsibly and ethically.

By taking these steps, the Nigerian government can ensure that emerging technologies and AI are used to create a better future for all Nigerians.

Conclusion

The Nigerian AI Strategy is a critical step towards harnessing AI's transformative potential for the country's benefit. By investing in research and development, developing an AI-skilled workforce, creating an enabling environment, and ensuring the ethical and responsible use of AI, Nigeria can position itself as a leader in the development and adoption of AI technologies.

The successful implementation of this strategy requires collaboration among government, industry, academia, and civil society. With a concerted effort, Nigeria can harness the power of AI to drive innovation, create jobs, improve public services, and enhance the lives of its citizens.

The paper was written as part of the Nigerian School of Internet Governance Fellowship research on stakeholders in Internet Governance.