AI is no longer the talk of myth or science fiction. Artificial Intelligence
has already woven itself into the fabric of human lives from facial recognition to self-driving cars. However, this exponential growth of artificial intelligence presents a unique and nouveau challenge: how do we govern this new and powerful technology? We cannot deny the potential benefits of AI. It can revolutionize healthcare, optimize resource allocation, and personalize education. Alongside these potential benefits, potential drawbacks and pitfalls can lurk. These potential drawbacks and downsides may include; biased embedded algorithms, which can perpetuate discrimination; unfettered automation, which could exacerbate unemployment; and the specter of anonymous weapons, which raises chilling questions about the future of warfare and the human race. The current state of AI governance resembles a warren, a complex network of stakeholders with conflicting interests. The National governments always need help to keep pace with the rapidly growing and developing technology, lacking the expertise and regulatory frameworks needed for effective oversight.
The key driver of AI innovation is the private sector, which often
ignores ethical or legal considerations and prioritizes speed and efficiency over them. Very few companies have established internal AI ethics boards which are self-regulatory and limited. The geopolitical tensions that hinder a collaboration towards the development of a unified approach towards AI governance is another pertinent challenge. So, where do we go from here? Can we develop a human-centric AI system, which prioritizes human well-being and societal good in its development and deployment? Algorithmic fairness and transparency are crucial to this end. The end itself is not lucrative and convenient for the think tanks of these AI companies but, a regulatory framework to this end is essential from a governance and humanitarian perspective. Given the potential risks, a precautionary approach is essential. Similarly, the establishment of common standards and principles are equally essential. To this end—of effective AI governance; collaboration between governments, industry, academia, and civil society is required. Also, equally important, is a global dialogue among the stakeholders from different nations internationally. The road toward creating an effective and efficient AI governance system will not be easy. But by fostering open discourse, prioritizing human values, and embracing multi-stakeholder collaboration, we can navigate through this warren and ensure that this powerful technology serves humanity and not the other way around. Some of the steps that we can take in the march toward this complex journey are:
• Firstly, investments in explainable AI technology (XAI) are
essential. XAI focuses on developing AI systems that can easily be understood and explained. By understanding AI systems, we can easily identify the process, address potential biases, and ensure responsibility, impartiality, and transparency. So, an investment in XAI research, understanding, and awareness is essential.
• Secondly, establishing national and international AI ethics
boards, comprised of technical, legal, ethical, and social experts, can provide crucial input and guidance on the development and deployment of AI. These boards will ensure best practices by serving as watchdogs, raising concerns and awareness, and making recommendations.
• Thirdly, standardizing the impact assessment of AI systems is also
very essential. Standardization of AI impact assessment would require the developers to evaluate the potential social, economic, and environmental impacts and consequences of AI systems before deployment. This would promote and encourage proactive mitigation strategies and promote responsible innovation.
• Fourthly, the existing legal frameworks are not equipped to tackle
the quantum and nature of challenges posed by AI, therefore a revamping of the existing legal frameworks is also very necessary. A collaboration between Legal and technical experts and the legislators and policymakers is very essential in this regard. • Fifthly, building public trust through public engagement of government, and industry leaders, educational and awareness campaigns for promoting open and transparent communication about AI, fostering public understanding, and addressing concerns, is paramount towards building an AI governance.
The goal should be that of marching practically on the outlined
principles, roadmaps, and frameworks, toward building an effective and efficient AI governance. The journey towards this goal is likely to be iterative. As AI is an ever-evolving technology, so too are its potential challenges, risks, and benefits. An adaptive approach, fostering a culture of continuous growth and learning can ensure that AI remains a technological force for good, shaping a future generation of technology that is both prosperous and just. This is like a two-way traffic—challenging not just for the governments but equally challenging for us, the public. Let’s promote this discussion and demand for transparency, advocate for a principled approach, and hold all the stakeholders responsible and accountable for ensuring effective and efficient AI governance. Only through collective action can we build a system that will guide us through this labyrinth of technology and unlock its full potential for the betterment of humanity.